Don’t worry about it. Boats are a sign of conspicuous consumption, and are “rich peoples” toys.
New EPA standards will soon do to the boat industry what is happening to the auto industry.
I’ll have to ask my fellow boat mechanics if they see much of this fuel problem yet.
I’m pretty much out of the business now.
I don’t have to ask a mechanic about ethanol problems in boats. I recently pulled a much larger power boat off a sand bar and towed him to the dock. Toxic Ethanol Poisoning of the Gasoline.
I have a built in gas tank on my boat and rig my second motor to a portable tank. I use anti-ethanol additives.
Since this will be a single outboard and fishing 15+ miles off shore, obviously the fuel reliability is an issue. Additionally, I've heard comments about the ethanol eating at engine parts too, though I need to gather more information on this aspect.
From what I've learned, many boats use aluminum tanks, but I'm surprised at how many dealers have no idea what kind of tanks are in the used boats on their lots. Almost makes me want to buy new, or at least new old stock, so that I'm dealing with the manufacturer rather than bob the plaid-clad sales rep.
Maybe if I wait to buy until next spring, I can buy directly from the United Boat Workers union, who, under obamacare, might end up owning all the manufacturing companies.