Posted by Lighthouse Marine Supply on Jul 28th 2025
The Hidden Dangers: Clogged Filters, Brittle Lines, and Bad Tanks—And What They Mean for Your Boat
Every boat owner dreams of reliable trips and smooth-running engines, but even the most seasoned mariner can run into trouble if certain maintenance basics are ignored. Three of the most common—and most damaging—culprits are clogged filters, brittle lines, and bad tanks. Here’s why these issues matter, and what can happen if they’re overlooked.
1. Clogged Filters: The Silent Engine Killer
Your engine’s fuel, oil, and water filters are designed to keep out contaminants. Over time, though, they naturally fill up with debris, water, and even algae. When a filter gets clogged, fuel flow is restricted, oil pressure drops, and water systems can become blocked.
The Effects:
Loss of Power: The engine struggles to get the fuel it needs, so you’ll notice sluggish acceleration and reduced top speed.
Stalling & Hard Starts: In severe cases, your engine may sputter, stall, or refuse to start altogether.
Increased Wear: Starved of clean oil or fuel, your engine’s internal parts are at risk of premature wear or even failure.
2. Brittle Lines: Small Cracks, Big Problems
Fuel and water lines age, especially in the harsh marine environment. Sun, salt, heat, and vibration take their toll, making hoses brittle, cracked, or loose at the fittings.
The Effects:
Leaks: Even a tiny crack can let fuel or water leak out, risking engine performance and even fire hazards.
Air Intrusion: Cracked lines can suck in air, causing rough running or making it impossible to prime the system.
Breakdowns: A failed line can leave you stranded, sometimes far from shore.
3. Bad Tanks: The Root of Recurring Headaches
Older or poorly maintained tanks can corrode, develop pinhole leaks, or become contaminated with water, rust, or sludge.
The Effects:
Contaminated Fuel: Water or debris in the tank gets pulled into your fuel system, clogging filters and injectors.
Recurring Issues: If you’re constantly changing filters or noticing odd engine behavior, your tank could be the culprit.
Serious Damage: In extreme cases, bad tanks can cause major engine damage or even environmental hazards from leaking fuel.
Don’t Wait for Trouble—Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance
At Lighthouse Marine Supply, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid these common pitfalls. Whether you need OEM or aftermarket filters, High-performance hoses, or advice on tank care and replacement, our team can help you find the right parts to keep your boat safe and reliable.
Need help choosing the right filter, hose, or tank treatment?
Call us at 631-722-5700, email sales@marineengineparts.com, or visit marineengineparts.com for expert support
1. Clogged Filters: The Silent Engine Killer
Your engine’s fuel, oil, and water filters are designed to keep out contaminants. Over time, though, they naturally fill up with debris, water, and even algae. When a filter gets clogged, fuel flow is restricted, oil pressure drops, and water systems can become blocked.
The Effects:
Loss of Power: The engine struggles to get the fuel it needs, so you’ll notice sluggish acceleration and reduced top speed.
Stalling & Hard Starts: In severe cases, your engine may sputter, stall, or refuse to start altogether.
Increased Wear: Starved of clean oil or fuel, your engine’s internal parts are at risk of premature wear or even failure.
2. Brittle Lines: Small Cracks, Big Problems
Fuel and water lines age, especially in the harsh marine environment. Sun, salt, heat, and vibration take their toll, making hoses brittle, cracked, or loose at the fittings.
The Effects:
Leaks: Even a tiny crack can let fuel or water leak out, risking engine performance and even fire hazards.
Air Intrusion: Cracked lines can suck in air, causing rough running or making it impossible to prime the system.
Breakdowns: A failed line can leave you stranded, sometimes far from shore.
3. Bad Tanks: The Root of Recurring Headaches
Older or poorly maintained tanks can corrode, develop pinhole leaks, or become contaminated with water, rust, or sludge.
The Effects:
Contaminated Fuel: Water or debris in the tank gets pulled into your fuel system, clogging filters and injectors.
Recurring Issues: If you’re constantly changing filters or noticing odd engine behavior, your tank could be the culprit.
Serious Damage: In extreme cases, bad tanks can cause major engine damage or even environmental hazards from leaking fuel.
Don’t Wait for Trouble—Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance
At Lighthouse Marine Supply, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid these common pitfalls. Whether you need OEM or aftermarket filters, High-performance hoses, or advice on tank care and replacement, our team can help you find the right parts to keep your boat safe and reliable.
Need help choosing the right filter, hose, or tank treatment?
Call us at 631-722-5700, email sales@marineengineparts.com, or visit marineengineparts.com for expert support