Safety fuel cells are out of sight so they tend to be forgotten. Fuel cells have a finite life span. The environment can greatly affect the cell's longevity. The typical lifespan of a fuel cell is between 8 and 10 years, although all sanctioning bodies limit use to 5 years from the date of manufacture. By following a few simple guidelines and inspecting your fuel cell on a regular basis, you can ensure that the performance and safety of your vehicle will remain intact. Avoid fuel additives Do not store fuel in the cell for long periods Do not expose the cell to harsh chemicals Do not use solvents on the cell Store your bladder in a cool dry place, out of direct sunlight Inspect the interior and exterior of your cell once a year Torque fill plate bolts to 75-80 inch-pounds for synthetic cork gaskets, and 55 inch-pounds for viton gaskets