T&T: Fuel Manifolds:returns

[Albin43SDtr]

Robin and All,

>How are  fuel return lines plumbed in boats equipped with fuel 
>(supply)manifolds? Is this done via a separate manifold where engine 
>return lines and tank return lines are brought together?? Can 
>different tanks be selected for return??

The Celestial has hard-plumbed return lines. Port engine returns fuel 
to port tank, starboard engine to starboard tank. It would not be 
hard to add plumbing to allow return selection, but that has never 
appeared to be particularly advantageous.

Re: earlier question: We always try to cruise in relatively benign 
weather/seas. BUT, forecasts are not always/seldom really accurate. 
We have been caught in seas up to about 6' once, 4-5' a couple of 
times and often about 3'. We have never noticed the fuel level 
building up on one side, thus causing a list. Not to say it couldn't 
happen, it just hasn't. If it does, it is a simple matter of closing 
a valve. We are not open ocean cruisers, except to cross the Gulf of 
Mexico from Carrabelle to Clearwater, or another southern entrance 
back into protected waters, or such as to go from Ft. Meyers to the 
Dry Tortugas - again, only after careful analysis of weather 
forecasts. This may explain why we have had no problems due to fuel 
imbalance on the Celestial.


Take care and be safe.

Wayne
Celestial
Albin 43 Sundeck
Near Panama City, FL