"T" shutoff gas valve, Case for (Comments?)

[bcassedy]

Because (I think ) I have too much time on my hands...
I'm considering (during winter off-season) installing a "T" in each gas line - 1 on each engine and 1 for genny) prior to the engine's gas pump with an associated shut off valve on each leg of the "T". The "T's" would be fitted with quick disconnects on any incoming side and engine side outgoing ports. Actual gas lines would be fitted with matching quick disconnects.

The intent is to allow use of a standard 6 gallon marine gas tank. It's having a quick disconnect would allow the connection of the portable tank (its valve open and fixed gas tank valve closed) and run the engine using the portable tank. That would allow the addition of carb cleaner or other additives in the needed concentrations necessary to be effective without having to buy a huge quantity.
When not in use, the portable tank valve would be closed PLUS the quick connect valve would ensure no leakage of gas at the "T's".
Thoughts any / every ... one?

Bill

[jralbert]

I dunno...can you not just dump some of these fluids into the carburetor???

[Fastjeff]

Scary possibly of a gas leak.

The "injector" cleaner stuff they sell nowadays does a pretty good job when simply added to the fuel tank, especially if the level is low enough. I prefer STP but others also work well.

My old truck "tells me" if it needs another shot, and it clears up the problem overnight.

Jeff

[bcassedy]

Having used the sprays, which visually show a great result, and I dismantled a carb just to see the innards having deposit buildup (compared to 'squeaky clean' sprayed surfaces). Using a small gas tank that can then be attached to the "T", the associated shutoff valve opened and the regular fuel supply line valve shut would allow an extended engine run time with a slightly elevated concentration of fuel cleaner.
And, having a fuel capacity of 350 gallons, it'd be a huge "gulp" filling those tanks. And, I'll admit, filling from a high priced marina's pumps isn't a welcome experience. There are gas stations where non-ethanol gas is available. They use smaller storage tanks which means they fill those on a reasonable time frame basis. Thos helps to ensure gas obtained hasn't been sitting in storage tanks too longTakes a few trips to fill, haul and safely transfer fuel to boat's tanks but since I seem to make regular trips to the boat / dock to work on 'sumpthin', it's still doable.
The other 'get gas option' that has been used is to get other boat owners involved in the purchase of tanker supplied gas. Requires minimum amount purchase but saves a fair amount.

[TinLizzy]

Bill, I have always just pulled the incoming fuel line off the fuel filter or fuel pump, used an old spark plug and hose clamp to plug the line and connected the 6 gallon tank to FF or pump. Usually when trying to diagnose a fuel running issue. For the minute it takes to do, in my mind it wouldn't be worth the hassle of the extra fittings. But with shut off valves, I don't see an issue you design.

[Fastjeff]

Be sure to have someone watching those fuel connections just to be sure.

Jeff

[bcassedy]

"Duh!" moment! Frequency (or lack thereof) should've smacked me. The use of a short hose to a 3 or 6 gallon tank connected to the input side of the fuel pump will more than suffice.

Bill