Diesel treatment and diesel heaters

[SusieC]

Lots of people suggesting adding treatment to diesel is best practice. Any issues with doing this when same tank is supplying Webasto heater?

[Bee]

Probably not but follow the instructions, its always tempting to bung in a bit extra for luck and you can end up with a tankful of what was at one time diesel but is know a witches brew of emulsified diesel and weird chemistry. I try to avoid any additives but if you leave the boat unattended over winter then it probably makes sense to think of an additive.

[Chewbacka]

My diesel was about 18 months old dosed with marine 16, no bug.  My understanding is that the cetane rating drops after 6 months or so, so I added some cetane booster, engine starts easily and so far no problems with either the Webasto or engine.  I would not use an emulsifier, as if the water is sucked from the bottom of the tank there is no need, which whilst messy is my preferred option.

 

Had I not added the stuff, would I have had problems???  So success or snake oil??  Either way, if I have to leave the boat unused for a long period I would do it again, less to sit at home brooding about.