How to Avoid Fuel Contamination
From Dirt and Dust
Dirt and dust cause more than 85% of all failures in fuel systems and can reduce engine life by 50%. Even tiny amounts of dirt and dust in your machine’s fuel system can obstruct to the engine’s normal processes. Newer engines are even more susceptible to damage, because the fuel injection pressure is higher, and the smallest particles can impair normal engine functions.
Fueling
When you refuel, always replace the nozzle back onto the pump, rather than letting it fall on the ground where it could gather dust.
Operation
Prevent dust from entering the fuel system by making sure the vent tube and fuel tank caps are tightly sealed.
Servicing
Minimize the possibility of exposing the engine to the air to reduce the risk of introducing dirt and dust into the fuel system. Whenever you change filters, refuel or make any type of engine repairs, complete these tasks indoors, if possible, where there is less chance of contamination.
Filters
Change filters promptly at the manufacturer’s suggested intervals. Clogged filters cannot prevent dirt from circulating through your engine. Use filters that are approved by the equipment manufacturer to assure best results. Carefully follow the instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual when changing both the main filters and the prefuel filters, so that dust does not enter the fuel system during this process. Always check seals to detect possible leaks. Never pre-fill fuel filters in high pressure fuel systems.
From Water
Prevent condensation
At night, condensation can occur when the temperature drops while the equipment is not operating, and water may enter the fuel tank. To avoid the formation of condensation, fill up the tank at the end of each day.
Drain water & sediment
Before beginning to operate your equipment each day, drain the water and sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the tank. Similarly, about ten minutes after refueling, water and sediment should be drained from the fuel tank.
How to Reduce Fuel Usage
Inspect air filters regularly
Inspect your air filters every 50 hours. If the pleats of your filter are clogged with dirt, it is time to change the filter. Cleaning the air filter can damage it and is not recommended. When an air filter becomes clogged with dirt, the engine cannot get the air it needs and does not operate efficiently.
Grease fittings properly
Lubricate your machine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. By keeping your machine properly lubricated, fuel efficiency is increased simply because the power needed to perform operations is reduced.
Check tire pressure
Check tire air pressure before and after each use. If the tire pressure is low, fill the tires as soon as possible. Low air pressure can reduce the efficiency of your machine and lower fuel efficiency.
Be alert for signs of a mechanical problem
When you see signs of a mechanical problem, bring your machine in to repair before the problem gets worse. Mechanical problems, such as a fuel injector that is overfueling a cylinder, can significantly reduce fuel efficiency.
Run your engine at low RPM when possible
When a job does not require maximum power, running the engine at a lower rpm can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Begin by running at a low rpm during operation, then slowly raise the rpm until the engine does not strain to find the optimum rpm for the job.
Service your equipment regularly
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for servicing your equipment. Most require service at least every 500 hours. The best way to ensure that your machine is working efficiently is to service it regularly.