Diesel Fuel Additive Guide

Think of a typical diesel vehicle and you might think of a beast of a machine belching out smoke from its tailpipe. While that might be true from some older vehicles, the diesel vehicles of today are more able to perform like their gasoline-powered counterparts.

However, if you look at the properties of diesel and gasoline side by side, you will see that diesel has characteristics that should be protected by additives. In doing so, you will increase and maintain the performance of your vehicle, protect your fuel during periods of storage or low use and get the best MPG fuel economy possible. There are many diesel fuel additives on the market today. Some have multi-functional additives that do more than one job, while others offer single function treatments. The trick is knowing which products will provide the best care for your diesel engine and how and when to use them.

The Benefits of Using Diesel Fuel Additives

There are many benefits to using diesel fuel additive products in your vehicle. Here are some of the features of additive products and the beneficial effects they can have on performance, protection and fuel economy.

Raised Cetane Levels

As a general rule, cetane is to diesel fuel as octane is to gasoline. The better the cetane quality, the more efficient the combustion qualities of your fuel will be. Cetane boosting additives can help to improve your fuel economy by several MPG.

Better Lubrication

By distributing lubricants into your diesel fuel you can help to increase the longevity of several fuel components, including injection pumps and fuel injectors.

A Cleaner Fuel System

Many additives on the market today contain detergents that act as a fuel system cleaner. These cleaners can remove deposits from within your fuel system as they pass through, helping to prevent the fuel filter clogging and improving efficiency throughout your fuel system.

Fuel System Stabilizer

Fuel system stabilizers are one of the most important additives you should consider for your diesel engine. They are especially important in engines that may sit idle for long periods of time. They work by reducing algae growth and other forms of contamination that could hinder engine performance or prevent your vehicle from starting altogether.

Anticoagulant Properties

When your diesel fuel is exposed to extremely cold temperatures it can start to thicken and this can mean it does not flow properly through the engine. Anti-gel formulas act as an anticoagulant, helping to maintain the condition of your fuel and ensure your vehicle starts first time.

There are many products on the market today that claim they can offer all of these benefits in one bottle. Don’t fall for the hype. Instead, do your research and look into investing in the best diesel fuel additives you can and choosing products that suit the individual needs of your vehicle and you as a driver.

When to Use Fuel Additives in Your Diesel Engine

Many diesel vehicle owners know that when conditions deteriorate outside, so can the condition of their fuel. Cold weather can cause diesel fuel to congeal in the fuel lines and tank and this can hamper performance. It is a good idea to add anti-gelling fuel additives at the start of winter to keep diesel flowing smoothly. Fuel stabilizers are also a good idea if you are thinking about putting your vehicle into storage for a long period of time. Older vehicles might also benefit from a shot of fuel injector cleaner now and again to keep them in good condition.