8 Things You Should Know Before Replacing Your Engine

The bad news (that you already got) is that you need to replace your engine. The good news is that replacing your engine doesn’t need to break the bank. Quality used engines are an excellent cost saving alternative to often cost prohibitive new and remanufactured choices.  You can save even more if an engine changeover is something you can do yourself. If you’re a DIY about to replace your engine, check out these 8 tips for a smooth, successful job:

1. Find and fix the root problem.  Engines fail for a reason.  Did it overheat? Did the timing belt fail?  Was there water in the oil?  If something caused your engine to fail and you don’t solve that problem, your new engine won’t last long. Don’t forget to check and resolve any codes in the computer.
2. Inspect your new engine.  Pay attention to sensors, brackets, and all the other bolt on parts. Your new engine was inspected and interchanged and is the right part for your car. All those little parts were not.  Compare them to the parts on your old engine and change over anything that may be different.
3.  Replace the timing belt, gaskets, and seals.  If your new engine has a timing belt, now is the time to replace it.  Check and replace the gaskets and seals as needed. These are jobs that are quick and easy when the motor is out, and hard and expensive when it’s in. Remember to check the manual on proper timing.
4. Don’t forget to flush. Debris left over in the engine oil cooling system can damage your replacement engine. Don’t forget to replace the engine oil cooler and flush those cooler lines.
5. Replace belts, hoses, clamps spark plugs and thermostat.  They don’t last forever. Take this opportunity to replace them.
6. Be careful not to drop anything inside your new engine.  It sounds stupid I know, but we see a couple returns every year where a bolt or nut found it’s way down an intake.
7. Don’t forget the oil change. Your new engine was drained before sale. Remember to change the filter and replace the oil.
8. Watch that temperature. An engine replacement is a big job.  Mistakes can happen. Watch your engine closely the first time you run it. Monitor for leaks and watch that temperature gauge.  Remember, overheating isn’t covered by your warranty.

If your next DIY project is an engine replacement,  add these 8 steps to your R&R checklist. You’ll be glad you did.  And if you have any questions about your new engine, just give us a call.

Related

Diesel mechanics specialize in the maintenance and repair of large, heavy-duty diesel engines. Below, you’ll find our resident diesel specialists’ top tips for keeping your engine happy and healthy.

#1. Prioritize Routine Maintenance with Qualified Diesel Mechanics

The best thing you can do for the longevity of any vehicle is routine maintenance. Diesel trucks are no different! Prioritizing your routine oil changes and other preventative services with a reliable, trusted diesel mechanic is paramount to a long-lasting engine. Our team at M&L have been the trusted diesel experts of Federalsburg, Maryland and beyond for several decades. Schedule your preventative maintenance services today!

#2. Change Filters Regularly

Part of your routine maintenance should be changing out old air, fuel, oil, and bypass filters. Diesel engines have 2 fuel filters, which both should be changed every 10,000-15,000 miles. New air filters can also help maintain the performance of your engine, and replacement will depend on usage and where you drive. In addition, bypass filters should be replaced roughly every 25,000 miles. Oil filters should be changed at every routine maintenance appointment.

#3. Drain Water Separators on Older Models

Older diesel engines may have water separators that need to be manually emptied. This will help avoid leaks or moisture residue which could wreak havoc on your diesel engine. Newer models will likely have automatic water releases that drain excess water from their systems. Be sure to check your make and model’s information booklet to determine which type of water separator you have.

#4. Check Fluid Levels Often

While your fluids will be topped off with routine maintenance, diesel truck drivers may want to give extra care to their fluid levels. Periodically checking that none of your oils, coolants, or other fluids are low will help prevent issues before they leave you stranded!

#5. Inspect Belts & Hoses

Similarly, diesel truck drivers should occasionally inspect their belts and hoses. Signs of wear and tear on these crucial parts should be addressed right away. Procrastinating repairs such as these can lead to breakdowns as well as worse performance of your engine over time.

#6. Use Synthetic Oil

First, determine if your engine can take synthetic oil. If your diesel engine is capable of using synthetic oil, consider making the switch. Synthetic oil can improve overall fuel economy and health of your diesel engine compared to traditional oil. If you have questions about the type of oil your diesel engine will perform best with, don’t hesitate to ask one of our team members!

#7. Let Engine Warm Up Before Driving

Letting your engine warm up, especially in the winter, is crucial. If it is 50 degrees or warmer, it should only take a minute or two to warm up. However, if it is below 50 degrees, give it at least 5 minutes to warm up. And if it’s under 0 degrees, you’ll want a full 7 minutes of warming up your diesel engine prior to taking off for the day.

#8. Let Engine Cool Down After Driving

Similarly, you’ll want to let your engine cool down between drives, too. Let your engine idle for 5-10 minutes to cool down when you park for the day. The exhaust fluid injectors need to be cooled each use to optimize their longevity. In addition, when the engine shuts off, the engine lubricant for cooling stops flowing. Turbocharger bearings depend on this to cool down, which is another reason to idle after a drive!

#9. Avoid Overloading

Never allow your load to become too heavy for your diesel engine. Besides being unsafe, overloading beyond the designated weight will also drastically decrease your fuel mileage. Additionally, you’ll want to check that you’re not carrying any unnecessary weight which could put extra strain on your engine.

#10. Choose High Quality Fuel

Lastly, one of the best decisions you can make for your diesel engine is to choose high quality fuel. In general, #1 diesel is better for winter use because it is thinner. Meanwhile, #2 diesel is thicker and more suited for summer use. Be sure to contact our parent company, PepUp, for your high quality diesel fuel needs!

Following these tips and tricks from our diesel mechanics will help extend the life of your engine and improve your fuel consumption. Rather hit the easy button? Schedule your service with our seasoned diesel mechanics below!

Meet M&L Truck Service Diesel Mechanic and Service Manager, Donald Benton

Donald Benton has worked as a trusted diesel mechanic with M&L Truck Service for 45 years. He says his favorite part of the job is the satisfaction he gets from repairing things that were broken, and getting them back to working order.