Fuel Tank Question

[New-2-Boating]

Hi Guys, I had a problem with my 5.7L Mercrusier starting to bog down at higher RPM'S. I removed the fuel/water separater and noticed lots of gunk in it. I removed the fuel line at the tank and the little ball valve was full of black gunk as well. I cleaned this valve out and the boat ran like a charm with no problems. I believe however there is another screen at the bottom of the pick-up tube that is attached to the elbow screwed into the top of the tank . When I unscrewed the elbow from the top of the tank the tube came up but would not pull out. Is there another screen at the bottom of this tube? If so how do I get to it if I cannot pull out the tube? Thankyou in advance for your replies.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Fuel Tank Question

Ayuh,.... There Might be a Screen,.... That's probably what's keeping you from being able to Remove it......

It Sounds like your tank is Full of Crap,.......
You might need to Pull the Tank to Clean it......

 

[New-2-Boating]

Re: Fuel Tank Question

Thanks for the reply bond-o, I think you are correct. The good part about it is the tank is mounted just forward of the engine and is very easy to get at. Is there anything in patciular I should rinse the tank out with when I remove it? Or should I just use some gas.

 

[speedholes]

Re: Fuel Tank Question

Kerosene fixes everything. Put a few gallons in there and let it sit for a few days, then swirl it around. Diesel should work for this as well, just make sure you get the majority of it out before filling again.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Fuel Tank Question

New-2, Normally we use some nuts and washers to swish in the tank to break up the gunk. You may need acetone as well. If you remove the sender plate, you should be able to see the end of the fuel pickup tube, the gunk and be able to clean out the tank as well.

 

[New-2-Boating]

Re: Fuel Tank Question

Thanks again for the replies guys it is most appreciated.