Primer bulb location

[bob-d]

Going to run about a 11′ single gas line for a 1971 Merc 9.8HP to help the weight distribution on a 6 gallon tank in an Alumacraft.
Should the primer bulb be mounted near the tank, or closer to the engine, or it doesn’t matter?
Thanks.

[PugetSoundBoater]

The primer bulb on every hose i’ve had is located a foot or so from the tank. I recall i read in the fuel system part of a manual that the bulb should be located near the tank. So yes it does matter.

"Some people want to know how a watch works, others just want to know what time it is"
Robbie Robertson

[amuller]

I think it will still work and be a lot more convenient if put near the motor end.

[frankr]

Actually it work anywhere you put it. If close to the tank, it will take fewer squeezes to get fuel to it if starting with an empty bulb & hose. They are a lousy air pump. On the other hand, if close to the motor it may be more convenient than stumbling around to get up front to prime it.

Short story: It is up to you, and your situation.

[bob-d]

Thanks everyone for the info.
Since there are no strange fluid dynamics factors which would cause running or starting problems, I am opting to put it closer to the the motor for the convience factor.

[jerry-ahrens]

Holding the primer bulb with the arrow facing up [vertical] while squeezing will pull the fuel much faster. This is because of the check valves in the primer bulb. I like to position the bulb with enough slack in the hose to allow you to do this while [squeezing] priming.

[garry-in-michigan]

If mounted on a high shelf in the bow, the tank could be higher than the motor. If that is the case, then it will take very little effort to pump fuel to the motor. Once primed, it is almost a gravity feed. . . 🙂

[20mercman]

quote Jerry Ahrens:

Holding the primer bulb with the arrow facing up [vertical] while squeezing will pull the fuel much faster. This is because of the check valves in the primer bulb. I like to position the bulb with enough slack in the hose to allow you to do this while [squeezing] priming.

I concur with what Jerry has said. The easier for the check valve to work the better. If you have a hose that seems to be slow to prime, try this trick. These check valves are not of the highest quality.

Steve

[garry-in-michigan]

The valves are not spring loaded – by holding the bulb with the arrow pointing up lets gravity aid in the sealing. . . 🙂

[crosbyman]

you can always install two 💡 .. one at each end of the boat 😕

Joining AOMCI has priviledges 🙂

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