Would you remove batts to charge if you smell gas?

[jazzwannabe]

New boater. I use a good portable charger since there is no place to mount an onboard unit without making mods to the boat. The batteries are in the same big compartment as the gas tank. I can smell gas fumes in there, even though there is no leak. I'm told this is normal. Should I remove each battery when charging? I'm worried about a fire or explosion. I connect the clips to the terminals before plugging in the charger and powering it up, but I'm afraid that if a clip were to slip off or something, it could arc, and them BOOM.

I also don't like the idea of leaving the hatch open because the water heater is nearby. What do you guys think?

[Leon Pugh]

It is not normal to smell gas. Find the leak and repair it! Air it out with garage doors open or out side before charging. Gasoline fume explosions are actually very rare. It is difficult to get a rich enough mixture to ignite, Batteries fumes from charging are far more dangerous. You are right in your thoughts. It can happen tough very unlikley, do not take the chance. Leave both covers open so it will ventilate better.

[Dwayne]

To be on the safe side always connect the cables to the batteries before applying the power and remove the power before taking the cables off the batteries, this will eleminate any chance of a spark.

[Dwayne]

To be on the safe side always connect the cables to the batteries before applying the power and remove the power before taking the cables off the batteries, this will eleminate any chance of a spark.

[drew]

Most fuel tanks are vented. Sometimes there can be a fuel smell depending on the type of venting system. Check the fuel system for leaks. I usually open up the hatches and garage doors for a half hour to air out the area if it smells unusually strong. Sometimes I will use a fan to help circulate the air if necessary. After the initial airing you should be fine. Just make sure you don't have a hole in the fuel take or some crazy amount of raw fuel in the bottom of the hull. Look for the obvious.