Sylvie Willis
Bypassing a boat's fuel pump with an external fuel tank is a relatively simple process, but it requires careful attention to safety. The first step is to drain the old fuel from the boat's tank, which can be done manually with a pump and hose, or by using an electric pump. Electric pumps are more efficient but pricier, while manual pumps are a good choice for those who only need to drain their tank occasionally. Once the old fuel is drained, it must be properly disposed of at a hazardous waste disposal centre. The next step is to clean the hoses on the fuel pump to prevent any potential ignition from residue. Finally, you can connect the external fuel tank to the boat's fuel system, ensuring that the tank is lower than the boat's fuel tank for the transfer to work.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Method | Siphoning |
| Tools | Fuel transfer pump, fuel hose, empty gas tank, primer bulb, siphon pump, fuel/water separating filter |
| Steps | Disconnect fuel line from engine, insert hose into tank, pump primer bulb to start siphoning, drain tank, dispose of old fuel, clean hoses |
| Tips | Ensure the receptacle is lower than the fuel tank, angle the fuel tank to remove water, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation |
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What You'll Learn
Siphoning old gas out of a boat fuel tank
Firstly, you will need to remove the boat from the water to properly drain the fuel tank. If your boat is on a trailer, pull it up a hill to ensure you can get everything from the very back corner of the tank.
There are several methods to siphon old gas out of a boat fuel tank. One method is to use a manual fuel pump. To do this, submerge the suction pump in the gas tank and attach it to a hose. Place the other end of the hose in a container that will catch the fuel. Start operating the manual pump until fuel starts flowing through the hose. The tank should drain within a few minutes, depending on how much fuel is in it.
Another method is to use an electric or battery pump. This option is more expensive but is much easier and more efficient at draining a fuel tank. An electric pump will also have a suction pump attached to a hose at one end. Submerge the suction pump into the tank and put the other end of the hose in your container. Then, simply flip the switch on the pump and allow it to drain your tank.
Alternatively, you can remove the fuel sending unit on the top of the tank and pump the fuel out from there. Disconnect the outlet of the fuel primer bulb from your outboard motor, attach a long hose to the bulb's outlet, and run it down into a suitable container on the ground. Pump up the bulb and siphon out the gas until the tank is dry.
Finally, it is recommended to run a couple of gallons of fresh gas through the tank and gas lines after the tank seems empty. This will ensure any remaining water or sediment is flushed out before reconnecting the gas line to the motor and refilling the gas tank.
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Using a manual fuel pump
Firstly, ensure your boat is out of the water and securely placed on a trailer. This position will provide easy access to the fuel tank and the necessary connections.
Locate the fuel sending unit on the top of the tank. This unit is responsible for monitoring the fuel level and sending the information to the boat's fuel gauge. Remove this unit to access the fuel directly.
Now, you can begin setting up the manual fuel pump. Disconnect the outlet of the fuel primer bulb from the outboard motor. The fuel primer bulb is a small, flexible component connected to the fuel line, which helps prime the fuel pump by creating a temporary low pressure.
Attach a long hose to the outlet of the fuel primer bulb. Choose a hose that is durable and compatible with fuel transfers. Ensure the hose is long enough to reach from the fuel tank to your external container.
Place an empty fuel container on the ground, ensuring it is securely positioned and able to accommodate the expected volume of fuel. It is recommended to use multiple smaller containers rather than one large drum for safety and ease of handling.
Insert the free end of the hose into the empty fuel container. Now, you are ready to start pumping. Manually pump the fuel primer bulb to initiate the siphoning process. The fuel will begin to flow from the tank into the external container.
Continue pumping until the desired amount of fuel has been transferred. Depending on the volume of fuel and the speed of your manual pump, this process may take some time. Be patient and monitor the fuel transfer to ensure it proceeds smoothly.
Once you have transferred the required amount of fuel, you can stop pumping. Ensure that you store the external fuel containers in a safe and secure location, following all relevant regulations and guidelines for fuel storage and handling.
It is important to note that this process should be approached with caution and adequate preparation. Always take the necessary safety precautions when working with fuel, including wearing appropriate protective gear and ensuring proper ventilation. Additionally, it is recommended to run fresh fuel through the tank and lines after they seem empty to flush out any remaining water or sediment.
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Using an electric or battery pump
An electric or battery pump is a much more efficient way to drain a fuel tank, but it is also more expensive. These pumps can range in price from $150 to $300. To use an electric pump, you will need an extension cord to drain the tank. The process is relatively simple and direct.
