We just experienced an onboard
diesel fuel leak from the main supply
pump. Fortunately none went
overboard, and I'm actually glad I didn't install an automatic
bilge pump! I estimate we
lost about 20 liters into the
boat bilge.
So, I pumped all the
fuel into jerry cans and it will go to the local hazardous waste disposal this week. As far as I can tell all the actual liquid fuel has been captured in
tanks or absorbent rag.
Now the problem is the smell. The entire
boat reeks of
diesel fuel. Linens and clothes and
cushions are easy - I hope. A few cycles through the
laundry for clothes and linen should do it. and some upholstery cleaner will hopefully deal with the
cushions and seats.
I'm looking for suggestions as far as the bilge though. How have others dealt with
cleaning the bilge after an
oil or fuel spill? There is the odd drip here and there too. No matter how careful I tried to be handling
tanks and hoses and stuff - I was constantly having to stop and sop up this drip or that.
God what a nightmare! Again I'm mostly thankful I didn't anoint my marina with
oil... But any
advice on the
interior cleaning would be really appreciated.