Winterization - Full Fuel Tank or Not

[dclagett]

I received the link below from a friend and thought it might be an interesting read for the group. What do you think about the writer's logic and math?

http://www.yachtsurvey.com/myth_of_condensation_in_fuel_tanks.htm

 

[fst415]

I certainly am no expert, but the professional yards that maintain my R-25SC say it is unnecessary to fill-up the tank to avoid condensation. Whether your tank is stored for the winter with a full tank, half-filled tank, etc., what is most important, is that one add a fuel stabilizer to the diesel fuel. Incidentally, I also understand that the issue of condensation in the fuel tank is less an issue in colder parts of the country than in states like Florida.

 

[Catch22]

Here in Wisconsin I fill with only quality fuel and stabilize with Stabil or StarTron.......gasoline( non-ethanol) or diesel.....never an issue with either. If you can't fill, at least stabilize...with StarTron you can not over dose so I double dose. Run the engine after dosing so the system gets the benefit too.

 

[BB marine]

I personally have never filled for winter. I like to have it as low as possible so I can put fresh fuel in it when I commission it in the spring. I do put a fuel conditioner in the tank. I actually think that there is a better chance of getting water in your tank from filling it up at a marina then from condensation. We all take that chance every time we fuel up. I installed a fuel polishing system because of that. I know many do fill for storage and there is nothing wrong with that, just make sure to have some type of stabilizer in the fuel for storage. Like many subjects this is an opinion based subject, do what you feel is best.

 

[BradOwens]

I fill my fuel tanks after every trip so that I'm ready to go for the next one.
Oh... I'm sorry, were you talking about winter storage? We don't do that here in the PNW. 😉

 

[knotflying]

Good info in the article. I always filled my tank when I laid up for the winter. I can't profess that empty or full makes a difference, but I can say that a full tank won't get condensation.