Fuel Systems

Manufacturer Requirements

One of the key principles of this regulation is to prevent gasoline from getting inside a boat where it can vaporize and create an explosive atmosphere. Overflow at the fuel fill opening is one potential source of fuel that could get inside a boat unless precautions are taken.

The location of the fuel tank fill opening must be chosen with the following considerations in mind:

(a) Nearby ventilators, on deck or on the side of a boat, could provide access for fuel to flow inside a boat. The distance between the fuel fill opening and ventilators may have to be increased over that normally considered adequate for keeping vapors from entering ventilators.

(b) The deck configuration and its slope could channel overflow fuel into a boat.

(c) High coamings or cabin sides can offer protection against overflow from flowing into a boat,

(d) Deck joints in riveted construction or wooden construction could provide a path for fuel to flow into the boat’s interior unless they are caulked to resist such fuel leakage.

FIGURE 30 - Fuel Fill Locations

The test to determine compliance is as follows:

(a) Place the boat in its static floating position - see 183.505

(b) Plug the fuel tank fill line at least a distance of six inches below the fuel tank fill opening.

(c) Insert a 13/16 outside diameter hose into the fuel tank fill opening.

(d) Discharge water at a rate of five gallons per minute (53.3 ounces in five seconds).

(e) Time the overflowing water for five seconds and shut off the flow.

(f) Investigate to determine if any of the overflowing water got into the boat. None is permitted in order to comply. Overflow entering a self-bailing cockpit is considered entering the boat and is not permitted.

NOTE:
Interpretation of this requirement by the Coast Guard prohibits fuel fill fittings located in the cockpit sole or in seats inside the gunwales.

FIGURE 31 - Fuel Overflow Test

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