Recently, we've seen a rash of pump failures due to contaminated fuel, which can ruin the internal parts and make it impossible to inexpensively fix. To help avoid this pitfall, here are a few helpful tips:
Change your filter more frequently: We're not sure if 5,000 miles is too much of an interval to trust that the filter will catch contaminants. Frequently changing your fuel filter will allow you to monitor the conditions that are taking place.
Sample fuel for cloudiness or contamination: Capture what you drain and check for cloudiness or quantity of water to determine the condition of your fuel.
Check your gaskets: We've had a few people report that the tops of the tanks are leaking or the rubber gasket isn't good. Anywhere you see fuel coming out, you could have water getting in. As these trucks get older, the rubber seal on top of the tank for the sending unit, can collect debris or water, which can then get into the tank. As fuel stations carry fuel more fuel with bio-diesel, any water can bond with the bio and get into the injection pump.
Drain your water separators: Develop a more frequent schedule of draining your water separator. Don't rely on the water-in-the-fuel light.
As always, if you have any questions about contaminated fuel or if your pump is not running well, give Blue Chip Diesel a call.