John Deere Maintenance Monday: Preventing gelled fuel
Living the Country Life Radio Program with Betsy Freese
Radio interview source: Richard Kershner, product manager, John Deere
In this edition of Maintenance Monday, we're answering a question from Bryce in Pennsylvania. Last winter was his first cold season with his compact tractor, and he wasn't happy when the diesel fuel gelled up. He's needs ways to prevent that from happening this winter.
John Deere Product Manager Richard Kershner says all diesel fuel contains wax, which is usually in a liquid form. When diesel fuel gets cold enough the wax starts to crystallize, or solidify. The wax crystals block the fuel filter and the engine stops because it's plugged up.
Kershner says the best way to keep the diesel from gelling is to run the engine every other day or so. If you're not using it that often, prevention is the key.
"Number one, keep your fuel tank full," Kershner says. "That keeps water -- which can cause a problem -- out. Also, use a fuel conditioner when the equipment's being stored."
Never add gasoline or alcohol to diesel fuel as a gelling preventative. This will damage the fuel injection system, and there's also a danger of an explosion. There are many fuel conditioners on the market, so check with your diesel supplier for recommendations.
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