Ask the Experts | Simple Steps You Can Take to Minimize Fuel Contamination Issues

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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]The varying percentages of ethanol to fuel mixtures is an inevitable problem facing today's boaters. Below are several techniques you can use to help avoid fuel contamination.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]1. 10 Micron Fuel Water Separation System:
The most obvious step is the installation of a 10 Micron Fuel Water Separation System. These systems filter up to the size of 10 microns of debris and contaminates, suspending the contaminated particles in the fuel prior to introduction into the outboard?s fuel system.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]2. Properly Maintain the Fuel System:
Another way to prevent contamination is to properly maintain the outboard's fuel system, which includes ensuring that the fuel remains fresh, avoiding mixing of old fuel and fresh fuel. Also, it's important to make sure to prevent water from entering and mixing into the fuel tank.[/FONT]

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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]3. Drain the Tank For Repair and Remove Existing Corrosion: If it is possible, completely drain the fuel tank. The internal surfaces should be mechanically cleaned to remove rust or aluminum oxides. Fuel tank polishing companies may be able to provide this specialized service. NOTE: If unable to drain and clean the fuel tank before adding the E10 fuel, add as much E10 fuel as possible to minimize the possibility of phase separation. Example: 16 oz of water may cause phase separation in 25 gals of E10, but 16 oz of water in 30 gals would be safe from phase separation.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]4. Proper Fuel Tank Storage: Store fuel tanks approximately 7/8 full, minimizing the amount of air space above the fuel tank. Storing completely full may cause some fuel to spill as the fuel expands during hot weather.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]5. Don't Always Buy the Most Inexpensive Fuel: This tip may seem obvious but, if not followed, it can lead to problems. It?s also important to buy from the same source, if possible, and to pick a station that has newer, cleaner storage tanks.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]6. Test Your Fuel: Occasionally test your fuel to verify the amount of ethanol is not higher than 10 percent. Inexpensive test kits are available online.[/FONT]

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Until there are more solutions available, fuel contamination is an issue that will continue to occur within the marine industry. Minimizing the risk through basic cautionary measures is key to keeping your outboard running at its best.[/FONT]