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Draining gas from your boat is essential in maintaining optimal performance especially in the offseason period when it is not in use. Many boat owners ensure their tanks are empty before winter to avoid residue building up in the fuel tank, which can lead to engine issues later on.
Apart from preparing for the offseason, there are various reasons why it is important to know how to drain gas from inboard boats. Understanding how to do it will save you time and money for years to come. In this piece, you will find a detailed guide on how to drain gas properly and safely.
Things You Need While Draining Gas from Your Inboard Boat
Dealing with gas is dangerous because it is a highly flammable substance, and you must be careful not to harm yourself or the boat. To drain gas successfully from your boat you will require several items such as:
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Fuel transfer equipment
Transferring the fuel out of the tank into a storage container needs plenty of suction. While it is tempting to use your mouth to provide suction, it might be a bad idea if you end up choking on fuel. You can use a primer bulb if you don’t want to spend too much money on a fuel transfer pump. Fuel transfer pumps are readily available in the market at attainable prices and can be motorized or manual.
Manual fuel pumps are convenient when there are no electricity sources around. Although they can be tiring to use for long periods, these fuel pumps are budget-friendly and easy to find in most marinas. Electric or battery-operated fuel pumps cost more, but they get the job done faster with no physical exertion.
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Fuel hose
A 3/8-inch hose is indispensable in this operation and it should be in good shape. If the hose has any holes, it will mess with the suction needed to move the fuel. You should also check the length of the hose to make sure it is not too long to twist in the tank’s bottom.
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Hose clamps
These clamps secure the hose to the primer or fuel pump to prevent any leaks. Hose clamps come in various sizes and materials thus, ensure you select ones that match your hose’s diameter.
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Screwdriver
Without a screwdriver, it will be challenging to securely attach the hose clamp to the hose.
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Receptacle
The fuel you drain needs to be stored thus, select a sizable container that can hold fuel according to your fuel tank’s size.
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Protective gear
If you will be transferring fuel using a manual fuel pump or primer, gloves will come in handy. They keep your hands cushioned against friction that causes calluses and prevents you from getting in direct contact with the fuel for those with sensitive skin.
You can also adorn protective eyewear to keep gas from splashing into your eyes accidentally. While it is not essential, wear a mask if you are sensitive to fuel fumes to reduce the risk of the gas irritating your respiratory system.
Step by Step Guide on How to Drain Gas from Your Boat Fuel Tank
Draining gas from your boat’s tank is a simple process if you follow the steps below.
Step 1 – Find a suitable workspace
Because you are dealing with a flammable substance, ventilation is vital. Work in an open area that is well ventilated and without an ignition source anywhere near. Those who smoke should not have lit cigarettes when running this operation to reduce fire hazards.
Step 2 – Suit up
After you find a suitable working environment, the next thing is to adorn your protective gear. As I said before, dealing with gas is dangerous; therefore, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Step 3 – Attach the fuel pump accordingly
Which pump are you using? The pump you are using will affect how you attach the hose to get the fuel out without any issues. Those with manual pumps should ensure the hose is on a lower level than the pump. By submerging the manual pump to reach the bottom of the tank, you can extract all the fuel with ease.
Those using battery or electric pumps should position the receptacle lower than the pump to allow the fuel to flow out of the tank. Every electric or battery-operated fuel transfer pump comes with its set of instructions, so read the manual to make sure the hose is connected correctly. One end of the hose is directed to the fuel tank while the other end is in the receptacle.
Ensure you have a screwdriver nearby to ensure the hose is well connected to the primer bulb or fuel tank before you start the operation.
Step 4 – Start draining process
Once you are sure that everything is connected properly, it is time to start the process. Regardless of whether you are using a manual or electric pump, run the machine until you are sure the tank is empty.
Step 5 – Storage
Now that your tank is finally empty, remove the hose and cap the tank. Take the fuel for storage and transfer your boat to a safe area using a trailer.
Expert Tips
- You can never go wrong with wearing protective gear. You have more to lose if you do not protect yourself.
- Find a way to tip the fuel tank by parking your trailer in an angled location. This way, all the fuel collects in one corner for easy drainage.
- Before using the pump, ensure it is clean and devoid of any residual liquid that can affect proper suction.
- Always monitor the process until it is done especially for those using electrical pumps. Without monitoring, you cannot manage any issues that arise in time.
- A fire extinguisher should be at hand just in case something goes wrong.
Wrapping Up
Draining your tank occasionally should never be a stressful process especially if you have the right tools. By following those simple steps on how to drain gas from inboard boats, you will never have any problems, and it is a skill worth passing to other boat owners. If you have any questions or thoughts on the subject matter, please reach out through the comment section and I will get back to you promptly.
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