Fuel Tank Vents & Hold Down Kits

Fuel Tank Vents and Hold Down Kits - Resources & Information

Fuel tank vents and hold down kits are important for boats and outboard engines because they help to prevent fuel spills and accidents. Fuel tanks on boats and outboard engines can be subjected to a variety of forces, including the movement of the boat through rough seas, the expansion and contraction of the fuel due to temperature changes, and the pressure changes that can occur as the fuel is used. 

PartsVu offers a complete selection of Fuel Tank Vents and Fuel Tank Hold Down Kits from OEM manufacturers and trusted aftermarket suppliers. Whether you need a Moeller tank hold down kit, boat fuel tank straps, and more, PartsVu has what you need to get the job done. 

Need help servicing your boat and outboard engine? PartsVu regularly publishes helpful how-to guides and other valuable maintenance information to help boaters service their outboard engines, boats, trailers, and more. Browse the PartsVu Xchange, our outboard maintenance blog, for a wide range of relevant topics and review the FAQ section below, covering everything you need to know about maintaining your boat in confidence.

Fuel Tank Vents & Hold Down Kits FAQ

What are Fuel Tanks and Fuel Tank Hold Down Kits for boats?

Fuel tank vents allow air to enter and exit the tank as the fuel level changes, which helps to prevent a vacuum from forming inside the tank and making it difficult to fill or drain the tank. They also allow any fuel vapors that may be present inside the tank to escape, reducing the risk of explosion or fire.

Hold down kits, also known as fuel tank restraints, help to secure the fuel tank in place and prevent it from shifting or tipping over. This is especially important on boats that may be subjected to rough seas or heavy loads, as a fuel tank that is not properly secured can be a hazard to the crew and passengers.

Which types of fuel tank brackets should I use for boats?

Fuel tank brackets are used to secure the fuel tank to the boat and prevent it from shifting or moving while the boat is in operation. There are several types of fuel tank brackets that can be used on boats, including:

1. Strap-style brackets - These brackets are made of a flexible material, such as nylon or polypropylene, and are used to hold the fuel tank in place using straps or bands. Strap-style brackets are easy to install and adjust, and are suitable for use on boats with smooth, flat surfaces.
2. L-shaped brackets - These brackets are made of a rigid material, such as aluminum or stainless steel, and are used to hold the fuel tank in place using a combination of straps and brackets. L-shaped brackets are more durable and secure than strap-style brackets, and are suitable for use on boats with irregular or uneven surfaces.
3. Custom brackets - Some boats may require custom fuel tank brackets to fit the specific shape and size of the fuel tank. Custom brackets can be made of a variety of materials, including aluminum brackets for boats, stainless steel, or composite materials, and are designed to fit the specific needs of the boat.

It is important to use the appropriate type of fuel tank bracket for your boat, as using the wrong type of bracket can lead to problems such as fuel leaks or tank movement. It is always best to consult with a marine professional or refer to the manufacturer's recommendations when selecting fuel tank brackets for your boat.

What is a tank hold for boats?

A tank hold is a compartment or area on a boat where fuel or other liquids are stored. Tank holds are typically located below the deck of the boat and are used to store fuel, water, or other liquids that are needed for the operation of the boat. Tank holds can be made of a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, or composite materials.

Tank holds are an important component of a boat's fuel system, as they provide a secure and safe location for storing fuel and other liquids. Tank holds are designed to be sturdy and resistant to leaks, and are typically equipped with features such as vents and fill caps to help prevent spills and leaks.

Tank holds are typically accessed through a hatch or opening in the deck of the boat, and are usually fitted with a fuel gauge or other monitoring system to help the operator keep track of the level of fuel in the tank. It is important to regularly check the fuel level in the tank hold and to refill it as needed to ensure that the boat has sufficient fuel for its intended use.

Why should I use a marine fuel tank hold down kit?

A marine fuel tank hold down kit is a set of components that are used to securely hold the fuel tank in place on a boat. A fuel tank hold down kit typically includes straps, brackets, or other hardware that are used to hold the fuel tank in place and prevent it from shifting or moving while the boat is in operation.

Using a fuel tank hold down kit is important for several reasons:

1. Safety - A fuel tank that is not properly secured can shift or move while the boat is in operation, which can lead to problems such as fuel leaks or spills. A fuel tank hold down kit helps to prevent these problems by securely holding the fuel tank in place.
2. Performance - A fuel tank that is not properly secured can affect the performance of the boat, as it can cause the boat to handle poorly or become unstable. A fuel tank hold down kit helps to ensure that the fuel tank is properly secured and does not interfere with the performance of the boat.
3. Compliance - Many states and localities have regulations that require boats to have a fuel tank hold down kit or other means of securing the fuel tank in place. Using a fuel tank hold down kit helps to ensure that your boat is in compliance with these regulations.

It is always best to consult with a marine professional or refer to the manufacturer's recommendations when selecting a fuel tank hold down kit for your boat. Using the wrong type of kit or improperly installing it can lead to problems such as fuel leaks or tank movement.

How do fuel tank mounting brackets break?

Fuel tank mounting brackets can break or become damaged due to a variety of factors, including:

1. Wear and tear - Over time, marine fuel tank straps and mounting brackets can become worn or damaged due to repeated use and exposure to the elements. This can cause the brackets to become weakened or brittle, which can lead to breakage.
2. Corrosion - Fuel tank mounting brackets can become corroded due to exposure to saltwater or other corrosive substances. This can weaken the brackets and make them more prone to breakage.
3. Impact or collision - Fuel tank mounting brackets can break or become damaged if the boat experiences an impact or collision. This can happen due to a collision with another vessel, running aground, or other types of impacts.
4. Poor installation or maintenance - Fuel tank mounting brackets can break or become damaged if they are improperly installed or not maintained properly. This can include using the wrong type of bracket for the fuel tank or not tightening the brackets properly.

It is important to regularly inspect and maintain fuel tank mounting brackets to ensure that they are in good condition and able to properly support the fuel tank. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, it is important to replace the brackets as soon as possible to prevent problems such as fuel leaks or tank movement.

What are permanent brackets for boats?

Permanent brackets are brackets or supports that are permanently attached to a boat and are used to hold or secure various components or equipment. Permanent brackets can be made of a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, or composite materials, and are designed to be durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Permanent brackets are used on boats to hold and support a wide range of components and equipment, including fuel tanks, batteries, outboard motors, and other items. They are typically installed during the construction of the boat and are not intended to be removed or replaced.

Permanent brackets are an important component of a boat, as they help to ensure that the components and equipment they support are securely held in place and do not shift or move while the boat is in operation. It is important to regularly inspect and maintain permanent brackets to ensure that they are in good condition and able to properly support the components or equipment they are holding. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, it is important to have the brackets repaired or replaced as soon as possible.