Water in diesel

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Hopefully someone can help with this one..........I have recently moved from a petrol boat to diesel. The engine is a volvo D3 and I have had the warning light come on saying water in fuel, I drained the pre filter and sure enough there was water present. This has happened each time I have taken the boat out. What are my options to get rid of the water in the tank?

Many thanks Hunter

[Coddy]

Hi

 

Here is one way of cleaning out water:

Step 1

Remove the fuel tank cap. Insert the fuel intake hose until it reaches the bottom of the fuel tank.

 

Step 2Insert the discarge hose into the mouth of the fuel tank and lower it part way down toward the tank. It does not have to reach the fuel.

 

Step 3

Connect the fuel polisher to the power source. Turn on the fuel polisher.

 

Step 4

Begin filtering and polishing the fuel. Pay careful attention to the separator filter. If it becomes blackened with water, debris, algae, etc., shut off the polisher and replace the filtering cartridge.

 

Step 5

Continue recirculating the fuel until it is clear and free of contaminants. When finished, shut off the polishing unit and disconnect it from the power source.

 

Step 6

Withdraw the discharge hose from the tank, pulling it slowly through one of the rags. This wipes off any fuel and prevents a spill. Repeat the same process with the intake hose. Take your time and avoid making a mess.

 

Step 7

Using the rag, dry the hoses and then dispose of the rags in accordance with any local waste disposal regulations or ordinances.

 

Step 8

Replace the fuel cap and start the engine. After it warms up, you should experience cleaner engine exhaust and perhaps slightly more power as well. Shut down the engine. Your fuel polishing task is completed.

 

Not sure where you hire a polisher however!

 

 

An alternative would be to drain the tank(s) completly, Store the fuel in clear containers and let it stand for a few days to allow the water to sink to the bottom, syphon off the majority back into another container leaving the water and a small amount of diesel on top of the water and do the same again.

 

You will also require a number of new filter elements for your boat.

 

Keep the tank(s) full to prevent condesation from developing and introducing the water.

 

Hope this helps

 

Dave

Edited May 23, 2010 by Coddy

[codpiece]

Like it dave,well done, You lost me at no3!!!!!!!! Derek

[duncan]

I would start with the question of how it's getting there in volume

 

condensation and poor fuel supplies can account for a small quantity but I get the impression you have a recurrent significant quantity?

[Rob]

 

You need to surely determine if it is salt or fresh water.

 

Rob