Vessels/Insights

Insights

Marine knowledge, written by the board

Practical guides on marine misfuel, water in diesel, the diesel bug, and engine recovery — published by the EEK board of directors.

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Guide6 days ago

E10 Ethanol Damage in Boat Tanks: Phase Separation and Older Outboards

Why E10 petrol can separate in marine fuel tanks, what it does to older outboards, and how to protect your vessel before and after it happens.

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Drew · Chief Automotive Officer
Guide1 weeks ago

Petrol in a Diesel Boat: Why You Must Not Start the Engine

Petrol in a marine diesel tank can destroy the injection system in seconds. Here's why these systems are so vulnerable and exactly what to do before anyone turns the key.

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Drew
Guide1 weeks ago

Petrol in Diesel Boats: Why Your Engine Needs Immediate Attention

Discover why marine diesel injection systems are highly vulnerable to petrol contamination and the critical importance of not starting your engine.

D
Drew
Guide1 weeks ago

Wrong Fuel in Outboards: Risks & Recovery for Boaters

Wrong fuel in outboards can cause serious engine damage. Learn how two-stroke vs four-stroke risks differ, how fouled plugs form, and steps to restore your vessel's performance safely.

D
Drew
Guide1 weeks ago

Water in Boat Engine Oil: Causes, Risks, and What to Do

Water in a boat engine's oil can cause severe damage. Learn how to identify and address issues like failed exhaust risers and raw water ingress without starting the engine.

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Drew
Guide2 weeks ago

Petrol in Diesel Boats: Why Marine Systems Are Vulnerable

Petrol in a diesel boat can cause severe engine damage. Never start the engine—contact EEK immediately for safe recovery.

D
Drew
Insurance2 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers Handle Boat Misfuel Claims

NZ marine insurers have specific guidelines for handling boat misfuel and water-damage claims, emphasizing the importance of not running the engine after a mishap. This article explains their approach and provides practical advice.

C
Chris
Insurance2 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers Handle Boat Misfuel Claims

NZ marine insurers have specific guidelines for handling boat misfuel and water-damage claims, emphasizing the importance of not running the engine after a mishap. This article explains their approach.

C
Chris
Insurance2 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers on Misfuel Claims & Engine Damage

NZ marine insurers handle misfuel and water damage claims with specific rules, especially for running the engine. This article explains their approach and what you should do to avoid voiding a claim.

C
Chris
Guide2 weeks ago

Ethanol Damage in Marine Engines: Phase Separation

Ethanol (E10) fuel can cause phase separation in boat tanks, leading to issues like ethanol damage and marine engine problems. This article explains the risks and provides guidance on what to do.

D
Drew
Insurance3 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers on Misfuel & Water-Damage Claims

NZ marine insurers handle misfuel and water-damage claims with specific protocols, emphasizing the importance of not running a contaminated engine. This article explains their approach and provides guidance for boat owners.

C
Chris
Insurance3 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers on Misfuel and Water-Damage Claims

NZ marine insurers handle misfuel and water damage claims with caution, often requiring proof of contamination. Running the engine can void a claim due to potential engine damage.

C
Chris
Guide3 weeks ago

Petrol in a Diesel Boat: Why Marine Diesel Injection Systems Are So Vulnerable

Diesel injection systems are highly sensitive to contamination, especially when petrol is introduced. This article explains the risks and provides practical steps for ensuring your vessel's safety.

D
Drew
Guide3 weeks ago

Wrong Fuel in Outboard: Risks & Solutions

Discover the risks of wrong fuel in outboards, including fouled plugs and water contamination, and learn how to get your vessel back on the water safely.

D
Drew
Insurance3 weeks ago

NZ Marine Insurers' Approach to Misfuel and Water-Damage Claims

NZ marine insurers handle misfuel and water-damage claims with a clear understanding of the risks. Running the engine can void a claim, underscoring the importance of following proper procedures.

C
Chris
Guide3 weeks ago

Petrol in a Diesel Vehicle: Why Marine Diesel Injection Systems Are So Vulnerable

Diesel injection systems are highly vulnerable to petrol contamination, leading to severe damage. This article explains the risks and provides practical steps for affected vessels.

D
Drew
Guide3 weeks ago

Petrol in a Diesel Boat: Why Marine Diesel Injection Systems Are So Vulnerable

Diesel injection systems are highly vulnerable to contamination, especially when petrol is mistakenly used. This article explains the risks and what you should do right now to prevent further damage.

