The diesel engine is the workhorse of the automotive world. It powers the heaviest loads, from trains to tractor-trailers, and can last for a million miles or more—if properly maintained. Part of that maintenance includes an engine overhaul at some point in every diesel engine’s lifetime, to examine all its components for wear and tear, replace or repair damaged parts, and clean the engine from particle and grease build up. But having your engine overhauled is a costly decision, so it pays to know the right time to do it as well as the consequences of putting it off.
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When the time comes for DOT inspections, it can be an anxiety-inducing time for truck drivers everywhere across North America. Though they generally occur during the spring and summer, they can happen at any time during the year or at any place. DOT inspections can determine whether a driver is fit to operate their vehicle and whether or not a commercial vehicle is safe enough to be on the road. Because DOT inspections are rather unpredictable events with extremely high stakes, it’s incredibly vital that all drivers are adequately prepared for them. That’s why we’ve compiled some in-depth information about what DOT inspectors look for during inspections as well as how to best prepare your fleet to pass.
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Routine maintenance on your truck can seem like a hassle, especially when it comes to tediously de-greasing and inspecting components of your tractor-trailer. And with so many types of grease on the market and parts to your trailer, it’s hard to know what to do once you’re elbows deep in the stuff. That’s why our diesel mechanics are here to break down some of the basic questions that fleet managers and truck drivers have about this basic routine maintenance service. We’ll be covering how often you should be greasing your tractor-trailer’s parts, what grease you should invest in, and why you should be inspecting the parts of your tractor-trailer after you de-grease and re-grease them.
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When we first get our driver’s license, we start getting bombarded with advice on how to take care of our car. Well-meaning parents, grandparents, and friends tell us what we need to do to avoid having any issues with our first vehicles. These words of wisdom usually include when to change your oil, when to fill up on fuel, where to go for maintenance, etc. etc. Some of this common advice is accurate and helpful, but some of these tips are not. Here is a list of some of the most common myths about car maintenance that you need to stop believing.
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Idling is what occurs when you start your engine and let it run without pressing the gas or changing gears. When everything is working properly, your idling engine should maintain a steady rate of around 1,000 revolutions per minute, or RPM. This rate allows your engine to power your vehicle’s basic systems, including electrical and cooling systems as well as power steering. A normal idle should be smooth and quiet.
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