Whatever the season – summer or winter – most fleet owners’ business and productivity goals make it necessary for them to keep their vehicles working throughout the year. Of course, during this time, the type of care they need depends on whether they have gasoline or diesel engines, because each engine type poses its own challenge and hence, calls for its own unique cure and care regimen.
Owners of fleets with diesel engines are aware that diesel fuel is inclined to gel in the winter when the temperature drops and the paraffin in the fuel begins to solidify. Over time, this wax-like substance clogs the fuel line and the fuel filter, and prevents the free flow of fuel, making it harder to start the engine.
Even worse is the presence of water in diesel fuel. In fact, water is the No. 1 diesel fuel contaminant. Although the fuel is relatively free of water when it leaves the refinery, water enters the mix through several other ways – during the delivery process, through atmospheric variables, condensation and leakage. Care should therefore be taken to ensure the purity of the fuel at all points to prevent water from entering the tank.
Water Contamination Wreaks Havoc on Diesel Fuel Systems
Condensation inside the tank can cause diesel sludge, an algae-like substance, to form and settle at the bottom of the tank. Debris from the storage tank also can get into the fuel tank and, over time, can get stirred up and enter the vehicle’s engine.
“Additives and fuel treatments are especially formulated to address these issues,” says Christopher Miller, vice president, E-ZOIL, a manufacturer of additives and cleaners. “Our in-house chemists develop specific additives and cleaning solutions to help fleet owners protect their diesel vehicles and equipment.”
Do You Know Enough About Additives?
Although one may see a plethora of additives on aftermarket shelves, selecting one that can work throughout the year is key to the most cost-effective and efficient answer to diesel fuel-related problems. For example, E-ZOIL's Diesel Aid is an all-season performance diesel fuel additive formulated to disperse water, improve cold flow and lubricity, inhibit corrosion, control the formation of microbial slime and improve fuel economy.
“Fleet owners that are looking to keep their diesel engines working all year-round, avoid maintenance costs and reduce downtime without compromising power and performance, should consider using additives,” Miller advises.
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