Yacht and motorboat insurers are warning boat owners about the damage caused by Diesel Bug.
Unfortunately one of the risks associated with using Biodiesel is contamination of the fuel system caused by Diesel Bug, which can cause boats to break down unexpectedly. Once diesel bug has got into the fuel system of a boat, it can quickly contaminate filters, pipes and tanks with a nasty black slime that can lead to dangerous and unexpected breakdowns, and high repair bills. Diesel bug is also unlikely to be covered by boat insurance policies, and the repair costs can be significant.
Navigators have already seen a number of pump failures due to likely seal breakdown caused by Biodiesel. Since the introduction of a recent EU Directive, boat owners are required to use marine diesel with significantly reduced levels of sulphur and one of the ways this is being achieved is through the addition of Biodiesel.
Longer-term risks associated with Diesel Bug include damage to the existing rubber and plastic seals and pipes within fuel systems. Many may not offer the required resistance to the new bio fuels being used, leading to gradual breakdown and leakage over time.
James Roberts, Head of Navigators & General said, “The earlier Diesel Bug is spotted, the easier it is to clear. There are also many treatments available that work to prevent it taking hold in the first place.
“The best advice seems to be to try and find out if the fuel you are intending to purchase has any Biodiesel or FAME additive, and try to avoid using fuel that does. If this is not an option, then using recommended fuel treatments such as ‘Marine 16′ to prevent and clear diesel bug will help. Also checking for water in fuel tanks which further increases the risk of diesel bug, and exploring methods to check and drain tanks.”
Navigators also advises that in the longer term, and as part of all boat owner’s routine maintenance, it may be worth retro fitting seals and pipes with materials that are compatible and resistant to Biofuels. The British Marine Federation and experienced yards and surveyors, should be able to assist in this area. Regular checks for fuel leaks and fuel contamination in the bilge should also be carried out to identify pipe or seal breakdown early.
Mr Roberts continues “An engine failure at a critical time could lead to damage and personal injury, so we strongly encourage boat owners to check the fuel they are using and looking for any signs of a leak.”
Source : Zurich Press Release
