380: Fuel transfer side to side L380

[MikeTC]

I would like to be able to transfer fuel from side to side in case of single engine failure. Looking for an effective & economical way to achieve this. Any ideas?

[tuskie]

A couple of options that you need to choose between.

A "passive" system that allows both engines to draw fuel from either tank. ie. you can run engines off both tanks or one side only. This only requires extra fuel lines and shut off valves.

An "active" system allows fuel to be transferred from one tank to the other. It requires extra fuel lines, valves, fuel pump and wiring. Many using this system add extra filters to allow fuel "polishing" during transfer.

[MikeTC]

Thanks Tuskie. I'll go with the first one. Might catch you on the water one day.

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by tuskie

... A "passive" system that allows both engines to draw fuel from either tank. ie. you can run engines off both tanks or one side only. This only requires extra fuel lines and shut off valves...

The extra fuel lines & valves include fuel RETURN lines.

[bsurvey]

put in a common manifold with a 12 vdc borsch fuel pump ie all tanks draw from a common central location (the manifold) then you can transfer between tanks

[Cheechako]

A couple easy options:
-A Walbro pump and valving as required to transfer. I had this on my Cat as it had 4 tanks and the forward one wouldn't flow well to the engine without problems, so I installed the pump, just transferred occasionally, and always drew from the aft tank for the engine.
-A 3 way valve in each diesel return, you can have the port engine return to the starboard tank and vice versa. Requires some monitoring but simple and easy and allows you to keep tanks approx. the same volume.


So I guess one thought is, the more lines clamps fittings and valves you put in the actual engine feed part of the system, the more possibility for air getting in etc and having failures. So transferring is a lower risk option than multiple feeds to the engine.

[spiv]

Hi guys,

I happen to have a BIG Ryco filter, so I am thinking to have both engines to draw from tank 2, fill the boat from tank 1 and install the BIG Rico in the middle.

I guess I will need:

1. a pump to transfer from tank 1 to tank 2
2. fittings, wiring and fuel line for above
3. a float switch to tell the pump when to stop/start
4. a fuel line to feed engine 2
5. a return line from engine 2

Is this a good idea?
Am I missing something?
Has anyone got suggestion as to pump, float switch etc?

[Bean Counter]

If it is just for emergency use, then two diesel fuel lines between the engine fuel inlets and returns with brass Ts work just fine. Just rig it either way when required. If you don't want to undo and redo hose clips and bleed, then a permanent arrangement with 2 two way valves could be installed but will probably add more cost for an unlikely event. This does not assist fuel transfer eg from a leaking tank, then you will need a fuel transfer pump. Cheapest way is not to have plumbed system - but a portable diesel pump manual ($25) or electric 12V ($125).