The most important factor for 2007 is going to be FUEL.

FUEL QUALITY

We are already seeing this in the shop, old fuel is damaging and will create performance issues. Start off the year with fresh gas. Use your old gas in the mower or tractor or another (not so finicky) engine around the house. Outboards are especially sensitive to good fuel.

E10 FUELS ARE COMING WEST

Two years ago the east coast experienced major engine and equipment failure due to the switch over of fuel. Starting with the east in 2005 and now us in 2007, all gas is required to be 10% ethanol. This has caused major confusion and damage to unsuspecting boaters. The United States Coast Guard sent out a notice warning of the issues such as:

• 10% Micron fuel filters are not allowing new fuel to flow thru causing clogged filters and stranded cruisers.
• Plastic/Fiberglass inboard gas tanks are getting damaged by new fuel
• Engine performance is compromised
• Mixing the old and new fuel has caused serious vapor locks inside boats

THINGS YOU CAN DO:

• Start with the freshest gas you can find from trusted retailer
• Don't mix any gas taken from two locations or two trips
• Always carry an extra fuel filter with you onboard
• Avoid poor quality gas which contains water
• Add a fuel stabilizer that does not contain alcohol, must have petroleum distillates

The best thing you can do is bring your boat in for Chuck and Eddy to give it a good spring start!

Best in Boating!

OlyTeam