Ockelbo B18 Series, Owner'S Manual

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4. SYSTEMS & COMPONENTS
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4.1.1 Fuel tank
The boat is equipped with an aluminum fuel tank with a capacity of 90 liters. As a
precaution, all the capacity may not be useable due to trim and loading conditions, so
consider keeping at a minimum 20% of reserve fuel in the tank.
Fuel tanks with levels less than 20% capacity can cause engine stalling problems due to
fuel starvation or by allowing sediment and dirt to enter the fuel supply lines. Keep the
tank full and monitor the fuel level often to prevent this from happening.
4.1.2 Filling the tank
When filling the tank, do not attempt to top off the tank. When the nozzle shuts off, the
tank is full, and continuing to fill past the fuel fill shut-off will cause the system to spit fuel
back.
Before fueling, carefully read the chapter on Fire Prevention in this manual!
4.1.3 Phase separation
Humidity and condensation creates water in your fuel tank which can adversely affect the
function, with ethanol blended fuel. A condition called phase separation can occur if
water is drawn into the fuel beyond the saturation point. The presence for water in the
fuel beyond the saturation level will cause most of the ethanol in the fuel to separate
from the bulk fuel and drop to the bottom of the tank, significantly reducing the level of
ethanol in the fuel mixture in the upper level (phase). If the lower level (phase),
consisting of water and ethanol, is deep enough to reach the fuel inlet, it could be
pumped directly into the engine(s) and cause significant problems. Engine problems can
also result from the reduced ethanol/fuel mixture left in the upper phase of the tank, or
just from the water contamination.
If phase separation does occur, your only remedy is to drain the fuel, clean and dry the
tank completely and refill with a fresh, clean tank of fuel. Also, clean or replace fuel filters
(see chapter 4.1.4)
The best method to avoid these problems is to avoid water from accumulating in the
tank. Try to maintain a high fuel level in the tank, in particular when the boat is not in
use for longer periods. This will reduce the air flow in and out of the tank due to
changes in temperature as well as limiting fuel exposure to humidity and condensation.
4.1.4 Fuel filter
As a part of the fuel system, a fuel filter is installed in-between the tank and the engine.
There is always an external filter mounted in the boat. The exact location varies between
engine brands and engine installation companies. Some engines also have a filter under
the engine hood.
Maintenance of the fuel filter is essential to secure a reliable operation. For some
engines, the filter can also be connected to the instrumentation and provide a warning if
it need maintenance.
Please check the instructions provided by the dealer who installed the engine.