Managing Oil Contamination Issues

Managing Oil Contamination Issues

April 1, 2016

As most boaters are aware, oil contamination can lead to various issues throughout the boat. In order to prevent such problems, here are some ways you can identify and manage the causes of these spills. In addition, ensure your boat is protected with a comprehensive Recreational Boating Insurance policy.

Fuel

Rob Gina, owner at Boatwrench Inc. of Longwood, Florida, says fuel is the number one engine oil contaminant, more so with older carbureted engines and the fix is to tune the engine: timing, carburetor tuning, distributor cap, plug wires and spark plugs.

Dusty Belts

Dusty belts seep into the engine compartments of the boat, causing oil contamination over time. To prevent this from occurring, ensure belts are properly adjusted and under the right amount of tension.

Overheating

Overheating caused from a bad water pump or blocked cooling passages can lead to oil contamination. While extremely high temperatures are needed to overheat cylinder blocks, it’s best to keep an eye out for your water pump’s performance.

Leaks

Minor water leaks can allow seepage into the engine. Check for water leaks from fittings and replace all hoses and tighten clamps as needed.

Foam

According to Boater Mag, glued to the underside of the engine hatch as a sound-deadening material, foam deteriorates over time and finds its way into the engine, again via the intake. If the foam is easily crumbled, it means it’s deteriorating and should be replaced immediately.

By identifying these issues, oil contamination can be prevented. Further, if you find that your oil has been contaminated, it is best to flush and replace the oil.

At Merrimac Marine Insurance, LLC, we strive to protect your investments. Our coverage, backed by years of expertise and excellence, seeks to provide a personalized experience for our clients. For more information on how our products can serve you, contact us today at (888) 344-1687.