Priming your diesel engine is critical to keeping the engine, fuel lines, and filters free from air. Most of the latest models come with a primer, but older models may not have a primer with them. It is also possible that the primer pump may stop working. Instead of replacing the primer pump and spending a hefty amount of money on it, you can prime your diesel generator yourself.
Note: Priming of the diesel engine is ONLY done with diesel and not any other type of generator.
In this article, we will walk you through all the steps for priming your diesel generator.
Table of Contents
Necessary types of equipment
- Mechanic repair manual of the engine
- Wrench and screwdrivers
- Diesel (fresh)
- Fuel filters
- Priming Pump (any suction device with a tube for connection, you can also use an oil suction kit)
Steps to Follow to prime a diesel generator with Priming Pump
Step 1: Go through the repair manual to get familiar with your machine. A repair manual usually comes along with the generator; you can find it online easily.
Step 2: Now open the fuel supply valve. It will allow diesel to flow through the system and reach all the filters and other parts of the engine.
Step 3: The real action begins now. Start with the fuel filter, open the bleeding plug, and let all the air and diesel flow out from it. Now connect the suction machine and let the bubbles and diesel be sucked away. Please keep in mind that this is not a one-time thing. You will have to do it many times if you are using a manual suction machine. If it is electronic, the time taken will depend on its power and the amount of air in your generator.
Step 4: Repeat the same process for all the filters. Make sure that you do not leave any air behind. Look out for damaged filters and replace them now. Once you are done with this filter, mark it so that you do not get confused later on.
Step 5: Now add fresh diesel to the tank after working with all the filters. Start your generator. It may be a bit cranky initially, but it will run smoothly once all the air is out.
Priming a diesel generator without priming the pump
Priming a diesel generator is not an easy task. It may seem so, but it takes time, patience, and technical knowledge. Priming is important to ensure a longer engine life and proper output.