If you’re experiencing some difficulty starting your vehicle, followed by a rough idle that ends in a stall, don’t panic – your diesel fuel truck’s engine is probably not on its last leg. The problem could be something as simple as a clogged fuel filter.
Among the most common items on a diesel mechanics’ preventative maintenance list is replacing the fuel filter. But how often should you change it?
Most diesel experts recommend swapping out diesel fuel filters between 10,000 and 25,000 miles. The following are variables that will determine how you should approach your preventative maintenance steps:
Environment Are you driving down gravel or dirt roads almost exclusively? In extreme environments, it’s likely that you’ll need to look into inspecting your filter well before the 10,000-mile minimum.
Quality of Fuel Lower-quality diesel fuel includes more contaminants, which will lead to a clogged filter faster than trucks that get high-quality fuel.
Weather For those living in colder climates, you’ll have more issues with fuel turning into a gel-like substance. If you don’t keep up with your anti-gel additives, you could experience a failing filter more often.
Truck Age Older trucks tend to have more dirt moving around the engine, leading to more frequent clogs.
Stress Are you cranking out higher RPMs than the average driver? It could be a case of lead foot or because you’re hauling larger loads, but the result is a faster-clogging filter.
Prepare for Winter As we mentioned, winter can wreak havoc on diesel fuel engines, so here are some tips to consider as you prepare for the cold temps:
If your truck is a 2010 model or newer, it will require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). This is a result of a selective catalytic reduction, and the DEF is used to lower specific types of emissions. DEF is a water-based solution, so make sure you have the right amount installed and that your DEF tank heater is in optimal condition so the liquid doesn’t turn to ice.
Top off your tank with winter-grade fuel, which includes anti-gel additives.
Replace your glow plugs so you’re not risking a non-start on a cold morning when you’re heading out to work.
Check your block heater to ensure it is in top condition.
Oil will also thicken during the winter months, so make sure you replace your summer oil with winter-grade engine oil on your next change.
And finally – replace your fuel filter.
At Gray Diesel & Equipment Services, we know how crucial it is for diesel truck owners to step up their preventative maintenance during this time of year. We can also assist you with yours, so reach out to us and let’s ensure your truck is prepared for the cold weather.
