Whaler console

[Biteme]

I'd like to install a permanent gas take under my center console. I'd also like to put the battery and the oil tank under the console. Should I worry about having them next to each other? The console will have a hatch that could be removed to provide ventilation. The boat is 17 whaler so storage is minimal. Thanks

[Bawana]

I wouldn*t put the battery next to the fuel tank in an enclosed space because of the chance of a bad connection spark igniting the gas fumes.I wouldn*t even do if a blower was installed. Yes worry ALOT.Even static electricity can cause an explosion of gas fumes.

[Biteme]

Yea that's what I thought. I'm running out of room in this boat. Has anybody put a fixed tank in a enclosed box in front of the center console? It would be seperate and could act like a seat

[Raven]

for a bigger boat....i'd say.

[Roger]

I have an old console from a SeaCraft in my backyard that had the gas tank in the console. Of course, the whole back of the console is permanently open. My old Hawkline had 2 batteries and the tank installed in the stern under the splashwell. Again, it was only closed on three sides. If your console is open in the back, you should have no problem. Just be sure the tank is properly grounded if you install it yourself.

[MTC]

Most Battries on boats that size are located at the transom area of the boat. On big boats they are in a diffrent compartment from the fuel tanks and the engines. Fuel and electricty mix but the results aren't good...can you say BOOMMMM!

[Biteme]

I know that Carolina and Maritimes skiffs locate everything together with no problem, but I would rather not worry about it. I think that if I glassed in a box in front of the console it would be my best bet. Should the tank be plastic and would the tank still have to be grounded?

[capesams]

that's what I did on my 20', they have all kinds of sizes of plastic gas tanks now..find the tank first then build your seat. U know kinda like build the dingie in the basement then find out it won't go through the door. tank then seat size.

[CustomMarineProducts]

I would not put a fuel tank in an enclosed area. Certainly not with a battery nearby.
How about saddle tanks mounted on the sides up under the gunnel??

[Biteme]

The boat is a 17 Whaler so putting tanks on the sides would take up even more room. I think that I'm going to build a platform in the rear of the boat over two six gallon tanks. Can I fiberglass 3/4 inch marine plywood without having it crack from a little flexing? The boat is going to be painted in several weeks and I could include the platform. It would be supported in the middle and have a hatch to access the tanks. It would also add a little more storage and would be great to fish from. Does anybody do this locally (Cape Cod)? Thanks!

[CustomMarineProducts]

I have a customer down there. Hyannis, MA
Ron Menard, he owns Cape Cod Marine. We build the T-tops for his Cape Cod 26. Call him and ask who in the area can do the work for you. (508) 432-4241. He knows alot of people in that area, hopefully he can help.

[JohnR]

Hmmmm, Cape Cod 26