How to Maintain and Care for Your Transfer Tank
Transfer and auxiliary tanks are important for people in remote areas or who need extra fuel for equipment and gear. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep it functioning properly and to avoid issues.
Why Clean Your Transfer Tank?
Cleaning your fuel tank is crucial to maintaining the health of your fuel tank. Over time, sediments, contaminants and even water can accumulate inside the tank. This damages the fuel quality and can cause damage to the fuel tank & the equipment it feeds. While cleaning your tank, take some time to also inspect for physical damages.
How to Clean Your Transfer Tank:
1. Empty the Fuel:
The first thing you should do in the cleaning process is empty all fuel from your tank. Ensure that you dispose of any fuel removed properly, adhering to local regulations and guidelines.
2. Cleaning the Inside:
The next step is to clean the inside of the tank. Depending on the fuel you were using, it can be appropriate to use a cleaning solution. For most situations, a mixture of soapy water will suffice. Ensure you scrub the inside of your fuel transfer tank to remove any residues or contaminants.
3. Clean the Fuel System:
Alongside the inside of your fuel tank, cleaning the entire fuel system is key to keeping your transfer or auxiliary tank running smoothly. To ensure the entire fuel system is clean, consider using a fuel system cleaner like "Berryman B-12." These products are specifically designed to remove deposits and contaminants from the fuel lines and injectors, improving the overall performance of your equipment.
4. Addressing Rust Issues:
For steel transfer tanks, rust can be a concern. Rust particles can find their way into the fuel system, potentially causing significant damage to the engine. If you notice any rust in or around the fuel holes, use a brush or appropriate tool to remove it carefully.
5. Ensure the Tank is Completely Dry:
After cleaning, ensure that your tank is completely dry before refilling it. Any leftover water, cleaner or any non-fuels can cause fuel contamination. There are three main types of fuel contamination: water, organic contamination, and inorganic contamination.
Water contamination is the most common of the three, with organic contamination occurring when fuel breaks down and inorganic contamination occurring when sand, rust or other debris gets into the fuel. Avoiding all 3 types will lead to your fuel tank having a longer life.
Prevention Measures:
1. Regularly Replace Filters:
One of the best preventative measures is to replace fuel filters regularly. Clean fuel filters ensure that they trap contaminants and keep your fuel free from them before it reaches the engine.
2. Avoid Letting Fuel Sit:
Try to avoid letting fuel sit in the transfer tank for extended periods. Fresh fuel is less likely to accumulate contaminants and water, keeping your tank cleaner for longer.
3. Ensure Clean Fuel Sources:
Wherever possible, ensure that the fuel sources are clean and reputable. Using contaminated fuel can undo all the efforts put into cleaning and maintaining your transfer tank.
Consistency is Key
Regularly maintaining and cleaning your transfer tank is key to ensuring your equipment runs smoothly and efficiently. Neglecting proper care can lead to fuel contamination, decreased performance, and even potential damage to your equipment. If your transfer tank becomes excessively dirty or damaged, consider replacing it to avoid any further complications. For quality fuel tanks and accessories, contact us at Elite Truck.