941 Caterpillar, Fuel Problems????

After running the machine for about 45 minutes to an hour, the engine starts to sputter and eventually dies out. If I leave the machine for a day or so, It will start up again an run again for about the same amount of time. I don't work on it every day, so it's hard to say how consistent the problem is.

I changed the fuel filter and replace the fuel line. After removing the fuel line from the engine, it seemed to not be flowing very well. I did not have a compressor or anyting to try blowing out the clog, so I just replaced the line and the filter. I also cleaned the smaller wire filter that is in the bulb shape metal container underneath the feul system. I figured that this must be the problem, however; after working about an hour, the problem started again.

Does this sound like a fuel pump problem or something more serious?

Any reply's to this message would be greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,
Frank

I will check it in the morning. I was really worried that it may need a new fuel pump.

This has to be the most useful website on the internet.

I do remember hearing air entering the tank similar to a soft drink opening. This would explain why very little fuel was coming through the old fuel line when I removed it from the fuel pump assembly. I replaced the line thinking that it was just clogged up.

Thank you for the information. I will check the cap in the morning.

Later, Frank

I already drained the fuel tank, replaced the fuel line, and changed all of the filters.

A couple of other reply's suggested that I check the breather in the fuel filler cap to see if it is clogged. This makes a lot of sense. When taking the fuel cap off, I have been hearing a pressure release similar to opening a soft drink. I am hoping that it is something simple like that. The loader is about 20 miles from where I am currently at or I would check it right now. I guess I'll just have to wait until morning.

Thanks for your help.

Anyway, I guess it's normal for some sediment/rust to settle at the bottom of the tank in an old crawler that may have been setting for a while, especially with an unfilled tank (so that rust forms inside). Maybe like jim said, some of that crud has gotten into your prefilter? Although the plugged tank vent sounds very easy to check on, so I would do that first.

Good luck...