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Hello folks, Kary here from Modern Diesel. There’s been quite a buzz lately about the future of diesel and whether it’s sticking around in the face of electric alternatives and increasing emission regulations. I want to assure you, as a devoted diesel mechanic here in Austin, Texas, that diesel is here to stay. I also want to talk about something very important that we encounter frequently at Modern Diesel – signs your diesel truck might need transmission repair.

First off, let’s clear the air about diesel. Yes, electric options are emerging, and yes, there are new regulations around emissions. But guess what? Diesel isn’t standing still either. It’s evolving, just like every other technology.

Over the years, diesel technology has been improved tremendously, particularly in the areas of performance and emissions. Today’s diesel engines provide significant mileage improvements over their counterparts from just a decade ago, increasing from averages of 4-5 MPG to around 9-10 MPG. This boost in efficiency is not just good for your wallet, but it’s also better for the environment.

One major concern many have is emissions. The old image of diesel vehicles leaving trails of black smoke is long gone. We now have cleaner diesel technology and fuels such as renewable diesel and low-sulfur diesel, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel fuel.

Now, onto the matter at hand – signs your diesel truck might need transmission repair. This is crucial, because a problem caught early can save you from much bigger headaches down the line.

Difficulty in Shifting Gears: If your truck isn’t smoothly transitioning between gears or is refusing to shift, this could be a sign of a transmission problem.

Transmission Slipping: If you’re experiencing unexpected gear changes while driving or the vehicle seems to be struggling to accelerate, this could be a sign of a slipping transmission.

Fluid Leaks: Transmission fluid leaks are a common sign of a problem. Remember, transmission fluid is essential for keeping the gears running smoothly, so any leak should be addressed immediately.

Warning Lights: If your ‘Check Engine’ light is on, don’t ignore it. This could indicate a problem with the transmission.

Unusual Noises: If you’re hearing odd sounds like whining, clunking, or humming, it could be an indication of transmission trouble.

At Modern Diesel, we pay close attention to these and other signs of transmission issues. When you bring your truck to us, we thoroughly check it over and make sure to fix any problems before they turn into bigger issues. Remember, preventive maintenance is key to keeping your diesel truck running smoothly.

We want to reassure all diesel enthusiasts and truck owners that diesel is far from disappearing. It’s just adapting to our changing world, becoming cleaner and more efficient, just like us here at Modern Diesel. We’re constantly updating our knowledge and skills to meet your diesel repair needs in this changing landscape.

Remember, no matter the direction the world of diesel takes, we’re here for you. Feel free to swing by or contact us with any questions or concerns about your diesel truck. And stay tuned to our blog for more useful insights and information.

Keep rolling,

Kary

Hey there, Allen here from Modern Diesel in Austin, Texas! In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of EGR coolers and why they’re so important for your diesel engine.

First things first, what exactly is an EGR cooler? Well, EGR stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation, which means that some of the exhaust gases that would normally be released into the atmosphere are instead redirected back into the engine to be burned again. This process helps to lower the engine’s emissions by reducing the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) that are produced.

Now, you might be wondering why we need EGR coolers. The reason is simple: when exhaust gases are recirculated back into the engine, they can be extremely hot. If these hot gases were simply pumped back into the engine without being cooled down, they could cause damage to the engine’s internal components.

That’s where EGR coolers come in. These coolers use either air or coolant to reduce the temperature of the exhaust gases before they’re reintroduced into the engine. By doing this, the EGR cooler helps to protect your engine and keep it running smoothly.

However, EGR coolers can sometimes fail due to a number of reasons. For example, the cooler could become clogged with soot or other debris, which can cause it to overheat and crack. Or, the cooler could simply wear out over time and start leaking.

If you suspect that your EGR cooler might be failing, it’s important to get it checked out by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring the problem could lead to more serious issues down the line.

At Modern Diesel, we’re experts in all things diesel engine-related, including EGR coolers. If you’re experiencing any issues with your engine or you simply want to learn more about EGR coolers and how they work, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

We hope you found this article informative and helpful. Thanks for reading, and we’ll see you next time!

In conclusion, EGR coolers are an essential component of any diesel engine that’s designed to meet modern emissions standards. By recirculating exhaust gases back into the engine, these coolers help to lower emissions while also protecting the engine from damage. If you have any questions or concerns about your EGR cooler, be sure to reach out to the experts at Modern Diesel for help.

