In every diesel vehicle, there is a scope for improvised performance. It is imperative that owners always ensure regular performance monitoring.
Enhancing the performance of diesel vehicles offers a robust challenge to owners; finding the right diesel technicians for improving the power of the diesel engine and selecting a good diesel performance shop in the Houston area is also a difficult decision.
For diesel vehicle owners being aware of the time and need for servicing at regular intervals can prove to be helpful in detecting mechanical problems in the early stages. Approaching a diesel mechanic for timely checkups makes it possible to protect the life of the vehicle for a longer duration.
Understanding various problems in diesel engines can make the owners analyze and monitor the vehicle’s conditions systematically.
Some of the challenges are as follows:
- Oxidized Oil – The trucks that infrequently operate between seasons are likely to face this problem known as oil oxidizing. The air enters the oil creating reactions that can hamper in proper lubrication. Though the oil is not dirty, it is necessary to change it after this period of nonactivity.
- Humidity Effects – Water can also pollute the lubricant in the engine and cause adverse reactions. If a truck is idle for an extended period of time in areas with high humidity, the excessive water can cause the engine to knock. Water reacts with additives and increases oxidation. It can also interfere with the lubrication mechanism that can damage the machine.
- Difficulty in Starting – If starting the engine is giving you a hard time or what we call a delayed start; it is a common problem many have run across with their diesel trucks. The engine having difficulty indicates a sign of a fuel delivery issue which is due to low compression. Some diesel engines make a little noise when you start them, which is normal and no cause for alarm. However, if the engine takes much effort to start then it is time for proper servicing.
- Loss of Engine Power – Another fuel related problem is the loss of power in the engine. You will notice issues with starting or pickup speeds while driving. This issue is due to some different causes starting with clogged fuel filters, excessive lubrication, and faulty fuel injectors.
- Weak Lead & Acid Storage Batteries – There’s often a substantial load on the lead-acid storage battery that is a useful element in the engine’s starter system. If the storage battery does not perform well, it can cause the compression ratio to fail which can, in turn, influence the starter system negatively. An EGR system failure or sticking turbo assembly can also affect power. The battery cranking voltage is very important as well, engines have heavy loads while cranking.
- Faulty Glow Plug – Diesel engines have a different mechanism to ignite the air-fuel mixture in their cylinders. They do not use the traditional spark plug method used in conventional gasoline engines. The diesel engines use glow plugs to ignite the mixtures with the utilization of a high-resistance heating element, similar to the ones applied in a stove coil or toaster. When the glow plug does not function properly, it makes it tough for the engine to start especially in cold weather.
- Dirty Fuel – As diesel has much more density than gasoline; it can become easily polluted. The four most common fuel pollutants include dilution, soot, water, and glycol. If any of these pollutants enter the fuel system, it can lead to significant engine disruption.
- Excess Compression Ratio – On average, diesel engines have a compression ratio of 20:1, on the other hand, the normal gas powered engines have an average ratio of 8:1. This high compression ratio makes the engine more robust, smooth, powerful and more efficient, but it can also be the cause of certain issues. For example, it can cause the engine to knock more frequently as a result of an undesirable burn pattern, and can also add considerably to fuel injection problems.
- Weight Viscosity Failure – Difficulty starting the engine is often the result of an incorrect weight viscosity in engine lubrication. Viscosity in diesel lubricants is crucial if you replace the oil incorrectly. It is ok to use single-weight engine oil during hot weather, but then it is necessary to switch back to multi-viscosity oil during the winter. However, the best option is to use multi-viscosity oil all year round to prevent any risk of damage to the engine.
- Noise – If there is considerable noise from a diesel engine, it is indicating something is wrong. When it comes to diesel engines, they are much louder as compared to others, but if you notice irregular noise and constant knocking in the engine, it could be a sign of trouble with the fuel injectors, which can reduce performance due to compression imbalance.
Diesel engine servicing at regular intervals can boost the performance. Make a maintenance schedule to bring the vehicle for system check up for the following:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months:
- Change oil and filter
- Lubricate chassis
- Check fluids
- Check tire pressure
- Check all belts and hoses
Every 10,000 miles or annually:
- Diagnostic check
- Change fuel filter every 10,000 miles or every 3rd oil change
- Change oil and filter
- Lubricate chassis
- Check air filter
- Check brakes and wheel bearings
- Check all belts and hoses
- Inspect cooling system hoses, check fluids for cleanliness and proper pH i.e.: steering fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluid
- Look over vehicle for leaks and other problems
- Rotate tires
You need to ensure that your diesel engine service team has the following credentials:
- Certified Diesel Technicians
- Prompt service
- Latest diagnostic equipments
There are companies which specialize in servicing medium and light duty trucks and can help you with the maintenance of your fleet. 5 reasons to do fleet maintenance are:
- Intake Air Filters Replaced – Monitor the oil consumption on your vehicle. If you notice that your vehicle is consuming too much diesel, then it is an indication that it needs repairs.
- Exhaust Leaks Repaired – At times the exhaust systems in vehicles develop leaks, and harmful carbon monoxide fumes make its way into the engines which are dangerous. Hence the exhaust systems should be repaired as soon as you notice any emissions.
- Keep the Vehicle in Regular Use – If your vehicle remains idle for longer periods, the cylinder block becomes scored. Once this happens, immediately attend to the engine.
- Examine Engines & Fuel Mechanisms for Leaks – before installing new parts or switching fuel types; the diesel tech team inspects the engine and fuel. Fix any diesel or oil leaks before going in for any changes or repairs.
- Good Quality Diesel – You have to be careful that your truck engine runs on the best available quality of diesel. Go for the diesel that is low on sulfur and available as ULSD in the market.
The diesel vehicles popularity and heavy usage are due to fuel efficiency. The maintenance charge is also affordable. The regular system check is a better way to protect the vehicle from significant damages. In choosing a performance shop for system check up, owners should check the accreditation, experience, and availability of the latest equipment for servicing of diesel vehicles.
For any diesel service or maintenance issue, please get in touch with us at +1 832-925-8508.
