SOME SOLUTIONS


Above: Every boater can do SOMETHING to prevent petroleum pollution.
This Foundation Findings allowed us to delve into a wide array of products, information, and techniques to help prevent small fuel spills and to better manage our fuel. It also reacquainted us with products that we can use on the fuel dock to help stop those drops and drips.

While testing inline fuel/air separators and vented deck fill fittings, our testing revealed that the Racor Lifeguard Inline Fuel/Air Separator (Model LG100) was the most dependable all around performer. We could rely on it to keep fuel from overflowing through the vent line and to keep backsplash from occurring up the deck fill. Because of its dependability, it earned the STAFF PICK for this series of tests. This oblong grapefruit shaped device (about $100 retail) may not fit in every boat, but where it will, we think it’s a good investment to make refueling a more worry-free event.

Throughout the course of our testing, we confirmed that there appears to be no one single answer to better manage fuel for each and every boat. Some boaters who buy large amounts of fuel may want to consider a fuel computer, which can quickly pay for itself when the boater is able to establish the most efficient RPMs and trim. For other boaters, a vented deck fill may be an option to help reduce overboard spilling, particularly if they are willing and able to slowly fill the fuel tank.

For everyone filling a fuel tank, there are also simple oil absorbent cloths, fuel nozzle donuts or bibs, and catchment devices to attach externally on the vent. These products are as useful for the marina fuel dock operator as they are for the individual boat owner. Learn more in our Clean Fueling Products Directory by clicking here.

The bottom line: anyone with an engine in their boat can do something to keep fuel drops out of the water. Thanks for your help!

This project is part of our ongoing National Clean Fueling Campaign: Help Stop the Drops. If you have ideas, questions or comments about this information, feel free to send us an email.

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BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety & Clean Water
147 Old Solomon’s Island Rd. Suite 513
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 897-0920

©2007, BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water