How to keep your engine in the best condition?

During the running of the diesel generator, the exhaust system, fuel system, DC electrical system and engine require close monitoring for any leaks that can cause hazardous occurrences. As with any internal combustion engine, proper maintenance is essential.

10 tips to keep your Diesel Engine / Generator in the best condition

Glow Plugs:

The nature of Diesel engine produces very little carbon monoxide, however it produces a lot of black soot which is a result of incomplete combustion. The black soot is caused by uncleaned injectors and faulty injector timing that. To prevent this from happening, glow plugs are used to heat the combustion chamber to assist in the burning of fuel, therefore it is essential for engine owners to check it frequently.

Lubricant:

Ensure that your engine is well oiled to prevent engine cylinder block scoring. Engines are made to run for long period of time, however ensure that there are always enough lubricant for the engine and the piston wall is well lubricated to prevent piston scoring.

Monitor the coolant:

Coolant is one of its most important maintenance needs of a diesel engine. Coolant becomes acidic over time, therefore it should be continually monitored. If it’s allowed to remain acidic it can corrode other parts of the vehicle’s cooling system like the radiator. Take the time to have the coolant checked and flushed on an acidic liquid. Acidity levels can even be tested to let you know where you stand.

Fuel filter:

Fuel filters should be replaced on a routine maintenance schedule, approximately every 200 hours for optimal cleaning.

Gaskets:

Gaskets on diesel on engines must be monitored closely as they are exposed to extreme operating conditions. If possible, all mounting bolts must be re-torqued at regular intervals to prevent leaks especially in the combustion mounting areas. This is also true for coolant hoses which can deteriorate quickly if not secured properly. This is mainly due by engine vibrations which is common on diesel engines. Always replace a leaky gasket as a set. If one starts to leak, the rest is not far behind.

Air Filters:

Air Filter should be inspected and replaced as needed. They can actually be checked without removing the air filter.

Testing Batteries:

Weak or undercharged starting batteries are a common cause of standby power system failures. The battery must be kept fully charged and well-maintained to avoid dwindling by regular testing and inspection to know the current status of the battery and avoid any start-up hitches of the generator. They must also be cleaned; and the specific gravity and electrolyte levels of the battery checked frequently.

Routine Engine Exercise:

Regular exercising keeps the engine parts lubricated and thwart oxidation of electrical contacts, uses up fuel before it deteriorate, and helps to provide reliable engine starting. Engine exercise is recommended to be executed at least once a month for a minimum of 30 min. loaded to no less than one-third of the nameplate rating.

Exhaust System Inspection

In case there are leaks along the exhaust line which usually occurs at the connection points, the welds and the gaskets; they should be repaired immediately by a qualified technician.

Tips on maintaining Diesel Engines / Generators

Diesel engines run at higher compression pressure than gasoline engines. Where the highest compression for most high performance gasoline engines is close to 200 psi, diesel runs almost 3 times that pressure. As a consequence, more heat is generated putting extra demands on the engine cooling system. Study shows diesel engines usually fail 50% more on cooling related problems because it cannot stand prolong overheating. This is why the cooling system is a high maintenance issue.