Fuel tank sizes for a 23cc

[natchalkley]

So I need to replace the fuel tank in my 73 23cc and I was thinking about downsizing from the 100 gal to maybe 70-ish. I have never used more than 45 gal in a day and dont really want to carry all the extra weight around. I never really have more than 50 gals in there at a time unless im going offshore but even then I dont even use half of it. If I do go with a smaller tank it would give me more room for and better access to my seachest that I use for my under the deck livewell which is under the deck hatch in front of the console.

Has anyone else done this and if so any regrets?

Nat

[Old'sCool]

Nope. 118 here but 50+miles to the ledge from here typically consumes 60-65%. So I'm practicing the 1/3 rule

[77SceptreOB]

I have a 23 foot Sceptre and downsized to 95 gallons due to a lot of the reasons you mentioned. I have had no adverse effects thus far and really enjoy the added visibility and workability I gained back by the splash well and bilge area where my pumps are located. Since I mainly operate inland on a pretty large fresh water lake, I haven't missed the extra 5-10 gallons. Also, if I was to sell my boat, I don't see a minor reduction in fuel capacity as a negative selling point. Although if you were to go to 50 gallons or less and operate in a salt water application, that may be an issue if you sell your boat

[BA17]

I'm with Old's Cool. I have a 96 gallon and a 40 gallon. Sometimes I wish I had more.

[Jacquestrappe]

I'm really glad you asked this question. I was planning on posting a very similar question. I'll be anxious for peoples responses.

I am in the middle of re-restoring my '75 23 CC. The previous owner had twin two strokes on the back that were thirsty. To help with his long runs, he installed a 60 gallon reserve in front of the 120 gallon tank.

Since taking the boat myself, I have changed over to a single 250 Etec which obviously has improved the gas situation. I'm in the midst of replacing the deck/transom and contemplating changes while its underway. My gut tells me to take the 60 gallon tank out and bump the 120 forward to help with the weight distribution etc. With an estimated burn of 2mpg, that gives me considerable range but I always tend to think...what if? I do chase tuna in here in the Northeast....primarily on stellwagen as well as East of the cape (sword) which can be a 50 mile run...

Up to this point, I will primarily use the 60 gallon tank...unless i am making a long run...to keep the weight forward.

I'd like to hear your opinions on what you would do in my situation. Would you keep the 60 or take it out and bump the main tank forward.

Thanks in advance...and sorry for the hijack.

RC

[Boatboy6]

Bump the main tank forward and put the aux tank behind it. You only have to fill it when needed.

[Jacquestrappe]

Boatboy,

Thanks for your reply. Definitely an idea to consider..if I use the 60 as my main tank most of the time when I'm buzzing around inshore (and keep the 120 light on gas), wouldn't it be better to be in front? (That is what I have been doing most of the time) My thought process is to have a smaller, more concentrated tank far forward...I would only use the 120 when making long runs? Just thinking out loud... You might be right though...Either way, though, you think I should keep the aux?

[Boatboy6]

Originally Posted by Jacquestrappe

Boatboy,

Thanks for your reply. Definitely an idea to consider..if I use the 60 as my main tank most of the time when I'm buzzing around inshore (and keep the 120 light on gas), wouldn't it be better to be in front? (That is what I have been doing most of the time) My thought process is to have a smaller, more concentrated tank far forward...I would only use the 120 when making long runs? Just thinking out loud... You might be right though...Either way, though, you think I should keep the aux?

I personally like the ability to carry as much fuel as possible. The reason I suggest keeping the smaller tank empty is that it will accumulate less water from ethanol seperation and condensation than the larger one would

[Billpotter]

For long distance voyaging; gas is like beer, bait, food, and toilet paper: We all complain more when we ran out, than when we had plenty: I'd keep all of the gas capacity I could tolerate, and size the tanks according to how much I changed the weight distribution. I ran a 23 for years with a single 225 OMC looper with 50/ 100/ 40 gallons, bow to stern. We always had enough gas, and used the forward and mid tanks most of the time- we only used the aft 40 gallon tank for really long (70 mile one way) runs. My current 23 project with 115 four strokes has 50/ 70 gallons- that was all I could fit, and keep a bow fish box, a console step down, and a forward of transom storage area. I would feel more comfortable with 30-40 gallons more. With the 70/ 50, I'm figuring on running on the 70 starting out heavy, and having the 50 as an absolute safety/ get home supply. Using the thirds rule, I'm still short on gas for what I plan to use the boat for.

[Jacquestrappe]

Nat, to get back to your question, the outfit that is restoring my SeaCraft typically suggests downsizing the tank when they do these type of restorations. He has a custom 95 (i think) gallon tank that he prefers to use.

I'm still not convinced....I know its probably not as practical but like the option of having more range if needed.

RC