Fuel tank filling, possible vent line issues

birdpiper66

2004 Rinker Fiesta Vee 250, Mercruiser 350 MAG : Currently on a two week cruise of the Hudson River and Lake Champlain. Filled the gas tank a few times the first few days without issue, but the last two fills there has been an issue. It appears that the “vent line” is becoming blocked and creating problems while filling. Not sure if it is clogged or some sort of valve causing problems.

We were able to disconnect the vent line at the tank and “blow it out” with a pump that is used for inflating a raft. That helped a little, but still having issues.

No luck getting a mechanic to look at it today. Is there anything else we can try on our own?

Any assistance is appreciated.

YYZRC

Did you inspect the fuel lines between the nozzle receiver and the tank?  Perhaps one of the lines is crushed/kinked or collapsed?  Are the hoses original?

[Deleted User]

You have a common issue. I added a dedicated fuel tank vent between the blower vents which has made filling up much faster and easier. Also, the vent hose needs to have enough length to avoid even any sharp turns, let alone kinks. Replace the hose if in doubt. Vents are widely available. Andy

https://www.amazon.com/Perko-0506DP4CHR-Fuel-Tank-Straight/dp/B0009TNKCM/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=marine+gas+tank+vent&qid=1626135063&sr=8-2

PickleRick

Vents are known to have screens that corrode in salty or even humid air where it exits the transom. 

Bugs are also known to build nests in the vent cavity. 

Vent hose should also be a slope going as direct as possible to fuel tank.  Any dips can and will cause a valley where sits, causing a P trap affect.


Ive yet to rent a boat that wasn't slow to fill due to venting issues.  Would drive me nuts it it were my boat. 

Armyavr

We put in a new vent by the blowers on the port side. Seems to work much better.