One important thing to remind your customers to do during planting prep is have them clean out dirt and other debris that has accumulated in their fuel tanks. Debris can be pumped into equipment where it will cause build-up that leads to less-than-optimal performance and eventually can require expensive repairs. To reduce the risk, best practices call for fully cleaning out fuel tanks annually and switching out filters quarterly.

Equally as important as getting rid of debris in tanks, is keeping water out of the fuel supply. Fuel contaminated with water can cause decreased acceleration, loss of horsepower and, in some cases, engine damage that spells costly downtime. Water in the fuel also allows for microbial growth to form inside tanks that can attack the fuel. Frosty springtime mornings also add to the risk with increased condensation.

Equipment today comes with water drain valves. As you help others prepare for a busy growing season, remind them to use those valves to remove water from machinery, in addition to removing water from storage tanks regularly.

There is one extra-easy way to minimize water in equipment during the season, when they’re done working at the end of the day, remind them to take time to fill up the fuel tank. Condensation happens overnight — especially in spring weather — and reducing airspace by filling up tanks every day will diminish that risk.

For more information about bulk fuel storage or to learn more about the importance of Cenex^® premium diesel fuels, please contact your local Cenex representative.