Top Tips for Enhancing Your Boat’s MPG

In the market to buy a new boat? Possibilities are good that you have given the decision a reasonable amount of consideration. There are several concerns you should ask, however, before buying: 

1. Will the boat suit just family, or friends also?
2. How will the boat be used – fishing, skiing, cruising, long trips?
3. Will the boat be used seasonally or all year round?
4. How much are you willing to invest beyond the purchase price for insurance, registration charges, maintenance, etc.?

Gas and diesel costs are increasing fast and affecting the boating industry. Recreational boaters around the country are faced with either spending more money or less time on the water. According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, 3 percent of boaters in 2007 didn’t place their boats in the water, this year only 1 percent plan on not wetting their boat. So what can we do to help squeeze more miles out of every dollar we spend at the pump?

Below is a top listing of ways to enhance your boat’s fuel efficiency.

1. Many of today’s boats have electronic fuel injection or direct fuel injection that needs more injector cleaner detergent than is usually in commercially available gas. Use a good injector cleaner to clean up injector deposits and help your engine run its best.
2. Marine diesel additives will upgrade the typical No.2 diesel fuel to a high octane premium diesel. It is recorded in laboratory tests to significantly enhance engine performance, increase fuel economy to just over 13 percent, and reduce exhaust emissions.
3. A quality onboard fuel computer will help you effectively handle what you have in your storage tank by supplying accurate readings of how much fuel gas you are using at any given moment.
4. Regular engine and tune-ups will contribute greatly to your boat’s overall fuel efficiency. 
5. The hulls of boats kept in the water often have overgrown jungles trailing from their bottoms.
6. When you fuel up, do it in the mornings before the heat starts up. This assures you’re obtaining the most fuel for your money.
7. When refueling your boat, run the pump slowly. Many nozzles have a style that recaptures and you not be getting all you’re paying for.
8. Don’t wait until your storage tank is almost empty, try the refueling solutions. Gas evaporates quickly and open space in the tank can steal your playtime.
9. Use the appropriate size propeller and check for damage.
10. Use the proper fuel to oil mix for your engine ( if you have that type of engine).

Don’t let gas or diesel prices keep you off your boat this period. The tips above will help improve your miles per gallon and allow you to enjoy your boat without the gas pump.