Carver 2157 MONTEGO Owner's Manual page 32

USING GASOLINE THAT CONTAINS ALCOHOL IS DANGEROUS
The petroleum industry has been reducing the amount of lead in gasoline in an effort to conform to Federal Air
, Quality Standards. Alcohol is being blended with gasoline as a substitute for lead. While blending alcohol with
gasoline increases the octane level of the fuel, it also creates many safety and performance problems for boaters.
-PROBLEMS THAT MAY BE EXPERIENCED WHEN USING BLENDED GASOLlNE-
Premature deterioration of fuel system components:
Alcohol will attack rubber fuel hoses, fuel tanks, fuel filters, fuel pumps and rubber gaskets. This deterioration will
lead to fuel system leakage.
Phase separation of fuel:
Water that accumulates in the tank through contamination of 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 and
possible engine stalling.
Accumulation of alcohol vapors:
Alcohol will permeate all existing types of fuel hose. This will allow flammable alcohol vapors to accumulate within
the boat.
The use of alcohol additives in gasoline is becoming more wide-spread. There are no Federal Guidelines that
require gasoline pumps to display the types of additives used in the fuel being dispensed.
ASSUME BLENDED GAS IS BEING USED & FOLLOW THESE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Inspect fuel hoses often:
A deteriorated hose containing 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.
Ventilate the engine compartment before starting engines:
Operate the engine compartment blower for 5 minutes. Then, prior to starting the engines, check the bilge area
for the scent of gasoline fumes; do not start the engines if the odor of gasoline is predominant.
Frequently inspect the fuel system fittings:
Check the fuel tanks, pumps and filters for signs of corrosion. Visually inspect for deteriorating metal fittings at
the fuel hose connections.
Fuel leaks due to hoses or fittings on the boat are extremely dangerous. If areas are found within the fuel system
that apear questionable, have a qualified marine technician inspect the system. A thorough fuel system
examination should be made by an experienced marine technician at least once a year.
CARVER