Diesel additive in DEF tank... Oops!!!

Mekanik · October 21, 2010

I had a truck yesterday where the customer put a bottle of diesel additive in the DEF tank. The MIL lamp was on and there was a DTC for low reductant pressure. I really didn't think it would be a big deal. I added a jug of DEF and removed the dosing module with the intention of testing the flow and purging the system.

The DEF tank was empty, so it must have used the entire diesel additive. I wasn’t able to get any flow out of the dosing module, because the pump wouldn't build any pressure.

I ended up replacing the tank as an assembly with the pump because it is actually cheaper than the pump by itself. Posted Image

At the end of the day, let’s just say that it was a very expensive mistake for the customer. Judging by the owner's manual that was still wrapped in cellophane, he wasn't very educated on this expensive piece of equipment that he was driving. Posted Image

cbriggs · October 21, 2010

Quote:

Judging by the owner's manual that was still wrapped in cellophane,

Dont you love that.

God forbid that they RTFM on their $70,000 truck. Couldnt possibly be anything in there they dont already know.

Keith Browning · October 21, 2010

They don't have to read the fucking manual... they have the Internet! Posted Image

cbriggs · October 22, 2010

But I always say, (sometimes to a customer) DON'T BELEIVE EVERYTHING YOU READ ON THE INTERNET. There is no way of knowing who the i-dot is that is typing it. (DTS being an obvious exception to this rule)

Mekanik · October 29, 2010

They don't have to read the fucking manual... they have the Internet!

I agree, but he was clearly uneducated. The guy at the parts store that sold him the diesel additive was just as uneducated, but I don't hold that against him because ultimately the customer should know what he should have to purchase and put in his truck.

Keith if one of your girls was sick, would you be certain that you were getting the right medicine at the drug store and make sure you give them the proper amount? I know I would.

Keith Browning · October 29, 2010

Yep. And the irony is that I use the Internet to look up medications that we take. Great for knowing what they are supposed to do, interactions and so forth. This is a great analogy as I hesitate before putting any medication in my body. No different than knowing what you are pouring into a vehicle.

mrbudge · October 30, 2010

Heard from many different sources- "I have been driving for years, why should I have to read the book?"

Or better yet-"I am a professional driver, I know how to work a truck."

Mike Jeanotte · November 1, 2010

I just had one same code same concern went through the same diagnosis. This tank was almost full and fluid looked milky. Cust denied adding anything that would be incorrect....Only had 3500miles on truck. Talked to hotline about it they said they also have had customers adding DEF fluid to the fuel tank and taking out the entire high pressure fuel system.

Mekanik · November 3, 2010

Yes, the DEF fluid was milky in color. I drained it into an empty DEF bottle and could see the fuel additive on top. Even after letting it sit for several days it was still milky. I was thinking it might completely seperate, but it didn't.

Brad Clayton · May 3, 2013

Got my first one today:

Posted Image

That's sulfur booster in there.

Matt Saunoras · May 4, 2013

I did one about a month ago, went in for the reductant pump TSB and bam! customer pay.

ended up needing a nozzle, pump and line assembly. nozzle was all gummed up. Cleaning the tank was a minor pain, I have citrus degreaser I use for cleaning 6.0 intakes that worked well enough

Keith Browning · July 25, 2013

The phone rang twice today. We have two more of these coming in on a hook. Both were run. One, was on the highway doing 65 MPH when the check engine light illuminated and the suddenly and quite abruptly stalled. Now it wont crank. Ut oh!

mchan68 · July 25, 2013

http://www.forddoctorsdts.com/topic/3810-let-the-dumbasses-start-rolling-in/?hl=%2Blet+%2Bthe+%2Bdumbasses

lmorris · July 25, 2013

Yes, the DEF fluid was milky in color. I drained it into an empty DEF bottle and could see the fuel additive on top. Even after letting it sit for several days it was still milky. I was thinking it might completely seperate, but it didn't.

I have had a few like that but never figured out what was in the tank until now. Thanks for the info. Customers almost always play dumb, especially fleet drivers. I think they get the bill if it proven to be their fault.

DieselD · July 26, 2013

I am waiting for the day when one of our guys contaminates the DEF or the fuel system on one of these. Its going to happen its just a matter of who and when. :ohnoes: