5 Tips For Diesel Truck Maintenance

If you have a diesel truck that you drive out and about, chances are you'll need to perform maintenance on a diesel truck if you want to have it around for a long time. In order to make sure your truck stays maintained and well equipped for the road, here are a few of the things you should be aware of and remember to do.

1. Change Your Truck's Oil

In order to keep your truck's engine running smoothly, you should be changing your oil as needed. Your truck's oil should be changed every 5,000 miles or so. The mileage for getting oil changes may depend on the type of work you use your truck for, the year of your truck, and the make and model. Engines that go through harder driving or heavy towing may require an oil change before reaching 5,000 miles. 

In your truck's owner manual, you may find that there is a 7,500 mile oil change interval for trucks driven in "Normal or Ideal conditions." However, before deciding to change your truck's oil at the highest possible mileage, be aware of the potential downside of changing your oil at such a high mileage. 

Make sure to use the right oil for your truck. If you're not clear on which oil to use or you have no idea what you’re doing, take a look at your owner's manual or have a technician perform an oil change for you.

2. Monitor Your Truck's Fluids

One of the most important things needed to perform maintenance on a diesel truck is checking and monitoring its fluids. The coolant of a truck can become acidic if not properly monitored. If the coolant becomes acidic, it may lead to damage in a vehicle's cooling system such as the radiator. 

Make sure to remember to check the coolant and other fluid levels on a schedule, so it doesn't become acidic and to save you a ton of headaches.

3. Change Your Truck's Filters

Changing your vehicle's filters is vital to your vehicle's performance and should be checked on consistently. Air filters should be checked as needed and do not need to be removed to be checked - always consult your manual for your specific diesel truck model. Depending on where you're driving and the climate that you drive in, the air filters may need to be monitored closely. 

Air filters keep your engine safe from harmful debris, dirt, and contaminants which is why you must keep an eye on them. Fuel filters should be replaced on a schedule, at approximately every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. Most new diesel engines have two fuel filters, a primary and secondary. Both of these filters should be replaced for a more effective clean, at every 15,000 miles.

4. Keep Track of Your Truck's Exhaust System

As you drive your truck, there will inevitably be wear and tear to your truck's exhaust system. Driving can cause harsh chemicals to go through the exhaust, in addition to debris from the road and corrosion. 

Keeping an eye on your truck's exhaust system will keep your truck performing at its best. If your truck's check engine light comes on, be sure to see what's going on as soon as possible. Visit a mechanic to take a look and get it fixed as soon as possible. There could very well be an issue with your exhaust system. 

In addition, remember to look for signs of corrosion and rust around your exhaust pipe.

5. Clean Your Truck's Engine

If you drive your truck regularly, chances are your engine will need to be checked regularly. Your truck's engine can be damaged by dirt and grime so making sure you have a clean engine is very important. The performance of your vehicle can be affected when the cleanliness of your diesel engine isn't monitored, and the life of your truck may be shortened. 

In addition to the engine, your truck's fuel also needs to be cleaned. Clean diesel fuel is also useful for fuel economy and performance - and who doesn’t enjoy saving money?

Feeling Ready to Perform Maintenance on a Diesel Truck?

Now that you know the basics when it comes to maintenance on a diesel truck you can count on your truck for years to come. If you’re ready to step your truck’s performance up a notch make sure you check out our modules. We believe in making your truck work smarter, not harder.