Hey there! Some links on this page are affiliate links which means that, if you choose to make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I greatly appreciate your support!
Do you need to enjoy a longer boat trip? Then you will need an extra gas tank for the boat to carry more fuel. To enjoy your boat trip on the water without getting interrupted by an empty gas tank you can read this article to select the perfect 12 gallon gas tank for your boat.
Why do you need a 12 gallon gas tank for boat?
Able to store a considerable amount of fuel
A 12-gallon gas tank (almost 46 liters) is a considerably good amount as an extra gas tank for boats such as pontoons, fishing boats, etc.
Fuel Consumption
Having a larger fuel tank will help you to carry more fuel for your boat. Different types of boats have different fuel consumption rates. If your boat has a higher fuel consumption rate you will need a 12-gallon tank or even higher.
For Emergency
Having an extra fuel tank will be very useful in emergencies. For example, think that you are going on a long trip with your friends on a couple of boats, then one of the boats has an empty tank and gets stopped middle of nowhere. So you can give some fuel to travel until find a place to have some gas on that boat.
Also some situations like unexpected weather conditions or technical issues.
For longer trips on the water
If you are planning to do any activities such as boat camping trips or exploring islands, you need an extra gas tank to continue your journey without having any fuel problems.
Related – How to Choose a Tent for Boat Camping Trip
Things you need to consider before buying a portable 12 gallon gas tank for a boat
Material of gas tank
Fuel tanks for boats are made of materials such as polyethylene, aluminum, and stainless steel. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. But they are all good. I have a polyethylene one.
Installing and compatibility
If it is not easy to install the fuel tank it will become a problem because it may cause to leak fuel. Usually, gas tanks don’t come with installation instructions. So I suggest you find who is professional about it. Also, make sure to check the tank is going to fit with your boat. You can check the size of it to compare a place to keep it on your boat. Most of the 12 gallon fuel tanks are designed to fit under-seat.
Safety of the tank
Check the brand and reviews about the safety of the product and also make sure to check the tank is fire-resistant. If the material of the tank is not strong enough it will be a reason to fuel leak. Also, make sure to check if there are any damages before using it. If your product comes with anti-slosh foams it will increase the safety level higher.
Check for frequently bought items
Check if are there any frequently bought items with your gas tank. If you are ordering it online, it will be easy to do. I highly recommend getting these items when you are getting the gas tank because that will help you to use the fuel tank more easily.
Customer reviews about the product
If you are buying the fuel tank online definitely check the reviews to make sure that you are going to buy a good product. It will help you to find the problems of it and tips to use it.
Best 12 gallon gas tank for boat
1. Scepter Rectangular 12 Gallon Marine Fuel Tank
If you are looking for a lightweight gas tank to fit under your boat seat, then this is the one for you.
Material of gas tank – Made out of Polyethylene. That’s why it is lightweight (it is not a disadvantage)
Installing and compatibility – Very easy to install and designed to fit under-seat storage. You can keep it anywhere safe to store
This comes with various item dimensions with different styles. The default size is 24-1/2″ x 18″ x 11-1/2″. The choice is up to you.
Safety of the tank – Tank is very safe and it is made out of high-density polyethylene which is UV stabilized.
Check for frequently bought items –
Customer reviews about the product – Most people are recommending this product on Amazon and I saw a few people have complained about they haven’t received a hose and fittings to mount the fuel line. That is why you need to check if are there any frequently bought items with the fuel tank.
One of the customer’s reviews on Amazon
“I read many reviews where people were complaining about this tank but my opinion is it was a great purchase. I have owned several boats over the course of my lifetime. I currently have an 18 foot Jon boat with a Mercury 40 hp tiller on it. I had a 6 gallon tank made by Attwood and wanted something a little bigger. When I first tried to connect my fitting I was discouraged and ready to send it back because it wouldn’t fit the way that they engineered this product.
I went to West Marine and bought a 90° fuel tank vent elbow fitting 1/4”. It went together very easy and the boat runs great. Many people complained about the vent. I have absolutely no complaints what so ever and have taken my boat out in Tampa Bay 3 times since I got this tank. I would encourage you to buy this product without reservation.”
2. DNA MOTORING Aluminum Top-Feed Fuel Cell Gas Tank
If you are not a fan of Polyethylene gas tanks. Here is a shiny fuel tank for you.
Material of gas tank – made out of Aluminum. Which makes this more durable and shiny.
Installing and compatibility – this is also very easy to install and comes with the dimensions of 20 x 16 x 14 inches.
Safety of the tank – Very safe and have done testing on the strength and durability of the tank
Check for frequently bought items
Customer reviews about the product
Most of the reviews have recommended this product and few buyers aren’t happy because they haven’t received the anti-slosh foam.
One of the customer’s review
“I used this on a hydrostream boat rebuild. It’s been in the boat now for about a year and is going strong. Haven’t measured actual capacity, but it does what I need.”
FAQ
Can I use these 12-gallon tanks to fill diesel?
Yes, you can. But diesel is usually filled on yellow gas tanks. But no problem
Conclusion
Finding the perfect 12-gallon gas tank for boat is not hard as it looks but there are certain facts you should consider before buying one such as the material, installation and compatibility, size, etc. Finding the perfect one will help you to enjoy your boat trips without any problems.