Mercedes Mullins
Bobcat fuel tanks can become contaminated with dirt, crud, or water, which can cause engine problems such as loss of power or white smoke. To clean a Bobcat fuel tank, it is recommended to drain the tank and flush it with water and/or diesel, using tools such as a hose, siphon, or pressure washer. Some suggest using additives such as dish soap, liquid Tide, or an algicide treatment to aid in the cleaning process. It is important to note that the fuel tank may be difficult to remove, and some suggest inverting the tank or using compressed air to dry it after flushing.
How to Clean a Bobcat Fuel Tank
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Water in the tank | Drain the tank, blow out the hoses with compressed air, pump clean diesel through the system, and replace the fuel filter. |
| Blocked fuel tank | Siphon the fuel out, use a vacuum hose to suck up the water and crud, or flush with water and diesel. |
| Rust in the tank | Use a flashlight to inspect the tank, add a cleaner/solvent, and slosh around. |
| Flushing the tank | Remove the tank, pressure wash, and let dry. Alternatively, add dish soap and water, then rinse with a pressure washer. |
| Fuel filter blocked | Replace the fuel filter and use an in-line see-through fuel filter for easy cleaning. |
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What You'll Learn
Drain the tank
If your Bobcat skid steer has a plastic tank, you will need to siphon or pump the fuel out. If it has a metal tank, you should be able to remove the plug and drain the tank.
The plug is round and needs to be pulled out with Vice grips. It is not threaded, just pushed in. It can be difficult to remove, especially if the rubber is old and hardened.
If you are unable to remove the plug, you may need to try other methods to drain the tank. One option is to blow air backwards into the fuel line (at the filter) and the fuel will then come gushing out. You can also try siphoning the fuel out using a hose.
If your tank is empty but has crud at the bottom, you may need to flush it out. You can try using a hose to spray water or a solvent into the tank to remove the crud. You can also try using a pressure washer with dish soap or a product like Simple Green, Liquid Tide, or Bio Kleen.
It is important to note that draining and cleaning a fuel tank can be a complex process, and it may be necessary to consult a professional or refer to the equipment manual for specific instructions.
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Use a siphon hose
To clean a Bobcat fuel tank using a siphon hose, you can follow these steps:
Firstly, locate the fuel tank and siphon out the fuel. This can be done by inserting a siphon hose into the tank and draining the fuel into a suitable container. It is important to do this carefully and to place the container on a level surface to avoid any spills. If the siphon hose is blocked, try to clear it before continuing.
Next, inspect the drained fuel for any signs of water or contamination. This can be done by siphoning the fuel into clear glass containers and allowing it to settle. Water is denser than diesel, so it will likely settle at the bottom, but it is still important to inspect the fuel thoroughly. Any contaminated fuel should be handled and disposed of properly.
Once the fuel is drained, you can begin cleaning the tank. Create a cleaning solution by mixing a couple of cups of liquid Tide or Dawn with hot water. This solution can be poured into the tank and left to sit for a while. Alternatively, you can use a biocide or algicide to prevent algae growth, especially if the tank will not be filled with fuel immediately.
After the cleaning solution has been allowed to sit, thoroughly rinse the tank. A pressure washer can be used for this step, but be careful not to use cleaning agents in the pressure washer. Ensure that all cleaning agents are rinsed away, and the tank is completely clean before refilling it with fuel.
Finally, refill the tank with fresh, clean fuel, and prime the hose and filter if necessary. It is important to ensure that all safety precautions are followed throughout the process, especially when handling fuel and cleaning agents.
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Clean the lift pump
To clean the lift pump of your Bobcat, follow these steps:
Firstly, locate the lift pump. This will involve identifying the fuel tank type and locating the plug for the tank. Bobcat models have either a metal or plastic fuel tank. If you have a plastic tank, you may need to siphon or pump the fuel out, as there may not be a visible plug. For metal tanks, refer to the parts schematic to identify the plug's location.
Once you've located the plug, the next step is to drain the fuel tank. This can be done by removing the plug, which may require the use of Vice grips or a similar tool, as it can be challenging to remove, especially if the rubber is old. Be cautious when removing the plug, as fuel will start to drain from the tank.
After draining the fuel, the lift pump can be accessed. Clean the lift pump by blowing out any hoses below it with compressed air. Ensure you are wearing appropriate protective gear when handling fuel and compressed air.
