Mercedes Mullins
Diesel boats run on the same fuel as diesel cars, but there are some key differences between fuelling a car and a boat. Safety is a priority when fuelling a boat, and there are several guidelines to follow to ensure this. Diesel engines are more particular about what they ingest, and diesel repair costs are much higher than those for gas engines. Diesel is also a heavier, more viscous fuel, and requires additives to maintain its properties over the course of a year. Despite this, diesel is a good choice for larger boats as it provides increased torque and horsepower, and is more fuel-efficient than gasoline.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of fuel | #2 diesel fuel |
| Fuel requirements | Refer to the manufacturer's specifications |
| Safety procedures | Extinguish all open flames, turn off all electronic devices, turn the bilge blowers off, ensure passengers exit the boat, know the amount of fuel required, ensure the fuel is pumped into the fuel fill and not the water tank, prevent fuel from falling into the water |
| Cost | Diesel is more expensive per gallon but is also up to 10% more efficient |
| Engine | Diesel engines have a longer lifespan and provide increased torque and horsepower |
| Maintenance | Diesel engines are more finicky about what they ingest and have higher repair costs |
| Fuel additives | Diesel requires additives to maintain constant properties over the course of a year; gasoline does not typically need additives |
| Fuel storage | Diesel fuel can support microbial growth; gasoline is more stable |
| Fuel blends | Fuel distributors alter blends and additive ratios with the change of seasons; biodiesel blends are available in some parts of the US |
| Fuel type by boat size | Smaller boats typically require gasoline or gas and oil mixtures; medium-sized boats may require gasoline, a gasoline and oil mixture, or diesel; larger boats will almost always use diesel |
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What You'll Learn
- Safety procedures: extinguish flames, turn off electronics, and ensure passengers exit the boat
- Diesel vs. gas: diesel is more efficient, but gas is cheaper
- Fuel types: use the owner's manual to find the right fuel for your boat
- Fuel additives: use additives to maintain diesel's properties over the year
- Fuel costs: diesel is more expensive per gallon, but goes further
Safety procedures: extinguish flames, turn off electronics, and ensure passengers exit the boat
When fuelling a diesel boat, safety must always come first. Here are some crucial safety procedures to follow:
Extinguish Flames
If a fire breaks out on a boat, it is essential to act quickly. First, determine the wind direction by observing any flags on the deck or using electronic wind direction devices. Turning the vessel in the same direction as the wind can help prevent the fire from spreading and make it easier for passengers to breathe. If the fire is in the engine compartment, do not open the hatch, as this will only fuel the flames with oxygen. Instead, fight the fire with a fixed extinguisher in the engine compartment or a portable extinguisher discharged through a fire port. Dry chemical extinguishers are generally the best choice for boat cabins, as they are more effective and easier to direct. However, they may not be effective for engine fires, as it can be challenging to direct the chemical to the base of the flames. In such cases, using a portable extinguisher through a fire port may be more effective.
Turn Off Electronics
In the event of a fire, it is crucial to turn off all electronic devices. This includes turning off the electricity to any energized electrical equipment, which can change a Class C fire (electrical fire) to a Class A and/or B fire (solid or liquid fire). This is important because using water-based extinguishing agents on electrical fires can lead to electrocution or shock.
Ensure Passengers Exit the Boat
In the event of a fire, the safety of passengers and crew is the top priority. Instruct all passengers to move to the stern (rear) of the boat, which is farther away from the fire. Ensure that they wear their life jackets to reduce the risk of injury or smoke inhalation and protect against carbon monoxide poisoning. If the fire is severe and cannot be contained, notify someone immediately of your situation and location, and evacuate the boat if necessary.
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Diesel vs. gas: diesel is more efficient, but gas is cheaper
When it comes to choosing between diesel and gas for your boat, there are several factors to consider, including fuel efficiency, cost, and engine compatibility.
Diesel fuel packs more energy in every gallon than gas fuel, making it more economical. Diesel engines are about 20% more efficient than gasoline engines due to their higher compression ratio, which results in more energy production. This makes diesel a preferred choice for long-distance travel or when carrying heavy loads. Additionally, diesel engines have more torque, resulting in better fuel economy and acceleration. They are also known for their durability and require less frequent maintenance, making them ideal for those seeking a reliable option.
However, diesel engines and fuel tend to be more expensive. The initial cost of a diesel vehicle is typically higher than its gasoline counterpart. Maintenance and repair costs for diesel engines are also generally higher. In the case of boats, diesel engines have higher replacement costs compared to gas engines, and they are more particular about the quality of air, fuel, coolants, and lubricants they ingest.
On the other hand, gasoline engines are more popular and widely used, especially in the US. Gasoline is highly refined and generally more stable than diesel fuel. It does not require additives, except in cases where the fuel might be stored for an extended period. Additionally, gasoline engines are more suitable for city driving and are preferred by those seeking a more responsive and agile driving experience.
In terms of cost, gasoline engines may offer a more affordable option in the long run, especially for those driving fewer miles annually. While diesel fuel can be more expensive, it is important to note that fuel prices can vary seasonally and by location.
When deciding between diesel and gas for your boat, it is essential to consider your specific needs, such as the distance travelled, the weight of cargo, and your budget. Referring to the engine manufacturer's specifications and guidelines can help ensure you make the right choice for your vessel.
