Servicing a diesel engine is very similar to a traditional gasoline engine. However, there are key differences that can make it more complicated and more accessible at the same time. It is crucial to note that there are no spark plugs in a diesel engine, making it more important to understand the fuel system. The slightest amount of water or dirt inside the system can cause problems for your machine.
The Filter Trap
The nature of a diesel engine service means that you want the fuel system always to be spotless. The filter fitted to the fuel supply line should always be checked and drained. Your engine misfiring could be caused by water in your system, so it is something you need to check regularly to make sure it is spotless.
Removing the Water
Your fuel filter has a place to drain the water, and that is where you should check first. A screwdriver should fit, and it is simply a matter of screwing it and then draining off the water. Please pay attention to the amount of water coming out of the system, as it will let you know how tight everything is inside your fuel system.
Remove Liquid from the Filter
There should be a drain plug on the filter that you can use a wrench to remove. Connect the hose and start draining the liquid into a small jar. You should empty the jar until you see diesel fuel come out. When that happens, it means that all the water has drained out. You can then reseal everything and try to run your vehicle.
The Canister Filter
There should be a vent plug at the top of the filter. You can then drain the filter normally. You should be able to do this with your hands, but you can also use a wrench to do it if it is too tight. This type of diesel engine service is quite remedial, and everyone should be able to do it. Make sure you have a bit of fuel on the O-ring to make the seal even tighter.
Fuel Filter
When doing this type of these engine service, ensure that everything is clean before you begin. The kind of service you will need here will depend on the diesel engine you are trying to service. The first type of diesel engine service requires that you remove the entire filter and replace everything. However, another one gives you the ability to replace only a part of this filter.
Bleeding the Fuel System
The main diesel engine service involves ensuring that your fuel is clear of air and water. This is done by bleeding the entire fuel system, and there is a hand-operated pump where you can do that. This pump helps you bleed the system manually, which is the recommended way of doing things.
Changing the Oil and Filter
Diesel engine service is no different than what you would do to a gas engine. You will eventually have to change the oil, which is typically a simple process. You have to choose the right oil and filter for your make and model.
Replacing Your Canister Filter
If you are doing a diesel engine service where you don’t replace the entire filter, you do it by draining fuel with the plug, and then you will remove the part of the canister that is removable. You would then fit a new O-ring and continue as normal.
