Milky bilge water

[Jetfuel]

Hi there everybody,

Had a viewing of a Catalina 30 yesterday, and found some milky water in the bilge (see photos). Any ideas what it may be? There was no odor, and I did not check if it was fresh or saltwater. Could it be paint? fuel leak? Engine compartment was very clean and well kept. Keel bolts do not appear corroded.

I have a 2 year old survey from the current owner which states fuel in the fuel filter appears milky. Owner says previous to his purchase fuel had emulsified inside the tank from lack of use causing the cloudy filter. All diesel was removed and the tank was professionally cleaned. The fuel filter is pretty much all clear, but I am worried that it could be somehow related.

Thanks!

[Calif.Ted]

Older Catalinas had the shower drain to the bilge, could it be soap and shower residue ?

[JPA Cate]

Originally Posted by Calif.Ted

Older Catalinas had the shower drain to the bilge, could it be soap and shower residue ?

I'm repeating the question because I don't see the "milky" water at all. Sorry.

However, soap scum mixed with fresh water and hair has a gray tone to it that is a little like the color oil gets when mixed with water. It is also slimy feeling, and will give off an unpleasant odor. [feel it and sniff your fingers].

Ann

[Don C L]

Looks like soap, fresh water and a little emulsified diesel or engine oil in there too. That's my guess. I bet Ted is right.

[Jetfuel]

This boat does have the shower drain leading directly into the bilge, however, all of the shower fittings have been removed from the head. Perhaps the could have been some other soap or cleaning product that made it's way from the floor of the head through the drain.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Jetfuel.