Next, use a primer bulb to pump clean diesel through the lift pump and the entire fuel system, including hoses and filters. This process will help purge the system of any remaining water or contaminants.
Finally, refill the fuel tank with certified "good" fuel, and ensure that any drained fluids are disposed of responsibly and in accordance with local regulations.
It is important to refer to your Bobcat's manual for specific instructions and safety precautions, as different models may have unique considerations when cleaning the lift pump and fuel system.
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Flush the tank
To flush the tank, start by draining the fuel tank. If your Bobcat has a plastic tank, you may need to siphon or pump the fuel out. Once the tank is empty, inspect it for any signs of dirt, crud, or rust. If there is visible buildup, you may need to use a hose to vacuum or flush out the remaining debris.
If your tank has a cleanout port, you can use it to flush the tank with water or a solvent. If not, you may need to get creative with tools to reach inside the tank and clean it out. Some people recommend using a hose with a submersible pump to vacuum out the tank, while others suggest adding marbles or large ball bearings and shaking the tank to scrub the sides clean.
If your tank is removable, you can take it out and clean it more easily. One method is to invert the tank and pressure wash it from the filler holes, letting it dry before refilling. You can also add some dish soap or a cleaning solution like Simple Green or liquid Tide to the water to help break down any built-up crud or grime. Rinse the tank thoroughly after cleaning, and consider using a steam cleaner or compressed air to ensure it is completely dry before refilling.
If you suspect that your fuel issues are due to algae, you can add an algicide treatment to your tank. This will cause the algae to coagulate, allowing your filters to pick it up. However, this method will require you to replace your filters multiple times during the cleaning process.
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Use an algicide treatment
If you're looking to clean your Bobcat fuel tank, it's important to take a systematic approach to ensure the job is done effectively and safely. One key step in this process is the use of an algicide treatment, which can be highly effective in removing algae buildup and preventing future growth. Here's a detailed guide on how to use an algicide treatment to clean your Bobcat fuel tank:
Identify the Issue:
First, it's important to understand why you're using an algicide treatment in the first place. Algae growth in fuel tanks can occur due to water contamination, condensation, or a previous owner's lack of maintenance. This can cause issues such as reduced engine performance, faltering, and the release of white smoke, as seen in some Bobcat models.
Choose the Right Algicide Treatment:
Select a reputable algicide product specifically designed for fuel tanks, such as "Bio Kleen," which has been recommended by Bobcat owners online. These products are designed to coagulate the algae, making it easier to remove.
Prepare the Tank:
Before adding the algicide treatment, it's crucial to drain and flush the fuel tank. Refer to your Bobcat model's manual for specific instructions on draining. Some models may have a plug that can be removed with Vice Grips, while others may require siphoning or pumping to empty the tank. Ensure you dispose of the drained fuel responsibly.
Apply the Algicide Treatment:
Follow the instructions on your chosen algicide product for accurate application guidance. Typically, you'll add the treatment directly to the fuel tank. The treatment will begin to suspend and coagulate the algae, making it easier for the filters to capture.
Filter and Flush:
After applying the algicide treatment, install new fuel filters, as the old ones will likely be clogged with coagulated algae. Run clean diesel through the system to flush out any remaining algae and treatment residue. You may need to repeat this flushing process several times until the fuel exiting the tank runs clean.
Monitor and Maintain:
Once you've completed the cleaning process with the algicide treatment, keep a close eye on your Bobcat's performance. Regularly inspect the fuel system for any signs of algae regrowth and repeat the treatment as necessary. Remember to drain and flush your fuel tank every few years as part of your maintenance routine to prevent algae buildup.
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Frequently asked questions
If you have a plastic tank, you may need to siphon or pump the fuel out. If you have a metal tank, locate the plug and use Vice grips to grab the metal pin in the middle and pull it out.
If you are unable to remove the tank, you can try flushing it out with water or diesel, or using a steam cleaner. You can also try adding some marbles or large ball bearings and shaking the tank daily for a week or two.
Drain the entire tank and discard the fuel. Clean out the fuel filter and lift pump, and blow out all the hoses with compressed air. Then, pump clean diesel through the system and crank the engine.
Routinely drain the tank every few years to remove any condensation or ingested water. Keep the tank filled to leave less airspace for condensation to form.
