Draining Water from Fuel Tank

Water run through the system may damage the fuel injection system components. Damage to the fuel injection system will subsequently cause more expensive damage to the engine. A large accumulation of water in the bottom of the fuel tank will stop a diesel engine. Water should be drained during scheduled maintenance inspections to prevent breakdowns. Drain the water after the fuel tank and unit have remained idle for an hour.

  1. Place a container under the fuel tank to catch the draining water and fuel.

  2. Remove the drain plug from the bottom of the fuel tank.

    Note Some fuel tanks have a check valve in the drain plug fitting. Push the check valve open with a small screwdriver to drain the tank.
  3. Let the water and fuel drain into the container until no water is visible in the fuel draining from the tank.

    1. If the water and fuel do not drain freely, the vent may be plugged. If so, clean or replace the vent.

  4. Install the drain plug.