Introduction
The AirDog 150 fuel system is a popular upgrade for diesel truck owners seeking improved fuel delivery and filtration performance. Based on insights from a forum discussion involving a professional installation, this article outlines key considerations for installing the AirDog 150 system. The discussion highlights custom installation strategies, including the use of 1/2 inch fuel lines, a rear-mounted draw straw, and a "big line kit" to maintain the stock filter housing. These installation choices were made to address common issues encountered with alternative systems, such as the FASS Fuel Systems, which can suffer from filtration challenges and pump reliability concerns due to mounting limitations. The goal of the installation described was to ensure a discreet and trouble-free setup, tailored to the specific needs of the vehicle.
Installation Overview and Key Components
The AirDog 150 system is designed to enhance fuel delivery by providing a pressurized fuel system, which helps maintain consistent fuel flow to the engine under various operating conditions. A critical part of the installation involves the configuration of the fuel lines and the positioning of the draw straw within the fuel tank. In the described installation, the technician opted for 1/2 inch fuel lines, which are larger in diameter than standard lines, to reduce fuel flow restrictions and improve overall system performance. This choice is particularly important in diesel applications, where fuel must be delivered under pressure to ensure reliable operation.
The draw straw is a component that extends into the fuel tank and is responsible for drawing fuel from the tank. In this case, the technician installed the draw straw at the rear of the fuel tank. This positioning helps to avoid potential issues such as fuel sloshing, which can occur during vehicle movement and may cause temporary fuel starvation if the draw straw is placed in an area where the fuel level fluctuates significantly. By securing the draw straw at the rear, the installation ensures a more stable and consistent fuel pickup, reducing the risk of performance issues.
In addition to the draw straw and fuel lines, the technician also implemented a "big line kit" to maintain the stock filter housing. This approach allows for the retention of the original equipment filter housing while integrating the larger fuel lines necessary for the AirDog 150 system. The use of a big line kit helps to maintain the integrity of the original fuel system design while accommodating the increased flow requirements of the upgraded system. This is an important consideration, as it avoids the need for extensive modifications to the vehicle's fuel system and helps to preserve factory components that are known for their reliability.
The installation also included the JIC (Joint Industry Council) fittings, which are commonly used in high-pressure fuel systems. These fittings provide a secure and leak-free connection between the various components of the fuel system, ensuring that the pressurized fuel is delivered safely and efficiently to the engine. The use of JIC fittings is a standard practice in diesel fuel system installations and is an important factor in ensuring the long-term reliability of the system.
Addressing Common Installation Challenges
The forum discussion highlights several challenges that can arise during the installation of fuel system upgrades, particularly with alternative systems such as FASS Fuel Systems. One of the key issues mentioned is the tendency for filters to become struck due to their positioning. In some installations, the filters are mounted in a location where they are susceptible to damage from road debris or other external factors. This can lead to premature failure of the filtration system, which in turn can compromise engine performance and longevity.
Another challenge mentioned is the issue of pump freezing. This problem is often related to the limited mounting locations available for the pump in certain vehicle configurations. If the pump is mounted in an area that is exposed to cold temperatures, it can become prone to freezing, especially in colder climates. This can result in reduced fuel flow and potential engine damage if the pump fails to operate correctly. The AirDog 150 installation described in the forum discussion appears to have been designed with these challenges in mind, with the custom mounting and component placement intended to mitigate these risks.
The technician responsible for the installation also expressed a preference for not selling FASS systems again, citing the aforementioned issues as significant drawbacks. This suggests that the AirDog 150 system was chosen as a more reliable alternative, based on the technician's experience and the specific needs of the vehicle. The decision to opt for the AirDog 150 system may also have been influenced by the desire to create a more discreet installation, as the system was described as being "tucked up out of the way" and unlikely to cause problems.
