Outboard Motor Fuel Tanks & Gas Lines: A Buyer's Guide

Most portable outboards under 6HP use a small integrated fuel tank (around 1L), while mid-range and larger engines typically run from an external tank connected via a fuel line and primer bulb.

Integrated vs external tanks

An integrated tank means fewer parts and nothing extra to carry, but limits your range between refuels. An external tank (commonly 12L) trades a little extra setup for meaningfully longer time on the water.

Fuel line and primer bulb basics

The primer bulb manually pushes fuel from tank to carburettor before starting — squeeze until firm, not longer. A cracked or perished line is one of the most common causes of hard-starting engines, so check it each season.

Choosing the right size

Match tank capacity to typical trip length and engine fuel consumption rather than buying the largest available — excess unused fuel sitting over winter is exactly what causes carburettor gumming (see our carburettor cleaning guide).

Browse fuel tanks, lines and fittings in Genuine Oils, Rigging & Spares.