Saltwater in the Fuel Tank

[msalloum]

Question #1.<br /><br />Saltwater may have gotten into my gas tank via the vents. Before I go through hassle of pumping out the tanks, wanted to know if there was a way to determine if saltwater actually did get into the tank. <br /><br />Question #2.<br /><br />If saltwater is in the tank, I realize that the water will to sink to the bottom of tank, but will the salt in the water be absorbed into the gas, or will it remain suspended in the water.

 

[DJ]

Re: Saltwater in the Fuel Tank

The water will go to the bottom-true. Thus, pump out, though the filler neck, with a clear hose that reaches the bottom of the tank and watch the pump output.<br /><br />The salt will remain in solution.

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Saltwater in the Fuel Tank

IMO don't take the chance. Pump it out, clean it out and start afresh.....and change the filter.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[fireship1]

Re: Saltwater in the Fuel Tank

Hello, commercial parts houses and some large auto supply companys sometimes sell gasoline gouging paste. You will not find it at an auto parts store but rather at a parts house that mechanics purchase from. Gas stations usually carry the paste to check for water in their tanks. You put some of it on a stick (the tank measuring stick most of the time) the color of it is white. If the paste comes in contact with water it turns blood red. Maybe a local gas station will sell you a small container of it to use? If you don't want to go through this much trouble, just err on the side of caution and follow everyone else's advice here....Drain and refill with fresh fuel. Salt water will rust your engine's innards and plug up your carb. Good luck.

 

[llfish]

Re: Saltwater in the Fuel Tank

Why take the chance of being stranded or damaging a motor. Clean it out. Cheap insurance!!