Cleaning contaminated bilges

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Kinora
Kinora
VIC
199 posts
VIC, 199 posts
22 Jul 2026 8:54am
The bilge on the Currawong is a small, deep "V" directly under the engine and gearbox. Over the years, the bilge on Kinora has built up a fair amount of sticky, black sludge on the walls of the bilge. Parts break off and then foul the check valve on the bilge pump so I need to do a thorough clean. The advice received so far is to soften the gunk, scrape off as much as possible, wash with a degreaser. Difficult and laborious work in a confined space.

What have others done to thoroughly clean contaminated bilges?

Cheers,
Kinora
FabulousPhill
FabulousPhill
VIC
339 posts
VIC, 339 posts
22 Jul 2026 9:03pm
Wipe with newspaper as best you can. Then use dishwashing detergent. Perhaps scrub with a soft sponger/scourer.
May need to repeat several times, especially with the water (i.e. hull) temperatures now.
This worked for me.
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