Tips For Industrial Diesel Engine Maintenance

Industrial diesel engines are usually employed for heavy-duty and important jobs and as such are often subject to significant wear and tear, under extreme conditions. This makes regular maintenance essential for their longevity. There are, however, a number of tips that can help towards keeping your industrial diesel engine in tip-top condition.

Perform Regular Inspections

Performing regular inspections can help to locate any potential problems before they lead to major and often costly, repairs. This should include a walk around of the machine to check the electrical system and operation of the equipment itself. Other elements which should be inspected frequently include the battery, the oil, the air filter (specifically if you are working in a dusty environment), as well as an inspection of all rubber seals and O rings, this is especially important when removing any plugs or filters.

Any warning signs displayed on the dashboard should be taken seriously and investigated immediately, as should any loss of power or signs of over-heating.

Keeping the Engine Clean

Cleaning the engine on a regular basis can help to prevent a build-up of dirt and debris which can contribute towards a shorter lifespan. Allowing dirt and grime to remain on the engine is something that often causes damage to its components. Depending on the type of work the engine is used for, dirt may build-up more quickly and cleaning will be required on a more regular basis. A layer of dirt on the engine may also compromise its performance, whereas a clean engine is more likely to maintain optimum condition.

Oil Changes

Oil should also be changed according to the manufacturer’s instructions – if the engine is heavily used under harsh conditions, it may be necessary to change the oil more frequently. Always use good quality oil and ensure that it is the right type of oil for your engine. Poor quality engine oil can damage the engine over time as it may not provide sufficient lubrication, cause corrosion from uncontrolled levels of acidity in the oil itself or allow particles and soot to circulate and deposit causing wear.

Air Filter

It is important to inspect and replace the air filters as and when it is needed, as this helps to protect the engine. Replacement may need to be more frequent depending on the climate and the environment.

Engine Coolant

Monitoring the engine’s coolant is an extremely important part of maintenance – it should be checked and flushed out according to the manufacturer’s guidance. It is important that this schedule is adhered to, as over time the coolant may become more acidic, which may result in damage to other parts of the cooling system if it is left for too long. The acidity levels can be tested to provide a clear indication of when the coolant needs changing.

Regular Water Draining

Excessive levels of water in the fuel can cause a range of issues that may negatively affect the engine. Fuel storage tanks should be periodically drained of water to remove any build-up, this is a relatively simple task that can save costly repairs, especially if the fuel injectors become damaged. If the fuel appears cloudy or hazy in appearance, it is usually a sign of excess water.

How We Can Help

For more advice on purchasing industrial diesel engines, get in touch with AT Wilde today. We supply an extensive range of engines, parts and spares as well as other plant and construction-related equipment.