Fuel Care: Tips to keep your fuel clean & engine running smooth

Jul. 11 2023 How Tos By Sidney

Boating is a fantastic and relaxing activity that allows you to take in the fresh air and beautiful scenery. However, just like a car, your boat's engine requires proper maintenance and nourishment to work efficiently. One of the most critical maintenance steps is the protection of your fuel system. Fuel issues are common and can be a source of frustration if they impact your fun on the water. We will discuss how to keep your boat engine running at peak performance to ensure a smooth and memorable boating season. 

Gasoline tends to go bad within two weeks, which can lead to the formation of a gum-like substance that can clog up your fuel lines and tanks, carburetors, and injectors, leading to reduced engine performance. To prevent this from happening, use fuel additives, such as the Mercury Fuel Care System. This three step system helps optimize, protect your fuel system, and removes deposits and are specially designed for Mercury engines. You can trust it to keep your boat running smoothly.

Mercury Outboard Fuel Care System

Quickare Fuel Treatment is the first step in Mercury's fuel care system. This Should be used at every fill up as it keeps your fuel fresh between fills ups. Quickare helps to control gum and varnish build-up, moisture and corrosion problems in non-ethanol based fuels, and cleans up existing varnish and gum deposits from fuel lines, carbs, injectors, intake valves and spark plugs.  

Step two is Quickleen, this product should be used periodically throughout the season to remove carbon deposits from the carb, injectors, intake valves, and helps extend the life of your spark plugs. 

Quickstor is the third part of Mercury's fuel care system. This product should be used before storing your boat at the end of the season or if it is sitting without running for an extended period of time. Quickstor will help prevent your fuel from breaking down, corrosion in your fuel system. As well as keep your injectors and carb lubricated. 


ethanol-bIn addition to fuel additives, there are other precautions you can take to protect your engine. For instance, always purchase gas from known and trusted sources. Avoid using fuel that has been present in the tank for an extended period. Keeping your tanks clean and free of water and sediment is another vital step you should take. Periodically, check your fuel filter to ensure that fuel contaminants are not entering your engine. Have an extra filter on board as an emergency backup.

Mercury Fuel Filter

In conclusion, the gas in your boat engine requires special care to keep it running at peak performance. Using fuel additives, keeping your tanks clean and checking fuel filters regularly, are essential steps that you should take to keep your boat in good running condition. It's also essential to have your engine serviced and perform maintenance according to the manufacturer's instructions. By following these steps, you'll be helping to keep your boating experience enjoyable and memorable!