I think I have a problem

D

dougs2452

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Member
Joined
Apr 19, 2005
RO Number
17057
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54
Today while working on my 96 carver 280 express I thought I smelled gas so I lifted the access panels in the floor and there was water in the bilge and also gas mixed in with it.
there wasn't that much gas in the tank I had ran it down last time i took it out. I put 15 gallonsin the tank from 5 gal cans and raised the guage to about just off dead 0 now it reads less than 0.
I guess my question is where to start? checking all the lines and hoses i can? I'm at a loss dont see how to get the tank out, if someone knows about a 280 express and could help i would appreciate it. now im bummed out[:-cry]
 
since you need help fast, you may want to post this on the "Ask the Captain" forum where many more people are likely to read it.
 
you need to be extremely careful if you smell gas and if you even think you see gas in the bilge any spark could cause it to explode. Trust me I know. This is a very serious problem that you need to seek professional help ASAP. As for removing the tank they may have to split the boat at the rub rail to get it out.

As a heads up you quickly become used to gas fumes and you may think that you have vented well enough to try starting don't be fooled like I was. Walk away from the boat for several minutes got some fresh air before returning then use your nose again you may find it still smells potent.

Hopefully it's not the tank and just a bad filter or fuel line. Don't take any chances seek hope.

Did I mention seek help!
Best of luck
 
Hmmm, wow Doug, that is a tough question... My advice is to get a pro involved, this is just too dangerous to mess with. A leak with the boat not being operated is most likely a tank leak, and that is definitely nothing to mess with...

I had an aluminum tank split somewhere either from corrosion or at a seam someplace, we ended up running my old boat for a couple of years with only one operational tank...
 
Doug,
A few thing to look at.

First shut off all electric to the boat. Shut down all breakers AC/DC.

1. check fuel line from tank to engine.
2. check Fuel Pump may be defective and leaking.
3. check the tank for leaks. If the tank sit directly on the hull it may have developed holes on the bottom due to moisture buildup.

If you cannot determine the root cause, seek a technician at your marina.
 
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