Is it suggested to drain VST if engine sits for a few months?

[habitat7@msn.com]

I was told to drain my VST tank to relieve the pressure if engine is going to sit for 3-6 months. Is that recommended?

[Harper]

I don't know whether relieving the pressure is helpful (and the only thing under pressure are those things beyond the high pressure pump, such as the fuel rail, but not the VST itself), but still it's not a bad idea for long term storage. I wouldn't rely a whole lot on any additives completely stabilizing the fuel. It's especially advised if you're using gas with ethanol. ....the old "ounce of prevention" adage comes to mind. And if you're talking about a large fuel tank on your boat, either drain the tank or completely fill it. Half-filled tank vented to the atmosphere is more likely to have problems of water condensation than one that is empty or full.

[Solarman]

In my opinion, running your motor once every 3-4 Weeks, is the better way to go. Allows fresh oil to coat all the internal parts again, keeps orings and seals moved, fresh fuel through system, motor warms up, electrical system energizes, moisture from atmosphere dries out, batt(s) charge up a little, and I even engage my transmission f & r to warm that oil and re-coat those gears. Once a month just freshens the motor up.

Harper is right on the tanks, full or empty, is best. A stabilizer in tank is good for long periods not used, but I always run my motors 15-20 mins just to heat up the motors, burn any moisture up, and coat the internals with oil again.

Again, this is my opinion. Good luck. Happy boating.

[Harper]

In my opinion, running your motor once every 3-4 Weeks, is the better way to go. Allows fresh oil to coat all the internal parts again, keeps orings and seals moved, fresh fuel through system, motor warms up, electrical system energizes, moisture from atmosphere dries out, batt(s) charge up a little, and I even engage my transmission f & r to warm that oil and re-coat those gears. Once a month just freshens the motor up.

Harper is right on the tanks, full or empty, is best. A stabilizer in tank is good for long periods not used, but I always run my motors 15-20 mins just to heat up the motors, burn any moisture up, and coat the internals with oil again.

Again, this is my opinion. Good luck. Happy boating.

Good advice, to be sure, Solarman. I do the same, but realize that not everyone is able. I ususally let 'er run for about 20 minutes after reaching operating temp to ensure that the 'stat opened fully and water ran through all the motor. By that time, oil is also well warmed and well circulated. I need to get out and do it next week. This is the longest cold spell I've seen in my neck o' the woods in a long time.