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Topic: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel] (Read 943 times) previous topic - next topic

Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

I was just talking with our RV repair guru, here in Mexico, about the problems one can encounter here, using Mexican high sulphur diesel, vs the low sulphur fuel we have in the US. The Mercedes shops here won't work on our engines, because they don't require emission controls, as we do in the States.
He suggested using an additive, every time we fill up, to help lubrication of the engine. I tried to remember any discussions, here on the forum regarding this issue, but don't recall seeing any.
Do we need to add product to help lubrication, and , if so, wheat so you recommend?
Glenn and Amy Beinfest
2001 36' U320
#5812
2014 Honda CRV

No Whining on the YACHT

Re: Fuel Additives

Reply #1
Not sure I understand his point.

Sulfur ADDS lubricity.

It was the move to ULSD that prompted the "additive for lubricity" movement.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #2
Topic title edited to reflect this discussion is solely about high sulphur diesel.  There are plenty of long threads on the forum already about whether or not to use fuel additives.  This is NOT a general "what additive do you like" topic.
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #3
You have a Cummins, so will add this bit (feel free to delete Michelle if you feel this is not on par for topic).

I concur with Michelle, there are a lot of threads all over the interwebs about additives. That said, the one I use now is Diesel Kleen, which is to my knowledge the only one Cummins officially recommends. It's recommended in all diesel fuels, included ULSD, see the last bullet point.  https://www.cummins.com/news/releases/2017/05/10/cummins-inc-officially-recommends-power-service-diesel-kleen-cetane-and

Per specs: https://shop.cummins.com/SC/product/power-service-diesel-kleen-cetane-boost-64-oz-306406/01t4N0000048qELQAY

Diesel Kleen +Cetane Boost is a total injector cleaner and performance improves that cleans injectors, boosts cetane and lubricates fuel injection components. To realize the benefits of today's cleaner-burning fuels, new technology is required to maximize performance. It restores lost power and fuel economy and smooths rough-running engines.

Diesel Kleen can be used year-round, but it is not a diesel fuel winterizer or antigel. When winter temperatures drop below + 30°F use Diesel Fuel Supplement +Cetane Boost (in the white bottle) to provide maximum winter protection for your diesel engine.

Benefits:
    • Cleans dirty injectors and prevents injector sticking in both High Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) and older systems
    • Removes both internal and external deposits on fuel injectors
    • Boosts cetane up to 6 numbers - engines run smoother with less power lag and faster cold starts
    • Boosts power - reduces need for downshifting
    • Restores lost power and fuel economy
    • Contains Slickdiesel® Lubricator to protect fuel pumps and injectors from increased wear caused by Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel
    • Effective in all diesel fuels, including ULSD, biodiesel and biodiesel blends
Jason
2000 U295 36' Non-slide  ISC350

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #4
I add Stanadyne at every fill up.  It's not for lubricity, it's to raise cetane levels and maintain clean injectors.  Brett's spot on and Glenn's mexi-tech is either mistaken or a lot was lost in translation.
2001 4010 U320 build #5865 "Bluto-d-Bus" since 09/18
2006 Honda Element ESP Toad
Full timing since 2016 in Western MT
Copilot: Sitka
1975 GMC 260 Avion: sold

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #5
I add 2cyl engine oil to the fuel. I don't remember the ration right now, but it is very low.
1995 U320C SE 40'
Jeep 4x4 Commander - Limited - Hemi
"The Pack"  Yogi and Diesel our Airedales -  Charlie our Boxer/Akita mix. Gone but NEVER forgotten Jake our yellow Lab.
NRA Law Enforcement Firearms instructor - Handgun/shotgun
Regional Firearms instructor for national Armored Transp. Co.

Re: Fuel Additives

Reply #6
Not sure I understand his point.

Sulfur ADDS lubricity.

It was the move to ULSD that prompted the "additive for lubricity" movement.
Bearing in fuel pumps needed to be changed to ceramic bearings do to the fuel being dryer and poorer lubricating properties.  I wouldnt be concerned running Mexico hi sulfur fuel at all.

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #7
Glen, your engine uses the old style fuel we had till a few years ago, so Mexican diesel is perfect for it and does not need any additional lubrication. If you want Cetane boost buy one for that.
There are now some fuel stops in Mexico selling the UL type so make sure  you pick the old type till you get back inn USA then you definitely should use an additive.
Johnh
Coachless, now use aircraft. 2003 Ford Travelair TC280 class C. Super shape. Just for 1 yr .
1994 Ford E350 ClassC,total renovation inside and out. Now sold.
2000 U295  36' Cummins 350 c/w Banks Stinger, Resonator upgrade,Solar, LED lites.Residential fridge with slide out pantry. Build 5674. Sold
ex 92 GV 022C ored Cummins. Sold
ex 95 GV240 cat 3116. Sold
2017 Mini cooper s & 2016 land Rover LR2 HSE  LUX.
jhaygarth@aol.com    SKP #130098
treat everyone as you would like to be.

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #8
Don't get the mentality of the 2 cycle oil,it does'nt effect the cetane,it doesn't remove bacteria,and it does'nt remove moisture
it may lube the fuel pump but more power to ya.
96 U270 BUILD 4810
85 380SL
Drummonds TN.

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #9
Don't get the mentality of the 2 cycle oil,it does'nt effect the cetane,it doesn't remove bacteria,and it does'nt remove moisture
it may lube the fuel pump but more power to ya.

I use it only for the lube factor.
 If I want other features, I buy a product that offers solutions for those problems or needs. I usually steer clear of one product to solve all problems.
1995 U320C SE 40'
Jeep 4x4 Commander - Limited - Hemi
"The Pack"  Yogi and Diesel our Airedales -  Charlie our Boxer/Akita mix. Gone but NEVER forgotten Jake our yellow Lab.
NRA Law Enforcement Firearms instructor - Handgun/shotgun
Regional Firearms instructor for national Armored Transp. Co.

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #10
Sulfur is a lubricant. When they removed it, it prompted lots of older engines to require seal changes. The only thing about high sulfur fuel is , it may cause your dpf to Regen more often, if you have a Newer rig with Diesel Particulate Filter. People worry too much about things who own motorhomes, just run it.
🤯

 

Re: Fuel Additives [When using high sulphur diesel]

Reply #11
I use Opti-lube every tank, all year long. Utah company
1996 U295-36, Cummins 300hp, 8.3. Build number 4864. Vin number 1F97D536XTNO54271. Purchased October 31, 2019.