Mercedes Mullins
Toilet paper has been used as a filter for diesel fuel for decades. It is an inexpensive and effective method to remove soot and other contaminants from diesel fuel. Toilet paper filters are especially useful for diesel trucks and engines, where they can help prevent engine wear and maintain fuel cleanliness. Some people opt for specialised filters, but for those on a budget, toilet paper is a viable option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Filters diesel fuel to 0.047 microns |
| Cost | Very cheap |
| Maintenance | Requires frequent roll changes depending on fuel dirtiness |
| Safety | Safe for diesel engines, does not dissolve, and does not fall apart |
| Absorbency | Absorbs moisture |
| Contamination removal | Removes soot and other fine contaminants |
| Engine suitability | Suitable for most engines with enough mounting space |
| Filter type | Bypass filter |
| Filter direction | Filtered oil must pass lengthwise through the roll |
| Filter cartridge | Toilet paper roll |
| Filter replacement | Can be washed with kerosene or Stoddard solvent |
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What You'll Learn
Toilet paper filters for diesel fuel are a cost-effective solution
The effectiveness of toilet paper filters lies in their ability to absorb moisture, remove fine contaminants, and even eliminate soot from diesel oil. This results in perfectly clear oil from the beginning to the end of its use. The filtration capabilities of toilet paper are comparable to those of paper towels, which are also commonly used in fuel filters. The choice between toilet paper and paper towels depends on the height available above the filter, as paper towels require more space.
Toilet paper filters are particularly beneficial for diesel engines, which have very fine nozzles. By filtering out particles smaller than 2-3 microns, toilet paper filters help prevent accelerated engine wear caused by larger wear particles. This level of filtration is not typically achieved by stock oil filters, making toilet paper filters a superior and cost-effective option. The cheap, coarse paper used in toilet paper filters is highly effective at filtering diesel fuel.
The cost-effectiveness of toilet paper filters is further emphasised when compared to the expense of specialised filter elements. By opting for toilet paper, users can save money without compromising filtration quality. This makes toilet paper filters an attractive choice for those seeking a budget-friendly solution for their diesel engines. The ease of changing toilet paper filters is an added advantage, although it may be necessary to change them more frequently depending on the dirtiness of the fuel.
While some may express concerns about the use of toilet paper in diesel fuel filters, these worries are often unfounded. Toilet paper is quite stable when exposed to oil and does not disintegrate or migrate into the oil passages. Additionally, the low insoluables numbers associated with toilet paper filters indicate their effectiveness in removing contaminants, including soot and paper fibres. The North Carolina ferry system's successful adoption of the paper towel/toilet paper filtration system for their diesel oil and fuel polishing further attests to the reliability and cost-effectiveness of this filtering method.
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Toilet paper can be used with a Frantz Oil Cleaner/Filter
Toilet paper has been used as a filter medium for diesel fuel for a long time. It is an inexpensive alternative to standard filters, and people have found that it is far cheaper to use a roll of toilet paper than to pay for the more expensive filter elements.
Captain Wil fuel polishing notes stated that tests of the toilet paper roll filter showed filtration to 0.047 microns, which is in the middle of the particle size of exhaust soot or "carbon black." The entire North Carolina ferry system converted to the paper towel/toilet paper filtration system for their diesel oil and fuel polishing and never had any issues.
When using toilet paper as a filter, it is important to use cheap, coarse paper. For example, Scott toilet paper has been recommended for this purpose and has yielded good results.
One user on a forum noted that they had to use two rolls of toilet paper, cut down to fit the housing of their canister-type filter. This solution worked well for them, and they were able to get through a difficult period with the help of this toilet paper filter.
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Toilet paper filters absorb moisture and remove contamination
Toilet paper filters are a cost-effective alternative to standard filters. They are commonly used in diesel trucks, but they can be used for any engine, provided there is enough room to mount one.
Toilet paper filters are highly effective at absorbing moisture and removing contamination at a very fine level. They can even remove soot from the oil, which is known to be a difficult process. Diesel engines using toilet paper filters have been observed to have perfectly clear oil from the beginning to the end of oil use.
The use of toilet paper filters is supported by scientific research. Captain Wil Andrews, for example, conducted a series of tests on paper towel and toilet paper roll filters in the early 2000s. Based on his research, the entire North Carolina ferry system adopted the paper towel/toilet paper filtration system for their diesel oil and fuel polishing.
However, some concerns have been raised about the use of toilet paper filters. One potential issue is the flow rate; toilet paper may not provide a sufficient flow rate to keep the engine properly lubricated. Additionally, toilet paper filters may absorb and trap water, hindering oil flow. It is important to consider these factors when deciding whether to use toilet paper filters for diesel fuel filtration.
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Toilet paper filters are suitable for most engines
Toilet paper filters are a suitable option for most engines. They have been used for decades, particularly in diesel trucks, and are an excellent way to filter diesel fuel, oil, and gasoline. The North Carolina ferry system, for example, has used toilet paper for their diesel oil and fuel polishing without any issues.
Toilet paper is a good filter because it absorbs moisture and removes contamination and soot from the oil, which is a difficult task. The paper is made up of strands of fibre woven together, creating a net that catches particulates. The Frantz filter, for instance, is marketed as a toilet paper filter that can either supplement or replace a factory-fit oil filtration system.
However, it is important to note that not all toilet paper is suitable for filters. The industrial type, with densely packed, thin sheets, is preferred. Rolls of toilet paper have changed in size over the years, so finding one that fits the filter casing is important. The super fluffy varieties are not ideal.
There are some concerns about the use of toilet paper filters. Poorly installed toilet paper can contaminate oil more than it cleans it. There is also a risk of inconsistent filtration due to variations in toilet paper. Some people also argue that a fully engineered filter element could be produced for a similar cost to a roll of toilet paper.
Overall, while toilet paper filters can be suitable for most engines, it is important to ensure proper installation and the use of appropriate toilet paper to avoid potential issues.
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$6.08 $8.99
Toilet paper filters are easy to change
Toilet paper filters are an inexpensive and effective way to filter diesel fuel. They are also easy to change. The frequency with which you will need to change the toilet paper roll depends on how dirty your fuel is. If your fuel is very dirty, you will need to change the roll more often.
Changing the roll of toilet paper in a diesel fuel filter is a simple process. First, remove the old roll of toilet paper. Cut the new roll of toilet paper to fit the housing if necessary. Then, place the new roll of toilet paper into the filter. Finally, secure the lid of the filter.
The type of toilet paper you use is important. It is recommended to use cheap, coarse toilet paper, such as Scott toilet paper. Viva paper towels have also been used successfully. It is important to avoid using toilet paper with too much acid, as this can affect the oil filter.
Toilet paper filters have been used successfully for many years, particularly on diesel trucks and boats. They are an effective way to remove contamination and soot from diesel fuel.
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Frequently asked questions
Toilet paper is a cheap and effective way to filter diesel fuel. It absorbs moisture, removes contamination at a very fine level, and even removes soot from the oil.
The best type of toilet paper to use is cheap, coarse paper. Some recommended brands include Scott, Great Value 1000, and Viva.
You can use a Gulf Coast JR filter, a Frantz filter, or a canister-type filter. For the latter, cut and insert two rolls of toilet paper to fit the housing.
Yes, you can wash a diesel fuel filter. It is recommended to use kerosene to clean the filter. Fill a container with kerosene, stand the filter upright in the container, and let it soak. Then, pick up the filter and let the fluid flow back outward, washing away debris. Repeat as needed.
