Rajan Wilcox
Biodiesel is a popular fuel option, but it can cause issues with fuel lines due to microbial contamination. This contamination can lead to a build-up of slime and gunk, affecting the engine's performance and, in some cases, causing it to stall. To address this issue, there are several methods to clean and remove bio from diesel fuel lines, including using products like Bio-Diesel, Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide Treatment, or Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner. Additionally, manual methods such as scrubbing the tank, using a high-pressure polishing rig, or bleeding air from the fuel system can also be employed.
How to Remove Bio from Diesel Fuel Line
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Products | Bio-Diesel, Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide, Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, Brake Clean, E85, Carb Cleaner, Antialgea/Fungal |
| Tools | Handheld bilge pump, old towels, toilet bowl brush, paper towels, needle-nose pliers |
| Techniques | Pump out old fuel, scrub the tank, add Carosine, let it sit, pump out Carosine, wipe the tank, blow through the fuel line, replace fuel lines, clean with brush, use high-pressure polishing rig, use AirDog® fuel system |
| Causes of Issues | Bacterial growth, 'Diesel Bug', slime, dried and varnish-like fuel, low-sulphur diesel, water in fuel tank, pinched or constricted fuel line, coating on the inside of the fuel line, scum from algae, rust, gunk build-up, air in the fuel system |
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What You'll Learn
Use a biocide treatment to kill microbes in the fuel system
The use of a biocide treatment is an effective way to kill microbes in your diesel fuel system. Biocide treatments, such as Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide, are designed to kill bacteria and fungi that contribute to fuel contamination issues. These issues include fuel degradation, filter clogging, corrosion, and injector damage.
To use a biocide treatment, follow these steps:
- Determine the appropriate amount of biocide to use based on your tank size and the recommended concentration. For example, Bellicide recommends a concentration of 1 ounce of biocide per 40 gallons of fuel.
- Add the biocide treatment directly to the fuel tank.
- Fill the tank with more fuel to reach the recommended concentration of biocide.
- Ensure proper circulation of the fuel by agitating or driving the vehicle to ensure the biocide reaches all areas where bacteria are present.
- Allow the treated diesel to settle, and then drain the sump to remove any dead microbial bodies, as these can plug the fuel filters.
- Change your fuel filters after using a biocide treatment to prevent clogging.
It is important to note that biocides do not address the root cause of microbial contamination, which is often water in the fuel tank. Therefore, it is recommended to use a fuel stabilizer or antioxidant to prevent future contamination. Additionally, the repeated use of biocides may lead to microorganisms developing a resistance to the treatment. As such, it is important to consider alternative solutions, such as fuel filtration equipment, which can mechanically remove solid contaminants and water from diesel fuel.
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Clean the tank with a brush and towels
To clean the tank with a brush and towels, start by pumping out all the old fuel. Use a hand pump and empty the tank into a trash can. Place old towels around the tank to soak up any spills. Next, stick your hand into the tank and clean as much as you can reach. Use a toilet bowl brush or a similar tool to scrub away any dirt and grime. Use a headlamp to inspect the tank as you scrub to ensure a thorough cleaning.
After scrubbing, add a degreasing agent or a product like Carosine to the tank. Let it sit for a day, splashing it around and soaking the sides of the tank several times. Pump out the degreaser or Carosine, and then wipe the tank completely clean with paper towels. Use the brush again to reach any tough spots. Inspect the tank through the hole and continue cleaning until it is spotless. Finally, fill the tank with new diesel and add a shock treatment of anti-algae/fungal to prevent future contamination.
It is important to note that cleaning a fuel tank can be a challenging and messy process. Before beginning, ensure you have the necessary safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, and work in a well-ventilated area. Additionally, consider using inexpensive filter systems or fuel tank treatments to make the cleaning process easier and more effective.
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Use a high-pressure polishing rig to clean the tank
If you want to clean your diesel tank without removing it, you can use a high-pressure polishing rig. This method will cost you something like $200 for the first hundred gallons, and typically $1 per gallon after that.
Before using a high-pressure polishing rig, you should pump out all the old fuel. You can use a handheld bilge pump with old towels to absorb the fuel. Once the tank is empty, you can use a toilet brush or something similar to scrub the inside of the tank. You should also use a headlamp to inspect the tank as you scrub. After scrubbing, you should pump out the remaining liquid and wipe the tank completely clean with paper towels. You can use a brush to reach any tough spots.
Once the tank is completely drained of fuel, you can begin the fuel polishing process. This involves removing the fuel from the tank, cycling it through a filtering system, and then returning the cleaned fuel to the tank. Fuel polishing systems can be either permanently mounted or portable. The primary components of a fuel polishing system are an electric fuel pump, a large fuel filter, fuel hoses, and various fittings and valves.
