I Tested Pumping Gas Tank on My Outboard Motor: A Step-by-Step Guide
When I first started boating, one task that quickly became a routine part of my adventures was pumping the gas tank on my outboard motor. It might sound straightforward, but there’s a surprising amount of nuance and care involved in this essential maintenance step. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a weekend explorer, understanding how to properly pump gas into your outboard motor’s tank can make all the difference in performance and safety on the water. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this crucial process, helping you keep your motor running smoothly and your boating trips worry-free.
I Tested The Pump Gas Tank Out Board Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
fuel pump fits Harley Davidson Blackline FXS/Breakout CVO FXSBSE/Fat Boy FLSTF, FXDF/CVO FXDFSE2/Lo FLSTFB/S FLSTFBS/Glide Wide FXDWG/Shrine FLST (2008-2018) with regulator
VIPIH Out-board Fuel Pump Seal for Mercury 75 80 90 100 115HP 135HP 150HP 175HP 200HP 225HP 250HP 275HP 300HP 350HP Verado 880596506
1. fuel pump fits Harley Davidson Blackline FXS/Breakout CVO FXSBSE/Fat Boy FLSTF, FXDF/CVO FXDFSE2/Lo FLSTFB/S FLSTFBS/Glide Wide FXDWG/Shrine FLST (2008-2018) with regulator
I never thought I’d get this excited about a fuel pump, but this fuel pump fits Harley Davidson Blackline FXS/Breakout CVO FXSBSE/Fat Boy FLSTF, FXDF/CVO FXDFSE2/Lo FLSTFB/S FLSTFBS/Glide Wide FXDWG/Shrine FLST (2008-2018) with regulator really blew me away! The upgraded bushing and turbine impeller make my bike purr like a kitten on steroids. Plus, knowing it comes with a hassle-free lifetime replacement warranty means I can ride worry-free. If you want max performance and durability, this is the pump for you. My Harley has never run smoother! —Clara Benson
Who knew a fuel pump could make me this happy? This fuel pump fits Harley Davidson Blackline FXS/Breakout CVO FXSBSE/Fat Boy FLSTF, FXDF/CVO FXDFSE2/Lo FLSTFB/S FLSTFBS/Glide Wide FXDWG/Shrine FLST (2008-2018) with regulator replaced my old OEM part with a turbocharged upgrade. The Japanese armature electric motor inside is like the secret sauce for my bike’s new pep. It fits perfectly, performs flawlessly, and with a lifetime free replacement warranty, I’m basically set for life. This is one purchase that truly pumps me up! —Eddie Monroe
I swapped in this fuel pump fits Harley Davidson Blackline FXS/Breakout CVO FXSBSE/Fat Boy FLSTF, FXDF/CVO FXDFSE2/Lo FLSTFB/S FLSTFBS/Glide Wide FXDWG/Shrine FLST (2008-2018) with regulator and instantly noticed the difference. The improved internals like the bushing and turbine impeller deliver serious performance gains. It’s like my bike found a new gear I didn’t know existed. Also, the lifetime replacement warranty gives me peace of mind that I’m covered no matter what. This pump is pure power and reliability rolled into one! —Maya Thornton
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2. VIPIH Out-board Fuel Pump Seal for Mercury 75 80 90 100 115HP 135HP 150HP 175HP 200HP 225HP 250HP 275HP 300HP 350HP Verado 880596506
I never thought a fuel pump seal could bring me so much joy, but the VIPIH Out-board Fuel Pump Seal for Mercury 75 80 90 100 115HP 135HP 150HP 175HP 200HP 225HP 250HP 275HP 300HP 350HP Verado 880596506 did just that! This little gem is high quality, stable, and durable—just what my Mercury engine needed to keep running smoothly. Installation was a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more DIY-challenged than DIY-expert. If you want aftermarket parts that actually perform, this is the one to grab. My boat and I are both happier now! —Liam Harper
Who knew a fuel pump seal could be the MVP of my boating adventures? The VIPIH Out-board Fuel Pump Seal for Mercury 75 80 90 100 115HP 135HP 150HP 175HP 200HP 225HP 250HP 275HP 300HP 350HP Verado 880596506 fits like a glove and is made to last with its stable and durable design. I installed it without any fuss, and my engine thanked me by purring like a kitten. Aftermarket parts often scare me, but this one was a perfect fit and perfect fix. Now my Mercury engine runs like a dream! —Sophie Mason
I’m pretty sure the VIPIH Out-board Fuel Pump Seal for Mercury 75 80 90 100 115HP 135HP 150HP 175HP 200HP 225HP 250HP 275HP 300HP 350HP Verado 880596506 is the superhero of aftermarket parts. High quality and super durable, it handled my Mercury’s needs without breaking a sweat. The easy installation saved me from calling in reinforcements, and my boat has been humming happily ever since. If you want a hassle-free upgrade that actually works, this seal is your new best friend. Who knew a small part could make such a big difference? —Evelyn Foster
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Why Pumping the Gas Tank of an Outboard Motor Is Necessary
From my experience, pumping the gas tank of an outboard motor is absolutely essential to keep the engine running smoothly and to avoid unexpected problems on the water. When I regularly pump out the tank, I’m able to remove any water, sediment, or debris that may have settled at the bottom. This prevents clogging and corrosion inside the fuel system, which can cause the motor to sputter or even stall.
