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How to Troubleshoot Common Diesel Truck Problems

People who need higher load capability, towing power, and rugged durability prefer owning a diesel truck like a Mitsubishi Canter or a Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter from Japan. There are so many things to love about diesel vehicles. However, like other mechanical systems, it is no stranger to problems.

Here at Carused.jp, we want our customers to enjoy the maximum potential of their diesel truck. So, in this post, we are going to share how to troubleshoot the common problems that you might encounter on your diesel vehicle.

Excessive Smoke Coming from the Engine

There are several possible reasons why excessive smoke is coming from your engine. You will be able to identify the issue by assessing the color of the smoke. Here are some examples:

  • If the smoke is white, then it means the engine compression is getting weak or the engine timing is off.
  • The cylinders, valves, and piston rings are worn out if you see blue smoke coming from your engine.
  • If you see black smoke from your engine, then it is possible that you have bad injectors, dirty air filters a malfunctioning cylinder head, or a turbo problem.

Overheating Engine

One of the most common problems that diesel truck owners encounter is an overheating engine. Here are some tips to troubleshoot such kind of issue:

  • Inspect the air flow to the rad, and ensure that there are no bugs or ice blocking it.
  • Make sure that all the axles are functioning properly. Moreover, you must check if the tires or brakes are dragging.
  • Ensure that the belts and engine fan are operating properly.
  • If the temperature outside your vehicle is very high, gear down.
  • Let the engine cool down, then check the coolant and oil levels. Look for possible leaks.
  • Switch off the air conditioning system when driving on steep grades under hot weather. This will let your engine cool down faster.

Problems with Starting the Diesel Engine

Here are some things you can do when you’re having trouble starting your diesel engine:

  • Check if the fuel filters are clogged, then replace them if necessary.
  • Check if there is a loose connection in the batteries and the starter.
  • Inspect the condition of the starter motor.
  • Look at the fuel lines and fuel pump.
  • Check if the fuel is contaminated.
  • Have an expert mechanic check the ECM and injectors.

Tips for Maintaining your Diesel Engine

  1. If you own a diesel truck like a Mitsubishi Canter or a Mitsubishi Fuso Fighter from Japan, it is best that you take preventive measures to avoid engine problems. Here are some tips to keep your diesel engine in good condition:
  2. Regularly change your fuel and oil filters – Keep in mind that when the components of your engine are not lubricated properly, it can lead to breakdowns. Make sure you read the guidelines provided by the engine’s manufacturer when performing oil changes.
  3. Use high-quality fuel – It is best to purchase fuel from credible distributors or truck stops. Dodgy businesses tend to add used motor oil to the ground tanks just to increase the volume of their diesel fuel. It is worth noting that using contaminated fuel can be harmful to your diesel engine.
  4. Always check for leaks – You need to inspect your engine regularly and look for possible coolant or oil leaks. If you discover a coolant leak, the possible reason is a faulty hose, which is relatively easy to repair. In most cases, finding an engine oil leak can also be harmless. However, just to be sure that there are no other underlying issues, it is best that you have your engine inspected by a professional.
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