[C320-list] Diesel Injector Cleaner

[Joe Luciano]

If you have an old fuel tank that has never been cleaned and you suspect deposits in there, the issue I’d be worried about is overwhelming my filters either in rough seas or via use of a deposit cleaner.  I, too, have always used a fuel conditioner when I fill the tank and see no water in my Racor bowl.  I have had to replace my fuel level gage in the tank however.  So, when doing this, I took a hand siphon and put the hose down to the low end of the tank and sucked fuel off the bottom to see what it looked like.  I did get a little bit of gunk (which I expected on a 20 year old tank), but it didn’t take long for my siphon to bring up nothing but clean diesel.  So, I would suggest that you might try that on your tank and get a feel if there is a gunk layer on the bottom .  If there is more than you can easily get out with a siphon, there are people that will come to your boat and polish your fuel, removing all of the gunk.  They typically need two open ports on the top, and they can install what is needed.  Once all the fuel is out, they clean the tank and you get the peace of mind knowing you are not going to lose your engine to clogged filters starving it of fuel.  Then use a fuel conditioner as you go.  I didn’t have to have my tank cleaned, but plenty of my sailing buddies have had it done.  Best of luck.

Joe Luciano
Second Wind
C320 #1024

> On Apr 13, 2020, at 1:24 PM, John morrison <sail-ability at sympatico.ca> wrote:
> 
> I use Stanadyne diesel fuel conditioner in my Yanmar. Keeps the fuel happy as a clam and helps to emulsify any water. Don’t get any water in the RACOR fuel filter. I pay particular attention the no water gets in there in the first place.
> JohnM
> 1999#574
>> On Apr 13, 2020, at 4:13 PM, nibj <nibj at mac.com> wrote:
>> 
>> I have been recommended to add a diesel injector cleaner for two small land based diesels(a large lawn tractor and an old car) that I own.  In particular a product called  “Lubro Moly Diesel Purge”.  Is this type of product good for marine use? I worry about loosening deposits in the 25+ year old fuel tank, but I want to keep my old Perkins happy!
>> 
>> Thanks
>> Peter
>> 
>> Tangled #226
>