Rust in my fuel

CalicoJack

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5 Jan 2004
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Chatham, Kent
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Our yacht has two large fuel tanks which are glassed in, so it would be a major job to remove and replace. We have been getting small pieces of rust from the tanks in the water separator ever since we brought the boat 8 years ago. I have recently had the injectors overhauled and very fine pieces of rust, about the size of a grain of flour, which had made their way through two 10 micron fuel filters (Lucas CAV type) were found in the injectors. It was suggested that I make a rust trap using Mnemoic magnets Araldited into the base of the filter bowls.

The question is would this work and where can I get some of these magnets?
 
What you want are neodymium magnets and you can get them here
http://www.first4magnets.com/?gclid=CLSKvKWd9q8CFQ1lfAod2BofEg

If you have room it would be good to fit a day tank to let the rust settle prior to the filters. Some fuel companies offer a fuel cleaning service which could be useful.
Finally, are you sure that there isn't an inspection hatch on your tank which would allow access for a cleanup.
 
Glassed in tanks could be emptied, and cut out with an angle grinder. It wouldn't matter if you left the classed in bit in place and fitted S/S or plastic tanks on top.

Then no more rust. This problem won't go away and when they rust through and leak all your expensive fuel into your bilges you won't be to pleased
 
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