Gas odor

[Framemaker]

New to forum. I purchased a 2013 Bayliner Element. It has red gas tank under the seat. I didn't see a vent but don't know the boat yet. I was installing a marine radio and noticed a fairly strong gasoline odor. The hull is open around most of the boat under the seats so the compartments are exposed to fumes from most anywhere. Just wanted to know if that is normal or I should get it checked. I didn't see any leaks.
Thanks, Golfer15

 

[alldodge]

Check the hose clamps on the fill and vent hoses

 

[southkogs]

^^^ Smaller outboard boats may not have a bilge blower, but should still have venting for the gas tank.

 

[Chris1956]

A "red gas tank under the seats" implies a portable gasoline tank. If so, those are usually vented at the tank, and if full, you could smell gasoline in the boat.

If the boat is constructed in a way that fumes cannot be trapped in bilge spaces, that is, a sealed deck, you are probably OK. If you have under deck storage, or lockers, with covers, you need to give it some attention to make sure fumes cannot be trapped in those.

 

[Framemaker]

A "red gas tank under the seats" implies a portable gasoline tank. If so, those are usually vented at the tank, and if full, you could smell gasoline in the boat.

If the boat is constructed in a way that fumes cannot be trapped in bilge spaces, that is, a sealed deck, you are probably OK. If you have under deck storage, or lockers, with covers, you need to give it some attention to make sure fumes cannot be trapped in those.

Yes the tank is considered portable, a feature Bayliner used to get around EPA requirements at the time. I wouldn't consider the deck sealed as there are small spaces under the seats. It has a bilge pump but not sure about a fan, I'll have to check with Bayliner. Thanks for the info.