Demulsifiers/Emulsifiers in Diesel Fuel Additives

[Joseph Fihn]

There is a big controversy regarding Demulsifiers (separating water from the diesel)vs. Emulsifiers (breaking down the water into small droplets and "safely" passing it through the fuel inj. system). GM (Duramax), Stanadyne etc. fiercely recommend demulsifiers whereas others suggest emulsifiers are the way to go. Both have good arguments!
I may be wrong about this but, it seems like the emulsifier-type additives are more highly concentrated and will treat more gallons of fuel per bottle. Since I'm a "cheapskate" that has an appeal, to me.
It has also been suggested that companies like GM & Stanadyne choose the demulsifier-type because, in the past, many of the emulsifiers used alcohol as a water dispersant and alcohol, apparently, is not a good thing for these fuel inj. systems.
Does anyone have "indisputable evidence" that can, once and for all, settle this controversy???
I've just started using Red Line Diesel Fuel Catalyst and have been thinking of switching to one of the Primrose products. Is this a good/bad idea?
By the way, I live in the desert (Phoenix,AZ) so water-in-fuel isn't a huge issue, out here. I've had diesels since 1981 and have never had water in my fuel. But, there's always a first time. I'm actually more interested in the lubricity ath additives provide.
Thank You for your suggestions.
Joe F.(Buffalo)

 

[Terry]

Joe, disclaimer, I am not a fuels expert. I do however see lots of oil analysis from folks using both types of products.

The argument is driven by marketing not science. One side is attempting to leverage its product over the other.

I see no problems with chemistries that adhere to either position.

Keep in mind that regardless of the components of a chemistry the final product is not equal to the individual constitients so for me the argument is mute.


The problem I do see is with certain chemistries harming the engine oil or bearing from being too agressive or overtreated.

I suggest using whatever brand you like but backing up that use with used oil analysis and MPG readings to guage effectiveness.

Yes I can tell how a fuel delivery system is working by oil analysis !

Terry

 

[Bio-T]

Joe,

I don't use either of the products you mentioned, but of the two, Primrose has the best overall satisfaction of the users on most diesel boards I frequent. But no matter what brand you choose, make sure it has no alcohol as you stated.

I solved the problem of water, I installed a primary in-line Racor water/fuel separator on my 95 diesel. It uses a 35 micron filter and the engine filter is 2 micron. On my 01, I am in the process of purchasing a Dahl 100 fuel/water separator with a 2 micron filter for the primary and the engine is 2 micron also. The use of the extra water fuel separator really takes a lot of the argument away on emulsification/demulsification for me.

My main concern on diesel fuel additives are lubricity and cleaning. Primrose is super and will serve you well. I use FP (Fuel Power) which is used at the rate of 1 ounce per 5 gallons of fuel. I do use oil analysis on both trucks and the FP appears to be doing an excellent job for me.