Gas in bilge

[bryanredfish]

Ended up with 8 gallons of gas in the bilge -- don't ask how . I was able to drain most all of it out in containers. I then flushed the bilge, ran the pump, and basically let water run through the bilge for about 45 minutes (I was on dry land when this happened). Is there anything else I should do?

 

[Capt. Bob]

Re: Gas in bilge

Don't know if you have an inboard or outboard but you may have to neutralize the fumes, especially if it is an inboard and probably even if it is an outboard. I would find out what could be used to do that. Gas fumes are a serious problem in closed spaces as you know. My questions would be, did the fuel saturate wood, any wiring or rubber parts affected, and did it seep into an area you are not aware of? At the least I would scrub with soap and water, then sniff.

 

[bryanredfish]

Re: Gas in bilge

Thanks Capt. Bob. I scrubbed everything I could with detergent, and ran fresh water through the bilge. It still has some odor, but it's not nearly as strong. The motor is an outboard. Can something be purchased to neutralize the fumes?

 

[EGalvTex]

Re: Gas in bilge

That sounds like the old fill fill up the rod holder mishap happened.

 

[Franki]

Re: Gas in bilge

don't smoke in your boat for awhile.. <br /><br />seriously, leave it sitting with the bungs out and everythign that can be opened open in the sun for a day or two as well, give it time to disapate abit..<br /><br />rgds<br /><br />Frank

 

[bryanredfish]

Re: Gas in bilge

It was indeed the old rod-holder fill-her-up-trick. What a nightmare. The fumes seem to be nearly gone, and I've left all plates, holds open for a few days. Thanks to those who responded, and be sure to leave your fishing rods IN the holders when filling up.