Regan Brown
Knowing how to prime a diesel fuel system is a valuable skill, especially if you own a diesel vehicle. Modern diesel engines are increasingly self-serving, but older models may require manual priming. If your diesel engine has run out of fuel, you can prime the fuel system by turning the ignition on for 30 seconds without starting the engine, allowing the pump to prime the system. Then, turn the ignition off and crank it for 15 seconds. If the engine doesn't start, repeat the process. If your fuel system has air bubbles, you can remove them by loosening the bleeder screw and waiting for the bubbles to disappear before retightening. Additionally, consider investing in an AirDog® fuel system, which can make priming easier and offers various long-term benefits.
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What You'll Learn
How to prime a diesel fuel system when it's out of fuel
To prime a diesel fuel system when it's out of fuel, you must first fill the tank with diesel fuel. Modern diesel engines have systems that make priming easy, but older cars may require more manual intervention and the use of tools.
Before attempting to bleed the air from the fuel system, ensure you have determined how air entered the system so that it does not re-enter after completing the bleeding process. Loosen the bleeder screw a few turns with a wrench or screwdriver. The loose bleed screw will allow air to leave the fuel line as the fuel is pulled from the tank to the fuel filter. Place a clean rag or towel beneath the bleeder screw to catch any fuel spills.
Pump the starter pump until diesel fuel flows out of the loose bleed screw. The starter pump is very small, and your fuel line may contain a lot of air, so be prepared to pump for 5 to 10 minutes before you see fuel flowing out of the bleed screw. Tighten the bleed screw with a screwdriver.
Try to start the engine normally. You may need to start the engine for 10 to 15 seconds before it starts and runs. If the engine does not start within 15 seconds of starting, repeat the filling process to get more fuel into the fuel filter and pump. Once all the air is out of the fuel system, tighten the bleeder (union nuts or replace the bolt on a 6.4L's fuel cooler). Attempt to start the engine.
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How to prime a manual injection pump
To prime a manual injection pump, you need to remove any remaining air inside the injection system. This is necessary to maintain the optimal performance of your car's engine. The fuel pump requires priming after it has been replaced or when the engine has run out of fuel.
Firstly, locate the bleed screw in the fuel system. This is a small valve with a hexagonal head and a small hole on top. You will need a wrench or a screwdriver to open it, depending on its head design. Place a container and a rag underneath the bleed screw, as some fuel may be released when you open it.
Once the bleed screw is open, move the hand pump to manually move the fuel through the system. The hand pump is located in the engine compartment near the fuel filter or the injection pump. Keep pumping until the flow becomes steady and consistent without any bubbles. Then, close the bleed screw and tighten it.
For older cars, the process may be more manual and may require the use of tools. It is important to note that working with the battery on can be a safety hazard and may cause electrical damage. Therefore, it is recommended to disconnect the battery before beginning any work on the fuel system.
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How to bleed air out of a diesel fuel system
Bleeding air out of a diesel fuel system is important because air in the fuel system can delay or prevent the diesel fuel from reaching the injectors, making your engine difficult to start, reducing the engine's power, or, in severe cases, causing the inability to start the engine. Air can enter your diesel engine's fuel system in several ways, most commonly by running out of fuel, from leaks in your fuel lines, or following a fuel filter change.
- Gather the tools and other materials needed for the job.
- Familiarize yourself with the engine and identify the key components of its diesel fuel system, including the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, and fuel injectors.
- Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key from the cylinder.
- Locate the fuel filter and determine if it has a built-in bleeder screw. If it does, move to step 6. If it does not, proceed to the next step.
- Work with the fuel filter according to the specific instructions for your engine. For example, you may need to remove and fill filters with diesel, leave the nearest filter loose, or pressurize the fuel tank.
- Bleed air out of the fuel system by loosening the bleeder screw or bolt. If bubbles are present, there is air.
- Once all the air is out of the fuel system (no more bubbles), tighten the bleeder and attempt to start the engine.
It is important to note that newer diesel engines, especially those manufactured after 2000, are more self-serving when it comes to the priming process. After adding fresh diesel, the fuel can be brought to the front in just a few minutes without leaving the driver's seat. Additionally, consider replacing your current primary fuel filter with an AirDog® fuel system to reduce the likelihood of having to bleed air from your fuel system in the future and to benefit from improved fuel economy and performance.
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How to prime a diesel fuel system with a generator
To prime a diesel fuel system with a generator, you must first fill the engine with diesel and remove any contaminants. This is because diesel engines operate under extremely high fuel pressure, so when fuel runs dry, air gets sucked into the system, which must be vented (bled) out.
Firstly, locate the fuel filter and determine whether it has a built-in bleeder screw. If it does, position a clean rag or towel to catch any fuel spills, then use a wrench or bleeder screw key to slowly loosen the screw in a counter-clockwise direction. If the fuel filter lacks a bleeder screw, you will need to open the drain plug of the fuel filter and drain all the air and diesel from the system. Use the priming pump to push out the diesel and air bubbles in the fuel filter. Repeat this procedure until no more bubbles escape, then close the valve.
Next, turn the ignition on for 30 seconds, but do not start the engine. This allows the pump to prime the system. Then, turn the ignition off and crank it for 15 seconds. If it doesn't start, repeat the process until it does. You may need to repeat the filling process to get more fuel into the fuel filter and pump.
Finally, dispose of any spilled fuel and perform a general clean-up.
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Benefits of an AirDog® fuel system
The AirDog® Fuel System offers a range of benefits for diesel engines. Firstly, it improves fuel efficiency by removing air from the fuel. This results in better mileage and fewer trips to the pump, saving users money in the long run. Secondly, the system optimises combustion by providing the engine with clean, air-free fuel, which also leads to reduced emissions and less wear and tear on the engine. This is achieved through a water separator that eliminates moisture and large particulates, followed by a fuel pump and filter that remove remaining contaminants and air.
Additionally, the AirDog® system includes an integrated fuel pump that maintains consistent fuel pressure and prevents air or vapour from re-entering the fuel. This solves a common issue with traditional fuel pumps, which can be inefficient under suction. The AirDog® pump also prevents the engine fuel pump from cavitating and producing vapours, a problem often encountered at higher elevations.
The AirDog® Fuel System also enhances throttle response and power delivery by supplying the engine with air-free fuel at the correct pressure. This results in improved fuel spray patterns and increased horsepower. Furthermore, the system extends the life of injection system parts and reduces the need for repairs, ensuring long-lasting diesel performance.
Overall, the AirDog® Fuel System is a valuable investment for diesel engine owners, offering improved performance, reduced emissions, and lower maintenance costs.
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