Thread: Algae Fuel Contamination

Anyone used this: DT5 Plus Diesel Treatment (1L)

Maybe you would like to read this: Diesel Fuel “Algae” Causes & Effects

Interesting. I was always taught it was microbial growth. We get this black stuff in jet fuel tanks in aircraft when they are left unused for long periods. Apart from cycling the fuel by using it, we take a hit of fuel system icing inhibitor occasionally. I can only assume it helps separate the water or dissolve the solids (or it's an old wives tale!)

Interesting read LR1979. Got the truck back today. With limited mechanical knowledge – seems I can't learn hard or fast enough – I had to leave it to the blokes at Graeme Cooper. Took the best part of two days to clear the sludge from the tank and hoses – reckon there was over half a litre of the stuff all in all.

As for what it is, they still referred to it as algae. Unfortunately didn't get any pictures, and short of a scientific material analysis I can't accurately say whether it is algal/microbial and/or paraffins and asphaltenes. I have to inspect the filter in 1000kms to check for signs. Will post pics.

At any rate, not a cheap procedure and one I'll be wrapping my head around should I ever need to deal with this problem again.

If it's black and fluffy it's most likely a fungus
Had it in boat diesel tank, and flogged the filters after a few hours It can only grow if there is water in the fuel Used a fungicide called Fireprep 1000

If it's black and gluggy it's most likely a fungus
Had it in boat diesel tank, and clogged the filters after a few hours It can only grow if there is water in the fuel Used a fungicide called Fireprep 1000

Thanks Grappler. Any ideas on preventing water in the fuel tank? I'm about to move the pesky breather in the Puma from up in the wheel arch to the engine bay with a breather kit. Have seen a few auxiliary water trap systems, but am yet to research in detail.