Hey there, fellow diesel truck enthusiasts! It’s Allen from Modern Diesel in Austin, Texas. Today, we’re going to talk about an essential aspect of maintaining your diesel truck: transmission repair. As diesel truck owners, we know how important it is to keep our vehicles in top shape. The transmission is a crucial component of any vehicle, and it’s even more vital in a diesel truck. In this article, we’ll explore the signs that your diesel truck may need transmission repair and how to address these issues.

Difficulty Shifting Gears

One of the first signs that your diesel truck may need transmission repair is difficulty shifting gears. If you notice that your truck is struggling to shift between gears or there’s a delay when you shift, it’s time to have your transmission checked. This issue could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn-out gears, or other internal transmission issues.

Slipping Gears

Another sign of a problem with your truck’s transmission is slipping gears. If you feel like your truck is slipping out of gear while driving, this could be a symptom of a more severe transmission issue. This can be dangerous as it can cause your truck to lose power, potentially leading to accidents. Slipping gears could be due to worn or damaged components within the transmission.

Unusual Noises

If you start hearing strange noises coming from your truck’s transmission, such as grinding or whining sounds, it’s time to have it inspected. These noises can indicate problems with gears or bearings inside the transmission. Ignoring these noises could lead to more severe damage and costly repairs in the long run.

Leaking Transmission Fluid

Leaking transmission fluid is another sign that your diesel truck needs transmission repair. If you notice a puddle of reddish fluid under your truck, it’s likely transmission fluid. Leaks can occur due to cracked seals, damaged gaskets, or loose connections. Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to your transmission.

Check Engine Light

While the check engine light can illuminate for various reasons, it can also be an indicator of transmission issues. If your check engine light comes on and you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s time to have your truck’s transmission checked by a professional.

Burning Smell

A burning smell coming from your truck could indicate overheating transmission fluid. Overheating can be caused by low fluid levels, dirty fluid, or a failing transmission cooler. It’s essential to address this issue immediately, as overheating can cause severe damage to your transmission.

Poor Acceleration and Loss of Power

If you notice that your diesel truck is struggling to accelerate or experiencing a loss of power, it could be a sign of transmission trouble. These issues can be caused by worn-out clutches, damaged gears, or other internal transmission problems.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you experience any of these signs, it’s essential to have your diesel truck’s transmission inspected by a professional. At Modern Diesel, we specialize in diesel truck repair and maintenance, including transmission repair. Our team of experts can diagnose and address any transmission issues, ensuring your truck stays in top condition.

In conclusion, paying attention to the signs that your diesel truck needs transmission repair is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your vehicle. By being proactive and addressing these issues promptly, you can prevent more severe damage and costly repairs. As always, if you need help with your diesel truck, the team at Modern Diesel in Austin, Texas, is here to help. Stay safe and happy trucking!

I’ve been keeping a close eye on the latest developments in the industry. Recently, Cummins, a well-known diesel engine manufacturer, announced two new hydrogen engines that are based on existing engines.

From my research, I’ve found that these prototypes could offer a more efficient and environmentally friendly option compared to traditional diesel engines. The engines use hydrogen fuel cells, which emit only water and heat, making them a cleaner alternative. Additionally, the high energy density of hydrogen fuel cells means these engines have the potential for longer ranges and faster refueling times.

However, while these engines are certainly interesting and could bring some changes to the diesel performance industry, I don’t think they’ll revolutionize it. They’re a step forward, for sure, but it’ll be interesting to see how they perform in real-world applications.

As someone who runs a diesel performance shop, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest diesel technology. It’s good to see companies like Cummins making advancements in the field and offering new options for diesel enthusiasts.

Overall, these new hydrogen engines from Cummins are a noteworthy development in the diesel performance industry. While I’m not completely sure how they’ll play out in the long term, I think they have the potential to offer some benefits over traditional diesel engines. However, it’s important to note that hydrogen fuel cell technology is still in its infancy, and there are still many challenges to overcome before it becomes widely adopted.

One of the main challenges is the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen refueling. Unlike traditional diesel fuel, hydrogen fueling stations are not as widespread. This could make it challenging for drivers to refuel their vehicles, especially if they’re traveling to remote areas.

Another challenge is the cost of hydrogen fuel cells. While the cost has been decreasing in recent years, it’s still much more expensive than traditional diesel engines. This could be a significant barrier for individuals and companies looking to adopt this technology.

Overall, while the new hydrogen engines from Cummins are a promising development in the diesel performance industry, it will take time to see if they will become a viable alternative to traditional diesel engines. However, as someone who is passionate about diesel performance, I’m excited to see where this technology will go and how it will evolve in the years to come.

