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Vehicle Maintenance

Stiction in the Modern Diesel Engine
April 1, 2026

Stiction is static friction caused by sticky oil deposits that prevent engine components from moving freely. When oil oxidizes under heat, it forms varnish that bonds to metal surfaces, increasing resistance to movement. This sticky friction in engines prevents components from operating smoothly. Modern high-pressure diesel engines are increasingly vulnerable due to tighter tolerances and higher operating pressures. What

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an RV driving through the snow
March 31, 2026

De-winterizing your RV or camper is essential before hitting the road after winter storage. Properly de-winterizing ensures your water, engine and living systems function safely, prevents damage and helps you avoid costly repairs. This step-by-step guide teaches you how to de-winterize your RV for a smooth and safe spring and summer season. Why You Need

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What's in your turbo? Diesel turbocharger maintenance
March 16, 2026

Your turbocharger plays a major role in how your diesel runs — airflow in, exhaust out, power made. Good maintenance habits can help your turbocharger deliver consistent boost over the long haul and may reduce the risk of expensive, avoidable problems. Discover some of the best diesel turbo care tips and learn how to perform

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Tips to Avoid Winter Fuel Economy Slumps
December 16, 2025

Winter and cold weather can really bring you down. Not only does it get dark earlier and become too cold out to do much, but your vehicle’s fuel economy just gets worse and worse. There are a lot of reasons why your fuel economy suffers in the winter, by some estimates fuel economy goes down

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November 1, 2025

Diesel engines create power with fuel and high-pressure air. Special to Ford Powerstroke diesel engines, the injection pressure regulator (IPR) valve maintains a working oil pressure of 3,000 to 4,000 PSI in the high-pressure oil pump (HPOP).  The IPR valve works with other crucial components of the engine’s hydraulic electronic unit injection (HEUI) system. It

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Are all Synthetic oil groups the same?
October 25, 2025

When you look across the shelf at all of the different types of motor oils, it can be a little overwhelming trying to understand the differences from one to another. And believe it or not, there are actually many differences between them. However, all motor oils start out as one of five different types of

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Clogged DPF causes and symptoms
December 23, 2024

A DPF (diesel particulate filter) is a specially designed filter that is designed to capture soot from your vehicle’s exhaust system. The reason behind the need for DPFs is to meet the emission standards from the EPA. A blocked DPF filter can cause problems, which is why you need to make sure that it is clean. If

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The Ultimate Gearhead Gift Guide
December 16, 2024

’Tis the season for diesel- and gasoline-themed gifts for all of the gearheads in your life. Hot Shot’s Secret is the one-stop destination for all of your holiday gift-buying needs. We have products and bundles that are sure to excite all of the gun lovers and vehicle enthusiasts in your circle. Keep reading for lots of

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December 16, 2024

What To Do If Your Diesel Fuel Gels If you drive a diesel vehicle, you must consider diesel fuel gelling as part of your preventive maintenance routine. Diesel fuel gelling occurs when the fuel thickens or ‘gels’ in cold temperatures, which can hinder the engine’s operations and significantly impact your vehicle’s ability to start. It is

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