WorldWide Drilling Resource

Peak Performance Requires Fuel System Maintenance by Brian Rogers, Geoprobe ® Machine Service Specialist We get calls every week saying, “The engine cranks, but will not start, or will not run well.” The number one cause is improper fuel system maintenance. No matter what kind of drill rig you use, it has at least one, if not two, fuel filters. Changing the filters every 200 hours is recommended, making sure to follow the engine priming in- structions (see owner’s manual for engine manufacturer recommendations). NEVER prefill a fuel filter for your rig. If you prefill a filter, you’re putting unfiltered fuel on the downstream side of the filter element which will contaminate the fuel injection system - a costly mistake! If you constantly source your fuel from a tender truck, out of portable fuel cans, or similar sources, expect to change your fuel filters more often. The cleanliness of these sources is marginal, at best. In the winter, it’s best to run a fuel additive as well. If you have a contaminated fuel system, you’ll be changing fuel filters more often, and it’s advisable you keep an extra set of filters for the machine on hand. If you’re working in a remote area, keep a set of filters with the machine. Always fill your rig’s fuel tank at the end of the day. This will negate condensation collection inside the tank due to humidity/temperature swings which will lead to contamination issues. Fuel System Maintenance Summary: • Service the fuel system at recommended intervals or sooner if conditions warrant • Keep an extra set of fuel filters on hand (in-line and canister) • Make sure the fuel source is reliable and clean (yellow cans, tender truck, or fuel farm) • NEVER prefill a fuel filter • Fill your rig’s fuel tank at the end of each day with clean diesel • Use fuel additive in the winter even if using winter blend fuel 32 JANUARY 2017 WorldWide Drilling Resource ®