YM 1700 Air Intake

[HLP]

I noticed a reservoir in front of the air filter housing. Pulled the lid and it was empty. The line out of the bottom leads into the air intake manifold. What is this for? Should there be some kind of additive that a diesel needs?

 

[eiznekcm]

I believe that it is the thermostart reservoir. You add diesel to it when it is cold outside. Most of the systems work by turning the key backwards for about 15 second right before turning to start. Mine has a push button, but I think that it was added by a previous owner. A little glow plug-like device flames the fuel as it drips down warming the intake air. Helps the motor start faster in cold weather.
Craig