Andrew Pace
Choosing the right fuel for your boat is essential to ensure optimal performance and avoid damaging your engine. The type of fuel you need depends on the make and model of your boat engine. For example, smaller boats like pontoons and speed boats typically use gasoline, while larger boats may require diesel. Additionally, some older boat engines require a mixture of gas and oil, while newer boats usually have separate lubrication systems. It's important to refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
When selecting fuel, it's crucial to avoid using fuel with high ethanol levels, such as E15, as it can cause significant damage to your engine and fuel system. Ethanol can attract water, leading to corrosion and performance issues. Instead, opt for ethanol-free gasoline or fuel with no more than 10% ethanol (E10). While E10 is widely available and cost-effective, it may still have some long-term negative effects on your boat, so it's recommended to drain the tank if your boat is docked for extended periods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 2-stroke outboard, 4-stroke, diesel |
| Engine make and model | Yamaha, Mercury, Suzuki |
| Engine specifications | Refer to owner's manual |
| Boat type | Small personal boats, pontoons, larger commercial boats |
| Fuel type | Ethanol-free gasoline, E10, E15, marine gas oil, marine diesel oil, oil and gas mixtures |
| Ethanol content | No more than 10% |
| Octane level | 87, 89, 90, 91, 92 |
| Fuel availability | Marina, gas station |
| Fuel cost | Ethanol-free is more expensive than E10 |
Ethanol-free gasoline
One of the benefits of using ethanol-free gasoline is that it does not have the corrosive effects of gasoline containing ethanol. Ethanol can quickly corrode rubber and fiberglass, and it can also loosen debris in the fuel system, leading to clogged fuel lines. Additionally, ethanol attracts water into the fuel system through "phase separation," which can cause internal corrosion and uneven performance. For these reasons, it is recommended to drain E10 fuel from the tank during storage or after 90 days of usage.
When transitioning from non-ethanol gasoline to ethanol-free fuel, it is important to check for water in the fuel tank and water-separating fuel filter. It is also recommended to add a quality cleaner to help remove any deposits in the engine. Filling the tank completely with ethanol-free fuel will help to absorb any remaining water. It is also important to monitor filters and carry extra fuel filters due to filter-clogging concerns.
While ethanol-free gasoline is a great option for boat engines, it is important to note that it is more expensive than E10 or other types of gasoline. Additionally, ethanol-free fuel uses the octane enhancer additive methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) to produce a cleaner exhaust. However, combining MTBE with ethanol from other fuel types can cause clogged fuel filters and performance issues. Therefore, it is crucial not to mix ethanol-free gasoline with other types of gasoline.
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E10 fuel
Ethanol is a solvent that can quickly corrode rubber and fiberglass. It can also loosen debris in the fuel system, leading to clogged fuel lines. As such, it is recommended to only fill up with the amount of E10 fuel that is needed to avoid these negative side effects.
Additionally, ethanol can attract water into the fuel system through "phase separation," which can cause internal corrosion, erosion of fiberglass, and uneven performance. To prevent this, experts recommend draining E10 fuel from the tank during storage or after 90 days of usage.
Older boat motors may also experience performance issues with E10 fuel as they were designed before the introduction of E10. Adding a high-quality fuel additive can help protect the engine from any potentially damaging effects of ethanol.
While E10 fuel is a convenient and cost-effective option for many boaters, it is important to be aware of its limitations and potential drawbacks to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your boat's engine.
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Diesel engines
When it comes to maintenance, diesel engines have a longer lifespan and require less frequent refuelling. VETUS diesel engines, for example, are designed for easy installation and minimal maintenance. All maintenance parts, such as fuel filters, relays, impellers, and oil filters, are easily accessible on one side of the engine. Additionally, diesel engines have advanced corrosion resistance and closed-cooling systems, contributing to their durability and reliability.
The performance of diesel engines is also notable. Diesel engines offer more power and control, enhancing the boating experience. VETUS diesel engines, for instance, are known for their performance, efficiency, and comfort. They aim to reduce engine sound levels, improve combustion, and optimize air supply to the engine.
For recreational vessels, Mercury Diesel engines are a popular choice. They are lightweight, efficient, and clean, delivering a smooth and quiet performance. Mercury Diesel engines also feature top-mounted fluid reservoirs, self-draining oil filters, and easily accessible oil dipsticks, making maintenance simple and convenient.
When choosing a diesel engine for your boat, it is important to consult the owner's manual to ensure compatibility and adhere to the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations.
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Oil and gas mixtures
It's important to note that not all boat engines require oil and gas to be mixed. Most larger, modern boat engines have their own lubrication systems, separate from the fuel system, eliminating the need for oil-gas mixtures. Therefore, it's essential to consult your owner's manual to determine if your engine requires oil and gas to be mixed, and if so, the correct ratio.
Mixing oil and gas in the wrong ratio can lead to several issues, including a smoking motor, hiccuping performance at high RPMs, and even significant internal damage. Common mixing ratios (gas:oil) include 25:1 (often during the break-in period), 50:1, and 100:1. To achieve these ratios, you'll need to perform some basic calculations. For example, for a 50:1 ratio, you'll need to add 2.6 fluid ounces of oil per gallon of gas.
It's also important to use marine oil that meets the TC-W standard for 2-stroke engines. Marine oil, particularly from the original engine manufacturers, is designed to handle the demands of the marine environment, including higher RPMs and proximity to water sources.
When mixing oil and gas, it's recommended to add the oil first and then the fuel on top, as this helps ensure a better mix. Additionally, pre-mixing the oil and gas in a separate container before filling your boat's fuel tank can make the process easier and help avoid imbalances in the mixture.
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Octane levels
Most boat engines will run just fine off of 87 octane. However, some higher-horsepower engines require a higher octane level, such as 89 or 91. It's important to check your owner's manual for the specific octane level recommended for your boat's engine. Using the wrong octane level can negatively impact the performance and longevity of your engine.
It's worth noting that ethanol-free gasoline is recommended for boat engines, as it doesn't have the corrosive effects that gasoline with ethanol has. However, ethanol-free gasoline is typically more expensive and harder to find. If you do use gasoline with ethanol, it's crucial to ensure that it contains no more than 10% ethanol to avoid potential damage to your engine and fuel system.
When choosing the right fuel for your boat, it's always best to refer to the owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Different boat engines have different fuel requirements, and using the wrong fuel can lead to serious and costly issues.
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Frequently asked questions
The type of gas you should use depends on the type of engine you have. The engine's manufacturer will have the most accurate information about this. However, most small boats and pontoons use gasoline or a mix of gasoline and two-cycle oil, while larger boats may require diesel.
The best gas for outboard motors depends on the specific make and model of your motor. Most outboard motors will run on E10 gasoline (10% ethanol and 90% gasoline). Older outboard motors may not be designed for E10 and may have problems.
Yes, you can switch from using ethanol-free fuel to E10. However, ethanol is a solvent that can loosen debris in your tank and fuel system, potentially clogging your fuel line or engine. Before making the switch, check for water inside your fuel tank and pump it dry if necessary. Then, completely fill up your tank with E10 fuel to absorb any remaining water.
Your best option for buying boat gas is usually the marina in your area. Marinas offer gas that is safe for all boat types, including ethanol-free options. While it may be more expensive, it's worth paying a little extra to ensure your engine runs at its best. If you don't have access to a marina, you can fill up at a gas station, but be sure to look for a "rec blend" or recreational blend label to ensure the fuel is ethanol-free.
