Everybody has car trouble at one point or another in their lives. It happens. That’s the bad news. The good news is Village Diesel Works are diesel engine experts, and we can keep your work truck or other diesel vehicle running efficiently and reliably with regular maintenance. This staves engine trouble, and helps you avoid the following eight common problems with diesel engines.
1. Starting Problems
A sure sign your diesel is overdue for servicing is starting problems. You’ll find it cranking harder and harder before it starts. Eventually, if left not service, it won’t start at all. The remaining seven signs of diesel engine trouble can also make starting your vehicle difficult.
2. Power Reduction
Sluggish engine performance and resulting power loss can be attributed to a dirty fuel filter or fuel injectors problems. It can also be caused by excess lubrication in the engine or problems with the throttle linkage. You’ll feel the trouble in your vehicle’s acceleration.
3. Fuel Contamination
Diesel fuel can be contaminated easier than gasoline can because it’s thicker. Commonly, glycol, soot, and water/condensation can breach your diesel engine’s fuel system and contaminate the fuel. If the contaminants are carried into the engine, you’ll end up with serious trouble.
4. Battery Trouble
Your diesel engine’s battery is a lead-acid battery, and your diesel engine cannot start without it. As with any automobile battery, it has a limited lifespan and can run into trouble if there is an acid leak or other damage. Inspect your battery regularly to make sure it looks okay.
5. Black Smoke
All diesel engines release black exhaust, but your vehicle should not be single-handedly responsible for global warming. Excess black exhaust is a sign you’ve got a rich air/fuel mixture. It can also be caused by problems with the air filter, fuel injectors or pump, or the EGR valve.
6. Oxidized Oil
If you don’t drive your diesel often, you might end up with oxidized oil. Oxidized oil is oil that has air in it. The air creates bubbles in the oil which affect its viscosity and, thereby, its lubricating power. Change the oil before you drive a diesel that’s been sitting for a long time.
7. Viscosity Weight Trouble
Another oil problem can be the viscosity weight of the oil in the engine. This will make it difficult to start your diesel truck. One reason why your diesel engine will fight you when you turn the ignition key is that the engine is not being lubricated properly. This can cause engine damage.
8. Noise
Finally, diesel engines are notoriously louder than gasoline engines are, but they shouldn’t be so loud that you cannot stand it. Excessive engine noise is often caused by a compression balance problem. You might hear knocking alongside the added noise.
Call Village Diesel Works at the first sign of diesel engine trouble. We are a full-service diesel repair shop in Woodbury, MN.