how long will diesel last?

[gary3029]

Have a 20 litre fuel tank and the boat will do about 80 miles on this so a tank lasts a long time as engine usage is small. Wondered if fuel has a shelf life from the pump and how long is this?

 

[VicMallows]

I'm sure Nigel will add a definitive answer (and he has done so previously if you search). In practice diesel keeps fine for many years. A bigger problem is condensation in your tank if you do not keep it full, especially in winter. It's also interesting how much crud you find settled out in a jerrycan after a year or two!

Vic

 

[duncan]

[ QUOTE ]
Wondered if fuel has a shelf life from the pump

[/ QUOTE ]

nope

 

[Trevor_swfyc]

Vic,
I would think it impossible to give a definitive answer to this question, without having definitive conditions, as you point out damp conditions are a killer. The best you could give would be a best by date under strict storage conditions. Like food best used before “ “ when stored at “ “ this does not mean it goes off the following day.
When I am asked this question my answer is to inspect the fuel and if any sediment is present separate the upper clear layer which will be ok to use.

Trevor

 

[Guest]

Re: how long will diesel last? Duncans answer says it all

Kept sensibly .... indefinite. Certainly longer than you should concern yourself for.

If you want to keep any petroleum product for extended periods and I mean YEARS ..... then ideally it should be a container that prevents light and heat getting to the product. Also should be sealed and placed in cool, dark area ....

But normal use .... you can leave your tank overwinter - ideally as full as possible to reduce condensation / water build up. As an example - (this is where I have to admit to being a bit slap-dash with my own fuel system .....) - I leave my diesel and tank as last used ... months later go back and dip tank to see how much I need to fill up ... start engine and go. Never had problem in years ........

Basically as long as diesel is not subject to heat and strong light - its fine.

 

[fireball]

Re: how long will diesel last? Duncans answer says it all

A few miles below the surface of the earth should do then?

 

[michael_w]

Re: how long will diesel last? Duncans answer says it all

Is it worth all the aggro of grubby fuel to save a few quid?

Chuck it out and get fresh fuel. alternatively if you've got tons of the stuff, get a Baja funnel from West Marine and filter it all.