Diesel Question

[dkemple1]

Late last fall I purchased a MF165 tractor with a Perkins diesel in it. The tractor has been sitting idle now for about 4 or 5 months. My question is, should I drain all of the old fuel out of the tank AND out of all the lines before I try to start it to avoid problems. I have heard that old diesel fuel can actually mold. I am quite new at this type of stuff and would appreciate any help that someone may give. I don't know if the small amount of fuel in the lines would hurt it or not.


Dan

[Eastex]

Dan, I'm not a mechanic, but if the diesel hasn't been contaminated by water, and the filters are new/good, I would pour some fresh fuel in and crank it up. My dad left his Dodge Cummins sitting for over two years. I put new batteries on, fresh diesel and cranked it. I would change the fuel filters sometime soon just as a precaution.

[DM]

I would start it and run it with the fuel that's in it, i leave a tractor or two set longer than that all the time...

"If" your fuel tank is clean and you put clean fuel in your tractor you shouldn't have any problems with anything growing in your fuel.. If it really bothers you, buy an additive and put it in the fuel before you pour it into your tractor... You can find it at truck stops, or a tractor dealership... Read the directions on the bottle, and follow them... it doesn't take much additive to do the job.

I would run all the old fuel out before adding new and it doesn't hurt to change the fuel filter every fall before winter either...

DM

[DavidOH]

4 - 5 Months !!!

I don't see a problem here.

I've seen things sit for YEARS and fire up with no problems.

I've never had a problem with things sitting seasonally.
From Sept to May.

The mold issue is overrated. There must be someone wanting to sell you a fuel additive. JMHO ;)

[dkemple1]

I really appreciate all the info. As I said, I am new to this stuff and the last thing I need is for me to mess everything up right in the beginning.

Thanks again, Dan

[DiscoStu]

hi
dont get too stressed out about draining the fuel out, water in fuel is usually form the condensation that forms on the walls of the empty part of the tank thats why they tell you to fuel up your machine when you finish work, but dont think its that bad, thats what water traps and fuel filters are for any way
enjoy