Diesel engines are known for being durable and reliable, but that can be a downfall too — some people underestimate the maintenance that diesel engines require. These trucks are workhorses, and they aren't likely to easily fail even if you don't maintain them properly, but when they do fail, it may be after significant damage has been done. Here are a few things that you need to know about maintaining your diesel engines and ensuring that it'll have a long lifespan.

1. Forgetting to Replace the Fluids

Oil changes should be completed around every 5k miles, but it's important to remember that oil might need to be changed more frequently if you use your diesel engine for towing and hauling. If oil isn't changed as frequently as it needs to be, the engine itself could begin to degrade and performance will go downhill. 

2. Driving Engines Before Warming Them Up

Diesel engines need to be warmed up before they are used. This ensures that the components are going to work well together rather than potentially damaging each other. If a diesel engine is driven before it is warmed up, it will cause warping and damage over time — which could necessitate the replacement of parts. 

3. Failing to Complete Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance checks are needed to clean out the engine and ensure that all of the parts are working correctly. Otherwise, there can be unnoticed issues that are slowly causing more damage to other, surrounding parts. It's important to go to diesel mechanics for these checks, as they are specialized in working with diesel engines. 

4. Not Changing the Filters

Both fuel filters and air filters have to be changed regularly for your engine to perform well. Fuel filters need to be replaced approximately every 10,000 miles, while air filters can be safely inspected without removal to determine whether they need to be replaced. If air filters aren't changed, the engine will become dirty and filled with debris. 

5. Hauling More Than You Should

Diesel vehicles have towing ratings for a reason. In general, you shouldn't approach the maximum weight that your vehicle can tow — towing too much is going to put a strain on the engine and can also be extremely dangerous, as you may not have the stopping power necessary to maneuver safely. 

Overall, simply taking your diesel engine for service and making sure that you keep an eye on it otherwise can ensure that your diesel is affordable to maintain and keeps on running. Bodacious Diesel can give you more information on how you can keep your diesel truck running smooth — contact us today!