How to Avoid Fuel Problems

Believe it or not, simple dirt and dust cause about 85% of fuel system failures and can reduce your engine’s lifespan by close to 50%. Those are high numbers that represent big (and expensive) problems. So how do you avoid fuel issues, and how do you extend the life of your equipment? Here are a few tips to keep you up and running.

Fueling & Servicing

During fueling, don't let the fuel hose nozzle touch the ground - be sure to replace it back in the pump. During operation, make sure the vent tube and the fuel tank caps are tightly sealed. Complete all services and repairs indoors when possible as this lessens the chance of dust and contamination entering the system.

Filters

Change your filters promptly according to your manufacturer's suggested maintenance schedule. Clogged filters cannot prevent dirt and debris from circulating throughout the engine and causing damaging obstructions. Be sure to use filters approved for your specific equipment.

Prevent Condensation

Refill your fuel tank completely at the end of the day to prevent condensation from forming in the tank during cooler nights. It is very important to keep water out of the tank.

Know The Facts About Ethanol

Use fuel with no more than 10% ethanol, but avoid ethanol altogether if possible (see #7 below for alternatives). Ethanol draws water into the fuel as well as gums up small engines, dissolves plastic, and creates varnishes and deposits. Also, beware of products that claim to remove the ethanol from fuel; these products are useless as this can't chemically be done.

For Diesel

Diesel fuel is more likely to grow algae, so be sure you use a product like Biobor JF if you notice any algae or microbes. Though it is not always possible to see microbes forming inside your tank, if your filters are clogging more quickly than usual, it's likely you have an algae problem. Biobor also helps lubricate your engine's moving parts. Even if you're using Biobor, you still want to be sure to change your fuel filters regularly.

For Gasoline

Your gas absolutely must be fresh, and you must use a stabilizer. Even still, your fuel ages rapidly - it starts breaking down in just 30 days. And once any damage is done, it's done for good. Replacing your fuel after damage has occurred does not reverse any damage done, so be vigilant about keeping your fuel mix fresh. Or, for longevity and stability, consider using one of the pre-mixed fuel options below.

Consider Non-Pump or Pre-Mixed Gasoline

For non-mixed small engine fuel, we like VP 4-Cycle Ethanol-Free Small Engine Fuel. For pre-mixed fuel options, we recommend STIHL MotoMix or VP 2 Cycle Fuel. These fuels will extend your engine's life, will make performance and use easier and will be much more stable than traditional fuels (2 years+).

Using premium fuel, proper stabilizers or additives and regularly scheduled maintenance are the best ways to avoid fuel problems and to keep your equipment running smoothly. Check with our service department today with any questions or to schedule your next maintenance appointment.