Fuel Primer Bulbs and Inboards

[Redneck]

i have a 175 sportjet and i'd like to add a fuel primer bulb to the fuel line to help with priming the carbs for starting. i've heard that primer bulbs don't meet the coast guard rules for inboards. i would like to mount my primer bulb outside the engine compartment. i'd like to run the fuel line outside the engine compartment and put the primer bulb in the compartment that has my oil reservior in it then run the fuel line back to the engine. would this be coast guard legal?
thanks,
redneck

[HntnFsh]

Dont take my word for it but I have heard of others doing that.Its my understanding that as long as the primer bulb is outside the housing it is legal.

I'm sure others on here can give you a more explicit answer.

HntnFsh

I reread your post.Not sure if the way your planning to do it is legal or not.I dont think the primer bulb is supposed to be in a closed compartment.

Sorry I cant be of more help.

[USCGBoating]

Listening to your question a few things pop into my head. First is why the engines fuel pump is not capable of adequately priming the carb? This sounds like a design flaw or there is something not quite right with the fuel delivery system. This may be something that you might want t o check out.

To answer your question about the priming bulb, you can but it is not recommended. The construction regulations are for manufacturers to comply with when building boats for sale. If you choose you do not have to comply but you take a significant risk. The dangers of adding a priming bulb to your system are, a priming bulb is considered a fuel pump and on an inboard application the system must have a 2.5 minute burn rating. Priming bulbs do not meet that requirement. In the event of a fire this would quickly burn through adding more fuel and exasperating your situation. Also you are placing a hose with fittings in an enclosed compartment that does not have adequate ventilation. This would also be a hazard.

In the event you have a fire and the prime bulb ends up being a contributing factor your insurance may find against your settlement.

Dan

[Chrome Bumper]

Maybe a CG approve electric priming pump would work.