Dales Super Store - Diesel Fuel Contamination Kits | DEF / GAS / WATER / DEBRIS

Types of Contamination Causes

DEF fluid in fuel:
When Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) contaminates the diesel fuel, it causes severe issues for the engine. DEF is corrosive and incompatible with diesel, leading to accelerated corrosion and failure of the fuel pumps and injectors. The fluid disrupts fuel lubrication, increasing friction and wear, which results in inconsistent engine performance, momentary losses of power, and eventually complete engine failure. Resolving this issue requires flushing the entire fuel system, replacing all of the damaged parts and components, and may involve extensive and expensive repairs.

GASOLINE in fuel:
When gasoline contaminates the diesel fuel system, it can cause significant damage. Gasoline lacks the lubrication properties of diesel, which leads to increased friction and wear in the fuel pump and injectors. This can result in overheating, injector failure, along with severe damage to the engine. Gasoline also has a lower flash point, which causes improper combustion, rough running, and potential engine knocking. The effects include loss of power, increased amount of smoke, and possibly a complete failure of the engine. Fixing this requires draining the system, replacing damaged components, and may involve costly and timely repairs.

WATER in fuel:
When water contaminates the diesel fuel, it can lead to very serious engine problems. Water doesn't mix with diesel at all, so it will then accumulate in the fuel system, causing corrosion in the fuel injectors and pumps. This leads to damaging rust due to microbial growth, disrupted fuel lubrication, and increased wear on injectors and pumps. Water in the fuel can also cause poor combustion, resulting in erratic idling, complete momentary power loss, and increased smoke. If left unchecked, it can cause complete fuel system failure. Addressing this issue requires draining the fuel, replacing several filters, and potentially repairing or replacing damaged components.

HIGH SULFURE in fuel:
High sulfur content in diesel fuel can lead to serious engine damage, as well as environmental issues. Sulfur in diesel fuel contributes to the formation of sulfuric acid during combustion, which can cause corrosion of the engine components, including the injectors and exhaust systems. This corrosion increases wear and tear on the components and injectors, reduces the engines efficiency, and shortens the lifespan of vital parts. Additionally, high sulfur levels can clog diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and damage the catalytic converter, leading to higher emissions and very costly repairs. To avoid these issues, using ultra low sulfur diesel fuel is essential to maintain engine performance and compliance with emissions standards.

PUMP failure (metal debris):
When the pump fails in a diesel engine, it can release metal debris into the fuel system, leading to widespread damage and the need to replace costly parts. When a fuel pump fails, the internal components can break down, shedding tiny metal particles into the fuel. These metal fragments circulate through the system, causing abrasive wear on fuel injectors, clogging filters, and damaging other sensitive engine parts. The result is poor engine performance, engine misfires, loss of engine power, increased emissions, and potentially catastrophic engine failure. Fixing this issue often requires completely replacing the fuel pump, thoroughly flushing the entire fuel system, and installing new injectors as well as filters to prevent further damage to the engine.

Common Pump Failure From Diesel Contamination:

• Water Intrusion:: Water can enter the fuel system through various means such as condensation, leaks in storage tanks or pipelines, or improper fuel handling. Water contamination can lead to the formation of corrosive compounds which will cause fuel injector and pump damage as well as possible rust or a leak in the tank.
• Microbial Growth: Microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae, can grow in diesel fuel under certain conditions. They thrive in the presence of water and organic matter in the fuel. Microbial contamination can clog filters and fuel lines, produce acidic byproducts, and cause fuel degradation that leads to erratic engine performance.
• Sediment and Particulate Matter: Dirt, dust, rust, and other particulate matter can find their way into the fuel during storage, transportation, or dispensing processes. These contaminants can clog fuel filters, fuel lines, injectors, cause abrasive wear in the fuel system, and affect fuel combustion efficiency.
• Poor Storage Practices: Improper storage of diesel fuel, such as extended exposure to sunlight, high temperatures, or air exposure, can accelerate fuel degradation and increase the likelihood of contamination. Contaminants from the storage environment may also enter the fuel. It is important the proper storage processes are followed to prevent the introduction of contaminants into the diesel fuel.
• Improper Fuel Mixing: Mixing different grades or types of diesel fuel, or introducing additives of questionable quality, can result in fuel contamination. Incompatible fuels or additives can create chemical reactions or form insoluble compounds that negatively affect fuel performance. This can also cause a lag on acceleration or an engine misfire.
• Faulty Equipment: Malfunctioning or damaged fuel storage tanks, delivery systems, or dispensing equipment can easily introduce contaminants into the diesel fuel. For example, a faulty or failed fuel pump or a deteriorated seal can allow impurities to enter the fuel system and cause costly contamination throughout the entire fuel system.