How to Reduce Boat Fuel Usage
Proper fueling procedures are very important in preventing onboard fires. Gasoline vapors are heavier than air and can spread rapidly into enclosed spaces. You should always check the bilges and all closed compartments for gasoline vapors. The sniff test is the most effective method for detecting fuel leaks. A very useful tip is to use the “one third Rule”, One-third of your fuel to get out, one-third to get back, and one-third in reserve.Fueling Precautions1. Properly secure boat to the dock.2. Switch off engine(s).3. Extinguish all open flames.4. Do not use electrical switches.5. No smoking - Never smoke whle fueling as the vapors can catch fire.6. Ports, hatches, and doors closed.7. Portable tanks should be refueled ashore.8. Make certain all passengers are ashore.9. Determine quantity of fuel required.10. Hold hose nozzle firmly against fill pipe opening.11. Do not overfill. Prevent fuel from falling into the water during fueling. This can harm the marine environment.12. Wipe up all spillage.13. Open ports, hatches, and doors to ventilate.14. Turn blower on for at least 4 minutes15. Do the sniff test.16. Start engines(s).17. Re-board Passengers.18. Untie from dock and cast off.Fuel Conservation TipsMaintenance. Keep engine well tuned. Use correct propeller and check for damage.. Be sure engine is adequate for boat.. Use proper oil mix in motor.. Keep hull clean to reduce friction.- Every 75 hours: replace spark plugs, clean fuel filter, change lower unit oil, grease engine/drive via the zerc fittings and inspect everything.- Every 150 hours or once a year replace the impeller and fuel-water separator.- Check and replace any belts or hoses that appear to be deteriorating.- Check for oil and/or water leaks every time before leaving the dock.- Check and service transmissions and lower units according to manufacturer's recommendations.On the Water. Drain all water before leaving dock.. Distribute weight evenly and don’t overload.. Shut off engine when at dock or at rest.. Make fewer turns so as to not increase motor load.. Plane smoothly and quickly at take off then throttle back to cruising speed.. Plan fishing spots ahead of time and use trolling motor for minor changes in location.
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