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Fuel on board

Fuel cans for boats and outboards

A portable outboard fuel tank can look similar to a spare fuel can, but the jobs are different. Keep the engine fuel system, transport can, hose and pouring spout clearly separated.

Reading time: 8 min
Key point: an ordinary spare can is not automatically suitable as the operating fuel tank for an outboard. Use only tanks, hoses and connectors intended by the engine or tank manufacturer for that purpose.

Spare can or portable outboard tank?

ContainerPurposeCheck
Spare fuel canCarry fuel and pour it latermarking, condition, restraint and compatible spout
Portable engine tankSupply the outboard through a fuel linemanufacturer compatibility, venting, hose, connector and secure location

Mercury describes dedicated portable marine tanks with their own tank connection and fuel-demand components. Yamaha manuals separately tell users to use an approved gasoline container when storing or dispensing fuel. Treat the spare can as a transport container, not as a substitute for an engine fuel system.

Secure the can on board

It should not slide or tip when the boat moves, when trailering or during abrupt manoeuvres. Keep it upright, away from controls and access routes, and use a holder only when the holder dimensions and can are compatible.

Heat, ignition sources and vapour

Petrol vapour can ignite. Yamaha warns against smoking, flames, sparks and static discharge during fuel handling and against overfilling because fuel can expand as temperature rises. Clean up spills immediately and follow the outboard manual.

Before travel

  • Inspect the can, cap and seal.
  • Keep the spare can distinct from the engine tank.
  • Check fuel hose and quick connectors against the engine manual.
  • Follow manufacturer instructions before transporting a portable outboard.
  • Check harbour, ferry and local navigation rules separately.
No universal onboard rule: the correct tank, can, line and installation depend on the boat, engine and local rules. The equipment manuals take priority.

Sources for this guide

The following authorities and documents were used for this guide. Where rules change, the current original source takes precedence.

  1. Yamaha outboard owner’s manual – fuel and portable-container safety guidanceYamaha Motor EuropePetrol handling, approved portable gasoline containers, overfilling, ignition sources and ventilation
  2. Portable marine fuel tank – product and application guidanceMercury Marine / QuicksilverDistinction between a portable fuel tank designed for outboard use and an ordinary spare fuel can
  3. Preparing a portable outboard for transportMercury MarineDisconnecting remote fuel lines, closing tank vents and preparing a portable outboard for transport