Use Caution Filling Your Tank At Haul Out
Published: Wednesday, September 19, 2018
By: Capt. Fred Davis
This year, I have encountered several boaters who were distressed that, after they launched for the season, they had to be hauled back out to rebuild carburetors and replace damaged valves and blown out gaskets. In each case, it was determined that when they filled their fuel tanks at the end of last season — which is recommended to prevent condensation — the fuel was contaminated with Ethanol.
It’s that time of year; time to be very cautious before winterizing or storing your vessel. Be sure to determine what grade of fuel you are filling up with and aim for ethanol-free, never higher than E-10.
A Federal mandate to remove regulatory barriers to year-round sales of E-15 passed June 1 of this year. This action will impact all consumers, especially boaters. The lifting of this restriction allows the sale of E-15 at all fuel stations nationwide, year round.
On their website, www.nmma.org, and in media releases, the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) states, “There are no boats capable of burning E-15 fuel without risking severe damage.” Listed on their site under “Learn the Issues,” they go on to say, “There are serious, well-documented human safety, environmental and technology concerns with Ethanol blends over 10% in recreational boat fuel tanks.”
Rec 90, which is regular gasoline without ethanol, is more expensive than the E-10 or E-15 fuels. It can be difficult to locate but many fuel stations are beginning to carry it. Some state harbor facilities offer Rec 90 exclusively, along with diesel fuel, and do not carry any ethanol-blended fuels. Other marinas also have ethanol free fuel — just be sure to inquire. Even though it costs more, by using pure gasoline, you should not face replacing an engine. An additional upside of using the Rec 90 fuel — in a vehicle or boat, you get better mileage.
Beware of promises that an additive — and there are many — will compensate for ethanol use. Will they guarantee it will protect your equipment?
Fuel stations have offered E-10 for several years and it is considered to be safe at this time. Manufacturers of late model marine engines say they have been able to develop engines that operate using E-10 without problems. However, they are quick to state at this time that “Even a little bit of fuel with 15% ethanol can damage a marine engine and void its warranty.”
When you pull in to fuel up, be certain of the fuel rating. Don’t choose the hose that provides the least expensive fuel. Filling up with it could result in the most costly purchase of gas you ever made.
This article first appeared in the Fall Issue (Sept/Oct) 2018 of Great Lakes Scuttlebutt.
tags: Engines, Law & Politics, Winterization
