Owning a vehicle with a diesel engine has a variety perks.  But like any other vehicle, it also comes with its own set of maintenance tasks.  If your goal is to keep your diesel-powered vehicle working for several years, then it is important that you invest time in upkeep.  Yes, diesel engines are known for having a longer lifespan than standard engines.  But this doesn’t mean you can ignore basic maintenance tasks.

Proactive Care for Your Diesel Engine

Keep the engine clean –

The exterior of your engine can accumulate a significant amount of dirt, which can affect how the engine works.  This build-up is especially common in areas with harsh winters that result in salt being used on the roads.  Keep your engine’s exterior clean by using a specialized degreaser to safely dissolve build-up.  Then use a moist sponge to wipe everything down.  You can use an old toothbrush to clean out any grooves or spots that aren’t easily cleaned with a sponge.

Check the air filter –

Typically located near the front of the engine compartment, the air filter plays an important part in keeping your engine running smoothly.  The job of the air filter is to keep debris out of the engine.  However, the filter will need to be replaced -usually around every 12,000 miles.  A good indicator that you need a new filter is a decreased level of engine power, slower acceleration, or an increase in engine wear.  You can get quality air filters from AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil, so you can change it out at home, no mechanic necessary.

Replace the fuel filters –

While standard engines have only 1 fuel filter, most diesels have two. Because diesel fuel is less refined, it absorbs more water which can result in less horsepower, a stalled engine, or even fuel injectors to explode. Take time to check the fuel filter, and drain any accumulated water. Ideally, fuel filters in a diesel will need to be replaced every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.

Be sure there is always a proper amount of coolant –

Diesel engines run hotter than gas ones, so it is vital it has the correct amount of coolant, or you risk your engine overheating. Be sure to keep AMSOIL Antifreeze and Coolant on hand so you can top off coolant, as necessary.

Change the oil –

Typically, you will need to change the oil in a diesel every 5,000 miles. You can extend this by opting for AMSOIL diesel oil. While you are changing the oil, be sure to replace the filter, so you can be sure to replace the oil filter, as you don’t want debris build-up in the engine.

Reset idling speed –

It is not unusual for a diesel engine to run too fast or too slow. A simple correction for this is to have a diesel mechanic reset the idling speed by tightening or loosening the screw on top of the fuel injector pump.

Taking care of your diesel engine is time well-invested. Don’t put off these important tasks. To get the filters and fluids you need, be sure to check out Buy Great Oil.