Use ethanol-safe fuel and stabilize before layup
E10 absorbs moisture in humid climates. Phase-separated fuel destroys injectors and carburetors.
Why this matters
E10 absorbs moisture in humid climates. Phase-separated fuel destroys injectors and carburetors.
When DIY is not enough
Hard starting, sputtering, or water in the separator after layup needs fuel-system service — not another can of additive. Winterization and spring commissioning include structured fuel treatment.
DIY steps
- Buy from high-turnover marinas when possible.
- Add manufacturer-recommended fuel stabilizer before any layup over two weeks.
- Fill the tank to reduce condensation headspace (unless your storage protocol says otherwise).
- Label the date you treated the tank on your winterization checklist.
Related FTM services
- Winterization
- Spring Commissioning
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Full Throttle Marine comes to your dock in Tampa Bay and on the First Coast. Flat-rate quoted before we arrive. Yamaha and Mercury outboard specialists — no trailers, no waiting rooms.
Common questions
Use ethanol-safe fuel and stabilize before layup
E10 absorbs moisture in humid climates. Phase-separated fuel destroys injectors and carburetors. Fuel older than 30 days in a vented tank deserves stabilizer — or a fresh fill before storage.
When should I call a professional instead?
Hard starting, sputtering, or water in the separator after layup needs fuel-system service — not another can of additive. Winterization and spring commissioning include structured fuel treatment.
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Fuel System
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