2000 Adventure 208 fuel tank test

[Sapelo20]

We have a 2000 Adventure 208. Great boat but I wish I'd paid more attention when I bought it to the fact that for a couple of years (including the 2000 model) they did not make a removeable floor hatch over the fuel tank - the floor is one piece. Cutting the floor, building a flanged edge that can be sealed, screwed down, and removed in the future if needed is a big project that would require skills not found in our area. Why do I bring this up? Sometimes after filling the tank, trailering, or boating, I smell strong gas fumes if I open one of the floor inspection ports. I can't say how bad it is. There is no evidence of fuel in the bilge. I have removed and rebedded the fuel sender - one of the few accessible openings. I am looking for advice on how to test the tank, hoses and fittings; determine the source of the smell; and resolve the issue.
Thanks for your help / experience.

 

[seasick]

The tank in that model is plastic and normally can last a long time.
Gas fumes after filling can be a symptom of old permeable gas filler hose and/or vent hose

If you get the odor only after filling, that can mean that the hoses need replacement. Odors all the time can indicate a leaky tank

 

[DennisG01]

You can plug things off and put a couple pounds in it safely.

But if there was an actual tank issue, it would be leaking - which it is not - and as mentioned above, it's plastic so all of the things you read about an Al tank don't apply.

Probably just old lines.

 

[Sapelo20]

Thanks for the comments. Looks like replacing fuel lines is a next step.

 

[Ekea]

how long/complicated is your fill neck path? mine was about 17' from cap to tank, had a 90 bend, and went through a stringer. it was not easy to replace.

 

[Sapelo20]

I agree, it will be a pain to replace the hoses - not good access, stiff but gas fumes make me nervous.