Mains as Fuel Pumps

[solanderi]

What is the rate of fuel returned to the fuel tank when both selector valves are set for the same tank ?

I have a 1985 45C c 692's and through various circumstances had my starboard fuel tank significantly lighter than my port ( > 1/2 tank compared to < 1/4) and was facing a 20 mile run back to the inlet. Definitely plenty of fuel, no sweat, but it made me think.... what if I had to transfer fuel. I didn't know the rate that the mains move the fuel around so I would not feel comfortable without that info. Also the fuel tranfer rate does not change with engine rpm, right?, even at idle, out of gear at the dock ? Also, since I have owned the boat (3 years plus) I have never transfered any fuel. Could those transfer lines be gummed up ? Thanks for your help,

Greg
1985 45C
Miami Beach

 

[Brian Degulis]

The flow rate is about 1 GPM @ 1800 RPM it will be less at lower RPMs. There are no specific transfer lines you simply set your selector valves to draw from one tank and return to another so your already using the lines no worries. You do need to be carefull and monitor tank levels so you don't overfill or empty any tanks.

Brian

 

[REBrueckner]

I don't know the fuel transfer rate, but it's substantial. I have moved fuel between tanks using my 8V71TI's at neutral and about 800 RPM or so while at the dock to transfer some fuel for use by my winter diesel heater...You can also move fuel from tank to tank by using a pump and hoses from one tank fill to another tank fill instead of burning expensive fuel in your main engines. As I usually run my engines once or twice during the winter season in NY that's when I switch return fuel tanks if necessary..