Life hacks: 4 tips for fuel canisters
YACHT
· 07.12.2023
Reserve canister Lifehack 1: Vacuum packaging against odour
The petrol canister for the dinghy's outboard motor was spreading an unpleasant fuel smell in our cockpit. To put a stop to this, we decided to use an additional cover. We have vacuum bags on board in which we store laundry to keep it dry and save space. These bags in size L are big enough for a 10-litre fuel canister. We put the canister in the bag and then suck out the remaining air with the associated pump. Since then, the storage space no longer smells of petrol. Which is good, because the odour quickly settled on mooring lines and equipment. It is important to mention that there are also vacuum bags for venting with a hoover. We strongly advise against this when packing the canister, as the fuel vapours in the hoover could lead to an explosion. So only use the hand pump.
Jonas Harmstorf, Wedel
Reserve canister Lifehack 2: Refuelling with hitchhiking
For spill-free refuelling, we opted for a quick-release filler cap, also known as a safety spout. This is actually offered for refuelling chainsaws. There is a valve at the front that only opens when the tip is pressed against the edge of the tank opening. This means that nothing can go wrong when the canister is fitted. However, the special feature is that it closes automatically when the fuel reaches the valve, i.e. just before the tank overflows. The part costs between five and 15 euros.
Mario Lanzke, by e-mail
Reserve canister Lifehack 3: Shaker pump at hand
We refuel with a so-called shaker pump, which is available from various suppliers for just under ten euros. There is a mechanism on a hose that sucks up liquids by hand and then pumps them through the hose. But this device can also drip. We leave it in the tank pipe and push it in after refuelling so that the cap can be screwed back on. To prevent it from disappearing into the pipe, we have secured it to the lid with a strap.
Roland Dunkel, Pinneberg
Reserve canister Lifehack 4: Spill-free refuelling
With a simple refuelling device, you can avoid spillage when refuelling the outboard motor. The centrepiece consists of a rubber bellows fitted with valves, which normally hangs in the supply line of an outboard motor with an external tank. This is used to draw in the fuel mixture. A shut-off valve is installed on the pressure side of the tap; this allows fuel to be transferred without spilling. When the tank is full, the tap is closed, the filling end is held in the canister, the suction end is pulled upwards and the system is pumped empty.
Hans Mühlbauer, Augsburg
Do you have any advice for other sailors?
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