Operator`s manual

Fuel System 55
Cetane Number
Direct injected diesel engines require a
minimum cetane number of 40 under normal
starting conditions. Fuel with a higher cetane
value may be required for high altitude or
cold weather operation.
Filtration
Fuel should be clean and free of
contamination. Clean fuels should have no
more than 0.1% of sediment and water.
If fuel is stored on site, make sure that:
•
Keep storage tank covered to prevent
water entry.
•
DO NOT use a tank made of galvanized
metal or any galvanized piping for
diesel oil storage. Diesel will react with
the zinc, forming solids that can clog
fuel filters and cause engine damage.
•
Fuel stored for a long time may oxidize
and form solids, causing filtering
problems.
•
Keep the area around the fill cap
clean. Tilt the tank slightly toward the
drainplug area so water and sediment
can be easily drained.
Generally, fuel contamination occurs as
the result of improper fuel handling. The
most common types of contamination are
water, dirt and microbial growth (“black
slime”). The formation of varnishes and
gums resulting from poor fuel stability or
long storage (“stale fuel”) also affects fuel
quality. The best treatment for contamination
is prevention by maintaining a clean storage
system and choosing a reputable fuel
supplier.