Tips to increase the life of the truck diesel engine (II)

For starters, it's essential to always keep an eye on the engine oil level. Driving with a low oil level can lead to breakdowns in the entire engine block and especially in the turbo. On the other hand, carrying more oil than necessary can also damage the turbo or even burst the hoses, as a result of excess pressure. The best way to avoid this is to check the oil level at least once a month, always with a cold engine and when the vehicle is parked on a completely flat surface. The optimum oil level is between the maximum and minimum notches. Whenever it is necessary to add oil because the level has dropped, use the same type and brand of oil that was used in the last revision. Keeping the oil level up to date can prevent breakdowns that could cost more than 1,000 euros.

It is also essential to replace the diesel filter at least every 60,000 kilometres. Replacing the filter prevents impurities and dirt from entering the injectors, a situation that ends up causing jerks and a drop in diesel engine performance. The matter is serious because repairing a damaged injection system can cost more than 3,000 euros.

Another trick to avoid breakdowns is to pay attention to the revolutions at which you drive. When driving below 2,000 rpm and accelerating without downshifting, it generates more carbon in the combustion process and punishes the EGR valve and catalytic converter, which go bad earlier than normal. When the EGR valve is damaged the engine gets stuck and loses power. Not controlling the revolutions can also damage other internal elements of the engine and cause vibrations, wear, etc. Repairing an EGR valve is also expensive: more than 2,500 euros.

And last but not least, if you want the engine to last a long time and always perform at its best, it is essential to clean it from time to time and with a good product for the fuel circuit and the gas circuit of the diesel engine. A good way to do this is to use Auxol Maintenance Diesel, a reference of recognized efficiency and highly appreciated by professionals. Right now, this product is on sale at Recambiodelcamion.com and Recambios España. The pack of three 1-liter units has a 25% discount and costs only 99.93 euros.