Wondering about diesel repair services? For instance, what are the most common repairs truck drivers need? More importantly, how can you tell if your diesel truck needs repairing?
You’ll find all these answers and more in the guide below. To be specific, this guide lists the most common diesel problems that require professional repair.
You might even find the problem that you’re experiencing listed here. If so, you’ll also learn what’s causing it and what a diesel repair technician will do if you bring it in.
In short, you’ll find out anything you need to know about diesel repair services right here in this guide. Read on to learn more.
1. Difficulty Starting
Have you noticed that your truck takes a very long time to start or won’t start at all? If you’re sure the battery is fine, your diesel starting problems might indicate that you need repairs.
In most of these cases, the issue is low compression or a problem with the fuel delivery. However, it will be easy for a diesel repair technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
2. Black Exhaust
Besides being intolerable, black fumes from your exhaust are very toxic to the environment. It’s so toxic, in fact, that it might earn you a fine.
Usually, this is a symptom of an improper air/fuel ratio. Namely, there’s not enough air in the mixture.
The root cause, however, could be a lot of things. It’s probably a malfunctioning component, such as the injector or EGR valve. Your repair technician will know for sure.
3. Oil Oxidation
Diesel oil that sits unused for too long begins to oxidize. This happens a lot with trucks that are only used in certain seasons.
When it does happen, it means that the oil is contaminated by tiny air bubbles. This prevents the oil from lubricating as well as it should, which forces the engine to work harder, burning more fuel.
It also can wear down certain engine components that will then need to be repaired or replaced. Fortunately, you can prevent this. After your truck has sat idle for many months, change the oil before you drive it next.
If this advice reached you a little too late, though, change your oil ASAP. Then, have a diesel technician inspect your vehicle to make sure no damage has been done.
4. Moisture Contamination
In the same way that air can work its way into your engine oil, moisture can, too. This usually happens when the truck is stored idly in a very humid place.
This moisture breaks down the additives in the oil, accelerating oxidation. Plus, the water hinders the lubrication of the oil even more than oxidation does. Thus, operating your truck with moisture-contaminated oil will very likely lead to engine damage.
If you hear a knocking noise when you start your engine, moisture contamination is most likely the cause. Again, though, you should be changing your oil after a long season of non-use, anyway.
5. Low Power
Sometimes, you might notice a decrease in your truck’s power, especially when accelerating and going uphill. These issues can also be accompanied by starting problems.
These signs typically indicate a problem with the fuel or fuel delivery. For example, it’s possible that the fuel is contaminated or the fuel injector is faulty. There are other issues that can cause low power, too, like loose throttle linkage.
Of course, you should change your fuel filter before anything else to see if it helps. If it doesn’t, take your truck in for repairs.
6. High Compression Ratio
The compression ratio of your diesel engine is supposed to be high (around 20:1)—much higher than car engines, anyway (about 8:1). This is what gives your truck so much power. The 20:1 ratio also keeps the engine working efficiently.
However, it also means your engine is working very hard. Therefore, maintaining this high compression ratio takes its toll.
For instance, it can lead to bad burn patterns and wear out your fuel injector. This can also cause engine knocking. For these reasons, it’s important to have your engine/compression ratio checked regularly.
7. Faulty Glow Plug
Is it hard or impossible to start your truck when the weather is very cold? This is probably due to a malfunctioning glow plug.
The glow plug is similar to the sparkplugs in cars. But, instead of generating a spark, the glow plug relies on a heating element that stays hot. In any case, if you’re having this problem, take your truck in for repairs.
8. Fuel Contamination
Like your oil, your fuel can become contaminated as well. Some common contaminants include water, soot, and chemical byproducts. However, there are also bacteria and other biological factors that can contaminate your fuel, too.
The important thing is, this can destroy your engine from the inside, resulting in a complete breakdown and/or expensive repairs. So, be sure to check your fuel quality regularly, especially after the truck has been idle for a long time.
9. Incorrect Weight Viscosity
Diesel oil needs to have a very specific weight viscosity to lubricate your engine properly. Unfortunately, it’s common for truck drivers to use the wrong oil when doing their own maintenance. The incorrect weight viscosity of the oil will result in starting problems and possible damage to the engine and its components.
Do You Need Diesel Repair Services?
Has your truck has been experiencing any of these problems? If so, or if you notice these issues in the future, you know what to do.
Contact us here to ask us questions or to set up an appointment for diesel repair services. And keep this guide for reference in the future.
