Mercedes Mullins
Whether or not to use fuel additives in diesel is a highly contested topic. Some people believe that fuel additives are unnecessary if you maintain your vehicle well, while others claim that additives help with issues such as lubrication and water or algae in the fuel. The amount of additive to be used per tank also varies according to individual experience, with some people using it every time they fill up their tank, and others using it only occasionally or during winter. The general consensus is that the amount of additive to be used depends on the size of the tank and the blend of fuel. Some products provide a calculator to determine the right amount of additive to be used.
Diesel Fuel Additive Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency of use | Every time, occasionally, or only in cold weather |
| Amount | 4 ounces for a full tank, 2 ounces for a half tank, or calculated based on tank size |
| Brands | Power Service, Stanadyne, HSS Winter, Archoil, Hot Shot, Amsoil, Howes, K100 |
| Purpose | Improve performance, lubrication, and fuel quality; prevent water and algae growth; meet emissions regulations |
| Cost | Varies; some are expensive, while others are cheap |
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$104.99
What You'll Learn
The amount of additive depends on the tank size
The amount of fuel additive to use depends on the size of your tank. For instance, if 32 ounces of additive treats 100 gallons, then 3.2 ounces will treat 10 gallons. Thus, for a full tank, you might use 4 ounces of additive, and for a half tank, 2 ounces.
There are also online tools that can help you calculate the right amount of fuel additive for your tank. Power Service, for example, offers a Product Calculator Tool on its website. There is also a Fuel Additive Calculator Tool that works with top brands like Power Service, Howes, and K100.
It is important to note that the amount of additive you use should be calculated based on the volume of fuel you are treating, not the size of your tank. This means that if you are only filling your tank partway, you will need to use less additive.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the type of additive and its concentration can also play a role in determining the appropriate amount to use. Different additives may have different recommended ratios or concentrations for optimal effectiveness. Therefore, it is always important to read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the specific additive you are using.
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Additives are used to prevent winter issues
While modern diesel engines have made significant strides in how they withstand cold weather, harsh temperatures can still impact performance and result in long-term damage or short-term repairs. Additives are a great way to protect your truck's fuel system and prepare it to withstand harsh weather conditions.
One of the most common issues that diesel engines face in winter is the formation of gelled paraffin lumps that clog the fuel filters and cause issues such as difficulty starting the engine or power loss. This happens because paraffin, an integral part of diesel engines, tends to gel and form clumps in low temperatures. To prevent this, you can use anti-gel additives, which are designed to lower the Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP) or the lowest temperature at which fuel will still flow through a specific filter.
There are several anti-gel additives available in the market, such as Lucas Oil Anti Gel, Power Service Fuel Supplement, and Fuel Ox™ Cold Charge. These additives can help prevent the paraffin wax from lumping together and also help remove moisture from the fuel system. It is recommended to start using anti-gel additives as soon as temperatures approach freezing, and the general rule of thumb is that lower temperatures require more fuel additive.
When using additives, it is important to follow the instructions on the bottle and add the recommended amount per gallon of diesel. Some people use a set amount, such as 4 ounces for a full tank and 2 ounces for a half tank, while others try to match the recommended amount per gallon of diesel. It is also suggested to add the additive before filling up at the pump to ensure good mixing.
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Additive can be used to treat slime and water
The amount of diesel fuel additive to be used per tank varies depending on the specific additive and the tank size. Some products provide a product calculator tool to determine the appropriate amount for a specific tank size. As a general guideline, it is recommended to use the additive according to the directions on the product label. For example, one source suggests using 4 ounces of additive for a full tank and 2 ounces for a half tank.
Now, let's discuss how additive can be used to treat slime and water in diesel fuel:
Diesel fuel is susceptible to microbial growth, particularly when it sits for extended periods. This growth can lead to the formation of slime, also known as diesel algae, diesel fuel slime, or diesel bacteria. This slime can clog filters and cause engine damage, corrosion, and malfunction. To prevent and treat this issue, additive treatments are available that specifically target slime and water.
