I've checked everything. Replaced the fuel lines from the tank to the boat. Looked at the tank from the access holes, no leaks that I can see. I have no fuel draining out into the bilge. But I have a strong gas smell in my port side rod locker. It has been there since I bought the boat three years ago. I recently heard a pro talking about Skeeter's aluminum gas tank that eliminated the gas smell you get from older plastic tanks. My boat is a 1999 Cobra. Some of you have fished in it. I hate the thought of replacing the tank because of all the ripping and tearing you have to do.

Is this a common issue with this type of tank? Do I need to replace it? Is there a way to coat the inside of the tank to keep the gas from permeating the tank? Will it be fine the way it is?

The only time I have a strong gas smell in my boat is when I'm fishing with Roadwarrior.  

The only time I have a strong gas smell in my boat is when I'm fishing with Roadwarrior.  

 

I knew someone would go down that road! LOL

 

Sorry, scrutch, I have been lurking. A kayaker myself, so no help there...but I'm sure someone will help.

Had a Glastron ski boat WAY BACK and found gas when I pulled the drain plug after a day on the water and smelling gas all day.  12 gallon built in metal tank had sprung a leak.  A current boat of mine with a 50 hp Johson will leak a little fuel when stored with the fuel line still connected at the connector and trimmed up, but it all goes into the splash well and not into the boat itself.  Is it possible your tanks vent line has come loose and is laying near the compartment?

You've changed the fuel lines, but, what about the vent line?

 

If I'm not mistaken, some vents have one way valves, to allow air into the tank.  There is a separate vent, usually in the fill line to exhaust air as the tank is being filled.  That air is supposed to be sucked into the fueling nozzle of the gas pump.  Air out your boat and loosen the filler cap to prevent pressure build up, then see if the gas smell persists in the rod locker.

 

Any problem in the venting system could allow vapors into the enclosed areas of the hull.