Diesel Fuel problems aboard our sailboat in Central America

[luepetri]

Have never had problems with diesel before. We are experienced sailors and my husband very mechanical.
New Yanmar 4JH4AR 2 years ago. Left the boat in El Salvador and only ran it to make water periodically over the last nine months. Travelled to Costa Rica and have had nothing but problems since. Have emptied tank, cleaned fuel and continue to pump fuel through the tank to filter the gunk in it. From our research we realize that it might be bad fuel and or temperature problems............any other ideas?

 

[Heywood Jannockitov]

You've probably got microbes, ie. diesel bacteria. Marine diesel fuel tanks are a prime breeding ground.

 

[Diamondpilot]

Dump that fuel, clean tank, new filters, then fresh fuel. Check for water leaks and treat all fuel that sits any period of time.

Chris

 

[groundcover]

What Chris said and give it a dose of this :
Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment - Star Tron Diesel Additive
Good luck, if you can't find a treatment down there give one of us a yell and we will try to send you some .

 

[3930dave]

If you have a lot of microbial growth in the tank, you'll likely need a strong biocide designed for diesel fuel to kill it.

The one I've used was a Case branded one, bought at an Ag dealer in Ont. Canada. Down your way, if you can't find anything at a marina area, try looking up a Cat(erpillar) dealer - they are often pretty good at covering out of the way places.

As stated, try and evaluate if there is a lot of water contamination in the tank, as that can accelerate this type of problem.

Good luck, Rgds, D.