Specifications

SECTION THIRTEEN
SAFE FUELING PRACTICES
When fueling either gas or diesel, it is a good point to keep this manual visible in the cockpit and
read through each step each time until you know it by heart. More boats are lost at the fueling dock
than out on the high seas.
1. Avoid fueling the boat at night or in rough water except in an extreme emergency.
2. Before reaching the fuel dock calculate the desired amount of fuel needed and order only that
amount. Fuel tanks should not be filled to more than 90% of capacity to permit thermal expansion
without overflow from the vent.
3. Before opening the fuel filling inlet:
* Extinguish all open flames including the galley equipment and lanterns.
* Forbid all smoking on board or on the fuel dock. Drown all butts and refrain other people from
smoking in and about the fueling area.
* Turn OFF the main switch and all branch circuits, which is to be sure that there is no live electrical
current on board during fueling. REMEMBER DO NOT TURN OFF THE MAIN SWITCH UNTIL THE
ENGINE IS STOPPED TO AVOID DAMAGING THE ALTERNATOR.
* Tightly close all hatches, windows, doors, and ports.
4. Watch the fueling closely. Be sure that only a non automatic latch open type nozzle is used, com-
pelling the operator’s continuous hand pressure to keep fuel flowing and that only the ordered quan-
tity of fuel is put aboard. Be sure that the operator maintains constant contact of nozzle to fill pipe.
5. When the desired quantity of fuel has been put aboard, make sure that the cap closing the inlet is
tightly closed. Wash down any spills and check the vent openings to be sure that no fuel is being
discharged over the side.
6. Open wide all hatches, doors, windows, and ports.
7. If your boat is equipped with electric bilge blowers, turn on the branch circuit switches which con-
trols the circuits to this device and then turn on the main switch. Permit blower to operate for at least
five minutes and check the ventilation cows for odor of gasoline vapors or diesel vapors being dis-
charged.
8. If your boat is not blower equipped, wait at least ten minutes and check for gasoline odors in all
low spaces of the boat.
9. When your personal inspection and observations assure you that there is no gasoline fumes
remaining in the boat, the engine may be started and full electrical service restored as desired.