As the owner of Modern Diesel, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative technologies that can improve the performance and efficiency of diesel engines. That’s why I was particularly interested in the recent article about Aquarius Engines’ new hydrogen engine.

According to the article, Aquarius Engines has developed a hydrogen engine that utilizes a unique combustion process to produce power with significantly lower emissions than traditional diesel engines. The engine is also said to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance.

As someone who has been working in the diesel repair industry for over 15 years, I am always looking for ways to stay ahead of the curve. That’s why I was particularly intrigued by Aquarius Engines’ new hydrogen engine. It’s not often that you come across a technology that has the potential to revolutionize the entire diesel industry.

One of the main obstacles to the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell technology has been its high cost and lack of infrastructure. Aquarius Engines’ new engine, however, could potentially overcome these obstacles by using hydrogen in a combustion process rather than in a fuel cell.

According to the article, the company’s proprietary technology works by injecting hydrogen into the air intake of a traditional internal combustion engine. This hydrogen is then combusted with diesel fuel, creating a mixture that produces power with significantly lower emissions.

As someone who is passionate about diesel repair and technology, I am genuinely interested in this new engine from Aquarius Engines. I will be keeping a close eye on the progress and development of this technology, and I am excited to see how it could potentially change the diesel industry for the better.

Hey everyone it’s Kary Sabedra here with some fire content from Modern Diesel. Soot buildup in diesel engines is a common problem that can lead to reduced engine performance and even engine failure if left unchecked. Soot is a byproduct of combustion that is made up of small particles of carbon. In a diesel engine, soot is created when the fuel is not completely burned and it accumulates on the engine’s internal parts, such as the pistons, valves, and fuel injectors.

There are several ways to prevent and remove soot buildup in diesel engines. One of the most effective methods is to use high-quality diesel fuel with a low sulfur content. Low sulfur diesel fuels burn more completely, which reduces the amount of soot produced. In addition, using a fuel additive can help to improve combustion and prevent soot buildup. There are a variety of fuel additives available on the market, each designed to address specific issues that can cause soot buildup. For example, some fuel additives contain detergents that help to clean the engine and prevent the build-up of carbon deposits, while others contain lubricants that can help to reduce wear on the engine’s internal parts.

Another way to prevent soot buildup is to ensure that the engine is running at the correct temperature. If the engine is running too cold, the fuel may not burn completely, leading to soot buildup. On the other hand, if the engine is running too hot, it can cause the fuel to break down, leading to the formation of more soot. To ensure that your engine is running at the optimal temperature, it’s important to regularly check and maintain the thermostat and radiator.

Proper maintenance is also crucial for preventing soot buildup. Regular oil changes and using the correct oil viscosity can help to keep the engine running smoothly and prevent soot from accumulating. In addition, replacing the fuel filter regularly can help to remove any impurities or contaminants that may be causing the engine to produce more soot. It’s also a good idea to regularly inspect the air filter and replace it if it’s dirty, as a dirty air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine and cause soot buildup.

If soot buildup is already present in your diesel engine, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further damage. One option is to use a soot cleaner, which is a special type of product designed to break down and remove soot from the engine’s internal parts. Soot cleaners are typically applied through the fuel system and are designed to dissolve the carbon deposits that have accumulated on the engine’s internal parts.

There are a few different types of soot cleaners available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. For example, some soot cleaners are more effective at removing heavy soot deposits, while others are better at preventing future soot buildup. It’s important to choose the right soot cleaner for your specific needs, as using the wrong product can potentially cause more harm than good.

Modern Diesel is a leading provider of diesel engine maintenance and repair services. Our team of experienced technicians is equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you take care of soot buildup in your diesel engine. Whether you need a simple fuel filter replacement or a more complex soot cleaning service, we have the expertise to get the job done right.

In addition to our soot removal services, we offer a wide range of other diesel engine maintenance and repair services, including oil changes, fuel system cleaning, and more. We use only the highest quality products and parts to ensure that your engine is running at its best.

Hello everyone, this is Kary Sabedra, and I’m back with another helpful blog that’ll help you enjoy your diesel truck to the fullest. One question I’ve found that truckers often ask is “how often should I schedule a visit to the diesel mechanic?”. This is a very important question, as a visit to the diesel mechanic can save you from having unplanned breakdowns in the middle of nowhere.

Diesel trucks require very high combustion to function, and that makes their parts wear out faster. Servicing your diesel truck engine helps to extend the life of your truck and prevent wear and tear. So, how often should you schedule a maintenance check for your truck? The average duration is 5 months!

