Important Diesel Engine Maintenance Checklist for February

Diesel engine maintenance in Memphis, TN is essential to keep your rig running smoothly through the winter. Even if you take your truck to a mechanic for regular tune-ups, you still need to maintain your truck between service appointments.

This regular diesel engine maintenance in Memphis, TN will keep your truck running reliably all season. This February, take the following maintenance steps to enjoy optimal performance from your vehicle.

Keep it clean

If you drive your truck over long hauls or make frequent trips, the engine will inevitably collect dust and debris. This buildup is hard on your engine. It reduces fuel efficiency and causes additional wear and tear on the engine parts. To minimize the impact of this dirt, clean your engine frequently.

Check your owner’s manual for any special instructions. Keep in mind that some components are not waterproof, so be sure to research your engine’s parts before using water for cleaning or using a hose for washing it down. Typically, you can use a toothbrush, sponge and degreaser to safely clean the engine. You should also use gloves and goggles to protect yourself while you clean the engine.

If you discover any parts are not waterproof, you can use plastic bags to protect those parts while you clean, or use a leaf blower to dust off the engine instead of water.

Keep it filtered

A clean air filter is an important part of diesel engine maintenance in Memphis, TN. If the air filter is clogged, this will choke your engine. As a result, the engine’s fuel efficiency will suffer. A good rule of thumb is to replace the air filter every 12,000 miles. If you notice a reduction in power or acceleration, check the filter, as it may need to be changed even if you have not hit the 12,000-mile mark.

Your vehicle also has two fuel filters that must be maintained. These protect your engine from water buildup in the fuel. If too many water particles are absorbed, your engine could stall, you could experience a loss of power or the fuel injectors might explode.

Keep it cool

Proper radiator care is essential for ongoing diesel engine maintenance in Memphis, TN. The radiator transfers heat from your engine to keep it cool. Diesel engines are particularly susceptible to overheating. If your engine overheats, components can warp and the engine can fail.

To keep your engine cool and running smoothly, perform regular coolant exchanges. These should usually be performed every 40,000 to 60,000 miles. Complete this maintenance sooner if you notice any steam rising from the hood, detect a syrupy smell coming from the engine or notice any orange or green fluid leaks.

Complete your list

For expert assistance with all your diesel engine maintenance in Memphis, TN, contact the team at United Diesel Power. Offering more than two decades of combined experience, we specialize in truck and trailer repair, bus repair and RV repair. We’re here for you 24/7, so reach out to us any time!

Categorised in: Diesel Engine Mechanic

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