Hmmm, that funnel they sell on that page is a great idea, I might just have to get me one of them

 

Below is some 'common knowledge', nicely summarized.

The problem with emulsifiers is that you don't have control over how much water is being emulsified, and you can get to the point of increasing wear as has been documented in some cases with water in the fuel. Water emulsified fuel is being tested and used, some don't report problems, but some do, and Cummins doesn't honor waranty if it's being used.

Some problems with emulsifiers are that you don't have control over much water is being emulsifed, and the amount will vary with additive concentration, time, and tmeperature. Water in fuel when it's warm may fall out of suspension when it gets cold, anywhere in the fuel system as you've provided a means to get it there with an emulsifier.

http://www.exxon.com/USA-English/GFM..._Fuels_FAQ.asp

Diesel

What specification requirements of diesel fuel should concern me and why?

Cleanliness refers to the absence of water and particulate contamination. This characteristic is important because dirt and water can plug fuel filters in your engine and cause severe damage to your fuel injection system because of the close tolerances within fuel pumps and injectors. All diesel engine manufacturers equip their engines with fuel filters to protect the fuel delivery system. You should replace these filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Some manufacturers also provide filters with drain valves and recommend periodic draining of any water that may accumulate from condensation and careless handling in storage or vehicle tanks.


What are some fuel-handling causes of poor diesel engine performance?

Contamination of fuel by water and dirt entering the fuel as a result of careless fuel handling may cause poor diesel engine performance. Extreme care must be exercised. Fuel-tank caps, dispensing nozzles and hoses should be kept clean to eliminate potential sources of contamination. Regularly removing water from storage tanks, vehicle fuel tanks, and filter bowls is important. Dry storage systems will reduce fuel emulsion problems, injection system corrosion and microbial growth.

How does water get into diesel fuel and what problems can it cause?

Water gets into diesel fuel storage and vehicle tanks in several ways – by condensation of humid air, during transportation from refineries to service stations, by leakage through faulty fill pipes or vents and by careless handling. Water can cause injector nozzle and pump corrosion, microorganism growth and fuel filter plugging with materials resulting from the corrosion or microbial growth. Both vehicle and storage tanks should be checked frequently for water and drained or pumped out as necessary. In extreme cases, biocides may be required to control microorganism growth. In cold northern winters, ice formation in fuels containing water creates severe fuel line and filter plugging problems. Regularly removing the water is the most effective means of preventing this problem; however, small quantities of alcohol may be used on an emergency basis to prevent fuel line and filter freeze-ups.