Diesel Leak

[Bob Camarena]

I have what seems to be a small Diesel leak on my 1981 C-30. I noticed the smell when I visited the boat Friday. The tank was filled and last run over a month ago and I haven't noticed the smell on any interim visits. The bilge was bone dry, but I found 2-3 oz of fuel under the inspection hatch above where the shaft connects to the stuffing box. There was more between the cabin sole and the hull aft of that spot (under the companionway steps), but it was dry forward of the tank.I cleaned it up and plan on returning tomorrow to check it out. After thinking it over once I was home, I've theorized that I may have a pinhole leak in my fuel hose somewhere in the area under the companionway steps, since anything else would have leaked more fuel and/or would show evidence of a leak nearer to the tank. I hope it's the hose since that would be the easiest fix.Any other ideas?

 

[Walt]

Finding Leaks

Bob,I've had a similar experience where I had to locate a fuel leak. I ended up folding a paper towel and running it carefully along the rubber fuel lines. I quickly found a small crack that was leaking fuel. It was in the return line from the air bleed screw.I was probably lucky but you should check the easiest things first.Walt

 

[Denny Fegan]

Look at the tank

Bob,After you check the hoses check your tank. I have a 84 model and the tanks started to leak last year. The problem is that water will lay in the bottom and since the tank slopes toward the engine the tank corrodes at the edge. I was able to remove the tank and and have it patched by over laying a new piece of aluminum bent to fit the tank 2" on either side and then seal welded. Cost about $80. You can alos check on a new tank from Catalina.Best,Denny Fegansdennisf@aol.com