Custom Installation Strategies
The custom installation of the AirDog 150 system involved a combination of strategic component placement and thoughtful design choices to ensure optimal performance and reliability. One of the key strategies employed was the use of 1/2 inch fuel lines, which were selected to minimize flow restrictions and improve fuel delivery. This is particularly important in diesel engines, where fuel must be delivered under pressure to ensure proper combustion and engine performance. The larger diameter of the fuel lines helps to reduce turbulence and resistance within the system, allowing for a more consistent and efficient fuel flow.
The rear-mounted draw straw was another important aspect of the installation. By positioning the draw straw at the rear of the fuel tank, the technician was able to avoid potential issues related to fuel sloshing and inconsistent fuel pickup. This positioning helps to ensure that the fuel pump is always able to access a sufficient supply of fuel, even during vehicle movement or when operating at an incline. This is a critical consideration, as fuel starvation can lead to a range of performance issues, including reduced power output, increased emissions, and potential engine damage.
The decision to retain the stock filter housing was also a key part of the installation strategy. By using a big line kit, the technician was able to maintain the original filter housing while accommodating the larger fuel lines required by the AirDog 150 system. This approach helps to preserve the integrity of the original fuel system design while allowing for the necessary upgrades to improve performance. It also reduces the need for extensive modifications, which can be time-consuming and may introduce additional points of failure.
The use of JIC fittings was another important consideration in the installation process. These fittings are designed to provide a secure and leak-free connection between the various components of the fuel system. In high-pressure applications such as diesel engines, it is essential to ensure that all connections are properly sealed and secure to prevent fuel leaks, which can be a serious safety hazard. The use of JIC fittings helps to ensure that the fuel system is both safe and reliable, with a reduced risk of leaks or failures.
Performance and Reliability Considerations
The AirDog 150 system is designed to improve fuel delivery and filtration performance in diesel engines. By pressurizing the fuel system, the system helps to ensure that fuel is delivered consistently to the engine under a wide range of operating conditions. This is particularly important in diesel engines, where fuel must be delivered under high pressure to ensure proper combustion and engine performance. The improved fuel delivery provided by the AirDog 150 system can result in a number of performance benefits, including increased power output, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced emissions.
In addition to improving fuel delivery, the AirDog 150 system also includes a high-quality filtration system that helps to remove contaminants and particulate matter from the fuel. This is an important consideration, as fuel contamination can lead to a range of issues, including reduced engine performance, increased wear on engine components, and potential engine failure. By filtering out contaminants, the AirDog 150 system helps to protect the engine from damage and ensures that the fuel delivered to the engine is clean and free of debris.
The reliability of the AirDog 150 system is also an important consideration. The system is designed to be durable and long-lasting, with high-quality components that are built to withstand the demands of diesel engine operation. The use of 1/2 inch fuel lines, a rear-mounted draw straw, and a big line kit all contribute to the overall reliability of the system by reducing the risk of flow restrictions, fuel starvation, and other potential issues. The JIC fittings also play an important role in ensuring the system's reliability by providing secure and leak-free connections.
The installation described in the forum discussion appears to have been designed with reliability in mind, with the components and mounting locations chosen to minimize the risk of issues such as pump freezing or filter failure. This is an important consideration, as a reliable fuel system is essential for maintaining engine performance and ensuring the long-term operation of the vehicle. By addressing these potential issues during the installation process, the technician was able to create a system that is both effective and dependable.
Conclusion
The AirDog 150 fuel system offers a reliable and effective solution for diesel truck owners seeking to improve fuel delivery and filtration performance. The custom installation described in the forum discussion highlights key considerations such as the use of 1/2 inch fuel lines, a rear-mounted draw straw, and a big line kit to maintain the stock filter housing. These choices were made to address common installation challenges and ensure a discreet, trouble-free setup. The use of JIC fittings and strategic component placement further contribute to the system's reliability and performance. By prioritizing these factors, the installation helps to ensure that the vehicle's fuel system operates efficiently and safely, providing the benefits of improved fuel delivery and protection against contamination.