Routine preventive maintenance involves brake checks, wiring checks, engine maintenance, air filters and fuel replacement, and many other checks. After you use your trucks for long-distance travel, the average duration to wait before scheduling a check is 5-6 months. That simply means that you have to see a professional diesel mechanic for routine checks at least twice a year.

The engine oil is one of the most important components of your engine because it plays a huge role in lubricating it and promoting friction. When you allow the oil to go below normal, your truck risks overheating and an engine knock.

During your scheduled visit to your diesel truck engine mechanic, every important part will be checked, including the oil. Changes and fixes will be made where necessary and the mechanic will fill you in on the state of your truck. While it is advisable to check your truck with a professional diesel mechanic every 5-6 months, the duration still depends on the way you use your truck.

If you cover more mileage in a trip, you may want to schedule earlier checks to prevent unforeseen stops. Some things you can do on your own, before your next visit to the diesel mechanic;

• Check your oil levels

As I’ve mentioned before, oil keeps your truck running smoothly, so keep an eye on it and make sure to top it up even before it becomes red.

• Regularly gauge your tires

Underinflated tires have a lesser grip on the road and tend to cause road accidents for truckers more often than not. When you drive with underinflated tires, you’ll find it harder to steer as you drive. To prevent any of this from happening, gauge your tires at least once every month!

Make sure to look out for signs that your engine needs repair and regularly carry out these little personal checks. They will go a long way in helping you to learn about an issue before it occurs.

So, there you have it, you should get your truck checked by a certified diesel mechanic at least twice a year. That is every 5 to 6 months depending on how you use your truck. At Modern Diesel, there are licensed mechanics always ready to check on your truck and bring it to its best possible shape. We make it our mission to make sure your truck lasts a lifetime on the road with little to no issues.

Need to schedule a diesel mechanic in Austin for your truck? Feel free to reach out to us.

Hey everyone, this is Kary from Modern Diesel. Since we are slowly gearing up for winter, I want to tell you all about how you can preserve your diesel fuel in winter. As we all know, in the winter diesel has a tendency to become gel-ly and thick so many manufacturers tend to water it down.

In winter, gas mileage becomes lower, so your diesel engine may begin to run slow because the energy produced is lesser. This happens because the diesel has a different blend and it is mixed thinner. Diesel fuel contains about 10 to 20 per cent more energy than the regular fuel used by smaller cars.

Vehicles that have more sophisticated engine functions, use diesel because it is ideal and it provides more energy. So, driving a diesel engine is more efficient but during the colder months you might start to have doubts.

There are a few ways to reduce the effect of the winter season on your truck’s diesel consumption and that’s what I want to share with you today. These tips will help to reduce consumption, but it still can’t be compared to summer, when your fuel lasts much longer. To preserve your diesel fuel and utilize its energy in winter, here are some of the things you can do;

Stock Up on Diesel

I have to start with this point because it is important and it will save you the stress of using diluted diesel. If you’re travelling from a place with warm weather to a location where the temperature is very low, then you might want to fill up your tank before you leave.

Warm places tend to have more normal diesel than places known for their cold weather. Find out what you can about the places you’ll be travelling through, so you’ll know where to buy the best diesel for your truck. You’ll save mileage when you use the diesel that works best for the climate, you’re going to be in.

Additives

Diesel fuel may have the best qualities when it comes to driving but in the colder months, the cetane level of diesel decreases, causing it to lose its natural energy. This loss of energy results in lower mileage. Additives can be used to tackle the issue of thinner fuels in winter, you’re probably wondering how.

Additives react with the components of the fuel to reduce any effect lower cetane levels might have in your truck. It also helps with lubricating the injection system of your truck. You might think buying an additive is not worth it, but before you conclude, think about the extra money you would be spending on diesel.

When you consider the extra mileage, you’ll get and the money you’ll save from not buying extra fuel, you’ll see that additives are actually worth it.

Constant Checkups

Regular checks and maintenance can also help you preserve your diesel. Your auto mechanic would know to change to synthetic oils because they flow better in winter. Your tire pressure is another thing you want to pay attention to in colder months because it can either improve or reduce your gas mileage by 1% to 3%.

Winter can be hectic on the road, so take my advice and follow these three tips. If you need any help or have any questions, do let me know.

