Tips for a successful winterization of your engine
By Bardahl • The 8/9/2021 • 5 min reading

In winter, what should you do with the remaining fuel in the tank? It's crucial to avoid oxidation and condensation. Modern fuels, like SP95-E10, which is composed of 10% ethanol, do not help with this issue. Ethanol has a hygroscopic nature, meaning it attracts water, which is not desirable in the fuel system and combustion chamber. So, what are the solutions?
- Emptying the tank completely…
- …or, on the contrary, filling it to the brim to reduce the risk of air getting inside.
- But for those who prefer not to take risks, we have an even better and less labor-intensive tip: use Bardahl's Fuel Stabilizer.
Fuel Stabilizer 24 Months Marine
- Extends fuel storage life up to 24 months.
- During winter storage: no need to drain the tanks or reservoirs and helps prevent engine failures when launching the following season.
- In season: cleans the fuel system, prevents clogging.
- Eliminates the harmful effects of ethanol and prevents breakdowns.
- Ensures optimal lubrication of valves and seats.
- Compatible with EFI engines.
With its "Replaces Lead" package that enhances fuel quality, particularly protecting it from oxidation, the Fuel Stabilizer extends the fuel's lifespan up to 24 months. This helps prevent engine failures when launching for the next season. With this gasoline additive, also compatible with SP95 & SP95-E10, draining the tanks or reservoirs is no longer necessary.
Water dispersant for Gasoline Diesel marine
- Eliminates water caused by condensation in the fuel.
- Facilitates cold starting.
- Prevents the formation of deposits and rust in the tank.
- Protects the fuel system.
- Prevents injector and pump seize.
For Diesel engines, condensation can also be an issue. But with the Water Dispersant (for gasoline & Diesel), Bardahl provides a very simple solution. Its main role is to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the tank, a phenomenon that often leads to fuel supply problems after winter. Using Bardahl Water Dispersant also helps prevent rust and deposits in the tank.
Diesel Marine Biocide Treatment
- Effective against bacteria, yeasts, and other molds.
- Its preventive or curative use allows for disinfecting the entire tanks and fuel system.
- Prevents filter clogging.
- Neutralizes the acids generated by microorganisms and prevents tank corrosion.
- Preventive or corrective use.
- Immediate action.
If you haven't prepared enough and microorganisms have developed by feeding on the diesel (as diesel temperature is more conducive to bacteria growth than gasoline), don't worry: Bardahl has also developed a Diesel Biocide that can be used either preventively or curatively. This additive, to be added to the fuel, disinfects the entire tanks and fuel system. Its formulation neutralizes the acids generated by bacteria, yeasts, and other molds. With Bardahl's Biocide, you won't have to worry about any clogging of the filters.
Engine oils and protective sprays
Although Bardahl is well-known for its additives, the company's history actually began with oils to ensure optimal lubrication for its clients' engines. Even within its marine range, the manufacturer honors its origins with motor oils for 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, transmission oils, and lower unit oils, as well as a spray specifically designed for winterization. This spray provides optimal protection for the internal mechanical parts of any 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine, both inboard and outboard, by applying an anticorrosion oil film. Simply spray it with the engine running, directly into the air intake or carburetor, until the engine stalls.
The marine range also includes Fuel Treatment & Diesel Treatment, Gasoline & Diesel Injector Cleaners, and greases specifically developed for the nautical environment.