Keeping a boat in perfect condition is not just about maintaining the hull or the engine. Fuel tank maintenance is often overlooked, but neglecting it can lead to fuel contamination, compromising the vessel’s performance and causing costly breakdowns.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
Fuel tank maintenance is essential to prevent fuel contamination with water and other components, which can cause corrosion and reduce engine efficiency.
In diesel engines, the presence of water and oxygen promotes the growth of fungi, leading to blockages in pipes and filters. In gasoline engines, the presence of dirt and water damages the fuel system, resulting in costly repairs. This causes higher fuel consumption, reduced performance, and, in the worst case, breakdowns that can compromise your navigation.
WHEN SHOULD MAINTENANCE BE CARRIED OUT?
The signs of a contaminated fuel tank may be subtle at first, but they become evident over time. If you notice any of the following signs, contact the BBDouro Boat Services team:
• Loss of engine power;
• Increased fuel consumption;
• Excessive smoke emission;
• Damage to your engine’s fuel circuits.
The lack of preventive maintenance can directly affect navigation safety. An engine failure due to contaminated fuel can leave the vessel adrift, putting the crew and the integrity of the boat at risk. The good news is that we have effective treatments to extend the lifespan of your engine.
HOW TO RESOLVE FUEL CONTAMINATION?
BBDouro Boat Services offers two effective solutions for fuel tank cleaning, depending on the level of contamination:
– Non-Invasive Treatment: For less severe cases, the use of biocides and specific additives in diesel engines may be sufficient to remove water, dissolve sediments, and prevent the formation of new fungi. For gasoline engines, we use fuel stabilizers that prevent corrosion throughout the system and preserve the properties of the gasoline.
– Invasive Treatment: When the level of contamination is high, the tank dialysis process is the ideal solution, especially for diesel engines. In this method, we use a specialized machine that removes the contaminated fuel, filters out all impurities, and returns clean fuel to the tank, ensuring the proper functioning of the engine.
IS IT TIME TO UPGRADE YOUR ENGINE?
If your engine’s performance is no longer the same, it might be the perfect time to invest in a new one. Discover our repowering campaigns and explore the special conditions that we and our partners have to offer you.
