If you’re an avid boater, you know that maintaining your boat is essential to ensure smooth sailing every time. One important responsibility of a boat owner is to regularly check their fuel supply. It is essential to keep the right type of fuel, and it’s also extremely important to ensure that the gasoline is not old or contaminated.
Bad gas can cause serious damage to the engine and other vital parts of your boat, leading to costly repairs and inconvenient breakdowns. Here are a few things you should keep in mind on how to remove bad gasoline from your boat:
1. Avoid Starting the Engine
The first and most important thing to do when you suspect bad gasoline in your boat is to avoid starting the engine. Starting the engine will only circulate the contaminated fuel and worsen the situation. If your boat has been sitting idle for a while, take care when starting it up, especially if you suspect the gasoline may have gone bad.
2. Drain the Fuel
Once you have identified the bad gasoline, you should immediately begin to drain it from the tank. First, locate the fuel tank and the fuel line. Turn off the fuel flow and disconnect the fuel line from the tank.
You can remove the fuel from the tank using a siphon pump or a hand pump. It is essential to dispose of the contaminated fuel correctly and dispose of the tank’s contents in a safe and responsible manner, following the environmental rules and regulations.
3. Clean the Fuel Tank
After removing all the contaminated gasoline from the fuel tank, clean the tank thoroughly to remove any impurities and residues left behind. You can use a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the tank.
Once you have let the mixture sit for a while, drain it out, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Repeat the process until the tank is sparkling clean before refilling with fresh gasoline.
4. Change the Fuel Filter
One last step is to change the fuel filter. This can help in removing any impurities or debris that may have accumulated in the fuel system. Make sure the filter you use is compatible with your boat’s engine and fuel system.
Removing bad gasoline from your boat is an essential task that you need to undertake to keep your boat running smoothly. Remember to avoid starting the engine, drain the fuel, clean the tank, and change the fuel filter. Keep a regular check on your gasoline quality to avoid any damage or inconvenience to your boating experience. Always follow your boat owner’s manual instructions and consult with a marine professional if necessary.