A plugged or dirty filter can cause what effect in terms of combustion?

A plugged or dirty filter restricts the flow of fuel to the engine, which can lead to incomplete combustion. When the fuel doesn't flow properly due to filter blockage, the engine may not receive the correct amount of fuel required for optimal combustion. This insufficient fuel supply can result in fuel not burning completely, leading to unburned hydrocarbons being expelled through the exhaust system.

Incomplete burning of the fuel can cause several issues, such as reduced engine efficiency, poor performance, and increased emissions, since the unburned fuel is not contributing to the power output of the engine. Understanding this relationship is crucial for diesel technicians, as maintaining clean filters is a key part of ensuring effective combustion and overall engine health.