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12/12/2024
Prevention | Maintenance & Technology
Understanding and Preventing Sticky Fuel: Essential Tips for Leisure Boaters
During winter preparation, it's crucial to revisit fuel storage practices to avoid a lesser-known but increasingly common issue: sticky fuel. This problem can lead to serious engine troubles such as seized injection pump racks, clogged fuel injectors, and blocked fuel lines, all of which can seriously disrupt your boating experience.
What is sticky fuel?
Unlike traditional fuel contamination - characterised by visible signs such as cloudiness, rust, or debris - sticky fuel appears clear but leaves a stubborn residue that can damage engine components. Symptoms often include poor engine performance or complete failure as the sticky residue can clog filters, obstruct return lines and impair injection systems, creating costly and inconvenient repairs.
What causes sticky fuel?
Sticky fuel is often linked to the degradation of diesel and fuel treatments over time. Diesel typically has a shelf life of around six months, after which it starts to deteriorate. Adding treatments can extend its usability, but these chemicals themselves may break down, contributing to sticky residues.
Best practices for fuel storage
To avoid sticky fuel issues, consider these practical strategies:
- Traditional advice recommends filling tanks to minimise condensation. However, current best practices suggest leaving tanks empty to reduce the risk of fuel degradation. Upon returning to your boat, drain off any water, treat the remaining fuel and refill with fresh diesel.
- A simple way to identify potential sticky fuel is by placing a small fuel sample in a clear jar and leaving it in the light for a few days. If it becomes cloudy, it may be affected.
- If you rely on fuel treatments, use them within six to twelve months of purchase to ensure they are effective. After refuelling, avoid adding treatments initially, as fresh fuel can naturally help clean residual deposits.
- If sticky fuel is detected, the best solution is to remove and replace it. Professional services or well-equipped boatyards can safely dispose of the old fuel and refill your tank with fresh diesel.
Regular maintenance for peace of mind
Sticky fuel isn’t always immediately obvious, as it often has no visible contamination signs but can produce a characteristic turpentine-like smell. By adopting proactive fuel management practices and regularly inspecting your system, you can minimise risks and maintain your engine's performance.
Take these steps to make sure your boating adventures remain trouble-free, even after months of winter storage. With the right approach it means your boat is ready to get on the water as soon as the spring arrives.
