Mercedes Mullins
Cummins diesel engines are powerful machines, and many owners swear by the use of transmission fluid additives to enhance performance and engine life. However, opinions vary on the best approach to maintaining these engines, with some advocating for specific transmission fluids, while others prefer additives such as Hot Shot, Power Service, or even two-stroke oil. The manufacturer, Cummins, officially recommends against adding aftermarket additives, but has endorsed the use of Mopar Premium Diesel Fuel Treatment for temperatures below 20°F (-6°C) to prevent fuel gelling. With varying schools of thought, Cummins owners need to make informed decisions about their engines, weighing the risks and benefits of different transmission fluids and fuel additives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cummins' recommendation on transmission fluid | Cummins does not recommend the addition of additives to the fuel. |
| Cummins' official statement is supported by a technician from a Cummins service station. | |
| The 2004 Cummins manual stated no aftermarket additive was required. | |
| The 2018 Cummins owner's manual recommended Power Service products, but that was with the old, more tolerant CP3 pump. | |
| Power Service Diesel Supplement Antigel, Howes Diesel Lubricator Diesel Treatment, Stanadyne Performance Formula, and Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel are some products Cummins owners have used. | |
| ATF+4 trans fluids from either Mopar or Valvoline are a group III fluid and are at best a synthetic blend. | |
| AMSOIL ATF+4 is a premium transmission fluid that will improve your transmission's performance and longevity. | |
| Bardahl supplies transmission fluid to users in Washington state. | |
| Dexron fluid was used for 47/48RE transmissions, then Chrysler 7176 fluid, then Mopar type 3, and now Mopar type 4. | |
| Dexron 3 can be used with a Lubegard additive. | |
| Valvoline +4 synthetic is a transmission fluid that can be used. |
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What You'll Learn
Cummins does not recommend fuel additives
Cummins does not recommend the use of fuel additives. In fact, some sources state that their manuals explicitly say that no fuel additives are required. This is because modern diesel engines do not need additives, except perhaps for anti-gel in extremely cold weather.
One source states that they called their local Cummins service station, and the technician confirmed that Cummins does not recommend adding fuel additives. The service facilities have not experienced an increased failure rate of components relying on the fuel's lubricity. Cummins has also spent a lot of money and research on this topic.
Some people who use Cummins engines have expressed concern that the diesel fuel they use does not meet lubricity specifications. They believe that using additives will help with this issue. However, according to some users, the companies selling the fuel should be addressing this issue, and it could cost them a lot in warranty repairs and reputation.
While Cummins does not recommend fuel additives, they do endorse certain brands of additives, such as Power Service, Diesel Kleen, and Cetane. Some Cummins owners have used these products and experienced benefits such as increased lubricity, improved fuel cleanliness, and better performance in cold weather. However, it is important to note that using additives can be risky, especially with certain types of pumps, and it may void your warranty.
Overall, while some Cummins owners have found success with certain fuel additives, Cummins does not recommend their use, and it is important to carefully consider the risks before adding anything to your fuel.
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Lubricity and ultra-low sulphur diesel
The transition to ultra-low-sulphur diesel (ULSD) has been driven by stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing harmful emissions such as sulphur oxides (SOX). However, this shift has also resulted in a significant decrease in the natural lubricity of diesel fuels, as sulphur historically provided essential lubricating properties that protected critical engine components.
The reduction in sulphur content has led to the removal of oxygen and nitrogen, which also aid in lubrication. As a result, the lack of lubricity in ULSD causes excessive wear and can eventually lead to the failure of engine components, particularly fuel pumps and injectors. This has caused concerns for owners of diesel-powered vehicles, who may need to add lubricant to their diesel fuel to prevent these issues.
To address the lubricity challenges posed by ULSD, various additives have been explored. Research indicates that fatty acid methyl esters, derived from biofuels, can effectively improve the lubricating properties of ULSD, reducing wear and friction in engine components. These additives work by forming a protective layer on metal surfaces, similar to the function of sulphur in traditional diesel fuels.
Standardised testing methods, such as the High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig (HFRR) test, have become crucial in evaluating and maintaining fuel lubricity standards. This ensures that diesel fuels, regardless of their sulphur content or additives, provide adequate protection for engine components.
One example of a lubricity additive for ULSD is LX4 Lubricity Extreme, which claims to have the highest level of lubricity performance on the market. It adds oxygen back into the fuel, enhancing lubricity and reducing wear scars in the fuel system. However, it is important to note that Cummins, a well-known manufacturer of diesel engines, does not recommend the addition of additives to their fuel. They state that their engines do not require aftermarket additives and that their service facilities have not experienced an increased failure rate due to fuel lubricity issues.
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ATF and its effects
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) is a hydraulic fluid essential for vehicles with automatic transmissions. ATF is also used in power steering systems, select 4WD transfer cases, and modern manual transmissions. ATF is designed to meet the unique demands of an automatic transmission, ensuring smooth valve operation, minimising brake band friction, facilitating torque converter function, and providing effective gear lubrication.
ATF is made up of a base oil and an additive package containing various chemical compounds. These additives include thickeners, viscosity index improvers, oxidation inhibitors, corrosion inhibitors, and foam inhibitors. The base oil and additives work together to provide high-temperature resistance, acid neutralisation, corrosion prevention, and consistent pressure on the lubrication system.
There are many specifications for ATF, such as the General Motors (GM) DEXRON and Ford MERCON series. Vehicle manufacturers identify the appropriate ATF specification for their vehicles, which is typically listed in the owner's manual. It is important to use the correct ATF specification to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Some sources mention the use of ATF in diesel engines, specifically Cummins engines. However, it is important to note that Cummins does not recommend the addition of additives to diesel fuel. Modern diesel engines do not require ATF to be added to the fuel, and doing so may cause issues with certain fuel system components. While ATF has detergent properties, it does not provide lubrication, which is crucial for diesel engines. Therefore, it is generally advised to follow the recommendations of the vehicle and engine manufacturers regarding the use of additives.
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Recommended fuel additives
While some sources claim that Cummins itself does not recommend the use of additives in the fuel, the company has officially endorsed and recommended two Power Service products – Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost and Diesel Fuel Supplement +Cetane Boost – for use in diesel engines. This came after significant internal testing that concluded that both products meet Cummins' requirements.
Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost, as a year-round performance enhancer, cleans dirty injectors, prevents injector sticking, smooths rough-running engines, and can improve fuel economy. Diesel Fuel Supplement +Cetane Boost is recommended for use in cold winter months when temperatures drop below +30F. It is a winterizer/anti-gel used to prevent fuel gelling and keep fuel filters from plugging with ice and wax.
Some other fuel additives that users have claimed to have tried and tested include Hot Shot Secret EDT (everyday diesel treatment) and Archoil.
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Synthetic transmission fluids
The benefits of synthetic transmission fluids include improved wear protection, increased cleanliness, and better heat resistance. The synthetic fluid's purity means it delivers excellent protection to the transmission components, helping them to last longer. Additionally, synthetic fluids reduce heat, keeping the components clean, and they perform well in cold weather, allowing for smooth and crisp shifts.
For vehicles with automatic transmissions, the fluid acts as a hydraulic fluid, enabling smooth shifts by actuating the transmission solenoids and clutch packs. Maintaining the correct viscosity and cleanliness of the fluid is crucial for proper functioning. Synthetic fluids are well-suited for this purpose due to their inherent properties.
Some examples of synthetic transmission fluids include Amsoil Synthetic, Dexron 3 with a Lubegard additive, and Royal Purple. It is important to refer to the vehicle's owner's manual for maintenance guidelines and recommendations on the specific type of transmission fluid to use. While synthetic fluids offer advantages, it is worth noting that some modern vehicles use "filled-for-life" transmissions that do not require fluid changes. However, it is still considered a best practice to change the fluid in these units at least once for optimal performance and transmission longevity.
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Frequently asked questions
Most synthetics are fine to use for your Cummins engine. You can use Dexron 3 or Dexron/Mercon alone or with a Lubegard additive. Do not use Dexron 6 or any other additive other than Lubegard.
Cummins does not recommend the addition of additives to the fuel. Cummins-endorsed fuel additives are also not necessary for the proper operation of your Cummins diesel engine.
Some good fuel additives for your Cummins engine include Hot Shot, Power Service, Stanadyne, and Howes Diesel Lubricator Diesel Treatment.
You should not use Dexron 6 or any other additive other than Lubegard for your Cummins engine. You should also not use automatic transmission fluid for your Cummins engine if it has a DPF.
