SPECIFICATIONS
30
FUEL CONTAINING ALCOHOL
If the fuel in your area contains either methanol (methyl alcohol) or
ethanol (ethyl alcohol), you should be aware of certain adverse
effects that can occur. These adverse effects are more severe with
methanol. Increasing the percentage of alcohol in the fuel can also
worsen these adverse effects.
Some of these adverse effects are caused because the alcohol in
the fuel can absorb moisture from the air, resulting in a separation
of the water/alcohol from the gasoline in the fuel tank.
The fuel system components on your Mercury engine will
withstand up to 10% alcohol content in the gasoline. We do not
know what percentage your boat’s fuel system will withstand.
Contact your boat manufacturer for specific recommendations on
the boats fuel system components (fuel tanks, fuel lines, and
fittings).
Fuel containing alcohol may increase:
• Corrosion of metal parts.
• Deterioration of rubber or plastic parts.
• Fuel permeation through rubber fuel lines.
• Starting and operating difficulties.
IMPORTANT: Operating a Mercury Marine engine with gasoline
containing alcohol creates unique problems as a result of long
storage periods common to a boat. Cars normally consume
alcohol‑blend fuels before they absorb enough moisture to cause
problems; however, boats often sit idle long enough for phase
separation to occur. In addition, alcohol can wash protective oil
films from internal components causing corrosion.
IMPORTANT: Because of possible adverse effects of alcohol in
gasoline, it is recommended that only alcohol‑free fuel be used
where possible.
If only fuel containing alcohol is available, or if the presence of
alcohol is unknown, increased inspection frequency for leaks and
abnormalities is required.
Low Permeation Fuel Hose Requirement
Required for sterndrives manufactured for sale, sold, or offered for
sale in the United States.
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