Hey everyone, Kary here, and today I’m going to be talking about qualities to look out for when selecting a fleet provider. In the world of trucks, finding that perfect fleet maintenance provider who is not out to cheat you can be a hassle. With many mechanics out there claiming to be the best, it’s important that you find one that you can trust with your fleet.

Fleet maintenance is a major part of owning a fleet. It helps to increase the lifespan of your vehicles and prevent downtime. If you’re in the trucking business, then you already know that downtime can cost your business money. And that is not such a good thing.

A good fleet maintenance provider in Texas or anywhere, should be able able to foresee issues before they even happen and come up with a solution for you the client. There are so many qualities or traits to look out for but most importantly, look out for these qualities;

Commitment to Quality and Professionalism

Your fleet maintenance provider should be able to provide you with quality services while being professional about it. There’s no room for laxity in the world of trucking and heavy-duty cars because every second counts. Look out for the quality of products used to ensure your fleet is properly maintained.

Your fleet maintenance provider has to work with OEM specifications and give you a solid warranty. This will prove to you that they are confident in the quality of service they are providing.

Offer On-Site Preventative Maintenance

To eliminate the possibility of downtime, your fleet maintenance provider has to offer on-site preventative maintenance sessions. This is when all the important checks will happen to prevent future mechanical problems.

This will help increase your vehicle uptime and show that the fleet maintenance provider has the wellness of your fleet in mind. Preventative maintenance should include the examination of hoses, spark plugs, filters, and oil changes. Watch out for how your truck acts after this routine; that will show you how much work your provider is doing.

Other things, your fleet maintenance provider should check during preventative maintenance are the chassis, the brakes, and the engine.

Years of Experience

More than theoretical knowledge, years of experience play a major role in determining how well a fleet maintenance provider will do their job. You should look out for a company that has been in the business for years with experience working on trailer repair, diesel repair, and the like. Experience gives every fleet service provider an upper hand because they now know what could go wrong and how to fix it.

Modern Diesel has been in the fleet maintenance business for over 5 years. Working with heavy-duty diesel trucks, trailers, and diesel fleets. Even mobile repairs are available if one of your drivers ever gets stuck on the road. Do you want to work with a fleet maintenance provider you can trust? Modern Diesel is your best bet!

Hi everyone, Kary here with Modern Diesel. If you drive a diesel truck, I believe you’ll find today’s blog really helpful. We’re going to be talking about why changing your diesel truck oil is very important.

The main powerhouse of your diesel truck is its engine and a regular oil change is an important part of maintaining it. Engine oils act as a lubricator and protectant for the many complicated parts of your engine.

There are many reasons why changing your diesel truck oil is very important but, in this blog, I want to focus on the 4 most important ones. The following are the reasons why you should consider changing your oil regularly.

Reason 1 –To Avoid Mechanical Problems

Mechanical problems arise with your truck when there is no proper flow of oil within your engine. Lubrication is a major part of engine functions because the parts involved in keeping your vehicles moving, work under high temperatures.

The work of the engine oil is to balance the temperature and lubricate your diesel engine. Letting your engine oil dry up or get dirty can lead to mechanical problems. To avoid unforeseen issues, change your oil regularly.

Reason 2– Improves the Longevity of your Truck

The engine of your truck has a lifespan that can either be extended or short-lived depending on your maintenance culture. Regular engine oil changes, protect the parts of your engine from wear and tear due to friction.

Dirty oil buildup can also lead to the consumption of more diesel, which causes your engine to do more work. This is what reduces the longevity of your truck and affects its overall function.

Reason 3- Operation Efficiency

Your truck engine needs a lot of things in place for it to function optimally. A regular oil change helps to prevent unplanned breakdowns and expenses. Your engine parts have smooth functionality when there’s enough clean oil flowing through them.

An inefficient engine stresses you as the driver more than you even know. From gear change to the overall truck movement, if you’re not changing your oil regularly, you’ll struggle with these vital functions.

Reason 4– Improve Truck Mileage

When you keep your engine well lubricated, it performs at its peak and consumes an average amount of fuel. The United States Department of Energy confirms that when your engine has the right amount of lubrication, the gas mileage reduces by 1 to 2 per cent. As you keep driving your truck this percentage adds up.

If you regularly change your oil, certain parts of your engine are protected from damage, leading to a perfectly performing engine and increased mileage. Everything you do affects how well your engine functions and how long you enjoy driving your truck. In essence, it is a ripple effect.

There you have it; these 4 points should motivate you to regularly change your oils to avoid unplanned mechanical problems. When it’s time for an oil change, Modern Diesel can help you with the process, to ensure your truck gets only the best.