Regan Brown
Purging air from a diesel fuel system is a common maintenance task for diesel engine owners. Air can enter the fuel system in several ways, such as running out of fuel, leaks in fuel lines, or after a fuel filter change. This can lead to issues with starting the engine, reduced engine power, or even the inability to start the engine. To purge air from the system, one must identify the key components of the fuel system, including the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. The specific procedure for bleeding air from the fuel system may vary depending on the engine manufacturer, but typically involves turning off the engine, locating and opening the fuel filter, and pumping fuel through the system to replace trapped air. Some products, such as Diesel Purge, can also be used to clean the fuel injection system and remove air from the diesel fuel system.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why bleed air from a diesel fuel system | Air in the fuel system can delay or prevent diesel fuel from reaching the injectors, making the engine difficult to start, reducing the engine's power, or causing the inability to start the engine. |
| How does air enter the diesel fuel system | Air can enter the diesel engine's fuel system by running out of fuel, from leaks in the fuel lines, or following a fuel filter change. |
| Tools required | Hand priming pump lever, ratchet, socket, new filter element, new gaskets, etc. |
| Steps to bleed air | 1. Turn off the fuel valve. 2. Clean the outside of the filter housing. 3. Install a new filter element and new gaskets. 4. Open the bleed plug on the filter closest to the fuel tank. 5. Open the fuel supply valve. 6. Pump fuel through the system and replace the trapped air. 7. Dispose of any spilled fuel and clean up. |
| Commercial products for bleeding air | Diesel Purge, AirDog® fuel system |
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What You'll Learn
Identify how air entered the fuel system
Before attempting to bleed the air from the fuel system, it is important to identify how air entered the diesel fuel system in the first place. This is to ensure that air does not re-enter the system after the bleeding process.
Firstly, air can enter the system through a contaminated or clogged filter, so be sure to check these components. Airlocks can occur due to leaks in your fuel lines, air bubbles in your fuel, or when the fuel filter is not primed correctly after a filter change. Inspect the fuel lines, connections, and components for any signs of wear, damage, or loose fittings. Any cracks or gaps can let air in, disrupting the flow.
Secondly, air can enter the system when the fuel tank is not properly sealed, allowing air to enter through condensation or sloshing around during motion. This is a particular issue for trucks, where the diesel fuel in the tank sloshes around, mixing tiny air bubbles into the fuel. These bubbles enter the fuel line and eventually reach the engine.
Thirdly, air can enter the system when the fuel pump cannot provide enough pressure. This can lead to a complete engine shutdown.
Finally, air can enter the system when the fuel filter is replaced if the procedure has not been carried out correctly. This can be due to user error or the filter not being primed correctly.
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Locate the fuel filter
Locating the fuel filter is the first step in purging air from a diesel fuel system. This process is also known as "bleeding" the fuel system, and it is important because air in the fuel system can delay or prevent diesel fuel from reaching the injectors, making the engine difficult to start.
The fuel filter's location varies depending on the engine and vehicle type. In most diesel engines, the fuel filter canister is mounted to the rear driver-side of the engine. However, in some vehicles, like cars, the fuel filter may be located behind the passenger-side headlight. Therefore, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the engine and review its fuel system layout before attempting to locate the fuel filter.
Once you have identified the fuel filter's location, you need to determine if it has a built-in bleeder screw. This is important because the process of purging air from the fuel system may vary depending on the presence or absence of a bleeder screw. If your fuel filter has a bleeder screw, you will need to position a clean rag or towel beneath it to catch any fuel spills during the purging process.
If your fuel filter does not have a bleeder screw, you may need to bleed the fuel system at the fuel injectors. This process involves locating the engine's fuel injectors, which are typically connected to the fuel lines, and using a wrench or socket set to loosen the fuel line connection.
It is important to exercise caution and follow all safety guidelines when working with diesel fuel systems and purging air from the fuel filter.
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Bleed the fuel system
Bleeding the fuel system is a crucial process to ensure the optimal performance of your diesel engine. Here is a detailed guide on how to effectively bleed the fuel system:
Firstly, it is important to identify the root cause of air entering the fuel system. Common reasons include running out of fuel, leaks in fuel lines, or a recent fuel filter change. Understanding the cause will help prevent air from re-entering the system after the bleeding process. Additionally, consider replacing the fuel filter if it is old or nearing the end of its lifespan.
Before beginning the bleeding process, gather the necessary tools and familiarize yourself with the engine's fuel system layout, including key components such as the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. Ensure you exercise caution and adhere to all safety guidelines during this process.
Now, let's begin the step-by-step process:
- Turn off the engine and remove the ignition key from the cylinder.
- Locate the fuel filter and check if it has a built-in bleeder screw.
- If a bleeder screw is present, open it and work the lift-pump lever until a clear stream of fuel flows out, indicating that the air has been successfully bled from that point.
