Issues Affecting Diesel Engines and Fuel Systems: A Guide

The diesel engine is so popular because it has a major advantage when it comes to fuel efficiency and power. Diesel engines are often more powerful than gasoline engines as they have higher compression ratios and can ignite higher concentrations of air in the combustion chamber, resulting in a larger explosion and thus more power. However, now and again, a diesel fuel system will need to be repaired. This article guides you through the different types of diesel repairs that an auto mechanic can perform. Read on to discover more!

Fuel pump

The fuel pump is a vital part of the diesel fuel system, it is used to deliver fuel into the engine. The failure of this can cause decreased gas mileage and performance. If the fuel pump fails, it can make the engine jerk and stall. It can also cause the engine to run roughly and too rich or too lean. If you find that your vehicle has any of these symptoms, you will need to have a diesel fuel system repair specialist inspect the fuel pump and replace it if necessary.

Starter motor 

The starter motor is responsible for supplying high-power current to start off a cold engine or turn over a warm one when starting. Problems with the starter motor can cause a delay in starting. In addition, if the battery is low, the starter motor will fail to turn over an engine at all. This is because it requires more power than the battery alone can supply. A mechanic will inspect the motor and the electrical wiring in your engine before carrying out repairs or replacing parts.

Fuel injectors

The fuel injectors are responsible for injecting a metered amount of diesel fuel into each of the engine's cylinders at precise times during the combustion cycle in order to maximise efficiency and power output as well as minimise emissions. A major diesel injector problem is erratic idling and a lack of power even though the engine has been running for a while. A mechanic can service each injector to synchronise them with the engine.

Fuel contamination

Diesel engines also have to contend with problems arising from fuel contamination, problems arising from fuel contamination include rough idling and stalling, as well as poor performance. The most common causes of fuel contamination are poor quality or old fuel, water getting into the tank, badly maintained filters and dirty injectors. If you suspect that the fuel in your car or truck has been contaminated, you should cease using the vehicle until the fuel system has been drained by a mechanic. Continuing to use the vehicle could result in serious damage to the engine.