Diesel Engine Issue?

[WinnieTheKhwai]

Today I noticed that the diesel engine in my truck sometimes seems to stutter/choke a little, as in a short revs-drop for no reason. Could happen in very low revs, but then when I tried revving higher in second, third and fourth gear as I was speeding up (so staying in a lower gear longer than I normally would) there was a very clearly noticable choke a couple times. After doing that a couple times it now seems better, but also at idle I notice very slight engine rev variations.

Any idea what that could be? Some fuel issue, perhaps fuel filter, or something else?

[TommyDee]

sounds like a little water or crud in your diesel is geting thru. its common here especially in older tanks. cheap solution is to have the fuel filter replaced and ask or look to see if there is water or dirt in there. if there is, get the tank flushed. or at least drain it. this is more common if you, like me, like to "run on fumes" in other words run the tank low every time before refilling. really going below an eigth of a tank is not good.

I also use a diesel additive once every 3 months to keep the injectors nice and clean

regards

t

[Topcroc]

Sure sounds like a filter change to me or as above, water in fuel.

[wandrinstar]

How old is it, whats the service record, no one can give you an answer without some background..:jap:

[seedy]

Buy a Racor fuel filter/water separator.

World standard.

Say goodbye to dirty fuel, clogged or blown injectors - all fuel-related problems.

[BSJ]

Water isn't the only enemy. Biotic matter can be produced by organisms which can grow in the diesel tank. And now we have green diesel! So the problem will get worse.

If your running high mileage use fuel conditioner monthly, otherwise 3 monthly as suggested.

[thaicbr]

Another good tip is.........Don't use PTT... crap fuel (good advertising, but crap fuel)

[WinnieTheKhwai]

Thanks everyone!!

Some more info:

* Yes, I often run until the tank almost empty. I'm on this thing to get 1000 kms out of a tank, so trying to achieve that means I'm running close to empty. I'll stop doing that.

* Yes, my last fill up was from PTT. I normally use Shell FuelSave.

* I'm pretty much due for a major service. I do the basics, changing oil like every 8000 kms or so, but the last major service was 43,000 kms ago. Presumably the fuel filter was changed then (that was the 100,000 kms service), but not sure. It's a ten year old truck.

What is this additive called that you are speaking of, and is it readily available at gas stations?

Thanks again, very helpful. Now I wonder if I should just go find a mechanic (or dealer) to get the tank drained and fuel filter changed (what's fuel filter in Thai language?) , or just fill up with some better fuel, like the higher end diesel that Shell sell, plus some additive..

[katabeachbum]

Thanks everyone!!

Some more info:

* Yes, I often run until the tank almost empty. I'm on this thing to get 1000 kms out of a tank, so trying to achieve that means I'm running close to empty. I'll stop doing that.

* Yes, my last fill up was from PTT. I normally use Shell FuelSave.

* I'm pretty much due for a major service. I do the basics, changing oil like every 8000 kms or so, but the last major service was 43,000 kms ago. Presumably the fuel filter was changed then (that was the 100,000 kms service), but not sure. It's a ten year old truck.

What is this additive called that you are speaking of, and is it readily available at gas stations?

Thanks again, very helpful. Now I wonder if I should just go find a mechanic (or dealer) to get the tank drained and fuel filter changed (what's fuel filter in Thai language?) , or just fill up with some better fuel, like the higher end diesel that Shell sell, plus some additive..

if you usually run you fuel tank empty and have 43k km on fuel filter, I am not in doubt. Filter clogged, and possibly bugs.

Filter needs to be drained every 10k km, to get rid of water. Water to injectors will cost.

Quick fix, new fuel filter and drain every month. If problem continues or comes back, drain tank and flush with diesel.New filter. Cheap fix so far.

I never see the red low-fuel light in my cars/trucks, and have never had a diesel engine problem in 20 years and +1million km. As goes for my boats/yachts past 2 decades

[WinnieTheKhwai]

Thank you; I just came back from my favorite Esso station where they changed the fuel filter (which I now know is 'Krong Chua Plerng' , or just Krong Nam Man Diesel') and also did an oil change, changed oil filter and cleaned the air filter and topped up some liquids here and there. Came to almost exactly 1000 baht and I was out the door 25 minutes after driving in.. good deal.

I then put in some more diesel, opting for better quality diesel this time (Shell V-Power).

One thing I could not find was the additive recommended earlier in this topic.. Where would I get that, and what is it called?

I guess when I'm up to 150,000 kms I'll have to go into the dealer and still do a big service (minus the fuel and oil filter change). What are typical intervals to change things like gear box oil, differential oil and so on?

Big Thanks!!

Thanks everyone!!

Some more info:

* Yes, I often run until the tank almost empty. I'm on this thing to get 1000 kms out of a tank, so trying to achieve that means I'm running close to empty. I'll stop doing that.

* Yes, my last fill up was from PTT. I normally use Shell FuelSave.

* I'm pretty much due for a major service. I do the basics, changing oil like every 8000 kms or so, but the last major service was 43,000 kms ago. Presumably the fuel filter was changed then (that was the 100,000 kms service), but not sure. It's a ten year old truck.

What is this additive called that you are speaking of, and is it readily available at gas stations?

Thanks again, very helpful. Now I wonder if I should just go find a mechanic (or dealer) to get the tank drained and fuel filter changed (what's fuel filter in Thai language?) , or just fill up with some better fuel, like the higher end diesel that Shell sell, plus some additive..

if you usually run you fuel tank empty and have 43k km on fuel filter, I am not in doubt. Filter clogged, and possibly bugs.

Filter needs to be drained every 10k km, to get rid of water. Water to injectors will cost.

Quick fix, new fuel filter and drain every month. If problem continues or comes back, drain tank and flush with diesel.New filter. Cheap fix so far.

I never see the red low-fuel light in my cars/trucks, and have never had a diesel engine problem in 20 years and +1million km. As goes for my boats/yachts past 2 decades

[katabeachbum]

Thank you; I just came back from my favorite Esso station where they changed the fuel filter (which I now know is 'Krong Chua Plerng' , or just Krong Nam Man Diesel') and also did an oil change, changed oil filter and cleaned the air filter and topped up some liquids here and there. Came to almost exactly 1000 baht and I was out the door 25 minutes after driving in.. good deal.

I then put in some more diesel, opting for better quality diesel this time (Shell V-Power).

One thing I could not find was the additive recommended earlier in this topic.. Where would I get that, and what is it called?

I guess when I'm up to 150,000 kms I'll have to go into the dealer and still do a big service (minus the fuel and oil filter change). What are typical intervals to change things like gear box oil, differential oil and so on?

Big Thanks!!

Thanks everyone!!

Some more info:

* Yes, I often run until the tank almost empty. I'm on this thing to get 1000 kms out of a tank, so trying to achieve that means I'm running close to empty. I'll stop doing that.

* Yes, my last fill up was from PTT. I normally use Shell FuelSave.

* I'm pretty much due for a major service. I do the basics, changing oil like every 8000 kms or so, but the last major service was 43,000 kms ago. Presumably the fuel filter was changed then (that was the 100,000 kms service), but not sure. It's a ten year old truck.

What is this additive called that you are speaking of, and is it readily available at gas stations?

Thanks again, very helpful. Now I wonder if I should just go find a mechanic (or dealer) to get the tank drained and fuel filter changed (what's fuel filter in Thai language?) , or just fill up with some better fuel, like the higher end diesel that Shell sell, plus some additive..

if you usually run you fuel tank empty and have 43k km on fuel filter, I am not in doubt. Filter clogged, and possibly bugs.

Filter needs to be drained every 10k km, to get rid of water. Water to injectors will cost.

Quick fix, new fuel filter and drain every month. If problem continues or comes back, drain tank and flush with diesel.New filter. Cheap fix so far.

I never see the red low-fuel light in my cars/trucks, and have never had a diesel engine problem in 20 years and +1million km. As goes for my boats/yachts past 2 decades

Typical in TH due to low labour costs and occasional slappy/forgotten work

engine oil and filter 5-10k km depending on vehicle age. Fuel filter always drained at every oil change

10k km service/check. belts, lube, etc

20k km air and fuel filters

40k km all fluids changed, except aircon and cooler liquid

do not assume brand of fuel has been your problem, only lack of maintance. I have not used any additives since 1989 when I was driving a benz 123/300d with +500k km on it, and winter additives only

good luck

[Kwasaki]

Do you use PTT as well as others I use them all the time they are some of the newest stations around here.

Clean toilets and not to without a mention 7-11.

Never had fuel problems diesel or petrol.

Seen many bad comments on these Ptt stations people don't like, are they old ones ?.

I can't see it as bad fuel.

Edited August 19, 2011 by Kwasaki

[thaicbr]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

Edited August 19, 2011 by thaicbr

[John 1]

I would suggest and I've used it with good results for over 2 years, add Castrol 2T oil at the ratio of 1. 200 so if you put 60ltrs of diesel in add 300ml of 2T. you can put in when you come home from filling as it mixes easily. Just do some research on the web. It won't blow black smoke as some people say who have never tested it.

[wandrinstar]

I would suggest and I've used it with good results for over 2 years, add Castrol 2T oil at the ratio of 1. 200 so if you put 60ltrs of diesel in add 300ml of 2T. you can put in when you come home from filling as it mixes easily. Just do some research on the web. It won't blow black smoke as some people say who have never tested it.

Good Results for what,? Motorcycle Smell. Just get them Serviced and don't run the tank low.Additives are a con, except for Cold Countries.Band Aid instead of protective medicne

[transam]

I would suggest and I've used it with good results for over 2 years, add Castrol 2T oil at the ratio of 1. 200 so if you put 60ltrs of diesel in add 300ml of 2T. you can put in when you come home from filling as it mixes easily. Just do some research on the web. It won't blow black smoke as some people say who have never tested it.

Good Results for what,? Motorcycle Smell. Just get them Serviced and don't run the tank low.Additives are a con, except for Cold Countries.Band Aid instead of protective medicine

Must agree.

Use Shell V-Power diesel, look at Shell's site and read the info on it.

[Kwasaki]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

Thanks for info, interesting, it wasn't just you that I have read and heard from on this on PTT.

We have small stations around here and some people say don't use this one and don't go to that one in town etc.

We have a Caltex near but it looks very old with old pumps and the Esso one in town is a bit run down and doesn't carry 91 gasohol.

So I don't have must choice.

Bangchak who dat ?

[katabeachbum]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

oh cam belts, dont get me started, used to own a fleet of Ford Courier (van based on Fiesta) 1,8 diesel. Cam belt scheduled for 60k km which for this fleet was approx one year. None lasted 60k km, valves, head and sometimes piston(s) needed replacing. Cost approx 180 k baht, half of the price of a new one. warranty, but always one Courier in the garage.

no difference to chain, when its broke, it is expensive fix

as for fuel quality, same refinery, so only transportation and storage/pumps makes quality different if same grade fuel, like EuroIII 650ppm sulphur

[wandrinstar]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

Thanks for info, interesting, it wasn't just you that I have read and heard from on this on PTT.

We have small stations around here and some people say don't use this one and don't go to that one in town etc.

We have a Caltex near but it looks very old with old pumps and the Esso one in town is a bit run down and doesn't carry 91 gasohol.

So I don't have must choice.

Bangchak who dat ?

Dats de Big Refinery dat caught fire a while back.Mainly Bkk Retaill outlets.

[wandrinstar]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

oh cam belts, dont get me started, used to own a fleet of Ford Courier (van based on Fiesta) 1,8 diesel. Cam belt scheduled for 60k km which for this fleet was approx one year. None lasted 60k km, valves, head and sometimes piston(s) needed replacing. Cost approx 180 k baht, half of the price of a new one. warranty, but always one Courier in the garage.

no difference to chain, when its broke, it is expensive fix

as for fuel quality, same refinery, so only transportation and storage/pumps makes quality different if same grade fuel, like EuroIII 650ppm sulphur

Exept a Chain gets nosey, a belt just goes 9 Times out of Ten. Ford looked kindly on early 18000 user after the waranty expired. Many droped valves into the Works and they played the white man for once.We had about 30 Escort SaloonRenters then.Only one popped but they recalled them all.:jap:

[John 1]

Ta, So whats good about Shell except there spiel on there web site says it does this and that so does Ptt web site.

[transam]

Ta, So whats good about Shell except there spiel on there web site says it does this and that so does Ptt web site.

Call it spiel if you like but l have used additives in the past and they do nothing. Two stroke oil in the mix will lubricate a little but could cause probs with other stuff. My Truck runs better, is quieter and no smoke. I perhaps am sensitive to motor stuff when l drive a ride and V-Power in a Toyota tweaked engine is the nuts.

[John 1]

Still no answer to question whats the difference between Shell V and Ptt blue I cant find there figures to compare.

[transam]

Still no answer to question whats the difference between Shell V and Ptt blue I cant find there figures to compare.

If you want whats on paper then Kata is your man to ask as your questioning my seat of the pants stuff.

[thaicbr]

My comments are based on a Nippon Denso test engineer.. they test fuel from around Thailand and PTT fuel comes out worst... And NO i do not have a link, this was in conversation.

Up to you if you believe it or not... I will stick with Esso or Bangchak.

Oh and OP if your truck uses a Cam belt don't forget that needs replacing as well (normally at about 160,000km)

oh cam belts, dont get me started, used to own a fleet of Ford Courier (van based on Fiesta) 1,8 diesel. Cam belt scheduled for 60k km which for this fleet was approx one year. None lasted 60k km, valves, head and sometimes piston(s) needed replacing. Cost approx 180 k baht, half of the price of a new one. warranty, but always one Courier in the garage.

no difference to chain, when its broke, it is expensive fix

as for fuel quality, same refinery, so only transportation and storage/pumps makes quality different if same grade fuel, like EuroIII 650ppm sulphur

Really?

wiki list. They are all owned or operated by PTT. Accept maybe the Exxon one and the Bangchak one (it says PTT but i think they are seperate) Star is a joint venture between Chevron and PTT. so definitely more than one.

Thailand

• Thai Oil Refinery (Thai Oil Company of PTT), 220,000 bbl/d (35,000 m³/d)
• IRPC Refinery (IRPC PLC of PTT), 215,000 bbl/d (34,200 m³/d)
• Rayong Refinery (Rayong Refinery PLC of PTT), 145,000 bbl/d (23,100 m³/d)
• SPRC Refinery (Star Petroleum Refining Company of PTT), 150,000 bbl/d (24,000 m³/d)
• Bangchak Refinery (Bangchak Petroleum of PTT), 120,000 bbl/d (19,000 m³/d)
• Sri Racha Refinery (ExxonMobil), 170,000 bbl/d (27,000 m³/d)
• Rayong Purifier Refinery (Rayong Purifier Company), 17,000 bbl/d (2,700 m³/d

[BSJ]

I would suggest and I've used it with good results for over 2 years, add Castrol 2T oil at the ratio of 1. 200 so if you put 60ltrs of diesel in add 300ml of 2T. you can put in when you come home from filling as it mixes easily. Just do some research on the web. It won't blow black smoke as some people say who have never tested it.

Good Results for what,? Motorcycle Smell. Just get them Serviced and don't run the tank low.Additives are a con, except for Cold Countries.Band Aid instead of protective medicne

"Additives are a con" Care to back up that claim with some cold hard facts?

[wandrinstar]

I would suggest and I've used it with good results for over 2 years, add Castrol 2T oil at the ratio of 1. 200 so if you put 60ltrs of diesel in add 300ml of 2T. you can put in when you come home from filling as it mixes easily. Just do some research on the web. It won't blow black smoke as some people say who have never tested it.

Good Results for what,? Motorcycle Smell. Just get them Serviced and don't run the tank low.Additives are a con, except for Cold Countries.Band Aid instead of protective medicne

"Additives are a con" Care to back up that claim with some cold hard facts?.

Yes, but you show me first hard facts why they improve a well maintained , or fresh from the Factory Product.

[John 1]

Read through attached and comment or get out of your chair and test.

viewtopic.htm

[wandrinstar]

Read through attached and comment or get out of your chair and test.

Get a Life Man. thats all akin to putting Sawdust in Oil to stop bearing clatter. Believe that logic ,and regular serice seems pointless. Just add Solvent, and Mollybendium Disulfide

, and burn your service book..Cheap Charlies Dreams.

[katabeachbum]

Ta, So whats good about Shell except there spiel on there web site says it does this and that so does Ptt web site.

Call it spiel if you like but l have used additives in the past and they do nothing. Two stroke oil in the mix will lubricate a little but could cause probs with other stuff. My Truck runs better, is quieter and no smoke. I perhaps am sensitive to motor stuff when l drive a ride and V-Power in a Toyota tweaked engine is the nuts.

Shell VPower diesel is a Euro IV spec diesel, containing max 50 ppm Sulphur. Ptt and others Euro III contain 650ppm Sulphur. In VPower sulphur has been replaced with synthetic lubricants lubing equally to the lacking Sulphur but not sooting engine.

For a highpower commonraildiesel, VPower provides less internal soot keeping oil cleaner and less pollution in exhaust. Some can gain less fuel consumption, most gain more power

For an older non commonrail I see no gain in using it, as it costs more

My experience, the effect of Vpower comes after using 3 full tanks of it

2T oil in dieselfuel has an lubricating effect, but also soots engine and exhaust. A sooted engine will not perform on par with a clean engine, due to reduced flow. Why overlube an already sufficiently lubed combustion chamber is beyond me. And if combustion chamber needed more lube, I would go synthetic, not 2stroke oil, as synthetic does not have the disadvantage of sooting

anyone with a diesel particle exhaust filter using 2T will have major expensive problems within 3k km. as will adding Sulphur to fuel