- Move on to the injection pump, which typically also has a bleeder screw. Repeat the process of opening the bleeder screw and working the lever until fuel flows out smoothly.
- Proceed to bleed the high-pressure fuel system. This is done by loosening the union nuts between the top of the fuel injectors and the fuel line. It usually takes just a turn or two.
- Once loosened, use the starter to crank the engine for about 10 seconds. If fuel does not appear at the unions, wait for 60 seconds to let the starter cool down, and then crank the engine again for another 10 seconds.
- Finally, crack open the fuel lines at the injectors to completely bleed air out of the diesel's fuel system.
After completing these steps, properly dispose of any spilled fuel, clean up, and return your tools to their designated places. If you encounter persistent issues or difficulties, consult a professional diesel mechanic or the manufacturer for further assistance.
Additionally, consider investing in an AirDog® fuel system, which is designed to remove air, water, vapour, and contaminants from the diesel fuel. This can reduce the frequency of bleeding your fuel system and provide improved fuel economy, performance, and reduced engine wear and tear.
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Dispose of any spilled fuel
It is important to dispose of spilled diesel fuel properly. Spills should be reported immediately and addressed as soon as possible to avoid hazards and legal consequences. Diesel fuel is more efficient than gasoline but leaves a foul odour and stain when spilled.
To dispose of spilled diesel fuel, you can use either OS Step 1 & Step 2 or OS Oil Absorbent Powder, depending on the size of the spill. For smaller spills, use the following steps:
- Control the spill at the source to prevent further diesel from spilling while you are cleaning.
- Apply OS Step 1 Liquid generously to the entire area of the spill.
- Immediately apply OS Step 2 Liquid to the same area.
- Using a broom, rag, or other items, scrub the applied liquid products into the spill.
- Wash the affected area with water (the hazardous properties of the diesel will have been neutralized by this point).
- Repeat steps 3-5 until all diesel is removed.
For larger spills, use the following steps:
- Control the spill at the source to prevent further diesel from spilling.
- Spread OS Oil Absorbent Powder to the full area of the spill.
- Using a broom, spread the powder throughout the spill to ensure all the diesel meets with the powder.
- Collect the combined OS Powder and diesel and throw it out in any trash receptacle (as the rubber byproduct is classified as safe for Class C landfills).
- Collect any excess OS Oil Absorbent powder and put it back in the bag for future use.
It is important to note that there are no RCRA regulations or guidance that requires recovered diesel to be disposed of. If the diesel can still be used for its intended purpose, it never becomes a solid waste and is not regulated as hazardous waste. However, if you are disposing of diesel spill cleanup residues, the material is considered solid waste, and specific questions must be answered to determine if it is exempt, listed, or characteristic.
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Install an AirDog® fuel system
AirDog® fuel systems are an effective solution to the problem of air in diesel engines. Air in the fuel system can cause issues such as difficulty starting the engine, reduced engine power, or even the inability to start the engine. Air can enter the system through fuel running out, leaks in fuel lines, or after changing the fuel filter.
The AirDog® fuel system is a heavy-duty diesel fuel system that increases mileage and injector life by removing water, vapour, and contaminants. The system features a Demand Flow fuel pump that pulls fuel from the tank, ensuring a pure supply of fuel is delivered to the OEM fuel system. AirDog® HD installation kits are available for popular commercial diesel engine models such as Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit, and Volvo. The kits can also be adapted to fit any diesel engine.
To install an AirDog® fuel system, first gather the necessary tools and materials. Familiarize yourself with the engine and identify the key components of the diesel fuel system, including the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, and fuel injectors. Review the engine's fuel system layout and connections.
Next, locate the fuel filter and determine if it has a built-in bleeder screw. If it does, you can move on to the next step. If not, you will need to install a bleeder screw.
After that, follow the specific instructions provided with your AirDog® HD installation kit to complete the installation. This may involve connecting the system to the fuel tank, fuel lines, and injectors. Ensure that all connections are secure and tight to prevent any fuel leaks.
Finally, once the AirDog® fuel system is installed, dispose of any spilled fuel properly, clean up the work area, and return your tools to their proper location. Test your engine to ensure it is running smoothly and that the air has been purged from the fuel system.
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Frequently asked questions
If your engine has poor acceleration, no power, or excess exhaust smoke, there may be air in your diesel fuel system.
Air can enter the diesel fuel system by running out of fuel, from leaks in your fuel lines, or after a fuel filter change.
First, determine how air entered the system and address the root cause. Next, gather your tools and materials, and familiarize yourself with the engine and its fuel system layout. Then, turn off the engine and locate the fuel filter. If the fuel filter has a bleeder screw, open it and work the lift pump lever until fuel, not air, runs out. If the fuel filter lacks a bleeder screw, loosen the union nuts between the fuel injectors and the fuel line, then crank the engine for 10 seconds.
Consider replacing your current primary fuel filter with an AirDog® fuel system, which removes water, vapour, and contaminants from diesel fuel.
