Transom-mounted Petrol Tank?

[Ronald_M]

In order that my little trailer-sailer should comply with the requirements of the Boat Safety Scheme, I am going to have to devise a suitable method for storing petrol for the transom-mounted outboard.

Small reserve cans - 5L or so - could stowed in the anchor locker as this is a self-contained, sealed unit which drains overboard.

A main supply tank - perhaps about 20 or 30 Litres - will need to be mounted in such a way that any spills/leakages etc cannot enter the cabin. It will not be possible to construct a suitable built-in locker as this would involve extensive structural alterations to the boat. My only possibilities, therefore, are either a deck-mounted or transom-mounted arrangement.

A transom-mounting would provide the necessary venting, but would also need to provide the following:

Security of mounting - staying put in a following sea.
Protection in the event of collision - avoid rupturing the tank.
A degree of protection in the event of a fire - BOOM!!
Immunity from theft/vandalisation - deter arsonists!

It seems to me that the only thing that would provide all of these would be a securely mounted, suitably designed steel locker, equpped with drainage, locks, crash bars and fendering, into which the plastic tank can be placed.

Could anyone tell me where such a fitting could be obtained, or, alternatively, would any kind soul care to share their ideas on how best to overcome this challenge?

Many thanks,

Ron.

 

[dickh]

I'm assuming you are using your boat at sea? In which case, as I understand it, you don't have to comply with the Boat Safety Scheme as this is designed for inland waters like the Broads or canals. Most people just use a standard outboard fuel tank in a suitable position strapped down so it doesn't move around.
Others may be able to give more specific advise.

 

[Ronald_M]

Hi dickh.

Well, yes I am using my boat at sea, but I am intending to spend quite some time on the Broads next season. As of April next year, A BSS Certificate will be mandatory.

Ron.

 

[dickh]

Ron, in that case why not ask one of the examiners or a local boatyard as to how local boats comply. You may have to have two 'systems' to suit your sailing waters.

 

[steve_cronin]

MY GOD!!!!

How many bombs were there floating around having nasty accidents before the ever-so-wise regulators came out with their Boat Safety Scheme then.

Just think, there we were having all that fun afloat and not realising our folly.

Weren't we lucky not to have had an accident every day with our bungeed down removable tanks and AREN'T we lucky that we now live in a world where Big Brother knows best. No place for common sense is it? That's an OLD concept.

Steve Cronin

 

[pbeard]

Re: MY GOD!!!!

You can console yourself with the fact that it can only get worse!!!

 

[justdrifting]

Re: MY GOD!!!!

How i agree my old EA sloop with a stuart turner had her petrol tank in the transom There was seldom a leak or spill but when the bilge was "pumped" and nose applied as gas detector! Never a problem & what about the carb that had to be "tickled" when a drop of petrol would decend bilgewards

 

[exfinnsailor]

Just a thought . Have you got room on the top deck . What about something like a life raft container or smaller . Be safe and its down hill to the engine .

 

[mikefleetwood]

According to BSS Chapter 5, your outboard can be connected to a "portable fuel tank" with a capacity up to 27l (existing proprietory tanks upto 30l are also allowed).

5.2.2 sets out the requirement for storage when NOT in use, pretty much along the lines you describe. But the requirements for the tank when actually in use seem more relaxed. Although it IS a requirement that everything is of appropriate design and in good conditions. I can see no reason to not have the tank sitting on the floor, held in place with a bungy - provided you store it somewhere safe when not in use (All IMHO, of course).

 

[BSSOffice]

The anchor locker is often used and is OK if meeting the checks about condition, drainage and other objects as detailed in Chapter 7 of the BSS Essential Guide 2005 sections 7.2 - 7.5 (It's about gas but take the relevant and transposable bits)

Deleted User has outline the other relating to the tank in use. You can transom mount or deck and strap down. Assess your boat and take a view as to which you prefer from the risks perspective.

For example, some boats have good size storage areas on the transom next to the outboard where a nice stainless steel or GRP tray with tie down eyes makes the perfect place.
Have a read of chapter 5 (http://www.boatsafetyscheme.com/downloads/BSS_Guide_chap5.pdf) and see.

 

[Ronald_M]

Thanks for all the replies, folks.

After heeding all the advice I have decided upon the following:

1 x 10L tank + 2 x 5L tanks stowed in my anchor locker when not in use. Tight fit, but just about enough room! Locker to be padlocked to deter thieves/arsonists when the boat is unattended.

One of these 5L tanks to be used as the supply tank when the engine is operating. These - conveniently - are of a size which will fit (just) when securely strapped between the transom and the emergency boarding ladder, providing a modest degree of impact resistance and appropriate drainage, etc. Boarding ladder modified - wooden treads added - to retain secure foothold.

5L supply tanks replenished from 10L tank when shore facilities unavailable.

With a modern 5HP four-stroke I can expect about 3 - 5 hours continuous motoring, perhaps 15 - 20 hours total. Should be enough!

Thanks again,

Ron.