If there’s an issue with your diesel fuel system, the most important thing to remember is to fix it sooner rather than later. With gas engines, you can often power through a fuel issue for quite some time - they’re irritating, but not often permanently damaging.
Diesel systems are a little more important, and parts rely heavily on one another to avoid damage and keep working properly, as well as maintenance and repair from professional technicians.
A clogged fuel filter or a bad electronic pump is a lot more than an inconvenience - if the pump or filter is hindering the flow of fuel, it’s also restricting the ability of the injection pump and injectors to lubricate. These parts are under a lot of stress, and have a low tolerance for poor conditions - it won’t take long for fuel-starved components to sustain a lot of costly damage.
A damaged injection pump will only continue to get worse. Make sure you get it taken care of before more damage or damage to other components occurs. Lines get clogged, parts wear out, and debris causes harm, all of which will result in more extensive damage over time.
Injectors are probably the most important component to keep an eye on. Since any amount of debris can damage one, and there are so many small, precise components working in unison, it doesn’t take much to start an injector issue. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just replacing the injector - if an injector is stuck open and leaking fuel into the cylinder, the nozzle is damaged, or the rubber seals are letting fuel leak past them, you run the risk of “washing out” a cylinder, or potentially cracking a piston. Either one means an engine rebuild will be in order. If you notice an injector issue, have it corrected as soon as possible by a certified technician with the right knowledge and equipment.
While issues will always arise within any kind of system or component, there are preventative measures you can take to ensure yours stays reliable - proper maintenance will keep your fleet running smoothly. For the best diesel and fleet service shop in Philadelphia, PA, call or stop by Harold's Used Auto Parts Inc today.