2003 160 DAUNTLESS Has Gasoline Odor in Middle Console

[MillieTheBoat]

On my 2003 160 DAUNTLESS I always smell gasoline in the middle console where the battery compartment.

I put the 2003 160 DAUNTLESS in the garage. Sometimes I can smell gasoline.

Q: Is [an odor of gasoline from a 2003 160 DAUNTLESS in a garage] normal?

There is no sign of fuel leakage.

My next big project may be to replace all the fuel lines.

I leave the middle console door open while the boat is in the garage and turn off all electrical on the boat and disconnect the batteries.

ASIDE: I used to have motorcycles.

[jimh]

When you write "middle console" what are you trying to describe?

[Jefecinco]

The smell is normal unless it is very strong. The fuel tank is a poly material which allows a slight gasoline smell to be present, especially when there is little air flow around the console. If the console has not been opened recently the smell will be slightly intensified when the console is first opened. If the smell does not abate quickly when the console is opened a closer inspection may be warranted. Storing the boat in the garage keeps the air around the boat relatively static which will intensify the odor.

[GoldenDaze]

That is perfectly normal. As Butch said, the fuel tank is poly(ethylene?) and it allows a bit of odor to pass through. Since you're storing the boat indoors, I'd suggest leaving the center console door open and removing the motor well access hatch to minimize odor buildup. As a 2003 model, you should already have the 4" vents installed on the back side of the stern seats.

-Bob

[MillieTheBoat]

Thank you everyone. I'm glad to hear this is normal.

Jim, ["middle" console] is the center console that has an access door to the battery and steering helm assembly.

[jimh]

MILLIE--I don't recall anyone ever using the term "middle console" to mean a center console. "Middle" console suggests there are two other consoles and you are talking about the one in middle.

[MillieTheBoat]

Thanks Jim. I'm new to boating and still learning stuff.

[Todd]

Hi there,

I have the same boat, 2003 160 Dauntless with a 115 Mercury motor, and noticed the gasoline odor in the center console when I purchased the boat in 2017. With all the electronics in there I was concerned. I did my own inspection with a flash light and could not see any signs of leaking. The odor did not seem to be "fresh" gasoline, it was what I would consider "stale". I also checked the bilge which was dry before running but has a bit of water after running, the water has no signs of gas in it. Lastly, when I had the boat serviced I asked the dealer to inspect the fuel system and they reported no problems and did not think the odor was abnormal for this model. If it were me, I'd probably have a qualified service tech check it out if you've got any further concerns.

Can't be too careful with fuel, good question!

Todd

[fno]

Millie, don't smoke in the garage, don't smoke on the boat, especially don't smoke while refueling the boat! Otherwise the gas smell is insignificant and will not be a problem. Quit smoking if you do, and if you don't want to quit, take up cigars and smoke them when you are off the boat.

[MillieTheBoat]

Thanks everyone. The last time I had a smoke when I was 11-years-old. Some older kid gave me a puff and I choked on it. I don't smoke and don't drink when I am on the boat.

In the garage, I open the center console door and the back sump area. Turn the batteries switch to Off position. Charge the battery once a week and disconnect once it is done. I also have a big fire extinguisher in the garage and Nest smoke detector. Just be safe than sorry since one of our rooms is above the garage.