Stale fuel is bad, it can cause gummy deposits in carburetors or fuel injectors  and filter screens. With the increasing use of ethanol in our fuel, water is also a problem. Boats can sometimes sit idle for weeks or months without use inviting condensation in fuel tanks. Water in 2 stroke engines is really rough because the water reduces the lubrication properties of 2 cycle oil. This is a problem for any engine gas or diesel. Here are a few things you can do to keep you afloat.

• always keep your fuel tanks as full as possible
• avoid ethanol fuel if you do not run your fuel out regularly
• be sure to add fuel stabilizer when you have to store your boat for an extended period
• add a fuel water separator to your fuel system and change the filter at regular intervals

2v mercarb with rust and varnish

same carburetor after cleaning