Diesel trucks are renowned for their exceptional longevity, often exceeding the mileage of gasoline-powered vehicles. However, hitting 300,000 miles or more takes more than durability alone—routine diesel maintenance makes all the difference.
Change the Oil
First and foremost, the non-negotiable diesel maintenance task is regular oil changes. Clean oil means a clean engine. The problem with diesel is that it is inherently dirtier than traditional gasoline. Fresh oil will keep the soot from turning into an abrasive that destroys various engine components.
Finesse the Fuel System
Precise injector performance in a diesel engine only happens when the fuel system is in great working order. Changing out the fuel filter will prevent hard starts, rough idle and injector damage.
Using high-quality fuel and regularly checking your water separator will ensure clean fuel delivery, preserving your power, keeping your truck fuel-efficient, and giving you a better chance at a long engine life.
Turbocharger Techniques
Experienced diesel truck owners know they need to properly warm their engines before hitting the road, as well as go through a controlled cooldown because it will prevent turbocharger damage. Turbochargers also perform better with clean oil.
Restricted airflow is also a turbocharger killer. Check your filters regularly and replace them every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (under normal driving conditions). If you regularly drive on dusty roads, more frequent filter inspections will be necessary.
Keep it Cool
Diesel engines are often under a lot of stress with heavy loads, which means they generate a lot of heat. The cooling system is crucial, so make sure your diesel maintenance to-do list includes fresh coolant, a clean radiator and protection for the head gasket and cylinder walls.
Failure to follow through on any of the tasks means you’ll experience temperature spikes and accelerated wear. Routinely flush your coolant and you’ll be on the right track for a longer-running truck.
Transmission Maintenance
To keep your transmission healthy, you have to be proactive. The transmission is often under a heavy load, which means you’ll need to regularly change the transmission fluid and filter to prevent heat breakdown. This will also protect your internal clutches.
Regularly inspect the transmission for leaks and monitor the fluid color and smell. There are a few unmistakable signs that it’s time to change your fluid. The first is that instead of being red, your fluid will have turned dark brown or black. If your clutch is worn, you’ll notice a metallic shimmer in the transmission fluid. Also, if the fluid smells burnt, acrid or sour, the fluid needs to be flushed and replaced.
Talk to your Local Expert
These are just a few items to put on your diesel maintenance checklist. To get the absolute most out of your truck, schedule an appointment with us at Gray Diesel & Equipment Services. We help our clients with maintenance issues that keep their trucks on the road, so contact us today.