Clean Fuel Tips for Heavy Equipment
If your fuel becomes contaminated with dirt, dust, and other particles, it can reduce your engine life by up to 50%. These types of contaminants are the leading causes of fuel system problems, and they are the ultimate reason for over 85% of engine failures. To help you avoid this situation, we’ve put together some key tips and best practices for keeping your heavy equipment fuel as clean as possible.
How contaminants enter the fuel system
Dirt, dust, and other particles can be introduced into the fuel system in several different ways. The most common routes of contamination are through dirty tank spouts, dispensing funnels, or when you remove a dirty fuel cap. However, contaminants can also be introduced into gas or diesel while it’s being transported, transferred, and stored.
Where the problem areas are
Dirt and dust can speed up component wear and lead to damage wherever quick sliding movements occur. Although small, these particles cause increased friction and interfere with proper movement in the engine. Parts like inner and outer valves, nozzle needles and seats, command piston sliding portions, and the injector barrel and plunger on the control valves are especially vulnerable to damage caused by dirt and dust.
Be careful when fueling or servicing machines
The most important thing you can do to ensure your fuel remains clean is to take steps to keep contaminants out. When you refuel your equipment always be sure to replace the nozzle on the pump, never let it dangle where it will pick up dirt and dust. When operating in a dirty and dusty environment, tightly seal the vent tube and fuel tank caps. Particles can also enter your engine while it’s being serviced. To prevent this type of contamination, try to change filters, refuel, or make any type of engine repair indoors, if possible.
Change your filters regularly
It’s crucial to always change filters at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals. If you leave filters on too long, they will become clogged and will not be able to prevent dirt from circulating through your engine. Carefully follow the instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual when changing both the main filters and the prefuel filters, so that contaminants don’t enter the system.
Keep water out
In addition to dirt and dust, water is another main culprit behind fuel system issues. Water can enter your fuel through various routes, but the most common way is through condensation. If your fuel tanks aren’t full, then moisture in the air within them can condense on the sides of the tank. Before long, droplets of water mix with the fuel, causing the deterioration of the gasoline or diesel and hurting machine performance.
We recommend filling the fuel tank at the end of each day. Plus, you should drain the water and sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the tank before starting work each day.
If you have more questions about clean fuel in heavy equipment, contact our team today!
