Fuel leak detection tricks

[REBrueckner]

The new owner of my 1972 YF invited me up for a short trip, a few days aboard and a trouble shooting effort: he got some fuel in the bilge, apparently in the vicinity of the starboard engine, and a three hour search with a mechanic did not turn up any source. That's a low point in he bildge so the leak might be anywhere. Sounds like they ran both engines around 1300 RPM or so dockside for over an hour.....

The engines are white and were clean in May so we should be able to see any red fuel with CAREFUL observation if it's dribbling there.

I suggested he place some paper towels in a few spots to help isolate the possible bilge area where the leak originates...I also suggested drying out the bilge and placing absorbant pads under the starboard engine so red fuel spots can be observed on the clean white background.

Anyone have any other "tricks" to help spot a fuel leak??

 

[Traveler 45C]

Perhaps running a paper towel over the fuel hoses and valves. I would think you'd be able to fine the leak that way.

Don't forget to have a look at the fuel fill hoses and tank connections.