Four winns Vista 328 Owner's Manual page 67

To help guard against damage, avoid the storage
or handling of gear near the fuel lines, fittings and
tanks.
I - 2 FUEL STANDARDS
Be cautious when using gasoline which contains alcohol.
To conform to Federal Air Quality Standards, the
petroleum industry reduced the amount of tetraeth-
yl 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 octane level of the
fuel, it can also create certain safety and perfor-
mance related problems for boaters.
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 gaskets. This
deterioration will lead to fuel system leakage.
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
widespread. Regulations on public notification of the ex-
istence of additives is currently controlled by the Environ-
mental Protection Agency (EPA). Some states do re-
quire 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.
298/328 Vista Owner’s Manual
09/00
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 engines 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.
4. If areas are found within the fuel system that appear
questionable, have a qualified marine technician in-
spect the system. Have those fuel system compo-
nents that do not pass inspection replaced. A thor-
ough fuel system examination should be made by
an experienced marine technician at least once a
year.
I - 3 FUELING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Avoid fueling at night except in emergencies.
2. When moored at fueling pier:
a. Do not smoke, strike matches, or throw
switches.
b. Stop all engines, motors, fans, and devices that
could produce sparks.
c. Put out all lights and galley stove.
d. Position the Battery Selector Switch to OFF.
Section I
Page 4