DEF Fluid in the Diesel Tank: How to Solve it in 5 Steps
DEF, or diesel exhaust fluid, is of paramount importance to the operation of diesel engines. This fluid is a new alternative to reduce the impact of harmful emissions from trucks. But what happens if you put DEF into the diesel tank?
When DEF fluid accidentally enters the diesel tank, it can cause serious engine failure. The fuel becomes contaminated causing clogging of the fuel system or damage to the injectors. In addition, engine wear can be increased if the fuel loses its lubricating properties due to DEF.
In these cases, it is best to contact professionals or a reliable workshop such as RoadPro. In this article we will tell you everything you need to know to solve problems with DEF fluid in the diesel tank. Read on!
5 Steps to Troubleshoot DEF Fluid in the Diesel Tank
Do you need to know how to remove DEF from the diesel tank? Don’t worry. At Road Pro we care about your safety and comfort when repairing different truck breakdowns. That’s why we’re gonna share with you 5 steps that will help you eliminate the DEF in your diesel tank:
- Empty the diesel tank
Both the plastic tank and the metal tank must be completely emptied of fuel. The fuel should be discarded, as it is already contaminated with DEF. Take advantage of the opportunity to remove other impurities that may be occluding the lines.
- Aspires the Deposit Fund
You can rent the necessary equipment to do this task. With a special vacuum cleaner, remove all the dirt from the tank. There may be a mixture of sludge and diesel oil at the bottom of the tank. Stir this mixture very carefully to remove it completely.
- Disconnect the Tank from the System
It is necessary to disconnect the tank from the system and move it to a suitable place for cleaning. The tubes that remain in the air must be kept vertically to avoid spilling any liquid. In addition, it is advisable to cover the outlet to prevent unwanted residues from entering.
- Clean the Diesel Fuel Tank
It is necessary to have a device for this purpose that distributes the detergent under pressure through all the holes in the tank. This tool can be rented if you do not have it. The detergent used is special, you can buy it in spare parts stores. Avoid cleaning by hand because it can clog a duct.
- Locating and Connecting the Oil Tank
When you have successfully completed all the above steps, you can reset the fuel tank again. Finally, pour new diesel fuel into the tank.
This process can be done as long as you feel confident and secure. If you do not have the specialized tools, it is best to ask for help from a professional mechanic. In this way you avoid further damage.
How to Diagnose that the Diesel Fuel Tank is Contaminated with DEF?
You might be wondering: what does DEF in diesel fuel look like? This contamination is not common, nor is it easy to identify. When the inlet of DEF in the diesel tank occurs, it tends to be through carelessness. The most common signs of this failure are:
- Strange Noise
The engine starts to force start and run generating a strange noise coming from the engine.
- Gas odor
Since the engine is not designed to convert DEF liquid, it produces gas odors that the truck expels through the exhaust pipe.
- Weak Motor
The engine does not have enough power to run because the fuel is contaminated. It is normal for the driver to feel a lack of power when driving. This sensation can be accentuated on flat roads and slopes.
- Difficulty in Ignition
When the diesel tank has been contaminated with fuel for a long time, it is normal for the truck's starting to fail.
- Gasoil Appearance
Depending on the amount of DEF introduced into the tank, the color of the diesel will change. In general, diesel oil has a light yellowish color. When contaminated, the color of the diesel oil may become greener.
Recommendations To Prevent Getting DEF Fluid In The Diesel Tank
For this problem, there are preventive measures that help trucks operate in the best possible condition. Some of them are:
- Perform preventive maintenance: constant maintenance allows you to diagnose any problems with the diesel fuel in time. This way you extend the life of your truck and ensure that the engine works efficiently.
- Identify the diesel tank: the diesel tanks can be named or visually identified to avoid any confusion.
- Do not introduce liquids without knowledge: avoid introducing any liquid into the vehicle without the supervision or recommendation of a professional mechanic.
Where To Go To Remove DEF Fluid From Your Diesel Tank?
The consequences of having DEF fluid in your diesel tank can be very serious if not taken care of in a timely manner. Luckily, at RoadPro Assistance we offer you the best diesel engine cleaning and repair service in Atlanta.
Our team is also qualified to solve mechanical and electrical failures in the shortest time possible. Schedule your appointment through the following ways:
- Cell phones: call us at 470-750-2555.
- E-mail: write to us detailing the problem to info@roadproassistance.com.
- Instant messaging: through our contact page.
We serve 100 miles around Atlanta, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Plus, the quote is completely free. Visit our blog and discover more information to take care of your truck and extend the life of your engine.
Thank you for choosing us!