Topping off tank for storage really needed?

[buick6472]

I have a 20 gallon fuel tank. It's just over 3/4 full (16 gal.). Do i really need to top it off for winter storage? Will that much water accumulate over the winter months? I have no problem doing it if it's really recommended. I have already added the sta-bil fuel stabilizer (marine grade, purple i think). I just heard/read somewhere that you should top it off so there's less of a chance for water to be introduced.
Thanks for any input.

 

[6meter]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

Never have. Always kept a minimum treated with stabil. Very little condensation will happen. No problems for 25 yrs.

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

I have a 20 gallon fuel tank. It's just over 3/4 full (16 gal.). Do i really need to top it off for winter storage? Will that much water accumulate over the winter months? I have no problem doing it if it's really recommended. I have already added the sta-bil fuel stabilizer (marine grade, purple i think). I just heard/read somewhere that you should top it off so there's less of a chance for water to be introduced.
Thanks for any input.

I say you are fine... you have good gas with newly added stabilizer. You are not goin g to empty the tank, so top it off if you like or just leave it be.

This has been debated to every end of the spectrum. Some say you MUST top it off, while others say leave it empty. For every mention, there's not been any issue as long as there is a fuel stabilizer while the gas is still good. Stabilizer into bad/old gas does nothing.

Let the debate begin again

Have a great winter!

 

[airdvr1227]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

Robb. Agree with you with the sole exception being...if I have my tank full and for some reason the gas seperates I have to then drain it. If my tank is near empty all I should have to do is go buy fresh gas. I vote for nearly empty with stabilizer.

 

[Robbabob]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

Robb. Agree with you with the sole exception being...if I have my tank full and for some reason the gas seperates I have to then drain it. If my tank is near empty all I should have to do is go buy fresh gas. I vote for nearly empty with stabilizer.

Yes. Agree without issue. He states he already has the 3/4 tank with stabilizer. IMHO, Can just leave it

Thanks!

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

I have a 20 gallon fuel tank. It's just over 3/4 full (16 gal.). Do i really need to top it off for winter storage? Will that much water accumulate over the winter months? I have no problem doing it if it's really recommended. I have already added the sta-bil fuel stabilizer (marine grade, purple i think). I just heard/read somewhere that you should top it off so there's less of a chance for water to be introduced.
Thanks for any input.

I have never had condensation occur in any of my boats or airplane and I have never stored them with full tanks. My boat is at about 1/3 right now.

I do store everything inside though and there are usually no large temp swings where I live.


There's other people that don't think condensation is a problem too.....

Read the following and make your own decision.

http://www.yachtsurvey.com/myth_of_condensation_in_fuel_tanks.htm


There's always someone that thinks it's a problem but I tend to agree with the above article.


ymmv........



Rick

 

[sethjon]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

I have a 20 gallon fuel tank. It's just over 3/4 full (16 gal.). Do i really need to top it off for winter storage? Will that much water accumulate over the winter months? I have no problem doing it if it's really recommended. I have already added the sta-bil fuel stabilizer (marine grade, purple i think). I just heard/read somewhere that you should top it off so there's less of a chance for water to be introduced.
Thanks for any input.

Most people will tell you to top off. In fact, if you figure out mathematically how much moisture will accumulate its practically none.

 

[littlebookworm]

Re: Topping off tank for storage really needed?

I've got roughly 50 gallons left in a 71 gallon tank. I added double stabilizer a week ago and let wave action at the dock mix it. The boat's hauled and winterized. Come spring, I'll top off the tank with some high test and let her rip. Could the E10 cause a problem? Maybe. Could I get all the gas out of the tank? Probably not. So, why drive myself, or yourself, crazy. Winterize and think spring. Stay warm. Hy