How to Maintain Diesel Fuel Quality for Compact Equipment

In the past, compact equipment was more forgiving of variances in fuel quality – so when fuel-related issues come up today, you might think there’s something wrong with your machine. The truth is, your fuel could be to blame.

Every compact equipment manufacturer has introduced new engine emission technology that includes high pressure fuel systems and exhaust aftertreatment systems. These systems are necessary for meeting interim Tier 4 (iT4) and Tier 4 (T4) emissions standards, but they are highly susceptible to contaminants. Clean fuel is critical for today’s engines.

A proactive fuel management strategy will ensure reliable performance and prevent unexpected issues caused by fuel contaminants.

Develop a Fuel Management Plan

Today’s iT4 or T4 machines are sensitive to impurities. And that’s the case no matter which brand you’re running. A little planning sets the stage for reliable performance and long machine life. Key steps to an effective fuel management plan include:

• Understand tier 4 engine technology.
• Know the fuel supply issues.
• Select the best supplier.
• Keep spare fuel filters always.
• Follow best practices.
• Stay educated.

Using clean fuel is crucial to performance and longevity of the Tier 4 engines used in today’s equipment, regardless of brand. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers has developed a clean fuel resource guide and clean fuel flyer to help carry this message to customers across the industry. More information is also available on these industry websites:

• DieselNet.com*
• CummunsFiltration.com*
• MyCleanDiesel.com*
• Biodiesel.org*

Note: Bobcat Company does not necessarily endorse the views expressed or information provided on industry websites.

Bulk Fuel Considerations

If you purchase bulk fuel, there are unique steps to ensure reliable performance and prevent unexpected issues:

• Evaluate your bulk fuel storage.
• Test and analyze fuel.
• Establish a recordkeeping system.
• Prepare your fuel supply for winter.

Fuel Additives for the Best Protection and Performance

An engine that is running clean high-quality fuel properly blended for the temperature conditions typically doesn’t need a fuel additive. However, diesel fuel additive can help when fuel quality is suspect and temperatures turn cold.

Bobcat ALL-TIER Diesel Fuel Additive is a proprietary blend, chosen by Bobcat engineers after testing other available additives. There are no national fuel additive standards, and some additives on the market today provide little or no value. Bobcat ALL-TIER is the only choice proven to provide the level of performance expected from the Bobcat brand.

All-Tier is available in 16 oz. (473 ml) bottles. Each bottle treats 50 gallons (189L) of diesel fuel. There are many general and cold weather benefits of using Bobcat ALL-TIER winter diesel fuel additive, including:

• Cleans and prevents injector deposits to maximize horsepower and fuel economy.
• Prevents fuel soot and sludge formation to extend filter, injector and fuel pump life.
• Increases cetane up to 5 numbers for faster, smoother, fuel-efficient starting that minimizes wear on the electrical system.
• Provides superior cold-flow properties to help prevent gelling and filter plugging.
• Helps to safely and gradually remove water from fuel system.
• Aids against fuel filter icing.

Using more additive than recommended will not help and can be counterproductive. Do NOT exceed the label’s treat rate recommendations.

No additives improve fuel cloud point, so they are NOT a suitable replacement for properly blended #1 and #2 diesel for winter use.

ALL-TIER Diesel Fuel Additives - FAQ

Is All-Tier recommended for use in all types of diesel equipment?

Yes, it can be used in any diesel-powered equipment – Bobcat or other brands. New engines will enjoy these benefits right from the start. Legacy engines, including pre-Tier III, along with Tier III & Interim Tier IV, will run better after just a few fill ups.

Can All-Tier be added to my bulk fuel storage tank?

Absolutely! Treating fuel as it is added to the bulk fuel storage tank is the optimal solution for ensuring your fuel gets a quality treat and mix. As an added benefit, All-Tier contains a fuel stabilizer to maximize fuel storage and filter life, and to protect your bulk fuel storage tank from corrosion. For best mixing results, add All-Tier to the bulk tank prior to adding the diesel fuel.

Why does the All-Tier have to be added when the fuel is above the cloud point?

Diesel fuel contains wax that begins to form crystals at the cloud point of fuel. These crystals will continue to grow until the filter plugs and the equipment shuts down. Adding All-Tier winter when the fuel temperature is at least 15 degrees F above the cloud point offers the optimum benefit.

Why does All-Tier gel in the bottle when it gets cold?

All fuel additives that contain large amounts of “anti-gel” will thicken in their concentrated form (prior to mixing with diesel fuel) at cold temperatures. To prevent gelling store the bottle at or above 50 degrees F. If the product has gelled in the bottle, thaw it out and agitate, then add it to the diesel fuel.

What temperature is the fuel protected to against gelling?

Winter formula typically protects down to about 18 degrees F below the fuel’s cloud point. Results will fluctuate due to variations in fuel, even when purchased from the same supplier. When ambient temperatures reach 15 degrees F and colder, we recommend using blended number 1 and 2 diesels. In ambient temperatures below -5 degrees F and colder, we recommend number 1.

Does using All-Tier affect fuel filter life?

Yes, it contains special components to control oxidation and sediment formation, thereby extending filter life.

Will using All-Tier give my engine more power?

All-Tier contains a highly effective detergent that keeps fuel injectors clean and deposit-free, plus cetane improver, to provide maximum power and fuel efficiency in every gallon.