D
Drew
Guide4 weeks ago

Water in Boat Engine's Oil: What It Means & How to Handle

Discover the causes of water in your boat engine’s oil and what it means for your vessel. Learn how to handle this situation safely without starting the engine, ensuring your marine investment remains protected.

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Drew
Guide3 September 2026

Ethanol (E10) Damage in Marine Engines: Phase Separation

Learn about ethanol (E10) damage in marine engines, focusing on phase separation in boat tanks and why older outboards are most at risk. Discover how to prevent and address this issue.

D
Drew
Guide28 August 2026

Water in Boat Engine Oil: What to Do

Discover the causes of water in your boat engine's oil and what you should do right away. Learn how to prevent further damage and why it’s crucial not to start the engine.

D
Drew
Guide27 August 2026

Wrong Fuel in Outboards: Risks & Solutions

Discover the risks of wrong fuel in outboard engines, including fouled plugs and water contamination. Learn how to address these issues and get back on the water safely.

D
Drew
Tips22 August 2026

8 Ways to Avoid Misfuelling Your Boat at Marina Fuel Dock

Avoid costly and dangerous misfueling mistakes with these practical tips for boat owners, ensuring your vessel stays safe and operational.

R
Riley
Guide13 August 2026

Avoiding Troubles: Understanding Outboard Fuel Issues

Wrong fuel in outboards can lead to fouled plugs, water contamination, and other issues. EEK Mechanical provides expert solutions for marine vessels.

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Drew
Guide1 August 2026

Avoiding Risks of Wrong Fuel in Outboard Motors: Tips & Solutions

Using the wrong fuel in your outboard can cause serious damage and costly repairs. Learn how to identify issues and get back on the water safely.

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Drew
Guide29 July 2026

Water in Boat Engine Oil: Causes, Risks & What to Do

Water in your boat's engine oil can indicate serious issues like failed exhaust risers or raw water ingress. Learn how to identify the problem and why you should never start a milky oil engine.

D
Drew
Safety24 July 2026

Swamped or Submerged Outboard Recovery: Why Salt Water Causes Rapid Corrosion and Immediate Steps

Salt water quickly damages outboard powerheads when submerged. Learn what to do immediately to minimise damage and protect your vessel.

C
Cass
Tips20 July 2026

8 Practical Tips to Avoid Misfuelling Your Boat at the Marina

Misfuelling can cause costly damage and delays. Discover 8 simple ways to ensure you fuel your boat correctly at US marinas like Westhaven and Tauranga.

R
Riley
Safety19 July 2026

Swamped Outboard Recovery: Why Salt Water Causes Rapid Corrosion & Immediate Actions

Salt water quickly damages outboard powerheads when submerged. Learn what to do immediately to minimise damage and protect your vessel.

C
Cass
Guide18 July 2026

E10 Ethanol Damage in Marine Engines: Risks & Prevention

E10 ethanol-blended fuel can cause phase separation and engine damage, especially in older outboards. Learn how to protect your vessel and what to do if issues arise.

D
Drew
Guide13 July 2026

Water in Boat Engine Oil: Causes, Risks & What to Do

Discover why water in your boat's engine oil is a serious issue, how it occurs, and the crucial steps to take to protect your vessel. Always remember, do not start the engine if water contamination is suspected.

D
Drew
Guide9 July 2026

Water in Boat Engine Oil: Causes, Risks & What to Do

Water in your boat's engine oil can indicate serious issues like failed exhaust risers or raw water ingress. Learn how to identify the problem and why you should never start a milky oil engine.

D
Drew
Guide5 July 2026

E10 Ethanol Damage in Marine Engines: Risks & Prevention

E10 ethanol-blended fuel can cause phase separation and engine damage, especially in older outboards. Learn how to protect your vessel and what to do if issues arise.

D
Drew
Industry4 July 2026

Preventing Marine Fuel Contamination During Winter Lay-Up

Proper preparation during winter lay-up helps protect your vessel’s fuel system from contamination. Learn essential tips to keep your boat ready for spring.

R
Riley
Tips4 July 2026

8 Practical Tips to Avoid Misfuelling Your Boat at the Marina

Misfuelling can cause costly damage and delays. Discover 8 simple ways to ensure you fuel your boat correctly at US marinas like Westhaven and Tauranga.

R
Riley
Guide4 July 2026

Marine Fuel Polishing: How to Clean Water, Sludge & Bugs from Your Tank

Learn how marine fuel polishing can effectively remove water, sludge, and diesel bug from your boat's fuel tank without wasting good fuel. Keep your vessel running smoothly with expert help.

D
Drew