Fueling; Recommendations; Preliminary Guidelines; Pumping Fuel - Four winns V Series Owner's Manual

S - 2

FUELING

Do not smoke, extinguish all open flames,
STOP all engines and other devices that could
cause sparks, including the bilge blower. Do not
use electrical switches or accessories. Shut
OFF all stoves that may produce a spark or
flame. Close all openings into the cabin area of
the boat.
A. Recommendations
When fueling or having your boat fueled by an
attendant, be sure the waste pump-out or fresh
water fitting is not mistaken for the fuel fill.
The fuel system components used by Four Winns
withstand up to 10% alcohol content in the gasoline
(not applicable to diesel engines). Although alcohol
boosts the octane level of gasoline, it also attacks the
rubber fuel distribution lines and even metal fuel
system components. Alcohol will permeate most fuel
hoses and other components such as fuel pump,
gaskets and seals, and can also contribute to fuel
system contamination.
The hoses we use in our boats are alcohol-resistant
as are the materials used by the engine manufacturers.
If only fuel containing alcohol is available, or the
presence of alcohol is unknown, you must perform
more frequent inspections for leaks and abnormalities.
Any sign of leakage or deterioration requires your
immediate attention. Refer to the engine manufactur-
er's recommendations on fuel type and octane ratings.
B. Preliminary Guidelines
1. Safely secure your boat to the dock.
2. Close all hatches, windows, doors and compart-
ments to prevent accumulation of fuel vapors.
3. Ensure that a fire extinguisher is readily available.
4. Do not store fuel in areas that are not adequately
ventilated.
5. Use only fuel lubricants recommended by the
engine manufacturer.
Pre-Launch and Underway - Section S
C. Pumping Fuel
Follow engine manufacturer's recommenda-
tions for types of fuel and oil. Use of improper
products can damage the engine and void the
warranty.
1. Be sure to fuel in a well-lit area. Fuel spills are
unnoticeable under poor lighting or in the dark.
2. Remove the fuel fill cover.
3. Insert the fuel supply nozzle, keeping it in contact
with the fuel fill plate to guard against static
produced sparks.
4. Stand away from the fuel tank vent and gas fill
during fueling. Splash back may occur and can be
an eye irritant and/or a fire hazard.
will
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5. Avoid spillage. Wipe up any excess fuel immedi-
ately.
6. After pumping approximately 10 gallons of fuel into
the fuel tank, inspect the engine and fuel tank area
for any signs of leakage. If no leaks or other
problems are detected, resume fueling.
7. Allow space at the top of the tank for thermal
expansion.
8. If fuel cannot be pumped in at a reasonable rate,
check for fuel vent blockage or a kink in the line.
D. After Fueling
1. Replace the fuel fill cover and wipe up any fuel
spilled. Discard rags used in a safe place ashore.
2. Open the engine compartment and all hatches,
windows, doors and other compartments that were
closed during fueling. Inspect these areas for the
odor of fuel vapors and visible fuel leakage.
Investigate and correct any sign of fuel leakage
or indication of vapors before starting engine.
Do not run blower or operate any electrical
switch until problem is corrected. Fire or
explosion may result.
Owner's Manual Page 186