I uncovered it today and opened the back hatch (battery access, etc..) and it smelled like fuel a bit.

Is this normal? (my first boat)

It seems to smell under the deck in other hatches also.

It's not overpowering, or all that strong, but I thought I would ask.

Also, does anyone know where the fuel tank is on this boat?

It is a 2005 and the filler spout is just in front of the cockpit (right side) on the rail.

Thanks

There have been some issues with at least one fiberglass manufacturer and fuel odors in closed compartments with several others.  The plastic fuel cells are allowing fuel vapors to weep through.  I can't say that's what you're experiencing but certainly a possibility.

i think it is mounted in the center near the **** pit.

also there should be a vent, with a below deck fuel tank some place near the fill.

maybe you over filled the tank.

tight lines

You must have gotten a manual for the boat.  It should explain all the systems.  Tank has to be vented as mentioned in an earlier post.  Might want to check the fuel connections at the motor but my guess is some of what you smell could very well be "new boat" smells after been covered for a while.  If in doubt and it persists I would be making a trip to the dealer to make sure all is well.  

Shortbasser

i would check into this right away to try and find the source of the problem. you don't want to have fumes building up under the decks, a little spark could make for a bad day. the dealer should be more than happy to look into this an cure the problem i would think, as this could be considered a safety issue.. just my opinion.  better safe than sorry.

I spoke with the manufacturer (Lowe) and they are so polite and helpful!!

Found out that it does have plastic fuel tank and the smell is more so with plastic.

He told me about the access ports so I am going to open them and take a look at the connections to double make sure nothing is leaking.

Anyway, I am going to check it out but it appears as if this is not as big of an issue as this nervous, first time boat owner made it out to be.

Gas fumes in boats with plastic tanks is not new. Excess fumes is another story.  

I have a brand new 19' Tracker with a plastic tank as well.. I also smell the fumes when I open the hatches.  It is srongest in the hatch that contains the tank and not so obvious in other hatches. I cant smell it when the hatches are closed.

I opened up the access panels to the gas tank and fuel lines.

They were just like new and tightly connected.

There was no residue around any of the connections and I ran my hand around them and smelled no gas.

I'll keep an eye on it, but it looks good.