Maybe a stupid question but can diesels run lean?

[ollieboy]

Reason I ask is because I was watching a youtube video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v36MCcRPRTc

And in one of the comments someone said diesels can't run lean.

I thought this isn't right but wasnt exactly sure so thought I would confirm or deny.

So, is it possible for a diesel to run lean?

[method]

I didnt think it was. Im sure the "leaner" the better it is. Just stick a turbo on and pump as much air in as you can?

[matt dunn]

Diesils dont really run lean.

on a lot of diesil there is no restriction on the airflow into the engine.

There is no throttle to restrict airflow. The engine speed is controlled by how much diesil is injected.

Very basic but,
Little bit of diesil means little bit of power and so low speed,
lots of diesil means lots of power and high speed.

Too much and you dont make more power, just more smoke.

I'm sure someone will come up with a better answer.

[Stu-]

The AFR of diesels is usually in the 17-21:1 range and there is a heap of debate on what is the premium. My Dad has a Irmsher Bighorn that we've put a front mount on, mucked around with the boost control and induction and done some other bits and pieces to. All we had to do was add more timing on the pump and slightly wind up the fueling adjuster and its goes way way better with the same AFR's as it was stock. They're stupidly easy to tune.

[fangsport]

if a diesil is over-run (excessive engine speed, without fueling), they can lean out. the Nissan furniture truck i used to drive, lunched the motor due to insufficient lubrication, due to insufficent fuel. remembering that fuel also acts as an upper cylinder lubricant in a diesil.
luckily , it happened before i got it!!