LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Ford >> 1990 >> Cutaway 7.3 M >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Engine Controls - Tests W/O Codes - Diesel >> Engine Performance Diagnostics >> Check Fuel For Cetane Value
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

Check Fuel For Cetane Value

  1. Using Cetane Tester included in Dynamic Timing Meter (078-00200), check cetane value of fuel sample taken in previous test. Temperature of fuel must be 75-95°F (24-36°C) to obtain accurate results. Fill hydrometer container with fuel until hydrometer floats. Spin container gently to break surface tension of fuel. Read number at lowest point of fuel level in hydrometer. Compare readings to those in the DIESEL FUEL CETANE VALUES  table to determine cetane value.
    DIESEL FUEL CETANE VALUES

    Hydrometer Reading Cetane Value
    .837 50
    .846 47
    .849 46
    .858 43
    .862 42
    .876 38
  2. Cetane value should be a minimum of 40. If cetane value is greater than 40, go to next test. If cetane value is less than 40, inform owner to change fuel source. DO NOT  replace fuel injection pump because of low cetane problem.