4+2 Fuel Locker security

[Mdr24uk]

Is there any way of fitting a lock to the center deck hatch in the cockpit floor?
It can be secured using the existing fasteners and a screwdriver, but I’m looking for something lockable to prevent fuel theft either lock and key or padlock.
Any ideas?

[Clive]

Maybe something along the lines of the cabin door locks would work? Mine has 4 holes drilled where there used to be something. How much fuel do you carry, and are the containers secured?
Cheers, Clive

[Mdr24uk]

Thanks Clive, I suppose I could fashion some sort of bracket within the locker that could take a padlock.
For the hatch cover I was thinking of something that would fit flush into the deck and not be a trip hazard within the cockpit.

[dellquay13]

Hi,
Is the locker suitable for fuel tanks and flammable vapours? Is it vented enough to prevent a build up? I don't know much at all about 4+2s, but I imagine it's a watertight compartment in the sole, a bit like the waterski storage on a speedboat.
Chris

[vreagh]

I agree with dellquay, definitely not a good idea for something that might give off flammable vapours to be stored where drains cannot be sloped downwards as many vapours and LPG are heavier than air and can accumulate in bilges.

[Clive]

I’ve thought the same thing, but no problems in 30 years so must be ok. It’s a huge space as it can house an inboard engine. Fuel’s not sealed away for months as you have to refuel and open the hatch. I remove the cans when not used.
Cheers, Clive

[dellquay13]

If you intend to store the fuel, You could ventilate the locker by forcing air in with a spark free bilge fan, but remember to install the fan near the top, above any fumes, blowing air to the bottom through ducting.

[Clive]

So does this mean all 4+2's with outboards are a risk and dangerous? Mine just passed a BSC so I doubt that there's an issue. I'll get the measurements , its a huge void, not a locker.
Cheers, Clive

[dellquay13]

Storing fuel tanks in enclosed spaces at the lowest level of a boat always runs the risk of heavy flammable vapours pooling, it's how you manage the risk, usually with good airflow or a gravity path for the vapour. Closing any tank vents when not in use helps too. Is the undersole space an engine bay or fuel tank compartment? I would hope either would be designed to have forced ventilation easily fitted.
Did the BSC inspector see fuel tanks stored in your space? Can any fumes get out into other parts of the boat? Not knowing the 4+2, I can only talk in general principles.

[Clive]

This is an interesting thread. It’s an engine bay. I can’t see any forced ventilation either. As I said it is large (see picture) measuring 166x102x48cm - length width depth. Is that a good thing, more volume to dissipate fumes, or a bad thing, more fumes, more risk?

B4CBD593-3CCF-4861-B390-DABCF6401CA9.jpeg

The BSC was done at the time of purchase and makes no mention of it. On a previous boat I had to make a frame to secure the fuel tank when it was already secure in the space so I was surprise to see two tanks just sitting in the engine bay. I could make a locker but then how to vent it...