What is a common issue with older pintle nozzles?

Older pintle nozzles are known to tend to clog more easily due to their design, which often has smaller passages compared to modern alternatives. As fuel quality varies and particulates can accumulate, the restricted flow of these nozzles makes them susceptible to blocking, particularly with the use of lower quality or improperly filtered fuels. This can lead to decreased performance in fuel injection systems, impacting engine efficiency and power output. The tendency to clog can also lead to uneven fuel distribution, which is detrimental to engine operation.

While it is true that older technologies may also exhibit issues such as wear or leaks, the specific concern regarding clogging in pintle nozzles is primarily tied to their design and the nature of the fuels used, making it a particularly relevant issue for those using them in older engine configurations.