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How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine

Sara
By Sara . Updated: January 16, 2017
How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine

Turbo Diesel engines are easier to maintain and if they are maintained properly at regular intervals then they are the most reliable engine. In this article we will know about some tips on How to maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine, so you can enjoy your engine for longer and avoid spending money on more serious reparations.

You may also be interested in: Why Does My Car Lose Power?
Contents
  1. Tip 1
  2. Tip 2
  3. Tip 3
  4. Tip 4
  5. Tip 5
  6. Tip 6
  7. Tip 7
  8. Tip 8

Tip 1

To save your turbo charger from failing prematurely you will need to take care that if you are starting your car engine do not race the engine immediately from idle. Let 5 – 10 seconds lapse so that the engine oil reaches turbo charger. Then you can race it up and your turbo charger won’t be damaged.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 1

Tip 2

To maintain a turbo diesel engine properly, regularly inspect the glow plugs. The ignition of turbo diesel engine requires compressed heat and the fuel alone can’t produce that much heat. This is when the glow plugs come into use. It happens mainly in winter season and that’s why at this time of year glow pugs need frequent inspection.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 2

Tip 3

Since Turbo Diesel engines run at high compression pressure, lots of heat is generated due to which the cooling system is used regularly. So, regular maintenance of cooling system is required for effective working of the engine.

Tip 4

The diesel lube oil of your turbo diesel engine must be changed frequently at regular intervals. This is because of carbon which is a by – product gets deposited in the oil continuously and if it is not replaced then it blocks the heat transfer. It also hampers the oil’s cooling function. So, it’s best for your engine to change the diesel lube of oil after every 100 hours.

Take a look at our article to know how often you should change engine oil.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 4

Tip 5

Diesel engines use lots of air. So, attention must be paid to the air filtration system. Clean engine filter element at regular interval so that it do not become dirty. Since, your engine is turbo charged take care that the air from turbo charger is cooled properly by the coolants. You can learn to do this at home, just read our article on how to clean your car air filter at home.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 5
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Tip 6

While maintaining your Turbo Diesel engine, take care that the engine is completely supported by an external support before you unscrew any of the plugs, mounting bolts or nuts.

Tip 7

Never use low grade oil for your Turbo Diesel Engine. It can’t protect the turbo charger properly. So, use oil of proper viscosity and correct quality API specification.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 7
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Tip 8

For cooling, people often pour in water instead of the proper coolant. It will not cause proper cooling and may lead to corrosion. Its best to use properly mixed solution of recommended coolant for better maintenance of a Turbo Diesel Engine.

If you want more tips we advise you to read our article on how to clean a car engine safely.

How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine - Tip 8

If you want to read similar articles to How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine, we recommend you visit our Car Maintenance and Repair category.

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3 comments
Rating:
Georgia B
Thanks for the information on air filtration systems. I didn't realize that this was such a vital part of a diesel engine! My husband and I are looking into getting a diesel-powered car so we'll be sure to get some spare air filters to keep on hand
Rating:
Ryan Bethell
I love reading (and learning) about diesels. Thanks for this.
I remember that my love for huge diesel engine trucks began when I got to watch and later help my grandfather work on his farm truck and tractor. Wow, great memories! Now, I've been able to turn my hobby into a growing business. If you're ever in the Tampa area look me up and stop by our shop.
OneHowTo Editor
We're glad you enjoyed our article!
Rating:
georgemcbride
Since diesel engines use a lot of air, greater attention is paid to the engine air filtration. A common practice among truckers is to install a tell-tale plastic indicator on the side of the air filter housing. The indicator changes colour as soon as the engine filter element becomes dirty. Cooling this air is also critical especially if the engine is turbocharged. On some high end diesel engines they are fitted with after coolers to cool the air from turbo charger.
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Image: gasolinerasescoserra.com
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How To Maintain a Turbo Diesel Engine