Stale fuel

[jessi]

I have a 23' SeaCraft with twin 150 Mercury outboards. The boat gas been sitting in storage for 4 years. The only thing done prior to storage was to add one bottle of fuel stablizer to the tank. What do I have to do to the fuel in the tank, in the fuel lines and in the outboards. Thanks

 

[verado7]

Re: Stale fuel

replace the fuel lines and filters -pump all the gas out of the tank and dispose of it properly ( i know you will ) - i would definately remove the tank itself and inspect the inside -if in doubt get a new one - guy's who dont use there boats often should do at least this for your own safety - i have seen too many near deaths from junk in the fuel system shutting down the motor especially if you go out on the ocean . dont forget about the carbs too .

 

[jessi]

Re: Stale fuel

verado7, Thanks for the help.

I think my fuel tank is 135 gals and I would have to remove the center console and the t-top to get to the tank. Is the removal of the tank and the cleaning of the carbs something that a novice can do?

 

[sschefer]

Re: Stale fuel

Can a novice do this?

The easy but more costly way is to take it to a shop that specializes in cleaning fuel tanks. Tanks can be cleaned and flushed without removing them and the old fuel (hazmat) can be properly disposed of. I had both mine done this winter and just not having to figure out what to do with 60 gals of questionable fuel was worth it to me. I paid 500.00 for both boats and had them back in three days.

Just FYI, I still have 16 gals of old fuel from the first time I did it myself two years ago. Obviously I didn't get it clean enough or I wouldn't be having it done again so soon.