Perkins 6.3544 Series, User Handbook Manual, Page: 49 / 56

User’s Handbook, TPD 1289E, Issue 2 43
5
6.3544 Series
Engine fluids 5
Fuel specification
To get the correct power and performance from your engine, use good quality fuel. The recommended fuel
specification for Perkins engines is indicated below:
Cetane number: indicates ignition performance. A fuel with a low cetane number can cause cold start
problems and affect combustion.
Viscosity: is the resistance to flow and engine performance can be affected if it is outside the limits.
Density: A lower density reduces engine power, a higher density increases engine power and exhaust smoke.
Sulphur: A high sulphur content (not normally found in Europe, North America or Australasia) can cause
engine wear. Where only high sulphur fuels are available, it is necessary to use a highly alkaline lubricating oil
in the engine or to renew the lubricating oil more frequently. Refer to the maintenance "Schedules" on page 26.
Distillation: This is an indication of the mixture of different hydrocarbons in the fuel. A high ratio of light-weight
hydrocarbons can affect the combustion characteristics.
Low temperature fuels
Special winter fuels may be available for engine operation at temperatures below 0 °C. These fuels have a
lower viscosity and also limit the wax formation in the fuel at low temperatures. If wax formation occurs, this
could stop the fuel flow through the filter.
Aviation kerosene fuels
These fuels can be used but they can affect engine performance. It is recommended that you consult the
Perkins Technical Service Department at Peterborough, especially if JP4 fuel is to be used. These fuels are
more flammable than diesel fuel and need careful storage and careful management.
If you need advice on adjustments to an engine setting or to the lubricating oil change periods which may be
necessary because of the standard of available fuel, consult your nearest Perkins distributor or the Perkins
Technical Service Department.
Cetane number
45 minimum (Industrial and agricultural use)
50 minimum (Vehicle use)
Viscosity 2.5/4.5 centistokes at 40 °C
Density 0,835/0,855 kg/litre
Sulphur 0.5 of mass, maximum
Distillation 85 at 350 °C
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