Ensuring your boat’s gasoline is of the highest quality can go a long way in ensuring your boat runs smoothly and efficiently. While gas supplied from reputable gas stations might likely have passed quality tests, there is always the possibility of contamination and spoilage due to a variety of factors such as age, water infiltration or heat. So how can you determine if your boat’s gasoline has gone bad?
First, pay attention to the smell of the gas. Old or contaminated gas usually has a distinct odor that is unpleasant and strong enough to be noticeable even before pumping fuel into your boat. If you smell anything other than the characteristic odor of gasoline, it might have gone bad.
Secondly, check the color of the fuel. Good gasoline usually appears clear or slightly straw-colored. If you notice a light or dark brown tinge, it might have become old, contaminated and possibly contain water, which can cause significant engine damage.
Another way to determine if your gasoline is bad is to check its appearance immediately after filling up. Good gasoline typically flows smoothly into the tank, beading up on its way in. If it looks hazy, this is a likely sign of the presence of ethanol, which can compromise its performance.
In addition, you can choose to test your gas with the use of a fuel test kit. These kits read the fuel’s pH levels and check for the presence of contaminants, including water in the fuel.
If you suspect your boat’s gasoline has gone bad, it’s essential to drain the tank as soon as possible to avoid potential engine damage. Draining it can help prevent possible starter issues, corrosion, and reduced fuel efficiency. If you suspect that there might be water contamination in the fuel tank, drain it slowly so that the water deposits settle and can be siphoned out.
Staying vigilant and monitoring your boat’s gasoline quality is crucial for the smooth functioning of your boat. By paying attention to the gas’s smell, color, and appearance, as well as using fuel test kits, you can save time and money in the long run by avoiding engine repair costs associated with contaminated gasoline.