Many are switching because of the advantages of a diesel engine over gasoline. With a more efficient combustion system, improved torque and lower ownership costs for the vehicle’s lifetime, for example, diesel power plants are becoming more popular in the United States. Making the switch, however, does not come with Carte Blanche guarantees that everything will run without attention to maintenance.
We’ve compiled a list of common diesel truck repairs, symptoms and approaches to diesel truck maintenance.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Diesel Repairs?
Common issues do present themselves specific to diesel engines. The good news is that many of these issues are often centered on the difference in the oil and fuel in the vehicles, with some easily preventive measures to help avoid the need for repairs. Below are a few common issues to keep in mind for diesel repairs:
Fuel Contamination
Diesel engines are particularly sensitive to impurities in fuel and attract contaminants. Since diesel fuel is used for ignition and lubrication, it passes through more mechanical parts in the system, attracting rust and corrosion from the metal parts. Without properly reducing these contaminants, the risk of major repair is more prevalent. Water, dirt and other contaminants can clog fuel injectors, damage the fuel pump, and lead to poor engine performance or failure.
Faulty Fuel Injectors
Over time, fuel injectors can clog or leak, leading to improper fuel delivery, misfiring, rough idling, and reduced fuel efficiency. Clogged fuel injectors have various symptoms.
Jeremy Wamsley of Wamsley Performance (Cuero, TX) says he often sees a lot of injector failures, most often due to lack of maintenance, and/or poor quality in maintenance provided. “In the customer’s defense,” says Jeremy, “so many people are paying a quick lane lube facility that may or may not provide proper maintenance for a diesel engine.”
Clogged High-Pressure Pump Systems
High-pressure pump systems can become clogged and cause a significant drop in fuel pressure, poor engine performance, hard starts, and potential engine damage. An easy fix is adding a high-quality stiction eliminator.
“We see an exorbitant amount of high-pressure pump failures,” says Wamsley. “The only times we see the good ones come in successfully is when the customer has a rigorous maintenance schedule of replacing high-quality fuel filters and including a high-quality fuel additive plan. We include the Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Extreme for our customers at every oil change. Lucky for us, when these trucks that we treat come in for repeat maintenance, we already know they are in better condition. We can dose them when they are here, and they can keep up with the Everyday Diesel Treatment in between. Those are the success stories we see pass through.”
Obstructed Fuel Flow
Diesel engines are sometimes prone to difficulty starting. This is usually associated with obstructed fuel flow and a lack of compression to ignite the fuel.
Condensation
Climate can affect your diesel. Remember that water and oil do not mix well in a humid climate. Condensation in the oil may cause egine wear issues. If the motor has not been run in a while or if a diesel engine often sits idle, consider an oil change and adding some high-quality oil additives to remove unwanted residuals.
Air in the Diesel Fuel Line
Another need for an oil change is when air can also get into the oil. This issue could be due to a leak in the fuel system, a loose fuel cap or even running the fuel tank too low. Oxidation may occur when your vehicle is not used very often. Some common symptoms of air in your diesel fuel line include:
- Engine misfiring or stalling
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Reduced engine power
- Increased fuel consumption
- Visible bubbles in the fuel line.
Common Diesel Engine Maintenance Tips for DIYers
Going to a diesel mechanic can become costly. Fortunately, you can handle many diesel maintenance tasks on your own to reduce ownership expenses.
Regular Oil Changes
Clean oil is essential for lubricating moving parts, reducing friction and keeping the engine cool.
Importance of Clean Oil
Dirty oil can cause sludge buildup, increased wear and engine failure.
Recommended Oil Change Intervals
Most diesel experts recommend changing the oil in a diesel engine every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, depending on your driving habits. If you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in extreme conditions, you may need to change the oil more often. Adding oil additives may prolong this time. “I’m still a believer in 5000-mile oil changes. Oil changes are cheap insurance against engine repairs. But customers push it to 8500 and 9000 miles on the Hot Shot’s Secret motor oils.” says Wamsley.
How to Change Oil Yourself
Changing your own oil is a straightforward process:
- Start the engine to warm it and help the oil flow more easily.
- Remove the drain plug and collect the old oil.
- Install the new oil filter.
- Pour the recommended amount of new oil in and check the oil level.
Remember to dispose of the old oil properly!
