As we've researched the problems of air/vapor on engines, we have found many books and troubleshooting manuals concerned with the same problem. We've also discovered that some of the world's most well known leading manufacturers have service topics concerned with air/vapor and fuel delivery. You'll see that fuel supply woes and air/vapor are discussed heavily in relation to many problems. We've discovered the following companies diagnosing many problems and relating air/vapor to be a major culprit:
Huge corporations and schools from around the world recognize air/vapor in fuel as a problem. We've listed only some of the symptoms air/vapor has on engines to help you better understand how serious the affects can be. You will be able to see these topics discussed throughout our documentation. Other factors can create these same symptoms however; we do know that air/vapor will cause these symptoms:
In 1990 Caterpillar released a Special Instruction, 651-1250, stating: "Normally No. 2 Diesel Fuel contains about 10% airs in solution, although the air is not visible." Caterpillar also states: "When the amount of dissolved air exceeds 10%, fuel rate and power output are reduced." In slight contradiction to that statement, through our studies and feed back from customers, we've come to one of two conclusions; first, less than 10% dissolved air in fuel still affects the engines performance adversely and/or two, there is always at least 10% dissolved air in fuel. It may be a little of both.
January 2006, Caterpillar released another publication, SENR9620-02, discussing the damage caused by air/vapor in fuel to the EUI injectors. Note: These types of injectors are also found in the Ford Powerstroke Engines. The following are quotes from this publication: "If fuel supply pressure is too low, or if fuel flow is restricted due to plugged fuel filters, a vacuum bubble implodes and causes internal damage to the injector. The implosion actually blasts small amounts of material away over time and results in CAVITATION EROTION. This erosion can damage high-pressure sealing surfaces, causing excessive high-pressure fuel leakage during injection and significant loss of performance. The injector must then be replaced to restor
