Diesel Fuel Systems: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Engine Running Strong

Diesel Fuel Systems: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Engine Running Strong

Modern diesel fuel systems have come a long way over the past 25 years. Advancements in technology now give diesel owners more power, improved fuel economy, and better starting performance. But with these benefits come new challenges. To get the most out of your engine and protect your investment, understanding how to support your fuel system is crucial. One key solution? Using high-quality fuel additives with every tank.

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Understanding Diesel Fuel Injection Systems

The Evolution of HEUI Systems

In 1993, Caterpillar® introduced the Hydraulically Actuated Electronic Unit Injection (HEUI) system. Unlike earlier camshaft-operated injectors, HEUI systems use a high-pressure oil pump (HPOP) to pressurize oil between 500 and 3,000 psi, which then pressurizes fuel within the injector.

This design brought several advantages, including:

  • Improved fuel economy: Higher fuel pressure at lower engine speeds.

  • Better throttle response: Controlled electronically for precision.

  • Lower emissions: Cleaner combustion at all speeds.

HEUI injectors marked a turning point, balancing performance with environmental compliance. However, like any system, they require proper maintenance and support to avoid common issues like wear and deposits.

Enter the High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) System

Today, High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) systems are the gold standard for diesel engines. These systems use a high-pressure fuel rail to supply injectors, enabling up to 30,000 psi of fuel pressure. They also employ advanced piezoelectric injectors, allowing multiple injection events per cycle. The benefits include:

  • Increased low-end torque

  • Quieter operation

  • Enhanced fuel efficiency

  • Lower emissions

But with these advantages come vulnerabilities, especially when it comes to fuel quality.

The Role of Fuel Quality in Injector Performance

Diesel fuel quality varies widely, even within the same region. Poor fuel quality can wreak havoc on your fuel system, leading to wear and deposits that cause rough running, hard starts, and even injector failure. Here’s a breakdown of the main culprits:

Wear

HPCR injectors operate under immense pressure and activate up to five times per combustion cycle. This makes them more susceptible to wear, especially when lubricity is lacking. Unfortunately, ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) often lacks the lubricating properties necessary to protect your system. That’s why using a lubricity-improving additive is essential to keep your injectors performing at their best.

Deposit Buildup

  • External Deposits: These form on the nozzle tips, disrupting spray patterns and leading to poor combustion. Symptoms include reduced power and lower fuel economy.

  • Internal Deposits: Found inside the injector, these deposits can cause rough idling, sluggish acceleration, and starting difficulties, particularly in HPCR systems with their tighter tolerances.

Cold Weather Challenges

Diesel fuel naturally contains wax, which can crystallize in cold weather. If left untreated, these wax crystals can clog filters and fuel lines, leading to hard starts or engine failure. Cold-flow additives are designed to modify wax crystals and keep your engine running smoothly in low temperatures.

The AMSOIL Advantage: Protect and Enhance Your Diesel System

At AC Oil & Supply, we know that protecting your investment matters. That’s why we recommend AMSOIL’s premium diesel fuel additives. Backed by rigorous lab and field testing, these products are engineered to keep your fuel system clean, efficient, and reliable, no matter the conditions.

AMSOIL Diesel Injector Clean

  • Cleans dirty injectors

  • Reduces wear with enhanced lubrication

  • Improves fuel economy by up to 8%

  • Extends fuel filter life

AMSOIL Diesel Cold Flow

  • Prevents gelling in cold temperatures

  • Lowers cold filter-plugging point (CFPP) by up to 40°F

  • Enhances cold-weather engine reliability

AMSOIL Diesel Recovery

  • Dissolves gelled fuel quickly

  • Thaws frozen filters

  • Works in ULSD, off-road, and biodiesel blends

AMSOIL Diesel Cetane Boost

  • Increases cetane by up to 8 points

  • Maximizes horsepower and fuel economy

  • Improves cold starts

AMSOIL Diesel All-In-One

For ultimate convenience and performance, AMSOIL Diesel All-In-One combines the benefits of Injector Clean, Cetane Boost, and Cold Flow in a single product.

Why AC Oil & Supply?

As your trusted AMSOIL dealer, AC Oil & Supply provides the knowledge and personalized service you need to get the best out of your diesel engine. Whether you’re running a fleet, working with heavy equipment, or maintaining your personal vehicle, we’re here to help you tackle your toughest challenges.

Ready to protect your diesel system? Contact us today, or use referral code 30482874 at AMSOIL.com to place your order. Let’s keep your engine running stronger, longer.

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1 comment

This is great info to know!

Morgan

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