Winterize Inboard with Full Diesel?

[Dcsqatar]

I am preparing to winterize my R29S for the first time. She will be staying in the water at Gig Harbor, WA but will not leave port for probably 4 months. I have gathered a lot suggestions on steps to take but can’t seem to find a recommendation on how full, or not, to leave my diesel tank. I am currently at about 1/3 full and have a choice to fill it or not before leaving for the winter. Any suggestions?

 

[Bosn Mate]

According to the Volvo Penta Operator's Manual and Service and Maintenance Manual, "fill the tank with fuel to avoid condensation."

Hope this helps!

 

[Chimo]

If you're not going to use the boat, [and that's unfortunate], then full is the way to go. I'm assuming that you use stabilizer year-round but just in case you don't, be sure to add some before storing. Having lived in your part of the world and stored boats over many winters I would mention one small thing. If you are going to fill the boat during a real cold spell, perhaps in November, then leave a little space in the tank. You will inevitably get some warm days during the winter and the fuel will expand leaving a nice run down the boat side.

 

[baz]

Fill tank and leave it shy by a few gallons. Place a sign in window with your contact info in case the boat is seen to require attention. Temps in PNW are never low enough for inboard diesel engine boats to be subject to freezing issues.... at least that's my experience for over past 12 years.

 

[Chimo]

Fill tank and leave it shy by a few gallons. Place a sign in window with your contact info in case the boat is seen to require attention. Temps in PNW are never low enough for inboard diesel engine boats to be subject to freezing issues.... at least that's my experience for over past 12 years.

It does get cold in NJ.

 

[doke01]

Agree with fill it. Runoff a gallon or two for expansion A partially full tank will get condensation on the walls of the tank, resulting in water in the fuel. Put in a good bio-stabilizer and you are all good.