How does a mobile fuel tank drain actually work?
Every tank is a bit different. Cars, utes, caravans, boats, ride on mowers, project builds sitting for a decade. We drive up, drain the old fuel, flush the fuel lines if they need it and put fresh fuel in to whatever level you want. The old fuel is collected and disposed of legally under EPA Licence 52359. We run a full system scan and listen to the engine before we hand you back the keys. Recovered fuel goes for EPA compliant disposal under EPA Licence 52359.
When does a fuel tank need draining straight away?
Any long stored vehicle where the fuel smells like varnish or looks yellow to brown. Any diesel with water sitting in the fuel. Any petrol with visible water at the bottom of the tank. Anything where the engine will not start, or starts and dies. Waiting only makes it worse.
What should I do before you arrive?
Do not start the engine. Take a photo of the fuel gauge and jot down the odometer reading if possible. Move anything from around the filler cap so we can work. If the vehicle is in a shed, open the door so exhaust and fuel vapour can vent when we run the engine after refuel.
What does it cost to drain a tank in Adelaide?
Metro Adelaide callouts are quoted on the phone before we dispatch. Larger tanks over 100 litres, heavy vehicles like trucks and motorhomes and difficult access add to the price. You get a written invoice on site with EPA Licence 52359 on it.
Where in SA do you offer mobile drainage?
Full Adelaide metro, the Hills, Barossa, Fleurieu Peninsula and Victor Harbor. Regional SA jobs handled with a scheduled visit, quoted on the phone. Regular work on caravans, motorhomes, HiLux and Ranger project builds, ride on mowers, gensets, LandCruiser and Patrol restorations and marine tanks.
What is included in a mobile tank drain?
We drain the tank, flush the fuel lines if needed, put fresh fuel in to whatever level you want, then run a full system scan and listen to the engine before we hand you back the keys. You get a full comprehensive report and a written invoice on the spot.
What happens to the fuel after you take it away?
We take the recovered fuel to a licensed waste oil facility for EPA compliant disposal. You get a written invoice on site referencing EPA Licence 52359, which is what your insurer, fleet manager or club records officer will ask for.
How quickly should old fuel come out of a stored vehicle?
As soon as you're planning to try starting it. Old petrol varnishes carbies and injectors within minutes of first crank. Old diesel dumps water and bug through the fuel system within seconds of the pickup drawing fuel. Drain first, start after.
Does insurance cover tank drainage on a stored vehicle?
Drainage of a stored vehicle is usually maintenance and is often not covered. Most standard comprehensive policies treat misfuelling as driver error, so that is often not covered either. Cover depends on the policy, including classic car, fleet and plant policies. Check your product disclosure statement or call your insurer. Our invoice makes the claim easier if you want to try and we can send documentation to your insurer direct.