Diesel mechanics have a broader skill set than regular auto mechanics and can service mechanical components as well as electrical. They can also obtain certification to service more specialized systems like vehicle air conditioning.
Our Diesel Technology program prepares you for industry certification, which could make you a more competitive job applicant. Additionally, earning EPA Section 609 certification allows you to work with refrigerants, which some employers require of their diesel mechanics. Contact Diesel Repair Kansas City for professional help.
The fuel system plays a crucial role in diesel engines by storing and delivering the fuel in an exact way that ensures optimal combustion. Nevertheless, the fuel system is vulnerable to several issues that can result in reduced performance and even engine failure. The key to avoiding these problems is routine maintenance that includes regular inspections by qualified technicians.
Fuel Injector Problems
One of the most common problems related to fuel systems in diesel trucks is clogged injectors. Fuel injectors are responsible for spraying fuel into the combustion chamber in a fine mist to achieve proper air-to-fuel ratios. When these injectors become clogged with deposits, they can disrupt the precise fuel-air mixture needed for proper combustion, which can cause numerous problems including engine hesitation, rough idling, and poor fuel efficiency.
Keeping your diesel fuel clean with quality filters and using fuel additives can help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place. However, if you do encounter fuel injector issues, it’s important to have them cleaned or replaced as soon as possible to restore your engine’s performance.
Another common problem with diesel fuel is water contamination, which can damage components and lead to rust and corrosion. Because of this, diesel vehicles typically feature a water separator in their fuel tanks to filter out the water before it enters the fuel line. When the separator becomes clogged, it can lead to water accumulation within the fuel tank and fuel lines. This can cause rusting, microbial growth, freezing in cold weather, and a number of other issues. A qualified technician can perform a drain and flush to remove contaminants and keep your vehicle’s fuel system in good condition.
Other fuel system issues include faulty gas caps, leaking fuel pumps, and failing fuel injectors. Fuel leaks are a major problem and often result in hard starting, poor performance, and even engine failure. It’s also important to replace your fuel pump or injectors when they are worn out. Performing these repairs early will save you money and time in the long run.
Lead-Acid Storage Batteries
As the diesel engine becomes more popular among drivers due to its reliability, efficiency and impressive torque, technicians need to have a good understanding of how it operates. This means knowing about the specific issues associated with diesel vehicles, as well as how they differ from traditional engines.
Lead-acid storage batteries are electrochemical energy storage devices consisting of two lead plates, a separator, and an electrolyte solution. A chemical reaction between the electrodes combines lead and lead dioxide to form lead sulfate, which reverts back to lead and sulfuric acid when the battery is recharged. This reversible process produces electricity, but each discharge-charge cycle permanently robs the battery of a small amount of its capacity.
In addition to the normal loss of electrical energy, physical problems such as cracked plates or corroded connections also limit battery life. The physical condition of a battery can be improved with several chemicals, including epsom salts and EDTA, which dissolve the sulfate deposits on a deeply discharged battery. However, these products cannot restore the chemical processes that control battery performance.
Besides automotive starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) batteries, lead acid batteries are used for wet cell stand-by power supplies and to store power in off-grid household electric systems, as well as for emergency lighting and wheelchairs. They are regarded as the king of emergency energy storage because of their low price, long service life and easy maintenance.
A battery’s capacity varies according to its rate of discharge and its temperature. Slower discharge rates produce higher capacities than short pulses of current, which cause the chemical charge to spread across the surface of the plate instead of being retained at a narrow interface between the electrodes. This is referred to as Peukert’s Law.
Batteries that are regularly overcharged or subjected to high charging voltages degrade rapidly. They become prone to leakage and lose their ability to hold a charge due to the formation of lead sulfate deposits on the plates. This makes it necessary to drain and recharge them often to avoid these conditions.
Fuel Injectors
Located directly within the combustion chamber, diesel fuel injectors play an essential role in optimizing engine performance. Their ability to regulate how much fuel gets into the combustion process allows for more efficient engine power and better mileage. But over time, they can develop issues that interfere with your car’s normal function and performance. Identifying these problems early on can help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
One of the most common signs of a problem with your diesel injectors is poor engine performance and decreased fuel efficiency. You may also notice a sputtering sound or vibration while the engine is running. While this can be attributed to many different issues, it’s typically due to a defective fuel injection system. A faulty fuel injector might also cause a loss in horsepower and acceleration.
Like any other automotive component, your diesel fuel injectors are prone to wear and tear over the years. But if you’re diligent about maintaining your vehicle and use high-quality diesel fuel, you can extend the life of these vital components. In addition, you can reduce the likelihood of problems by following your diesel vehicle’s maintenance schedule and using the proper tools.
Before you attempt any diesel injector repair, make sure to equip yourself with the right tools. These include a socket set, flathead and Philips-head screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers, and a multimeter. You’ll also want a pair of gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any chemical spills or sharp objects. Finally, you’ll need to clean the area thoroughly before proceeding with the repair. This is especially important for injectors, as they’re sealed into wells in the engine cylinder head and can be susceptible to contamination.
These injectors are literally the lungs of the engine, so any dirt that makes its way inside is bad news. Whether it’s a small particle of carbon or, God forbid, a metal shaving, contaminants can severely impact your diesel’s performance. To prevent this from happening, start by cleaning the nozzles of each injector with clean rags and household spray cleaner. Then, once the injectors are removed, use a vacuum to remove any remaining dirt from the injector wells.
Bearings
Bearings are an essential part of any engine, as they create a layer of lubrication between moving parts to reduce friction and prevent metal-to-metal contact. They can also help reduce noise and vibrations, especially in older engines. But, like any mechanical device, they can wear out over time, so it is important to inspect them regularly. This can help identify problems early and make repairs before they become too expensive.
There are several different types of diesel engine bearings and bushes, so it is important to understand the differences between them to determine which ones may need replacement. The first type of bearing is called a plain bearing, and it consists of a cylindrical surface that the shaft rotates on. These are economical and easy to install, but they tend to wear out faster than other types of bearings.
Other types of diesel engine bearings include roller bearings and journal bearings. These are similar in structure to plain bearings, but they use a lubricating fluid to reduce friction and extend their lifespan. They are also resistant to misalignment, so they are better suited for high-speed applications.
When it comes to repairing diesel engines, it is important to know the proper procedures for installing and torquing down bearings. This will ensure that the engine functions properly and can withstand heavy loads. It is also essential to know the proper lubrication requirements for diesel engines, as well as the recommended temperature ranges.
Another important aspect of repairing diesel engines is ensuring that the connecting rods are properly aligned. A misaligned connecting rod can cause excessive bearing wear, as the bearings will not be able to support the load. There are several different methods to check the alignment of a connecting rod, including using a dial indicator or torque wrench.
The final point that is worth mentioning is the importance of using high-quality materials when repairing diesel engines. This will ensure that the engine functions properly, and the bearings will last longer. This is why it is important to choose OE-quality bearings and other components when performing diesel repairs.
