Should I Test My Diesel Fuel To Find A Sludge Problem?

By: Ray Bohacz

Successful Farming Engine Man Ray Bohacz has engine grease and field dirt under his fingernails from a life spent repairing vehicles and running a farm. When he’s not busy in the shop, he’s working on maintenance articles and videos for Successful Farming magazine and answering questions from readers. The following is a letter the Engine Man received from Sam Hubbard:

I recently sent you a e-mail about our problem with some sludge buildup in our fuel filters – we could not figure out where it was coming from. You replied that we should have the oil tested. We agree, but we don’t know where to send a sample. Could you send us an address or a company name?

Response from the Engine Man:
Polaris Labs (polarislabs.com or 877/808-3750) is an excellent facility to check your fuel and determine what you are actually finding in the tank. It is more costly than I first implied when I made the suggestion to you. The basic test kit, which I believe is all you need and was confirmed by Polaris when I spoke with them on your behalf, is just under $350. The advanced test is just shy of double that.