Tractor Repair: diesel engine stalls, massey fergusen, tap filter

Question
I have a massey fergusen 383 diesel that stalls for no reason.  I can run it fine but if it runs for more than an hour it will stall.  I crack the injectors and it will start but has bubbles in it.  If I keep it above 3/4 tank of fuel it's ok.  I replace fuel lifter pump but didn't work.  I can see no leaks or fuel coming out in the system.  It is sporadic and only happens when the tank is low or I run it for a while.  The injector pump seems fine and it runs with no problem but then just quits.  Can't figure it out!!

Answer
Rodney Gould Category: Tractor Repair Private: No
 Subject: diesel engine stalls Question: I have a massey fergusen 383 diesel that stalls for no reason.  I can run it fine but if it runs for more than an hour it will stall.  I crack the injectors and it will start but has bubbles in it.  If I keep it above 3/4 tank of fuel it's ok.  I replace fuel lifter pump but didn't work.  I can see no leaks or fuel coming out in the system.  It is sporadic and only happens when the tank is low or I run it for a while.  The injector pump seems fine and it runs with no problem but then just quits.  Can't figure it out!!

HI Rodney.
Yes I would have gone down the same path and suspected an air leak in the system!
Just as a side issue how’s the temperature not getting to hot is she?
Suppose you have checked all the vitals oil /water etc?
Have you moved any of the fuel pipes at all before this problem started? And re directed them, I wondered if any of the fuel pipes are in a position were they may get over heated?
A problem that I had ounce on my vintage 35 was sludge in the fuel tank this was caused by condensation forming in the upper part of the tank this in turn creates sludge like substance that blocks the fuel tap on the tank! This also stopped the tractor after running for a while!
Drain the tank into a clean container and look for this sludge in the fuel and round the tap filter on the inside.
I cured the problem by adding a solution of –FUEL DOCTOR- THIS IS MADE IN THE US and it has cured my problem! Believe it or not this sludge is a living organism but can be cued by following the instruction on the container. Give it a try.
Let me know how you get on.
Martin