Fueling

When the time comes for you to take your pontoon out on her maiden voyage, you’ll want to ensure it’s properly fueled. Bi-toons have a 27-gallon fuel tank and tritoons, which are standard on all Veranda Luxury Pontoons that are built at the plant, have a 55-gallon fuel tank. The gas cap is located within the motor pod between the outboard and the fence on the stern swim platform. Some boaters prefer to only run non-ethanol fuel in their boats. Do not exceed E10. The fuel system components of the boat and engine are not designed to tolerate the corrosive effects of an ethanol blend higher than 10 percent. When possible its best to avoid ethanol altogether when fueling your boat. Ethanol attracts water and can absorb moisture from the marine environment through the fuel tank vent system, and it’s possible for that water to settle out of the fuel (phase separation) on the bottom of the tank, which could cause the engine to not operate or be damaged. Most high-performance outboards require a higher octane rating than “regular” 87 octane. Refer to your Yamaha owner’s manual for minimum octane rating, whether or not to include a fuel stabilizer, and additional maintenance recommendations to ensure longevity and proper performance. A good rule of thumb is to always go out with a full tank of fuel. Use 1/3 for the way out, 1/3 for the return back, and the final 1/3 for reserve. Here are some helpful tips for fueling:

Fueling at the gas dock:

  • Always clear the area of anyone not directly involved with the fueling boat.
  • Put out all smoking materials and secure your boat to the dock.
  • Turn off the engine, and electronics, and extinguish all open flames.
  • Keep the nozzle in contact with the edge of the fill to prevent build-up of static electricity to prevent sparking.
  • Don’t top off your tank. Know how much fuel your tank holds and fill it to about 90%. Fuel expands as temperatures rise.
  • Clean up fuel spills immediately with an oil-only absorbent pad. Wipe down the bilge or any interior parts that may have come in contact with fuel.
  • Treat your fueling operations with care. Never use hands-free clips, and avoid any distractions while fueling.

Fueling at the gas station

  • Be aware if your gas station sells gasoline with ethanol. Special precautions should be taken when using ethanol-blended gasoline.
  • Level your boat; fuel goes in more easily and is less likely to spill if your boat is level. Adjust your bunks/rollers or lower your trailer hitch if necessary. This can be challenging with the boat on the trailer so take note of any needed changes and adjust the trailer after your next launch.
  • Position yourself so you can see the deck fill and hold the nozzle comfortably. This may mean climbing onto the stern swim platform, using a step stool, or standing on the trailer. If you have to strain to hold the nozzle and see the deck fill, you are more likely to have a spill.

Fueling portable containers

  • Always refill your portable fuel containers on the pavement or dock to ensure good ground. While the bed of your truck or the deck of your boat may seem stable, static electricity can build up and cause a spark.
  • On the dock, put an absorbent pad under the container.
  • Consider using a funnel. A filtered funnel will help prevent contaminants from entering the fuel tank.
  • Ensure the nozzle stays in contact with the tank opening.
  • Always store portable fuel tanks out of direct sunlight and keep them in a cool, dry place to minimize condensation, whether that’s under one of the seats, inside the console storage area, or in the center toon in-floor storage.  
  • Fueling your boat with a portable container can take time, make sure your container is comfortable to carry, hold and balance.
  • Portable containers and jugs can be spill-prone, go slowly, pour deliberately, and watch your container (especially the nozzle mechanism) for signs of wear.

For additional information please look inside the Basic Boating and Safety Manual, included in your Veranda dry bag, reach out to your nearest authorized Veranda dealer or visit www.verandamarine.com.