Condensation debate data point

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Jan 27, 2008
3,092
ODay 35 Beaufort, NC
Fill Process

I have develped a process for filling my tank to reduce water input. Knowing the fuel has some in it, I fill five gallon tanks. Then I let the five gallon tank sit on the cockpit seat. I insert a fuel hose from a boat gas tank with the primer pump into the five gallon tank keeping the hose off the bottom of the tank. I then run the long end down the fuel fill tube on the boat. I use the primer bulb to start a siphon. The relatively slow fill process reduces agitation of the fuel and prevents picking up water settled at the bottom of the five gallon tank. Once the tank has about a half gallon or gallon left I stop the siphon and pour the rest in my truck.
Do I get water and goo in my truck? I change the fuel filter every 15 to 20K miles and you wouldn't believe the water and gunk in the fuel bowl which I clean thoroughly. The truck actually has a sensor for water level in the fuel bowl that makes a light come on for the dashboard. There is a little lever to drain the water from the filter bowl but the tube drains it out on the ground. Pretty environmentally unconscionable thing to do. Only once in 135K miles has that light come on. I offer this as proof that there is water in the fuel as purchased since the industry has taken these steps to deal with it and I have visually seen it.
 
Nov 22, 2008
3,562
Endeavour 32 Portland, Maine
25 May update.

As promised, I removed the tank gauge and stuck a stiff but flexible tube down into the tank with the end cut to an angle so I could suck from various spots and corners and not just under the sounding tube.

The tube was connected to a pump with a length of clear tubing and I pumped a couple gallons through the water separating funnel. Not a hint of water or sediment. The fuel looked like what I would expect to see coming out of Rich H's polishing system:)

I was also able to peek in and see some of the tank wall. Absolutely clean. I could even see scratches from the fabrication.

Tank history recap:

Boat laid up improperly and full of fuel from about 1999 to 2005. Fuel turned to jelly in the lines and pumps.

Tank polished in 2005.

No filter changing or other attention in 2006-7 seasons due to ignorance.

Fuel polishing system installed last winter and Startron used in fuel for last two seasons.

Tank stored 1/4 full this winter in plastic shed with major temperature swings due to solar effects in Maine winter. Lots of melt water on floor and condensation and humidity inside boat. Temperature often in the 50 - 60's on deck.
 
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