Are Atomic Four engines dangerous because they use gasoline for fuel?
No. Gasoline vapour is highly inflammable and can cause an explosion if it ignites in a closed space like the engine compartment or cabin of a sailboat, however if the fuel system is properly installed, the engine and fuel system receive regular maintenance, and the operator follows Canadian Coast Guard safety procedures when refuelling, gasoline causes few problems. We are only aware of one Atomic Four gasoline vapour explosion which caused a fatality (in Montreal several years ago), despite the fact that there are thousands of Atomic Four equipped sailboats still in use. There are also thousands of inboard/outboard motor boats fitted with gasoline engines in use too (ie Mercruiser), and although explosions and fires are not common, they happen frequently enough to keep Atomic Four owners nervous. The propane gas used on many boats for cooking and heating is similar to gasoline. Both gasoline and propane vapours are explosive and heavier than air, and so collect in the lowest part of
