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April 11, 2012 - Marine Mechanics Institute Offers Tips to Help Boaters Cut Fuel Costs

With spring here, boaters will be looking forward to getting out on the water more regularly. With gas prices rising to record levels, however, boaters also will be looking for ways to keep fuel costs down. Wyatt Hanks, Education Manager at Marine Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Fla., recommends that boaters ask themselves the following questions to help ensure maximum fuel efficiency.

 

  • Is your engine in good running order?  Today’s marine engines are solid and dependable but still require occasional service. Making sure that your engine is tuned up will help reduce fuel cost.

 

  • Do you have extra weight in the boat? Extra weight can kill fuel efficiency. We have been always taught to be prepared, but do you really need to have full tank of fuel on board for today’s trip? Assorted gear that will not be used should be left at home. Never forgo safety items, but is that third pair of water skis or that fourth cooler really needed for an afternoon cruise? Also, if you trailer, the lighter the rig the better the mileage on the road.

 

  • Does your boat have the correct propeller? The correct propeller will let the engine run in the recommended RPM range.  (RPM specifications may be found on the engines model identification tag or can be obtained by consulting your marine dealer, owner’s manual or engine manufacturer.) 

 

To determine if you have the correct propeller, go to the water with the normal load of people, fuel and equipment. Run up to full speed and proper trim angle. If the tachometer reading matches the RPM specifications, you are done. If you cannot obtain full RPM or the engine over revs, see your dealer. Online help is available at www.mercurymarine.com. Try the propeller selector program. This will work on all brands of outboard and stern drive engines and can help guide you to the correct propeller.

 

  • Is your propeller damaged? A damaged propeller is like driving with a tire that is low on air pressure. The efficiency of the propeller is greatly reduced and this increases fuel consumption. To save money on repairs, investigate refurbishing your damaged propeller instead of replacing it.   

 

  • Are you considering, or do you already have a new boat? Opt for the technology that can assist you in finding the best efficiency. Many marine manufacturers offer fuel flow rate gauges and ECO instrumentation. This instrumentation will help you determine the most economical trim and throttle setting for your boat and engine combination.

 

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