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Fuel types: use the owner's manual to find the right fuel for your boat
The type of fuel you use in your boat engine is crucial to its performance and overall enjoyment. Before making a final decision about what fuel to use, it is important to refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions and recommendations. This will ensure that you are using the correct fuel and complying with the manufacturer's warranty requirements.
Most modern outboard and sterndrive engines use ethanol-free gasoline (REC-90) or E10 fuel, which contains up to 10% ethanol. E10 fuel should be compatible with any engines manufactured in the last decade. While ethanol-free gasoline is more expensive, it offers a cleaner exhaust and protects your engine from corrosion. On the other hand, E10 fuel can cause corrosion in the fuel tank and damage fiberglass finishes over time. It is also important to note that ethanol attracts water and can cause phase separation, potentially leading to engine damage.
If you own a diesel boat, it will typically run on the same fuel used in diesel cars, known as #2 diesel fuel. Diesel fuel is a heavier and more viscous option, requiring additives to maintain its properties. It also has a unique characteristic of supporting microbial growth, which can affect the fuel injection system. However, diesel engines offer increased torque and horsepower, making them a common choice for larger boats and yachts. They also tend to be more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines.
For older two-stroke outboard motors, you may need to mix fuel and oil. The owner's manual will provide specific recommendations for the correct oil-gas ratios to prevent issues like smoking motors and internal damage. It is essential to follow these instructions and use the recommended additives to ensure the optimal performance and lifespan of your boat's engine.
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Fuel additives: use additives to maintain diesel's properties over the year
Diesel fuel is a heavier, more viscous fuel than gasoline and is therefore more prone to going "off-spec". This means that additives are required to maintain constant properties over the course of a year with four seasons. Lubricity, cetane rating, cold weather performance, and stability are essential properties that must be protected by additives. For example, diesel fuel gels up in winter, so a cold flow improver additive is necessary.
The characteristics of diesel fuel can be improved through the use of additives, which can be added at the refinery, at the distribution terminal, or by the end user. Additives may influence multiple categories, and different additives can be combined to produce multi-functional additive packages. For instance, stability improvers can be used to protect the fuel, and biocides can be used to kill microbes.
Fuel distributors alter their additive ratios to address seasonal changes, and engine manufacturers now prohibit the old practice of adding gasoline or kerosene to diesel during winter. Biodiesel and biodiesel blends have become available in some parts of the US, and these usually include additives to ensure they meet specifications.
Some aftermarket additives are available for end users or resellers to add themselves. These include products such as Hot Shots Winter Defense, Howes Diesel Extreme, and Stiction Eliminator.
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Fuel costs: diesel is more expensive per gallon, but goes further
The cost of fuel is an important consideration for boat owners. While diesel is more expensive per gallon, it goes further than gasoline, so you may find that you need to refuel less frequently.
In 2022, a user on The Hull Truth forum calculated that with gasoline at $4 a gallon, it cost them $8 a mile in their SeaRay. With diesel at $5 a gallon, it cost them $5.95 a mile in their Tiara. Another user with a heavier boat (14,000lb with a 38' 6CTA Cummins single) reported that they achieved 4nmpg (nautical miles per gallon) at slow speeds, and 1.8nmpg when planed out. They stated that a gas engine could not come close to this fuel efficiency.
The higher cost of diesel per gallon is influenced by a variety of factors. Taxes are a significant contributor, with the federal excise tax on diesel fuel being 24.4 cents per gallon, compared to 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline. Diesel fuel is used in cars, public transit vehicles, delivery trucks, tractors, boats, machines, generators, and other equipment. This means that during an economic boom, when energy demand rises, diesel costs climb faster than gasoline prices.
The price of crude oil also impacts the price of diesel. Global oil supply, geopolitical tensions, and economic conditions all influence crude oil prices and, subsequently, marine diesel prices. Environmental regulations, such as the IMO 2020 regulation, which reduced the allowable sulfur content in marine fuels, have also contributed to surges in diesel prices.
While diesel may be more expensive per gallon, it offers increased torque and horsepower compared to gasoline engines of similar physical dimensions. Diesel engines are also more fuel-efficient and have a higher energy potential than gasoline. This increased efficiency may help to balance out the price difference at the pump.
However, it is important to note that diesel engines are more costly to replace and repair than gasoline engines. Diesel engines are also more particular about what they ingest, including air, fuel, coolants, and lubricants. Therefore, when considering the total cost of ownership, it may be more cost-effective to choose a gasoline engine if your boat's size allows.
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Frequently asked questions
Diesel boats use the same fuel as diesel cars, also known as #2 diesel fuel.
Before fuelling, secure the boat to the dock, switch off engines, extinguish all open flames, do not smoke, and ensure passengers disembark. During fuelling, hold the hose nozzle firmly against the fill pipe opening, do not overfill, and prevent fuel from entering the water. After fuelling, ventilate the boat, perform a sniff test for fuel fumes, and restart the engines.
Diesel engines offer increased torque and horsepower, making them suitable for larger vessels. They are also more fuel-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and have a safety edge over gasoline due to lower fuel volatility.
Diesel fuel is more expensive and requires additives to maintain its properties over time. It also supports microbial growth, which can cause issues with the fuel injection system. Refer to your engine manufacturer's specifications for recommended additives.
