Regular use of 'complete fuel system' additive in diesel ?

[thomas45]

In view of the fact that my 07 2.7 diesel doesnt get much long run exercise I am wondering if there can be any detrimental affect in using the system cleaning additive on a regular basis like, say, every other fill up.?
Having already used it I found that it made a remarkable improvement in acceleration and probably MPG although I have not checked that out yet.
I will be grateful for any advice or opinion on that.

[J44EAG]

Additives such as injector cleaner, catalitic converter cleaner, fuel system cleaner, dry fuel conditioner, micro biotic diesel bug antibiotic treatments etc used as preventative maintenance, can do no harm at all.

Dosing every six months or so will help keep components clean and free of deposits, corrosion and diesel micro bug infestation.

I operate in the small craft leisure marine industry where engines and diesel fired heating systems frequently receive only spasmodic use and maintenance. I recommend that boat users regularly dose their fuel with these products for the same reasons to the above. On the plus side as far as cars are concerned is that they will see more frequent use than a boat and therefore fuel is likely to be in rather better condition than that found in marine storage situations.

Most diesel cars are now fitted with diesel particulate filters to control emissions. The downside is that when a signal is generated by the vehicle ECU for the regeneration process to begin, this entails running the car for often a long trip to enable the process to begin and complete. Problems arise with diesels used for short trips where regeneration of the DPF does not complete during the journey. The process entails over fueling to begin the process which can on short journeys cause excess fuel to seep past piston rings and dilute engine oil. Watch very closely for a rising oil level in an engine sump and increase your oil change regime to ensure oil is kept in peak condition. Failure to monitor the regeneration completion process can lead to big end and main bearing failure and the need for a new engine! Short journey use with a diesel car should be actively avoided. The 2.7 D Jaguar/Citroen/Peugeot is designed for high mileage long distance work.

There are several posts on this BB and the X350 BB which describe issues which affect diesel cars and ways to help keep a diesel in top condition. Discussion on additives and tips on running such vehicles will also be found therein. DPF filters, other component parts, usage cycles and the importance of additives for preventative maintenance all go hand in hand and to all intents and purposes form a complete subject with each subject being equally important.

Hope that helps.

Mike

[thomas45]

Thanks Mike, i find that to be valuable info.