Engine and Transmission Tech

Hey guys, in addition to my passion for British cars, I am also passionate about diesel engines. Here are some tips for those who own semi trucks.

- Do not drive with an empty fuel tank

One of the most frequent mistakes made by drivers in general is to drive with an empty fuel tank. However, in the case of diesel engines, the components tend to get dirty with grease, dirt and other contaminants that adhere to the bottom of the tank and, when the tank is empty, it is easier for them to reach the fuel system and cause serious damage resulting in costly repairs, since the fuel pump can suck sediments from the tank and send them to the engine.

In addition, driving with the fuel level above 25% of its capacity helps to take care of the engine and make diesel consumption more efficient, keep the fuel pump in good condition, avoid blockage of the fuel lines and prevent risky situations when running out of fuel.

- Keep an eye on engine revolutions per minute

Remember that the diesel engine is very different from the gasoline engine, and the revolutions per minute (RPM) are of great importance in keeping the engine in good condition. Therefore, when accelerating from zero it is important to do so in first gear and not to drive below two thousand RPM as this causes overstressing of the engine, as well as the generation of excess carbon through the EGR valve. In the long run, this reduces the life of the engine.

If you have a fleet of vehicles, and drivers who operate them, you should train them and remind them of the importance of driving at an appropriate speed to avoid damage to the diesel engine.

- Replace filters

Both the fuel filter and the oil filter are essential to keep the diesel and lubricant in optimal conditions, so that contaminants, ashes or metal residues do not enter the engine. In the case of the oil filter, it is changed together with the oil to avoid contamination of the new lubricant; on the other hand, the fuel filter must be cleaned frequently and replaced every 60,000 kilometers at the most.

- Be careful when refueling diesel

On many occasions, when we go to refuel we can see that they are refilling the tanks at the gas station and it is important to know that the pressure of the pump that the fuel pipes carry causes the impurities stored in the tank, and in the pipe itself, to stir and rise, so they remain in suspension and can enter the vehicles that are refueled. So try to wait a bit if you notice that they are filling the tanks at the gas station.

- Do not turn off the vehicle immediately after a long trip.

Diesel vehicles work at very high temperatures, and after long trips it is important to remain at least one minute with your foot on the brake before turning off the vehicle to avoid burning the oil in the turbine, as this simple practice can cause severe damage to the turbo, with high repair costs.

- Buy high quality parts



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 04/06/2023 12:09AM by Moderator.

I have a 1983, Chevrolet 6.2L. Is there a simple test for glow plug operation ?
Thanks, Art.