Let’s Talk About Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable
The Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable might not sound like the most exciting piece of gear, but trust me, a reliable gas cap is absolutely crucial for any boater. Perko is a well-known name in the marine industry, and this particular gas cap aims to be a direct replacement for their 1613000BLK model, promising a secure seal and preventing fuel spills. Fuel spills are bad for the environment and can be costly in wasted fuel.
I ended up needing this particular gas cap after a rather unpleasant incident involving a rogue wave and a poorly secured gas cap. My original cap, after years of faithful service, decided to retire prematurely, leaving me with a bilge full of gas and a very unhappy engine. I needed a replacement, fast.
My first impression upon receiving the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable was positive; it felt solid and well-made. The plastic felt robust, not flimsy, and the O-ring looked like it would provide a good seal. It’s a simple design, but the build quality seemed reassuring.
I considered a few other options. There were some generic gas caps available online for significantly less money, but I was hesitant to trust their quality. I also looked at some higher-end, billet aluminum caps, but they were overkill for my needs. Ultimately, I chose the Perko because of the brand’s reputation and the fact that it was a direct replacement for my original cap. I was hoping for a hassle-free installation and reliable performance. I was cautiously optimistic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to really test the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable came during a weekend fishing trip about a week after receiving it. I installed it in my boat right before launching. Installation was indeed straightforward; it screwed on smoothly and the O-ring seated properly.
The conditions were fairly typical for the Pacific Northwest: a bit choppy, with some light rain. The gas cap performed flawlessly. There were no leaks, no fumes, and the cap stayed securely in place, even when the boat was bouncing around. It provided a sense of security knowing my fuel was safely contained.
There were no issues whatsoever. I was relieved to have a reliable gas cap again.
Extended Use & Reliability
Now, after several months of use, I can confidently say that the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable has held up remarkably well. It’s been exposed to sun, saltwater, and the occasional fuel spill, and it still looks and functions like new. The plastic hasn’t faded or become brittle, and the O-ring is still providing a tight seal.
I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear. The cable that tethers the cap to the boat is still securely attached, which is a nice touch. It’s easy to clean with just soap and water.
My previous gas cap, the one that failed so spectacularly, was a generic replacement I’d picked up at a local hardware store. It lasted less than a season before the plastic cracked and the O-ring deteriorated. The Perko is a clear upgrade in terms of durability and reliability. I am much more confident with it than the previous cheap gas cap.
Breaking Down the Features of Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable
Specifications
The Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable boasts several key features. It is designed as a direct replacement for Perko part number 1613000BLK.
- Fiber Reinforced, UV Stabilized Black Plastic: This ensures the cap can withstand the harsh marine environment, resisting fading, cracking, and general degradation from sun and saltwater exposure. It is important that it can withstand the marine environment.
- No Deck Plate Key or Ground Wire Required: This simplifies installation and eliminates the need for additional hardware or modifications. This is a great feature for ease of use.
- Easy-Grip Cap: The cap is designed for easy gripping, even with wet or gloved hands, making it simple to open and close. Easy to grip is vital in a marine environment.
- O-Ring and Cap Retainer Included: The O-ring provides a secure, leak-proof seal, while the cap retainer (cable) prevents the cap from being lost overboard. Losing the cap can ruin a boating trip.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the gas cap’s performance, durability, and ease of use. The UV-stabilized plastic ensures it will last for years, the O-ring prevents fuel leaks (which are dangerous and costly), and the easy-grip design makes it user-friendly, even in challenging conditions. These features are all designed to make boating easier and safer.
Performance & Functionality
The Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable performs its job admirably. It creates a tight, leak-proof seal, preventing fuel spills and keeping the fuel system clean. It is extremely simple to use.
Its greatest strength is its reliability. I have not experienced any issues with leaks, sticking, or any other malfunctions. The only slight weakness might be that the plastic, while durable, could potentially be damaged by extreme impacts. Overall, this gas cap exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is straightforward and functional. The black plastic is unobtrusive and blends in well with most boat decks.
- The easy-grip design is a welcome feature, making it simple to open and close the cap.
- The weight feels substantial, but not overly heavy, suggesting a good balance of durability and ease of use.
- There is no learning curve whatsoever; it functions exactly as one would expect a gas cap to function. The ergonomic design ensures easy handling.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable should last for many years. The materials are high-quality and the construction appears to be solid.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functioning properly.
- Replacement O-rings might be needed eventually, but these are readily available. This gas cap is designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable is a pretty simple product. It does not come with any additional accessories.
- The included cap retainer cable is a welcome addition, but there are no real customization options available or necessary.
- It is designed to be a direct replacement for specific Perko gas caps, so compatibility with other brands’ accessories is not really a factor. The design focuses on functional simplicity.
Pros and Cons of Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable
Pros
- Reliable, Leak-Proof Seal: The primary function of a gas cap is to prevent leaks, and this one does it perfectly.
- Durable Construction: The UV-stabilized plastic is built to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring a long lifespan.
- Easy to Install and Use: The direct replacement design and easy-grip cap make it simple to install and operate.
- Cap Retainer Cable: Prevents the cap from being lost overboard, a small but important feature.
- Reputable Brand: Perko is a trusted name in the marine industry, providing peace of mind and assurance of quality.
Cons
- Price: At around $36, it is a bit more expensive than some generic gas caps.
- Limited Customization: There are no customization options available.
Who Should Buy Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable?
The Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable is perfect for boat owners who need a reliable, durable, and easy-to-use replacement gas cap. It’s ideal for:
- Casual boaters who want a hassle-free solution.
- Fishermen who need to keep their fuel system clean and prevent spills.
- Anyone who values quality and reliability over saving a few dollars on a generic replacement.
If you’re looking for a fancy, high-end gas cap with custom finishes, this isn’t it. If you’re on a super tight budget and willing to risk a leaky, unreliable cap, you might consider a cheaper alternative. I personally would recommend the Perko.
Conclusion on Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable
Overall, the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable is an excellent replacement gas cap. It provides a reliable, leak-proof seal, is built to last, and is incredibly easy to use.
The price is justified by the quality and durability of the product. A leaking gas cap is a problem that will cost more than $36 in wasted fuel. I would definitely recommend it to anyone in need of a replacement.
Don’t risk a fuel spill and a ruined boating trip. Invest in the Perko 161300099A Spare Gas Cap With O Ring And Cable and enjoy peace of mind on the water!