Could I Use Home-Heating Oil As Fuel in My John Deere X748?

The John Deere X748 lawn tractor is used for mowing, tilling and a variety of other gardening tasks. Its 3-cylinder engine operates on diesel fuel. Diesel is a midrange distillate of crude petroleum, used for fueling automobiles, tractors, trucks and other vehicles. Home heating oil is similar to diesel #2 fuel, using a similar viscosity and ignition speed. As you may use use heating oil in an emergency, there are several issues to consider before putting it in the tractor’s tank.

Voiding Your Warranty

The guarantee on your John Deere X748 specifically excludes damage caused by”failure to follow operating instructions.” The operator’s manual specifies diesel fuel, not home heating oil. If a mechanic determines that motor damage was caused by using the wrong type of gas, your guarantee will be voided.

Similar Is Not the Exact Same

While diesel #2 and heating oil are very similar, diesel fuel contains additives meant to enhance the diesel fuel’s efficiency. Heating oil is not refined or intended to be used as vehicle fuel; when used on your tractor it may smoke or contain contaminants not usually seen in diesel fuel.

Viscosity in an Engine

Depending upon the grade, your home heating oil may be thicker than diesel fuel. The viscosity of the gas determines, in part, the ability of the gas to spark and flow through the gas lines. A heavier fuel may not flow properly and clog the fuel filter and lines, especially in cold weather. This can lead to costly repairs to your own boiler.

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