Diesel Leak (through the hull?)

[B. Roberts]

Shortly after our boat was pulled out of the water last fall, we noticed that there was a strong diesel smell coming out of the cabin. I took a look at the fuel lines and tank, and determined that the filler line was leaking at the conection to the fuel tank. I could find no other leaks then or since. Long story short, I could not get to this right away myself. The boat yard said they would take care of it "right away" (but never did), so the boat sat like this for over two months before I found out and could fix it myself.A week or so after fixing the line and cleaning the spilled fuel, I went back up to get her ready for the season. I noticed what smelled like diesel on the OUTSIDE of the hull under where the fuel tank sits. I hadn't looked under there when I fixed the leak, and I assume this spot had been there since after the original spill. I am hoping that this is not some ridiculously expensive and serious situation, and that someone out there can shed some light on this for me. Will the hull "dry-out" over time? Is there serious damage to the fiberglass as a result of this? Anything else I need to worry about here? Something I should do?

 

[Paul Akers]

First Thought!

Did the fuel leak into/onto the stuffing box? If yes, then is it tight? My thought is that it leaked onto the stuffing box and then out through the stuffing box to the outside just the same way water can leak in when the boat is in the water. Unless there is some serious damage to the hull, I don't think it would permeate through the hull.With diesel fuel, you should at least see some discoloration or residue on the outside of the hull.

 

[Richard Weaver]

Diesel Leak

I agree with Paul ! First check the area where the shaft exits the hull and check there. Diesel fuel should not permeate the hull assuming it's not wood.I hope we're not using the same yard as I've had the same problem from my yard about not doing promised work.Good Luck !

 

[wb]

fuel and fiberglass

dont worry about fuel and fiberglass as per epa standards all petro companies have to use double wall tanks and lines under ground and therefor most have gone to fiber tanks and lines.just check what the others have stated.however if you do have diesel on hull i would chech for a hairline crack but its very unlikely.hope this helps.

 

[Pete]

fuel smell

just a thought that fuel smell outside of the hull could be just the tank vent you are smelling?