Permanent vs Portable fuel tanks

I’m looking for opinions on something I have been contemplating since last summer. I have a 2005 Crestliner Angler 1600 with a 75 hp 4 stroke Merc. Last summer I had a fuel issue which I’m pretty sure was just old gas. The boat has a 17 gallon on board fuel tank but the motor just sips fuel. I’ve never burned more than 1\4 tank when out on the water. When I fill the boat before it goes in storage that gas likely isn’t burned up till June or so.

I’ve been considering removing the on board tank which takes up a lot of room and instead making a compartment for a 6 gallon portable. This would free up more space for storage and who doesn’t need that. It would also cut weight in The back of the boat which would be nice. The tank locker would need a vent but what else am I missing? Is this a bad idea? Just curious on other opinions on this.

Think it’s great you’re trying to modify your boat to fit your needs.

There are lots of options for internal smaller gas tanks out there, and they might be as easy as plugging it in to your existing system when you pull your big one out. Measure the space and start googling.

Personally only having 6 gallons is scary, 4 stroke or not. But you know your needs better than us here.

Easy way to remove that gas is take fuel line off engine, connect another section of fuel line long enough to reach a gas tank on the garage floor, pump the bulb and let it flow. When tank on floor gets full put hose higher than pickup line in boat, get another tank and repeat until empty.

Only thing you’re going to hurt is the resale value. People want bigger tanks.

Personally I don’t use much gas either and more storage space would be great. But still wouldn’t do it for the off chance I may take the boat to a place like Voyeageurs National Park or want to sell in the next 10 years.

Two-stroker here, so take that for what its worth. I carry two portable 6 gallon tanks and it’s a pain in the rear for me. Long trips require a lot of planning in terms of fuel stops and marinas can be hit/miss, especially evenings or late season. Time spent looking for gas and re-fueling is fishing time lost.

I’m planning on upgrading to a 12 gallon and will still carrying a 6 gallon reserve.

Why fill the tank at the end of the season? Siphon it dry. or better yet use a small 12v in-line fuel pump to suck it out in to a can then use in winter equipment or just dump into your vehicle. Heck you could pump it straight into car for that matter.
Come spring you know you have new fuel.
Amazon sells them for under $15, just remove the end on your fuel line that hooks to motor and plug it into pump and then a 3′ line that goes into jerry can/vehicle.

^^^^ What he said ^^^^^

All good points…maybe I’ll just leave it alone. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it right!