The fuel polishing process incorporates filtration, centrifuges, and coalescers. Advanced filters capture suspended particles and water separated from diesel by centrifugal force. Water-blocking filtration media can then absorb any residual water. If microbial growth is present, specific biocides are introduced early in the process to kill off anything still living.
You can also use a DIY fuel polisher, which uses an aluminium sheet, a Racor filter, and a 12-volt Oberdorfer gear pump. Hoses can be used to cycle and polish the fuel and, with a wand, to vacuum the tank (suction hose) or wash the walls, bottom, and corners (output hose). If the output hose has a smaller diameter than the input hose, the washing pressure is increased.
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Remove air from the fuel lines
Air in a diesel engine's fuel system can cause a lot of problems. It can delay or even prevent the diesel fuel from reaching the injectors, making the engine difficult to start, reducing its power, or, in severe cases, causing the engine to not start at all. Air can enter the fuel system in several ways, such as running out of fuel, leaks in the fuel lines, or after changing the fuel filter.
Before attempting to bleed the air from the fuel system, it is important to identify how the air entered the system in the first place. This will help ensure that air does not re-enter the system after the bleeding process. Additionally, consider replacing the fuel filter if it is old or needs to be changed. It is also important to exercise caution and follow all safety guidelines during this process.
To remove air from the fuel lines, follow these steps:
- Tighten the fuel line connection when you observe a steady fuel flow without any air bubbles.
- Repeat this process for each cylinder and fuel injector, starting with the cylinder closest to the fuel pump and working your way to the farthest.
- After bleeding the fuel system, attempt to start the engine.
- If the engine starts, let it idle for a few minutes while observing its performance. Look for any signs of rough idle or reduced power.
- As the engine idles, carefully inspect the fuel system components for any signs of fuel leaks or other damage.
- If the engine fails to start or there are still indications of air in the fuel system, return to the previous steps and repeat the bleeding process at the fuel filter or fuel injectors.
- Once the engine is running smoothly and there are no signs of air in the fuel system, proceed with general clean-up and properly dispose of any spilled fuel.
By following these steps, you should be able to effectively remove air from your diesel engine's fuel lines and ensure proper fuel delivery.
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Replace the fuel lines
When replacing the fuel lines in a vehicle, there are a few options to consider. The first option is to replace the entire line with a pre-bent line. This option tends to be the most expensive and labor-intensive, but it is also the longest-lasting repair and returns the vehicle to like-new condition. The second option is to bend your own lines using bending and flaring tools. This can be a more cost-effective and time-efficient option, but it may not be suitable for all vehicles.
Another option is to use nylon tubing and specific fittings to replace the entire length of the fuel line or just a section. This can be a good choice if pre-bent lines are not available, but it is important to use the correct fittings to ensure safety. In some cases, it may be possible to just replace a section of the leaking line, rather than the entire line. However, it is important to check for corrosion elsewhere in the line to prevent future leaks.
When replacing fuel lines, it is also important to consider the type of fuel and the operating environment. For example, if using biodiesel, it is important to use a compatible line that can handle biofuels. In highly corrosive environments, it may be necessary to use steel lines or a more resistant material to prevent future corrosion. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the new fuel lines are properly secured and protected from damage caused by rubbing or hitting moving parts.
In some cases, it may be necessary to clean the fuel lines before replacing them. This can be done using a variety of products, such as CLR, lime-free, or a product like Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide Treatment, which can help to remove water, disperse contaminants, and kill microbes. Proper cleaning and maintenance of fuel lines can help extend their lifespan and prevent leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
To clean a diesel fuel line without removing it, you can pump out the old fuel and scrub the tank with a brush and paper towels. Then, add a gallon of Carosine, let it sit for a day, and pump it out. Finally, wipe the tank clean and fill it with new diesel.
To remove air from your diesel fuel line, try cranking on the engine for 20-30 seconds, then let the starter cool down before cranking again. Repeat this process a few times to bleed the air out of the high-pressure oil lines.
You can use products like Bio-Diesel, Bio Kleen Diesel Fuel Biocide, Clear-Diesel Fuel & Tank Cleaner, or E85 to clean your diesel fuel line and remove contaminants and microbes.
Issues in a diesel fuel line can be caused by air, water, algae, or microbial contamination. Air can enter the fuel system through leaks in the fuel lines or following a fuel filter change. Water at the bottom of fuel tanks can create a breeding ground for microbes, and algae can cause a coating that pinches or constricts the fuel line.
