Use And Maintenance; Fuel Standards; Problems With Alcohol In Gasoline; Recommendations - Four winns Vista (1994-2000 models) Owner's Manual

I.

Use and Maintenance

DO NOT let the odor of gasoline go unchecked.
If the odor of gasoline is noted, shut off all en-
gines, electrical and heat generating equipment.
Investigate and correct the situation immediately!
Have all passengers put on personal flotation de-
vices and keep fire extinguisher at hand until the
situation is resolved.
Periodically inspect all connections for leakage and all
hoses for damage or deterioration. Replace as neces-
sary.
To help guard against damage, avoid the storage
or handling of gear near the fuel lines, fittings
and tanks.
F - 2

FUEL STANDARDS

Be cautious when using gasoline which contains alco-
hol.
To conform to Federal Air Quality Standards, the
petroleum industry reduced the amount of
tetraethyl lead in gasoline. Alcohol is being
blended with gasoline to help restore the octane
rating lost when the lead was removed. While
blending alcohol with gasoline increases the oc-
tane level of the fuel, it can also create certain
safety and performance related problems for boat-
ers.
A. Problems With Alcohol In Gasoline
Below is a list of problems which may be experienced
when using blended gasoline.
1. Premature deterioration of fuel system components
may occur. Alcohol will attack rubber fuel hoses,
fuel tanks, fuel filters, fuel pumps and rubber gas-
kets. This deterioration will lead to fuel system leak-
age.
Vista Owners Manual
10/93
2. Phase separation of fuel will cause contamination.
Water which accumulates in the tank through con-
tamination or condensation will be absorbed by the
alcohol. This water-heavy alcohol will settle at the
bottom of the tank. This phase separation will lead
to fuel tank corrosion. This may also result in a lean
mixture to the carburetor and cause engine stalling
or possible engine damage.
The use of alcohol additives in gasoline has become more
wide-spread. Regulations on public notification of the
existence of additives is currently controlled by the Envi-
ronmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some states do
require that gasoline pumps display information on addi-
tives (especially alcohol). If alcohol content is not posted,
ask and avoid using fuel containing alcohol if possible.
B. Recommendations
Assume blended gasoline is being used and follow these
recommendations below.
1. Inspect fuel hoses often. A deteriorated hose con-
taining alcohol blended gasoline will normally be soft
and swollen. A deteriorating hose containing no fuel
will normally be hard and brittle. In both cases the
hose should be replaced.
2. Ventilate the engine compartment before starting the
engine(s). Operate the engine compartment blower
for four (4) minutes. Then, prior to starting the
engine(s), check the bilge area for the scent of gaso-
line fumes; DO NOT start the engine(s) if the odor of
gasoline is detected.
3. Frequently inspect the fuel system fittings. Inspect
the fuel tank, pump and filter for signs of leaks or
corrosion. Visually inspect for deteriorating metal
fittings at the fuel hose connections.
Fuel leaks in hoses or at fittings are a fire haz-
ard. If areas are found within the fuel system
that appear questionable, have a qualified ma-
rine technician inspect the system. A thorough
fuel system examination should be made by an
experienced marine technician at least once a
year.
Section F
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