All-year-round care for fuel tanks
Periodically check the body of the tank and all fittings for leaks, weeping or stains. Wipe down any surface dust with a fresh water damped cloth on aluminium tanks. Check tightness of any retaining straps regularly again bearing in mind loads involved. Do not let anything lean on a tank where over a period of time it may start to rub away the surface thus weakening the tank structure. If possible look under the tank say once a year to check for corrosion on the bottom surfaces if in contact with any salt water.
If using diesel in a marine environment ensure that you periodically add a “bug killer” such as Fuel Doctor at recommended doses and intervals. The “diesel bug” can, if left unchecked, completely clog a fuel system, possibly leaving you stranded. It thrives on the water found in fuel and the bug killer can turn this water into a burnable component in the fuel. Always try to leave your tanks as full as possible as then there is little room for condensation to form in the top of the tank. Ensure that there is always adequate fuel filtration prior to the engine and inspect regularly. Ideally once a year drain the tanks completely and then refill.
1. Maintaining grey water tanks
4. Maintaining fuel tanks