Just bought a (reliable POS) 1995 Mercedes C250 5 cylinder for dirt cheap because the fuel system was clogged with algae and debris, had to improvise a fuel tank with a bottle to bring the car home. Now i have to rid the tank of all the crap. I want to do it once and do it right as the car will be used for work purposes and i need it to be reliable. What do you suggest?
How to clean a diesel fuel tank full of algae/debris?
- Thread starter OM605
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Familiar with the problem from marine applications. Not experienced with autos, though. A biocide from a marine store is a starting point. Here's a thread with some Benz-heads who've done it successfully:
https://www.benzworld.org/threads/algae-in-the-fuel-tank.1457954/
Once you get the tank clean, you probably want to still add a lot of biocide and drive it that way a while to get the post-tank lines and equipment fully clean.
https://www.benzworld.org/threads/algae-in-the-fuel-tank.1457954/
Once you get the tank clean, you probably want to still add a lot of biocide and drive it that way a while to get the post-tank lines and equipment fully clean.
I steamed the tanks in my old Peterbilt that had been sitting decades.
Power Service makes an additive you can put in the tank. Obviously you want to drain what’s in there and install a new fuel filter. I’d at the PS to a fresh tank and change the filter after you drive it for a while.
Just my $0.02
Just my $0.02
Does the tank have a fuel pump opening large enough to get your arm in? If so, some detergent and towels with elbow grease followed by a good rinse and air dry.
CleanSump
Site Donor 2022
Here is how to get into the fuel tank and clean it. Small arms can get in, or a mop of sorts.
I've done it to a 1992 W124 after getting bad fuel.
Also replace the pre-filter and main fuel filter in the engine compartment. Buy extras. You may have to replace them more than once.
Then use a biocide in the first few tanks to kill everything in the fuel lines.
I've done it to a 1992 W124 after getting bad fuel.
Also replace the pre-filter and main fuel filter in the engine compartment. Buy extras. You may have to replace them more than once.
Then use a biocide in the first few tanks to kill everything in the fuel lines.
How much is a new tank? My same year Oldsmobile tank was pretty rusty inside and a new one was under $120.
Either replace it or call your local radiator shop. Most of them can boil tanks out. I’ve had several done.
Thanks. I am not going to drive the car for one or two weeks because i have rust to fix but i'm going to get some biocide product and pour it in the tank, let it sit for a while, drain, filter, pour it back in, drain until the fuel comes out clearer. When i feel safe about this i'll start driving the car while still using the product for a while and always cary a few extra pre-filters and filters.
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