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To help guard against damage, avoid the
stor age or han dling of gear near the fuel lines,
fittings and tanks.
I - 3
FUEL STANDARDS
Be cautious when using gasoline that contains alco-
hol. The fuel system components on the plastic fuel
tanks used by Four Winns® will withstand up to 10%
alcohol content in the gasoline. Also refer to the sec-
tion on gasoline require ments in your engine manual
for additional information.
To conform to Federal Air Quality Stan dards, the
petro leum indus try reduced the amount of tetra-
eth 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 gas oline increases the oc tane level
of the fuel, it can also create certain safety and
performance related problems for boaters.
A. Problems with Alcohol in Gasoline
Below is a list of problems which may be experi enced
when using blended gasoline.
1. Premature deterioration of fuel system com po-
nents may occur. Alcohol will attack rubber fuel
hoses, fuel tanks, fuel filters, fuel pumps and
rubber gaskets. This deteriora tion will lead to fuel
system leakage.
2. Phase separation of fuel will cause contami na tion.
Water which accumulates in the tank through
contamination 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 existence of additives is current ly controlled by the
Environmental Protec tion Agency (EPA). Some states
do require that gasoline pumps display information on
Fuel Systems - Section I
additives (especially alcohol). If alcohol content is not
posted, ask and avoid using fuel containing alco hol if
possible.
B. Recommendations
Assume blended gasoline is being used and follow
these recommendations below.
1. Inspect fuel hoses often. A deterio rated hose
containing alcohol blend ed gasoline will nor mally
be soft and swollen. A deteriorating hose contain-
ing no fuel will normally be hard and brittle. In both
cas es the hose should be replaced.
2. Ventilate the engine compartment before start-
ing the engine. Operate the engine compartment
blower for four (4) minutes. Then, prior to starting
the engine, check the bilge area for the scent of
gasoline fumes; DO NOT start the engine 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.
Avoid serious injury or death from fire or explo-
sion resulting from leaking fuel. Inspect system
for leaks at least once a year.
If areas are found within the fuel system that appear
questionable, have a qualified marine technician in-
spect the system. A thorough fuel sys tem examina tion
should be made by an experienced marine technician
at least once a year.
I - 4
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 devic es
that could produce sparks.
c. Put out all lights and galley stove.
Owner's Manual Page 116
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