One such additive is the Fuel Polishing Formula of Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, which is designed to remove water and slime, disperse contaminants, and stabilize fuel during long-term storage. It can be used as a preventive measure or for immediate clean-up of equipment and fuel storage tanks. To use Clear-Diesel for preventive maintenance, it is recommended to add it to the fuel tank at least quarterly or as needed. For immediate clean-up, the instructions suggest pumping or draining excess water and contaminants from the bottom of the fuel tank and then adding 16 ounces of Clear-Diesel for every 20 gallons of diesel fuel.
Another option is Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide Treatment, a dual-phased biocide that kills microbes in fuel, including bacteria and fungus. This product can be used in conjunction with Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner for comprehensive treatment. The amount of Bio Kleen to be used depends on the specific application, such as the concentration of the treated fuel or the presence of water in storage tanks. It is important to follow the product instructions and federal regulations when using these additives.
In addition to using additives, there are other measures to prevent and treat slime and water issues in diesel fuel. These include using high-quality diesel fuel, regularly cleaning and maintaining the fuel tank and lines, and using a fuel stabilizer, especially when the engine will be inactive for a while. Proper care and maintenance of the diesel fuel system are crucial to prevent issues and maintain optimal performance.
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Fuel treatments don't always treat water or algae
Diesel fuel is a popular choice for powering large vehicles and equipment due to its high energy content and efficiency. However, it is not immune to contamination. One of the most common issues is microbial growth, often referred to as diesel "algae". This sludge-like substance is extremely harmful to your diesel tank.
To prevent diesel algae, it is important to take proactive measures to keep the fuel system clean. This includes regularly testing for microbial growth and ensuring that water is drained from the tank, as fuel microbes need water to grow and thrive. While removing water is an important step, it will not kill the microbes. For this, a dedicated biocide treatment is needed to kill the active microbial contamination.
Biocide treatments are the most common method of getting rid of diesel algae. However, they do have some drawbacks. If biocides are introduced too frequently, they can lead to the development of biocide-resistant microbes. Additionally, biocides are toxic and can be harmful to more than just the diesel algae, potentially corroding your fuel system over time.
Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the use of fuel treatments for diesel algae. While they can be effective, they may not always be necessary or sufficient to treat water or algae issues. Regular maintenance, testing, and proactive measures are key to keeping your diesel fuel system in good condition.
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Additive may not improve performance or economy
The use of fuel additives in diesel fuel is a controversial topic, with some people swearing by their benefits while others claiming they are ineffective or even harmful. While some people believe that fuel additives can improve fuel efficiency, increase power and performance, and reduce engine wear, others argue that the effects are negligible or challenging to notice.
One argument against the use of fuel additives is that they may not significantly improve performance or economy. Some people believe that as long as you maintain your vehicle properly, fuel additives are unnecessary. For example, one diesel technician with 20 years of experience claims that they do not use fuel additives themselves and that the claimed benefit is usually not noticeable. They argue that proper maintenance is more important for keeping their truck in good condition.
Additionally, it can be challenging to determine whether a fuel additive is working as intended. Unless a fuel injector fails, it is challenging to gauge its condition and attribute its performance to the use of fuel additives. While some people claim that certain additives have helped them with specific issues, such as fuel filter plugging or cold weather operation, others have not noticed any significant improvements in performance or fuel economy after using additives.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of fuel additives can vary depending on the specific product and the vehicle. Not all additives live up to their claims, and field testing is often necessary to determine their effectiveness. The ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council provides resources to help fleets evaluate the numerous options available in the market. Proper testing is crucial before implementing a new additive into your vehicle or fleet.
While fuel additives may provide some benefits in specific cases, they are not a cure-all solution for every diesel engine. Proper vehicle maintenance, such as regular servicing and using high-quality fuel, is essential for ensuring optimal performance and fuel economy. In some cases, the use of additives may even be unnecessary or provide minimal additional benefits. Therefore, it is crucial to research and test different additives before incorporating them into your regular fuel maintenance routine.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the blend of fuel you're using. For a full tank, add 4 ounces of additive, and for a half tank, add 2 ounces.
You can use an online fuel additive calculator tool.
No, you can put the treatment directly into your storage container and then fill it with fuel.
It is recommended to use diesel fuel additives during the winter to prevent issues caused by cold temperatures.
Diesel fuel additives are not necessary, but they can help maintain your vehicle and possibly extend the life expectancy of parts.
