FUEL SPILL GUARD

[Lobo]

This product is highlighted in the February 2009 issue of Pacific Yachting, page 77. It is on the web at http://fuelspillprevention.com. It is a device to prevent spills from the vent line, retailing under $200.

Andrew: I have a side vent on Lobo (#62). Would I be able to get to the vent line, find space, etc. in order to install one?

Thanks.

Dave Trace
"Lobo"

 

[Kamalani]

ANDREW - we are experiencing the problem of fuel discharging from the tank vent fitting. This happens any time the boat's motion causes sloshing in the tank, as well as overfilling. I looked at the FUEL SPILL GUARD referred to the the last post, but it seems to be overkill for the R-21. Would it be possible to install a simple retention bottle, aka a wide spot in the vent line, which would allow any spillage to collect and then drain back into the tank. This should permit air to vent out during filling, and still prevent any vacuum effect during fuel consumption. I am envisioning a simple qt. size bottle with fittings at top and bottom. Does this make any sense?, or better yet, do you have another solution?
Alex & Sherry, "Kamalani"

 

[Andrew Custis]

Lobo.

I would suggest going with this instead of that gizmo. This is made by racor and about half of the price. Yes you can get to the vent on the side but have to put an access port in the cabinet under the stove. I think the LG50 is the way to go. You can visist FisheriesSupply.com and search LG50 and see all of the information.




09464 RAC LG50 $101.85 $85.55 Yes

 

[Lobo]

Andrew:

I did buy a Davis "No Spill Fuel Saver" for around $20 at a local chandelry (West Marine part 290430) and have used it twice since getting it. It works well -- but fortunately I haven't spilt any fuel yet.

Another example of the simplest solution may be the best solution.

Dave
"Lobo"

 

[Kamalani]

Andrew - thanks for the info on the Racor Fuel/Air Separator. I have one on order & I will let you know the results once it's installed. Alex, "Kamalani"

 

[captd]

I am here to tell you the fuel filler adapter works perfect. $150 worth of bronze, Pvc plastic would work as well, I bet. but it works like a charm. Fuel vent still does not work. Anyone have any suggestions for fixing that?
captd

 

[Kamalani]

ANDREW - I received the Racor LG50 unit, but all catalog descriptions state that this smaller model is for GASOLINE only. What gives?? I'm sure the flow rate is fine for the 30 HP Yanmar, But not for diesel fuel? The LG100 model states that it is designed for both gasoline & diesel. Should I install that instead? Thanks - Alex, "Kamalani"

 

[rt11002003]

Andrew,

I never saw an answer to the problem of venting/fuel (foam) coming from fuel vent fitting on the R-21 EC.

I have fuel/foam coming from the fuel vent. I also had fueling problems when adding fuel. I suspect the fuel/foam is because the water is so choppy due to the summer boaters coming out. In checking the vent line I find it's too long and is kinked. Looks to me like a nightmare to get to and replace.

I also found the fuel return line is routed such that it rubs the filter mounting bracket. I've installed padding to prevent chaffing.

Also the fuel supply line fitting at the tank is loose. I'm hoping tightning the nut against the tank will cure that.

How about the fuel/foam issue? EPA, DNR and all the other agencies take a dim view of fuel and water.

Is it possible to install a vent line with a loop above the tank and prevent fuel/foam from escaping? Or??

Gene

 

[rt11002003]

Hi Andrew,

I'm back again. I went by the tug awhile ago to check that fuel vent. This time I had my mirror and a flashlight. The vent tube actually has two kinks in it. There's just not enough space to run that length of tube.

I did some preliminary measurements and think I can install a vent line of approximately 20 inches which will result in a loop that will be approximately 7 inches above the tank at its highest point.

Questions:

Does the factory think a loop of that size will prevent fuel/foam from going out the vent?

If not, what else is recommended?

If it seems like a workable solution, what is the inner diameter of that vent, ie. size?

The seal on the vent fitting where it exits the tug is improperly installed and needs replacing.

Another question, is the vent fitting that exits the tug adjustable without rotating the fitting? The loop would be a better fit if it approachs the fitting at a different angle.

Thanks,

Gene