Importance of a Clean Fuel Tank

Fuel tank maintenance is crucial for a vehicle to perform better. If any debris or sludge is spotted in the tank or with leaking gasoline, it’s time for fuel tank maintenance. Removing all the tarnish from the fuel tank is critical. The main goal in cleaning the tank is to restore the tank environment to the same state before it was driven off.

Why a clean fuel tank is crucial for a fuel pump's diet?
Fuel tanks are designed to keep the engine's fuel vented, secure and clean. They also provide space for small amounts of water, sediment and other contaminants to settle down so that they will not be drawn into the equipment tank or vehicle as fuel is pumped out. This sediment material and water will accumulate overtime and cause problems if not removed periodically. Water vapor condenses in fuel tanks and constitutes for microbial growth that can result in severe microbial contamination thus leading to downtime and costly repairs.

Change in the fuel color is one of the indications that the fuel has been contaminated. Few negative effects of the microbial growth may include: reduced combustion efficiency, elevated cloud point and pour point, plugged fuel filters and increased corrosion of fuel components.

The most effective practice in maintaining the fuel tank is to minimize exposure to water. Procedures designed to minimize accumulation of water include:

• Recycling of fuel through water separators.

• Fuel tank insulation to stabilize fuel temperature.

• Routine discharge of water bottoms.

• Also, Sludge should be removed from the fuel tank regularly along with periodic cleanings and tank inspections.

How to clean a fuel tank?
A dirty fuel tank may lead to issues with the fuel it holds. Few noticing performance issues or poor gas mileage should be considered for cleaning the fuel tank.

Gather the supplies: With the right tools in hand and with adequate work space, cleaning the fuel tank is not a difficult task. Make sure to gather the basic tools and supplies such as safety equipment, jack, fluid extraction pump etc., beforehand and have them within reach during the task.

Ensure safety during the task: Taking certain safety measures during the process is vital because fuel is harmful. Basic safety gear helps to protect against the fuel getting in to eyes or on the skin as well.

Extract fuel: Place the diesel container under the duct hole and remove the plug to drain off the fuel. If the fuel tank does not have a drain hole, then go with the fluid extraction pump to get the job done. Pump till all the fuel and contaminants are out of the tank and nothing more flows out.

Clean fuel tank: Clean the accumulated rust or debris in the fuel tank especially around the hanger assembly or the module to avoid fuel tank contamination. Now, remove the lock ring and the hanger assembly. Clean and flush the tank either with water or by taking fuel tank cleaning solution.

• By using water: Swish the fuel tank with water to collect any debris remaining in the fuel tank and carefully poor out into the fuel caddy. The tank should be then thoroughly dried by circulating air or by simply placing it under sun.

• Fuel tank cleaning solution: By taking the solution in equal amounts to the fuel the tank holds the tank should be cleaned thoroughly. Ensure that the cleaning solution is low in sulfur, to protect the integrity of the tank. Fill the tank with the solution and allow it to sit for at least for 30 minutes, so that it will break down the debris and sludge present in the tank. After some time, drain the cleaner from the tank and make sure to dispose this cleaning solution properly as it can hazardous to animals, people and environment.

Return the fuel to the tank: After draining the cleaner, inspect the tank carefully before putting the fuel back. If the tank is rusted inside or out and shows signs of damage it must be replaced or repaired. Lower the vehicle from the jack and remove all the safety equipment to complete the job.

When a fuel tank is free from debris and sludge and clean, the vehicle's engine enjoys greater attainment. The job is not difficult and with the right supplies and tools everything will get done efficiently and properly.

Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems is the leading aftermarket supplier of mechanical and electric fuel pumps. For over 50 years, the Airtex brand has been the benchmark for leading companies in the automotive aftermarket. An electric fuel pump from Airtex has exceptional quality that meets or exceeds OE design specifications and ISO standards.