Inboard gasoline boats built after July 31st, 1981, are required by federal regulations to have a mechanical (powered) ventilation system. This system must include one or more power-operated exhaust blowers designed to remove gasoline fumes from the engine compartment efficiently. Additionally, these boats must have at least two ventilator ducts fitted with cowls-one intake duct and one exhaust duct-to facilitate airflow and fume removal
. The mechanical ventilation system is critical for safety because gasoline fumes are heavy and can accumulate in enclosed spaces, posing a risk of explosion. The powered blower should be run for at least four minutes before starting the engine and after fueling to ensure all fumes are cleared
. Summary:
- Boats built after July 31, 1981, with inboard gasoline engines must have a powered ventilation system.
- The system includes at least two ventilation ducts (intake and exhaust) with cowls.
- A power blower (mechanical ventilation) is required to exhaust fumes.
- The blower should be operated for at least four minutes before engine start and after fueling
