Jennie Matthews At Alliant Power’s Fuel Injection Shop, we see firsthand the devastating effects of inadequate fuel lubricity and water contamination. Colton, one of our experts, recently highlighted a common failure we see in rebuilt pumps: severe wear on cam lobes. This damage, often characterized by noticeable wear marks and catching during rotation, is a direct result of insufficient lubrication in the fuel injection system.
The Culprits: Poor Fuel Quality and Water Contamination
What causes this lack of lubricity? Several factors contribute, including:
- Water in fuel: Water can significantly reduce the lubricating properties of diesel fuel, leading to increased friction and wear.
- Poor fuel quality: Inconsistent quality from various fuel sources can introduce contaminants and reduce lubricity.
- Old or varnished fuel: Stale fuel can degrade, forming varnish and deposits that impede proper lubrication.
The Solution: Alliant Power’s Ultraguard
To combat these issues, Alliant Power offers Ultraguard. This powerful additive is designed to:
- Enhance Lubricity: Ultraguard creates a protective layer between metal surfaces, minimizing friction and wear in high-pressure fuel pumps, common rail systems, and older mechanical injection systems.
- Clean and Protect: Our additives contain detergents that effectively remove existing deposits and prevent future buildup, including varnish.
- Prevent Catastrophic Failures: By maintaining proper lubrication, Ultraguard helps prevent injector hang-ups, chattering, and sticking, which can lead to severe engine damage.
Why Lubricity Matters
Proper lubricity is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your diesel engine. Without it, you risk:
- Premature Pump Failure: Wear on components like cam lobes can lead to costly pump replacements.
- Injector Problems: Injectors can become stuck open, resulting in catastrophic engine failure.
- Reduced Efficiency: Poor lubrication can decrease fuel efficiency and overall engine performance.
All-Year Protection for Your Equipment
Whether you operate diesel trucks, tractors, or construction equipment, Alliant Power’s Ultraguard provides reliable, all-year-round protection. By using our additive with every tank, you can ensure your engine runs smoothly, cleanly, and efficiently, minimizing downtime and maximizing your investment.
