Fuel Filling Problems

[Reel Deal Too]

Looking for input and a possible solution. I have a 2006 232 Gulfstream that I purchased new. I never had a problem at the fuel pump for the first 6 or 7 years. Since then the fuel nozzle will shut off while filling. About a year ago, I found a gas station that had a pump that I exclusively used, without an issue. Last week I couldnt use that particular pump, and it started giving me problems like in previous years. Took forever to pump 100 gallons. Boat runs great, tank is not collapsed, but seems to be a possible vent issue. The cap is sealed per say, so vent must be working. Anybody else have this issue, and what is the possible cause. Thank you in advance, any thoughts are appreciated.

 

[Fishtales]

I'm wondering if you could run a small snake through the vent on the hull and see if there is a small obstruction that you can punch through? The other option is get to the tank and try it from that end. The latter is likely better as you would be pushing any crud into the tank if you go through the vent on the hull.

 

[Reel Deal Too]

I'm wondering if you could run a small snake through the vent on the hull and see if there is a small obstruction that you can punch through? The other option is get to the tank and try it from that end. The latter is likely better as you would be pushing any crud into the tank if you go through the vent on the hull.

Thank you for your thoughts. If was a total obstruction it would cause vapor lock right? Considering the fuel cap is oringed and virtually sealed.

 

[DennisG01]

There's either a clog in the vent or fill line, or a low spot in the vent line - which collects fuel and acts as a temporary clog.

The vent line could be clogged enough to not allow a huge inrush of fuel/outrush of air, yet not enough of a clog so as to still allow the small amount of air that needs to come in during engine use to replace the fuel used. Huge difference in the amount of fuel being transferred in those two scenarios.

 

[Reel Deal Too]

There's either a clog in the vent or fill line, or a low spot in the vent line - which collects fuel and acts as a temporary clog.

The vent line could be clogged enough to not allow a huge inrush of fuel/outrush of air, yet not enough of a clog so as to still allow the small amount of air that needs to come in during engine use to replace the fuel used. Huge difference in the amount of fuel being transferred in those two scenarios.

I agree, what is best material to run through the line to check or unplug obstruction, any thoughts?

 

[DennisG01]

First, I'd check for low spots. It may be as simple as zip tying the line better to allow for drainage. The other "first" thing would be to check the vent, itself. If you get to the point of snaking the lines, definitely do what was suggested above and disconnect from the tank, first. At that point, you can pretty much use whatever you want... Compressed air... a snake (with the end taped smooth)... a flexible fish (same thing, tape the end).

 

[Fishtales]

There may be access problems but the check is a good first step.

https://www.boatingmag.com/five-boat-fuel-vent-tips/

 

[Reel Deal Too]

There may be access problems but the check is a good first step.

https://www.boatingmag.com/five-boat-fuel-vent-tips/

Thanks for the article, read it.

 

[Reel Deal Too]

First, I'd check for low spots. It may be as simple as zip tying the line better to allow for drainage. The other "first" thing would be to check the vent, itself. If you get to the point of snaking the lines, definitely do what was suggested above and disconnect from the tank, first. At that point, you can pretty much use whatever you want... Compressed air... a snake (with the end taped smooth)... a flexible fish (same thing, tape the end).

Thank you, much appreciation