Add-on fuel filters

[WHargraves]

The hottest threads on The D Page (the general's machines) concerns add-on fuel filters. The DMaxes have enough miles on them now(70K+) that they are replacing a lot of injectors. The problem seems to be 2-5 micron particles which are eroding the insides of the injectors. These contaminants are being blasted through the injectors by the super high pressures of the common rail injector system. These same contaminants were not a major problem with the older, lower pressure systems. F##d seems to be experiencing problems with the injectors in their new diesel also.

NOW, HERE ARE MY QUESTIONS: Since Cummins is now using the common rail injector system, is this a ticking time bomb in an otherwise bullet proof motor? Is Cummins addressing this potential problem?

I am looking to buy a new '04 3500 and this is a real concern.

 

[Summit]

time will tell?

i feel the injectors are going to be FAR!!! more reliable than the P. O. S. !! vp-44. i went through 4 vp-44's on my 01 and 3 lift pumps, cam sensor, speed sensor and a block!



replacing an injector or two isn't going to bother me.

 

[BillGotthelf]

I don't believe that the "low pressure" old style system in the pre-2003 trucks has much difference in pressure than the new ones. Difference is new has fuel rail to all injectors-old style has pressure to each individual injector.

 

[rbattelle]

It's well known that common-rail type injectors are far more sensitive to wear and deposits at the needle seat than jerk-pump systems. To make a long explaination short, changes to the needle and seat geometry change the spray pattern which directly effects combustion.



I hope we don't have trouble down the road, but to be perfectly honest, I'm not optimistic. I, for one, will be changing my fuel filter at every oil change.