When to See a Professional
Jeremy recommends that the diesel truck owner visit a high-quality repair shop for an oil sample review. “Many times, we show the owners their oil samples, and they are astonished to find it’s incredibly broken down, incredibly old, and it’s no longer a lubricant, but conversely, it’s abrasive. We often cut oil filters open to show customers how the filter works and why the correct oils are needed for success. We spend much time educating new diesel owners on the process, the added requirements, why the correct oil change is $150 instead of $50, and how to best avoid a catastrophic failure.” Wamsley says, “Everybody seems to win when the customer is more involved in their maintenance process.”
Air Filter Checks and Replacements
A clean air filter is key for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Importance of a Clean Air Filter
A dirty or clogged filter can reduce airflow to the engine, leading to decreased power and fuel economy.
When to Replace the Air Filter
Check your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or more often if you’re driving in dusty conditions. If the filter appears dirty or clogged, it’s time to replace it.
How to Replace the Air Filter
Replacing the air filter is quick and easy:
- Locate the air filter housing.
- Remove the old air filter.
- Install a new one.
- Check that the filter is seated properly before closing the housing.
Fuel Filter Checks and Replacements
The fuel filter is a critical part of a diesel engine, acting as a barrier that prevents contaminants from entering the fuel system.
Why the Fuel Filter Matters
A clean fuel filter ensures that your engine receives a steady flow of clean fuel, which is important for optimal performance and efficiency. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged with debris, restricting the fuel flow and leading to engine issues.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Fuel Filter
Knowing when to replace your fuel filter is key to maintaining your engine’s health. Common signs that your fuel filter may be clogged or nearing the end of its life include:
- Difficulty starting the engine
- Frequent stalling
- Check engine light
How to Replace the Fuel Filter
Replacing the fuel filter on your diesel engine can be done by following these steps:
- Relieve fuel system pressure: You can loosen the fuel cap to release any built-up pressure.
- Locate the fuel filter: The fuel filter is typically found along the fuel line, near the engine or fuel tank.
- Drain excess fuel: Place a drain pan or container under the fuel filter to catch any spills.
- Remove the old filter: Loosen the fittings on either side of the fuel filter. Some fuel may spill out as you remove it, which is normal.
- Install the new filter: Before you install the new filter, check the direction of the fuel flow indicated by an arrow on the filter body. This alignment ensures you install it correctly.
- Prime the fuel system: You’ll need to prime the fuel system to remove any air that enters during the process. Turn the ignition key to “on” without starting the engine to allow the fuel pump to push fuel into the system.
Remember to invest in high-quality fuel filters. Wamsley says, “When these personal trucks’ oil and fuel filters come in, they are literally $3 and $4 filters found on Amazon.” Wamsley claims that while the price may be low, so is the trust you can instill in it to protect a late-model diesel. We recommend Franz Oil Filters to do the job effectively.
The Importance of Oil Additives to Common Diesel Repairs
Oil additives to your diesel engine can enhance your engine’s health and performance by lubricating, cleaning and protecting components. They prevent sludge buildup, reduce wear and tear and improve the oil’s resistance to high temperatures. Oil additives can combat oxidation and corrosion, extending the life of your engine and reducing the risk of pricey repairs.
Quality oil additives make your engine run smoothly and efficiently and stay protected, even under the toughest conditions.
Because so many have neglected proper maintenance, Wamsley Performance has rewritten its warranty contracts to include the minimum requirement of the high-quality Green Diamond 15w40 semi-synthetic oil by Hot Shot Secrets. “As a proven product that won’t break down as easily,” says Jeremy, “this oil protects the engine even beyond a recommended change. With the HSS oil, we know our customers will not return with thin, broken down oil that is contaminated and dangerous to their engine.”
Like any mechanical system, wear and tear does eventually take its toll. But with some simple preventive attention, your diesel can prove to be a long and reliable choice for your automotive needs. With so many issues originating in the oil and the fuel flowing through a diesel engine, diesel problems can often be prevented and diesel performance can be improved with high-quality additives and fluids for everyday use. Jeremy says, “Today’s additives are such a simple step that can provide so much benefit to keeping your truck on the road.”
Contact Hot Shot’s Secret Today
Keep your diesel engine running at its best with Hot Shot’s Secret fuel and oil additives. Engineered to boost performance, improve fuel efficiency and extend the life of your engine, our products provide the extra protection your diesel needs. Shop online today or contact us with any queries.