Firstly, you will need to ensure that the boat is on a trailer. Then, set an empty gas tank on the ground next to the boat, making sure that it is lower than the boat's fuel tank and within range of the hose. Next, remove the engine connector fitting from the hose and place the end of the hose into the empty tank. Now, you can start the siphoning process by pumping the primer bulb. The gas will then begin to drain into the empty tank.
It is important to note that you should always properly dispose of old gas at your local hazardous waste disposal centre. Additionally, make sure to clean the hoses on your fuel pump to prevent any potential ignition from residue. By taking these simple steps, you can ensure the longevity of your boat's fuel tank during the off-season.
Some people may prefer to use a boat fuel stabilizer instead of draining the tank. A stabilizer neutralizes free radicals in the fuel, preventing it from gumming up the engine during storage. It also protects against ethanol damage, which can lead to corrosion and engine issues.
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Draining old gas from the fuel tank
Draining old gas from your boat's fuel tank is an important part of boat maintenance. It helps to prolong the life of your tank and ensures the engine runs smoothly. It is also necessary to prevent residue build-up if your boat is being stored for the off-season.
There are several methods to drain old gas from a boat's fuel tank. The most suitable method will depend on the type of boat and the equipment available.
One common method is to use a manual fuel pump. These are typically sold as kits at local marina stores and can also be purchased online. The pump is attached to a hose and submerged in the gas tank. The old fuel is then pumped out into suitable containers for disposal or storage. It is important to ensure that the container is large enough to capture all of the fuel and is positioned lower than the boat's fuel tank for the transfer process to work effectively.
An alternative to a manual pump is an electric or battery-operated pump, which is more efficient but also more expensive. These pumps can cost between $150 and $300 and require an extension cord for operation. As with a manual pump, it is important to have a suitable container for the old fuel and to ensure it is positioned correctly in relation to the boat's fuel tank.
Another method for draining old gas is to use a siphoning technique. This can be done by attaching a hose to the fuel line that goes to the engine and running it to a gas container on the ground. By creating a seal with a rag and applying air pressure, the old gas can be pushed out of the hose and into the container.
It is worth noting that some boat owners choose to use a fuel stabilizer instead of draining their tanks. A stabilizer neutralizes free radicals in the fuel, preventing gum deposits from forming in the engine and making it easier to restart the engine after storage. However, draining the fuel tank is still a necessary step for some boat owners, especially if there is a significant amount of old fuel to remove.
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Disposing of old gas
Old gasoline can be a challenge to dispose of safely and responsibly. It is important to remember that gasoline is a toxic substance and improper disposal can be harmful to humans, animals, and the environment. Here are some guidelines on how to dispose of old gas:
Firstly, it is important to understand that gasoline deteriorates over time when exposed to oxygen. This oxidation process alters the hydrocarbons in the fuel, reducing its combustibility and rendering it unsafe for engines. If you suspect your gasoline has degraded, it is best to discard it.
Never dispose of old gasoline by burning it, pouring it down drains or sinks, or dumping it on the ground, dirt, or grass. These methods are extremely harmful to the environment, particularly our water supply. A single gallon of gasoline is sufficient to contaminate one million gallons of water. Additionally, it is illegal and can result in expensive cleanup processes.
The safest way to dispose of old gasoline is to take it to a local hazardous waste disposal centre. Contact your town or city hall to find the nearest facility. When transporting gasoline, always use approved gas cans and place them in the open bed of a pickup truck or an open trailer. Never transport gasoline containers inside the passenger compartment of a vehicle. If you must use the trunk, ensure the cans are sealed, secured, and removed from the vehicle as soon as you reach your destination.
If you have a small amount of gasoline to dispose of, you can try reconditioning it. This involves pouring the gasoline through a coffee filter or two layers of thin cloth into a new container to remove any foreign particles. However, always exercise extreme caution when handling gasoline as it is highly flammable and toxic. Always work outdoors, away from any heat sources or open flames, and avoid smoking.
If you are dealing with gasoline in an idle vehicle, lawnmower, or boat, you will need to siphon the gas out of the tank. This can be done using a manual pump and a hose. Avoid using your mouth to create a manual suction as this can be dangerous and lead to accidental ingestion of gasoline, which is a medical emergency. For newer vehicles with siphon-proof filters, you may require professional assistance to drain the gasoline safely.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use either a manual or an electric/battery pump. Manual fuel pumps are cheaper but require more effort, while electric pumps are more efficient but pricier.
First, ensure that the receptacle you are using to store the old gas is lower than the boat's fuel tank. Then, submerge the suction pump in the gas tank and attach the pump to the hose. Place the other end of the hose in the container and start operating the manual pump.
You can dispose of the old gas at your local hazardous waste disposal center. Make sure to clean the hoses on your fuel pump to prevent any potential ignition from residue.
