ANSWERS: 1
  • <h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Kerosene Will Run in a Diesel Generator

    Oil is refined into many different products, ranging from gasoline and solvents to fuel oils, such as home heating oil, diesel and kerosene. Number 2 fuel oil, kerosene and diesel have very similar burning properties. This means that kerosene will run well in a diesel generator.

    On the Other: Kerosene Can Cause Damage

    Although kerosene, diesel and Number 2 fuel oil have very similar burning properties, they have different viscosity. Viscosity not only refers to the thickness of the liquid but to how it lubricates. Number 2 fuel oil and diesel are more viscous than kerosene. According to Johnny Smith, owner of Johnny's Small Engine Repair in Moira, New York, you can run kerosene in a diesel generator, but it does not lubricate as well as diesel fuel and tends to break down the injector pump.

    Bottom Line

    If you want to use kerosene to run your diesel generator, add 1 qt. of lubricating oil with each fill-up, and this will take care of the injector pump problem. Number 2 fuel oil is more viscous than kerosene and will run in your diesel generator for long periods of time with no ill effects. Just remember that the generator is designed to run on diesel fuel; if it is available, it is the best option.

    Source:

    Flash Off-Road: About Diesel Fuel

    Johnny Smith, owner of Johnny's Small Engine Repair, Moira, NY

    More Information:

    G&S Mechanical Services: Fuel 101 by Richmond Laney--The difference beween Diesel Fuel and kerosene

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