Additives for diesel in little use tractor

[cityfarma]

I have an L440 that does not get a lot of use. This means the fuel tank only gets refilled ocassionaly (when very low) and the fuel may be months old. It is then filled with fresh fuel. Is it recommended to add anything to the fuel to kill the nasties that may wish to cause me problems?

Cityfarma

 

[nosliw]

i'd keep the tank topped off after each time you use it for starters.

you could add an algaecide, but if the tractor drains a full tank of fuel in a couple months? or more? if just a month or two i'd say you're fine if you keep it filled to the brim.

just my opinion.

 

[Skyco]

Yup- your main problem is how you leave it low. A fuel tank with a lot of air space will breathe from temperature changes and collect moisture, which is your number one enemy in diesel fuel. Refill it after use instead of before use, unless you keep it in a completely climate controlled storage space.

 

[MikePA]

Refill it after use instead of before use, unless you keep it in a completely climate controlled storage space.

This is good advice regardless where a tractor is stored. Fill the tank after each use. Not only is the tractor ready to go then next time you need it, it prevents problems.

 

[Skyco]

The bit about the completely climate controlled space was sort of a joke

Don't know anyone myself wealthy enough to have such a place. A 24/7 air conditioned/heated garage/shop...that would be a dream.. I'm sure they are out there though

 

[MikePA]

The bit about the completely climate controlled space was sort of a joke Don't know anyone myself wealthy enough to have such a place. A 24/7 air conditioned/heated garage/shop...that would be a dream.. I'm sure they are out there though

I know of people in the North with heated garages and in the South with air conditioned ones. Not me, though.

 

[Skyco]

I've known motorcyclists that keep their bike in the house. Gee...if only I had sliding glass doors I might be able to get the BX in the house..

 

[cityfarma]

Thanks for your feedback. Looks like I am going to have to work out a way to top up the tank each time I use the tractor. I top up the tank from 20ltr jerrycans but this can be a pain to lift and see when the tank is full (other than the classic indicator of fuel overflowing )

I am building a double, steel frame and sheet garage to store the tractor. Fortunately my temperature only drops to about 0 deg C so I don't have the problems that I read about from many of the other posters. It does however get up to 35 - 38 deg C in summer (now). In the garage it will get somewhat warmer.

Cityfarma