Pumping diesel fuel

[Bob_Trevithick]

<font color=blue>... So I suggest going to the local farmer when your tank is empty, or nearly so, and filling it. Pay him for 10 gallons regardless of how much you really get. You will save all the muss,...</font color=blue>

This idea sounds perfect. But, as always, I do have one more question. /w3tcompact/icons/blush.gif

I've been told that it's best, especially in the winter, to always leave the tractor with a full tank to avoid condensation problems in the cold. Your plan, while it sounds ideal, would mean that a lot of the time the tractor would be sitting out there with a half tank or less. Is this something that matters enough to worry about? I use Power Service, so maybe it's a moot point?

Thanks..

Bob

 

[gerard]

I don't get it - if you have a fuel oil tank why go through all the hassle of getting another 30 gal tank? This has been kicked around a lot on other threads re using heating oil. I pump right out of my fuel tank for the house and add power service or similar anti gel. Been doing it for 230 hours, supplier told me it's the exact same as off road diesel, just has the dye added. It's cheaper than on road diesel and the only difference is it has a higher sulfur content. Bad for the environment but actually better for the engine as the sulfur is a lubricant. Even though newer diesels CAN use low sulfur fuel there's no problem using a higher sulfur fuel. Chances are the diesel you would get from your farmer friend is the same product you put in your furnace. The pump you bought should fit the 2 inch bung hole in your fuel oil tank.

 

[beenthere]

Your concern is something to watch, but I don't worry about it. Temperature where I store mine doesn't fluctuate much and I watch for any water accumulation. Maybe I will get caught someday, but what will be will be. I put a limit on things running my life, especially my toys. Enjoy.

 

[Bob_Trevithick]

Hi Gerard,

<font color=blue>...I don't get it - if you have a fuel oil tank why go through all the hassle of getting another 30 gal tank? </font color=blue>

All I can say is that I called the one JD dealer I trust, and he said it isn't a good idea. I don't know squat.. but he said he'd hate to see me hurt my tractor by doing this. I read the other threads, but, why take a chance when your dealer says don't do it?

 

[beenthere]

Another thought, while fresh on my mind and only thought of it after I made the last post, is to visit your neighbor farmer when your tank is half full. I would be real surprised if this endeavor didn't make a great bond with your local farmer (and having one on your side is worth your weight in gold!). Estimate your gallons a little long, pay in cash(he will likely refuse!), and spend some valuable time visiting when you are there. I will bet you have a long time friend just waiting to happen there. Maybe worth a try.

 

[JJT]

I do the same thing as dieselguy1 and I often fill my 5 gallon jugs with 4 gallons, (less to heft and 4 gallons is a fillup when the needle hit the the halfway mark). No slopping fuel around and no overflows.

 

[Egon]

Bob:
You didn't give us all the information on your first post. Borrow your farmer freinds hose.
Egon

 

[Bob_Trevithick]

<font color=blue>...You didn't give us all the information on your first post. Borrow your farmer freinds hose.</font color=blue>

Yeah, you're right Egon. I think I left that as the last option, because I don't want to impose. But it does sound like this is the ideal option, provided he truly doesn't mind. The thing is, I'm new in the neighborhood, and I'm afraid they might be just being kind. I'll pick his brain a bit and make sure he truly doesn't mind.

Thanks for the advice, folks!

 

[cowboydoc]

If you do decide to use your own pump DON'T use garden hose. It will break down and you will get little rubber pieces in your fuel and it will plug your filter. Only use hose that is rated for diesel fuel.

 

[Jag]

BT, not real sure where you got your pump, but all companies that handles pumps around here (farm stores, co-op's and parts stores) carry the hose unit to mount onto the pump. Most stores have a complete set-up or you can part it together. When I got my pump I picked up the hose, filter housing and two filters for less than $20. By doing a little shopping I got the complete set-up for less that two of the stores wanted for just the pump and hose...