Old diesel fuel shelf life?

Hi all,
A fellow on another forum has asked if 3 or 4 year old diesel fuel (in a yellow jerry-can) can be used in his (newer) diesel pickup truck without clogging injectors (for example), or if it should be relegated to fire-starting duties.

If it was sealed up properly and was good to start with it should still be good now. If there was any doubt as to the quality of the fuel when stored then use it for other uses.

Thanks for the quick reply.

if it is still clear, good

if black/brown, it's got algae in it, you'll plug your filters up

If it's red or pink that's dyed ag fuel. Don't use that either.

Do you or your friend heat your home with oil?

Seems like a good place for it.

I would use that for weed killing, fire starting, parts washing, etc. Diesel if properly stored can last a long time, but those plastic cans often are not perfectly sealed and moisture can find its way in. If it *looks* OK, it is probably fine, but it may not be worth the few bucks of "saving" to use it in something other than an older less fragile engine.

And was there any fuel stabilizer added to it before storage?

kiwibru said:

And was there any fuel stabilizer added to it before storage?

Click to expand...

Diesel, unlike gasoline doesn't need them.
Keep it dry, dark, and sealed, life is pretty much forever.
Modern unleaded gas lasts 30 days or so....that's why people add additives.
Unlsealed, condensation can occur...due to natrual changes in temperature and air movement.
If you start with dry fuel...keep it sealed, 99% if issues are solved.
Moisture lets bacteria and algee grow....both issues.

If I didn't have my tractors and 7.3 Ford, I'd use it as heating oil, solvent, or fire starter myself. I've seen some pretty nasty algae infestations.

Just use it in small amounts and you won't have to worry.