7 Tips to Keep Your Diesel Engine Running in Tip-Top Shape
From powering 18-wheelers hauling tons of fresh produce to providing electricity to whole cities, diesel engines deliver impressive performance that is demanded day in and day out. If you rely on a diesel to safely get you and your equipment to your next job site, staying on top of routine maintenance is key.
In the following post, Automotive Training Center (ATC) collected seven tips that every diesel vehicle owner should know for getting the most reliable performance out of their engines for years to come.
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Never Miss an Oil Change
It’s one of the most important items to keep after in gasoline engines, and with all the heavy hauling and towing a diesel engine endures, oil changes are that much more important in diesel-powered vehicles. This added demand means diesel rides may need to adhere to more-frequent oil and filter changes as well, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles driven, depending on your driving needs.
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Keep Your Diesel Engine Cool
The diesel engine process relies on compressed hot air to initiate power production, and the engine environment itself operates under extreme, high-heat conditions. Having the appropriate amount of fresh, clean coolant works to reroute unnecessary heat away from the engine for peak performance. Keep a close eye on coolant in the system, as it has the tendency to turn acidic and can rot away parts.
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Use a Diesel Fuel Treatment
When you fuel up for the day or week, adding a diesel fuel treatment can keep your diesel’s injection system clean of any impurities in the fuel, enhancing the efficiency of your engine. These additives can also reduce the toxicity of emissions produced by the fuel when it’s emitted into the air.
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Change Fuel Filters on Schedule
In addition to staying on top of clean fuel coursing through your diesel engine, replacing your diesel engine’s fuel filters in a timely manner is equally as important. OEM parts are best for these replacements. Make sure that both the primary and secondary filters get replaced at the appropriate intervals.
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Check Air Filters Frequently
Earth, wind, and fire for your diesel engine is oil, fuel, and air—always keeping these elements in check will ensure that your engine is operating as efficiently as possible and producing maximum power. The air in that lineup corresponds to your diesel’s air filters. Take a peek at the condition of air filters often, as dusty roads and climates can cause them to dirty faster.
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Watch Your Gaskets
Embroiled right in the middle of the power production process, gaskets on a diesel engine are more prone to wear and damage. Check gaskets often and if you discover a leak, be sure to promptly replace the entire set at the same time.
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Minimize Idling
Where you can, and when you can, make all attempts to minimize idling your diesel engine. Steering clear of idling for long periods of time ensures that you’re not using excess fuel, disturbing the engine’s temperature balance, or wearing down its internal mechanics.
Are You Passionate About Diesel?
To keep your diesel engine running at its very best, be diligent and proactive about routine maintenance, paying extra attention to subtle cues from your ride.
If you enjoyed this guide, you may be interested in learning more ways to optimize your diesel’s performance. Test your truck’s emissions performance with ATC’s handy Diesel Emissions Checklist. Get your free copy today!
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