The Most Common Causes Of Heavy Duty Truck Engine Failure And How To Prevent Them
Greetings from IBEX Diesel Repair in Rigby, Idaho, where we are passionate about keeping your heavy-duty trucks running at their best. Today, we're shedding light on the most common causes of engine failure in heavy-duty trucks and sharing practical tips on how you can prevent these issues.
Oil Pressure Loss and Damaged Crankshaft Bearings
Oil pressure loss and consequential crankshaft bearing damage is a significant cause of engine failure. The root of this problem lies in the vital role oil plays in your engine: it lubricates moving parts, reduces friction and heat, and helps to carry away contaminants. When oil pressure drops, it fails to perform these tasks, leading to accelerated wear and, eventually, failure of the crankshaft bearings.
Routine Engine Oil & Filter Changes
To ensure a healthy oil pressure, you need to stay on top of routine maintenance, especially oil changes and filter replacements. Depending on your engine and the type of oil you use, the recommended interval can vary, but a good rule of thumb is every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. At IBEX, we also recommend fixing any oil leaks immediately upon detection. Leaks not only contribute to oil pressure loss but also risk contaminating other parts of your truck with oil.
Oil Pump Inspection
In addition, the oil pump should be inspected routinely to ensure proper functionality. An ailing oil pump cannot circulate oil efficiently, leading to low oil pressure.
Prolonged Overheating Due to Coolant System Failure
The harsh operating conditions that heavy-duty trucks regularly encounter put a considerable strain on their coolant systems. Overheating is a common issue with severe consequences, from engine inefficiency to complete failure. This is why maintaining your coolant system is of paramount importance.
Coolant Flushes as a Standard Preventive Measure
At IBEX, we recommend routine coolant flushes as a standard preventative measure. Over time, coolant loses its anti-corrosive properties, leading to rust and sediment buildup in the coolant system. This can block passages and contribute to overheating. Regular coolant flushes remove this buildup and replenish the coolant, ensuring efficient heat transfer and corrosion prevention.
Inspection of Critical Cooling Components
Moreover, the inspection of your truck's water pump, fan clutch, cooling fan, reservoir, and coolant lines should be part of your regular maintenance routine. Detecting and fixing any leaks or malfunctions early prevents serious overheating issues and safeguards your engine.
Seized EGR Valve Causing Engine Failure
The EGR valve is instrumental in controlling your truck's emissions and maintaining optimal engine performance. However, prolonged exposure to unfiltered carbon emissions can lead to a seized EGR valve, affecting engine efficiency and even causing engine failure in severe cases.
To keep the EGR valve functioning at its best, we recommend routine inspections and cleaning at IBEX. If necessary, we will advise replacement of the EGR valve to prevent engine damage. We have specialized equipment to thoroughly check and clean the EGR system, ensuring its optimal functionality.
Ignoring a Check Engine Light
One common mistake operators make is ignoring the check engine light, which is designed to alert you to potential issues. By dismissing this warning, you risk letting small problems escalate into severe engine damage, such as problems with the EGR or DPF.
At IBEX, we strongly advise bringing in your truck as soon as the check engine light comes on. Our sophisticated diagnostic tools and experienced technicians can identify the underlying issue, rectifying it before it leads to significant engine failure.
Engine Failure Due to Fuel System Issues
Finally, fuel system issues are another significant contributor to engine failure. Fuel filter neglect or using low-quality diesel fuel can lead to poor engine performance and eventual failure.
To prevent this, regular fuel filter changes are essential. Additionally, using high-quality diesel fuel helps prevent contamination that could harm your engine. At IBEX, we offer comprehensive fuel system inspections and maintenance, ensuring your engine gets the clean fuel it needs to operate effectively.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Preventing engine failure is a complex task that requires a holistic approach to maintenance. The combination of these practices, along with the expert advice and service provided by IBEX Diesel Repair, will ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your heavy-duty truck engine.
Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this couldn't be truer than when it comes to engine maintenance. Put your trust in IBEX, and we'll keep you on the road for longer.
