Dual tanks....run 'em dry or leave a little?

[Forktail]

So what's recommended?<br /><br />I have two 30 gal tanks below a sealed deck. Is it better to run them dry and then switch tanks, or leave a little so I don't slurp up any crud and plug the filters? I have a good filter system and change filters annually. I've been running them dry, not wanting any contamination building up.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Dual tanks....run 'em dry or leave a little?

The downside is that if you are actually running them dry to the point the motor quits, and its an outboard with oil in the gas, you are running the motor out of oil as well as gas.<br /><br />Good idea on keeping the filters fresh. I like to change mine twice a year.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[Forktail]

Re: Dual tanks....run 'em dry or leave a little?

Thanks DH. 4-strokes on this one, so no oil. The F115 is fuel injected though. I usually cut the power immediately when the outboard starts to stumble. I never let it stall completely. Then I switch tanks, prime bulb, and restart. Never a problem.<br /><br />It's a new boat. I have no way to drain the tanks, so I figured over the years it will build crud in the bottom of them, and best way to eliminate that problem was to run them dry letting the filter system do its job. On the other hand maybe its better to leave 1/8 tank at all times and not take a chance of running the fuel injectors dry for a moment?<br /><br />Anyone know what aircraft pilots do?

 

[Czar]

Re: Dual tanks....run 'em dry or leave a little?

I have a truck with dual tanks and never run them dry. Don't think crud buildup would be a problem but if I ever forget to fill up and my 2nd tank runs out it's nice to know I have a little left in the first one to get me home ! <br /><br />Czar