Keeping a healthy Diesel Tank

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Warren

I recently purchased a Catalina 30, and it was stored with a full tank of diesel. I took a 9 hour trip and used between 1/4 and 1/2 of the tank. What should I do now? I have no idea if the PO added any fuel additives or conditioners over the years. The motor ran great even in some rough waters. I had all of the filters changed prior to launch. Do I fill the tank and add some conditioners, or let the tank run lower to clean out what has been in there for years. I could also siphon out the remaining fuel and start fresh.Any ideas would be appreciated, I am holdng off on re-fueling until I hear back from the group. Happy fourth of July.
 
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Trevor

How old is the fuel?

Hi Warren - Do you know how old the fuel is in the tank? The problem with really old fuel is that funky stuff can grow in it over extended periods of time. The problem with storing a tank low on fuel is that water can condense in it. I think it's a good idea to keep the tank full during storage, so the PO was doing you a favor. Since you have had no problems so far, my guess is you are ok. Check the fuel filters and use some more fuel before refilling. I've nver used fuel additives, but I don't sail in NY. No problems so far = good news. Don't create a problem before it exists; just check the fuel filters and you'll probably be in good shape. Enjoy the boat - the C30 is a great model! Trevor
 
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Randy

Old fuel

That's one of the problems I face on my Catalina 27. The 20 gallon fuel tank provides great capacity and range, but I am hard pressed to burn a full tank of fuel in one season. I prefer to store the tank full over the winter, and add a diesel stabilzer and algae inhibitor. In the spring, I start burning the fuel (which has never presented a problem). By August, I may be down to a half tank. Since I always like to have plenty of fuel, I usually refuel at that point. Another few gallons is added when I top off in November for the winter. I think adding a stabilizer over the winter, and an algae preventitive in the summer is worth doing. Others hate additives and don't use them. If your engine is running well and not giving you problems, I'd continue to burn off the fuel, then refuel when you need to. Randy
 
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