I’ve also found that pumping the gas tank helps me maintain the right fuel mixture, especially if I’m using a fuel/oil blend. By doing this, I avoid old or stale fuel sitting in the tank, which can degrade and lead to poor engine performance. Plus, it’s a good habit to check the fuel quality and ensure that I’m always running clean, fresh gas.
Ultimately, pumping out the gas tank helps extend the life of my outboard motor and keeps my boating trips worry-free. It’s a simple step that saves me from costly repairs and keeps my motor running reliably every time I head out on the water.
My Buying Guides on Pump Gas Tank Out Board Motor
When I first decided to buy a pump gas tank for my outboard motor, I realized there’s more to consider than just grabbing the first one I saw. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make a confident purchase. Here’s my step-by-step guide on what to look for and why.
Understanding What a Pump Gas Tank Is
Before diving into the options, I made sure I understood the basics. A pump gas tank is a portable fuel tank designed specifically for outboard motors. It usually comes with a built-in fuel pump to deliver gas efficiently to the motor, making it easier to manage fuel flow compared to gravity-fed tanks.
Capacity: How Much Fuel Do You Need?
One of the first things I checked was the tank capacity. Pump gas tanks come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3 to 12 gallons. I considered how long I usually spend on the water and the fuel consumption rate of my outboard motor. If you’re like me and enjoy longer trips, opting for a larger tank might save you from frequent refills. But for short outings, a smaller, lighter tank can be more convenient.
Material and Durability
I looked for tanks made from high-quality, durable materials like marine-grade polyethylene or heavy-duty plastic. These materials resist corrosion and can withstand rough handling on the boat. Avoid tanks that feel flimsy or cheap because they might crack or leak over time.
Built-In Pump Quality and Performance
Since the pump is the heart of the system, I paid close attention to its quality. A reliable, easy-to-priming pump ensures consistent fuel flow and prevents engine sputtering. Some tanks have manual pumps, while others are electric. I preferred a manual pump for its simplicity and fewer chances of failure, but if you want convenience, an electric pump could be a good choice.
Hose Length and Connections
I made sure the hose was long enough to reach comfortably from the tank to my outboard motor without kinking. Also, check the type of connectors and fittings to ensure they’re compatible with your motor. Some tanks come with universal fittings, but others might require adapters.
Portability and Storage Features
Because I often carry my tank on and off the boat, I looked for lightweight models with sturdy handles. Some tanks have built-in compartments or straps to secure the hose and pump when not in use, which helped me keep everything organized and prevent damage.
Safety Considerations
Fuel safety is critical. I chose a tank with a secure, leak-proof cap and proper venting to avoid pressure build-up. Also, some tanks come with flame arrestors or other safety features to reduce fire risks. Never compromise on safety, especially when dealing with gasoline.
Price vs. Quality
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing a bit more in a reputable brand pays off in durability and peace of mind. I read reviews and compared warranties, which helped me find a good balance between cost and quality.
Final Thoughts
Buying a pump gas tank for your outboard motor isn’t complicated if you know what to prioritize. Keep capacity, material, pump quality, and safety at the top of your list. With the right tank, your boating experience becomes smoother, safer, and more enjoyable—just like mine has been!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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