Boating Fuel Guide

A motorboat can’t get anywhere without fuel, and there are many different types of fuel available, each with advantages and disadvantages. That is why Team Winnebagoland Marine Center has created this guide to fueling your boat.

Choosing the Right Boat Fuel for Your Motor

First, let’s establish the importance of using the right fuel. Using incompatible fuel can seriously damage your engine, so always check your owner’s manual before you put anything into your boat. The manual should have detailed instructions about what can and cannot go into your boat’s tank.

Different Types of Boat Fuel

E10 is one of the most affordable and easily available boat fuels on the market. Moreover, it is considered safe for most boat motors. E15 is very similar to E10 but contains 5% more ethanol. While E15 is significantly cheaper than E10, using it also increases your risk of separation and corrosion. There are also many types of fuel without ethanol meant specifically for marine engines, such as REC-90.

Certain boat engines may require more specialized fuel. For example, some boats run on a mix of gasoline and oil. Make sure that you use the exact mixing ratio outlined by your owner’s manual. Diesel outboard motors are rare, but inboard diesel engines are somewhat common among larger vessels. Diesel fuel is more expensive per gallon, but it also tends to be more efficient. Lastly, there are marine gas oil (MGO) and marine diesel oil (MDO). These types of fuel are usually used by large commercial vessels and are difficult to find, so you more than likely will not need to bother with them.

For more information or to view our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit Team Winnebagoland Marine Center in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. We also offer parts, servicing, and financing, so come to us for all your watercraft needs. We proudly serve communities like Appleton, Wisconsin, and we hope to see you soon!