Fuel Polishing And Flushing Prevents Down Time, Expense, Frustrations

Published: Wednesday, September 19, 2018

By this time of year, we all typically have a list of the service we would like to have done on our boat before next season as well as a list of what we “have” to do. At times, our budget allows for all of these items to be accomplished; and often, not many at all. One thing we know is that if we provide pure fuel to our engines, this will result in a clean burn and fewer engine problems.

Efficient boats don’t waste much fuel, however, and unused and contaminated fuel can create fuel system damage and costly downtime. Diesel-powered boats, in particular, often struggle with microorganisms - bacteria, mold, yeast - causing significant clogging of fuel filters and other components. Yet, diesel engines are not the only victims.

Large-scale fuel polishing systems have been around for years, used on commercial vessels, but today, some marine service facilities have fuel polishing systems onsite. Fuel polishing is a method of removing dirt, grime, algae, and water from your fuel and tank by running fuel through a sophisticated system, one with a series of strainers and filters, and then flushing the tank walls.

Facilities with fuel polishing systems provide a unique and valuable service that can prevent reduced efficiency and expensive repairs. With the continuous circulation of fuel in the tank when polishing, all particulates, water, and microorganisms are removed from the fuel as well as the inside of the tank. When the fuel returns to the tank, it will be free of harmful contaminants that can affect performance and efficiency. (In a few instances, in older or highly-contaminated tanks, additional service may be required.)

Whether for preventative maintenance or diagnosing fuel/engine performance issues, be sure to ask if this service is available at your marine service facility.

In addition to fuel polishing, an annual flush of your closed cooling system will reduce the inevitable, gradual buildup of contaminants, significantly extending the life of many components of your engine. Not performing these preventative maintenance procedures will eventually reduce fuel economy, power, and life of the engine. Investing in these services will more than pay for itself in a short period of time.

Contact Larsen Marine for further details, cost for these services, and the many other maintenance and repair services offered. Also, visit www.larsenmarine.com for more!

This article first appeared in the Fall Issue (Sept/Oct) 2018 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt.