Fuel System; Fuel Requirements - Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual

DIPLOMAT 2004

FUEL SYSTEM

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The fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel/water separator, secondary fuel filter, fuel transfer
pump, and fuel injectors are primary components of the fuel system. When the fuel
transfer pump is operating, fuel is drawn from the fuel tank through the fuel
supply hose to the primary water/separator. Most contaminants that may be present
in the fuel are removed at this point. The fuel then flows to the secondary filter
that removes any remaining contamination in the fuel down to five microns. From
the filter, the fuel flows to the injectors, where the ECM controls injection timing
and the amount of fuel delivered to the cylinder through the use of an electric
solenoid on the injector. Fuel that is not used is returned to the fuel tank.
The fuel passes through the fuel transfer pump, which is a fixed clearance gear
transfer pump, and through passages in the electronic control module (ECM) in
order to provide cooling for the electronics.
Prevention of problems associated with the fuel system and performance of the
vehicle begins with the quality and cleanliness of the fuel used. Fuel contaminated
with water, dirt, and even algae can quickly clog fuel filters and cause problems
with the fuel system.
Try to obtain fuel from large fueling stations, such as truck stops, that do a
large amount of business and the supply of fuel is replenished often.
Always keep the fuel tank full whenever possible, this helps prevent water
condensation from forming inside the fuel tank. Condensation can cause problems
in the fuel system not only with the filters, but can also eventually cause corrosion
of the fuel tank. Always store the motorhome with a full tank of fuel.

Fuel Requirements:

Low sulphur #2 diesel fuel or #1 and #2 commercial winter blend diesel fuels
are the most common commercially available and recommended for use. These
fuels should have a minimum cetane number of 40 and be of a low sulfur content
(less than 0.05%) in order to reduce engine wear and emissions. The engine
manufacturer recommends the use ASTM #2D fuel. The use of #2D diesel fuel
will result in optimum engine performance.
During cold weather operation, #1 grades or a blended fuel should be used. #1
grade fuel has a lower pour point and cloud point than #2D fuel, enabling them to
flow through the fuel system easier at lower temperatures.
WARNING: Do not mix gasohol with diesel fuel. This mixture can
cause an explosion.
NOTE: Due to the precise tolerances of diesel injection systems, it is
extremely important that fuel be kept clean and free of dirt or water.
Dirt or water in the system can cause severe damage to both the fuel
pump and the fuel injector. Fuel additives for lubricity are not
recommended. There are numerous diesel fuel additives to help remove
moisture from fuel, prevent microbe growth and to prevent freeze-up
during cold weather. Always consult your fuel supplier or engine
manufacturer service center for information on fuel additives should
they be necessary.
CHASSIS INFORMATION