Diesel Engine Repair in Lexington, KY
- CELEBRATING 46 YEARS
- Family Owned & Operated
- All Makes & Models
- CELEBRATING 46 YEARS
- Family Owned & Operated
- All Makes & Models
Contact Us
Diesel Engine Repair - Power and Efficiency for Heavy-Duty Performance
Bill’s diesel pickup truck had been getting harder to start and producing more black smoke than usual. His fuel economy had dropped significantly, and the engine seemed to lack its usual power. When he brought it to us, we found his fuel injectors were dirty and his diesel particulate filter was clogged. After cleaning the injectors and regenerating the DPF, his truck ran like new again. “I forgot how smooth and powerful a clean diesel should be,” he said. “The fuel economy improvement alone paid for the service.”
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What Your Neighbors Are Saying About Us
They truly care about offering the right service and doing it at a very fair price. They were patient to explain everything in detail and had my car fixed same day. Their honesty and great service will keep me coming back for all of my car needs. A solid repair shop that will be my first choice going forward.
Could not be happier with the recent service I received at Powers Transmissions! David and his team are very knowledgeable and pleasant to work with. It’s nice to have the peace of mind knowing everything is done correctly. Very happy with the experience and highly recommend!
What stood out to me was their willingness to listen to my concerns over the phone and provide an accurate estimate for the repair timeline. Unlike some places, they didn't try to deceive me just to get me in the door. You can genuinely sense their passion for their work and helping customers.
Wow, excellent job. My HUMMER H2 runs so good. Now the Transmission can pull a barn down I have known Mr. powers for years. He is a stand up guy if he says something you can take it to the bank. I'm very happy.
Powers Transmissions took over and had my car done in less than a week. They worked with my warranty company and kept me updated on everything that was happening. Completely professional and competent unlike the first place I went! Thank you for all your help!
How Diesel Engines Work
Diesel engines operate differently from gasoline engines, using compression ignition instead of spark plugs. They compress air to extremely high pressures and temperatures, then inject fuel that ignites spontaneously from the heat of compression.
This combustion process produces more torque than gasoline engines and typically achieves better fuel economy. Modern diesel engines use sophisticated fuel injection systems, turbochargers, and emissions control systems to provide clean, efficient operation.
Common Diesel Engine Problems
- Hard Starting: Diesel engines may be difficult to start due to glow plug problems, fuel system issues, or compression problems.
- Black Smoke: Excessive black smoke indicates overfueling, dirty injectors, or air intake problems.
- White Smoke: White smoke can indicate coolant leaks, fuel quality problems, or injection timing issues.
- Blue Smoke: Blue smoke suggests oil burning from worn rings, valves, or turbocharger problems.
- Power Loss: Reduced power can result from fuel system problems, turbocharger issues, or emissions system faults.
- Rough Idle: Uneven running may indicate injector problems, fuel quality issues, or engine management faults.
- Excessive Fuel Consumption: Poor fuel economy often results from injector problems or emissions system issues.
Our Diesel Engine Services
- Fuel System Service: Professional cleaning of fuel injectors, pumps, and related components.
- Glow Plug Replacement: Service and replacement of glow plugs for reliable cold starting.
- Turbocharger Service: Diagnosis and repair of turbocharger systems for optimal performance.
- Emissions System Service: Maintenance and repair of DPF, EGR, and SCR systems.
- Compression Testing: Evaluate engine internal condition and cylinder health.
- Fuel Quality Testing: Check diesel fuel quality and contamination levels.
- Computer Diagnostics: Advanced diagnostic equipment designed specifically for diesel engines.
Diesel Fuel System Maintenance
- Fuel Filter Changes: Diesel engines require more frequent fuel filter changes than gasoline engines.
- Water Separation: Diesel fuel systems have water separators that need regular draining.
- Injection System Cleaning: Professional cleaning removes deposits that affect performance and economy.
- High-Pressure Systems: Modern diesel injection systems operate at extremely high pressures requiring specialized service.
- Fuel Quality: Use only high-quality diesel fuel and avoid contaminated fuel sources.
Emissions Control Systems
- Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Captures soot particles and requires periodic regeneration or cleaning.
- Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR): Reduces NOx emissions but can cause carbon buildup problems.
- Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR): Uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to reduce NOx emissions.
- Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC): Helps reduce hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions.
- Crankcase Ventilation: Modern diesels have complex crankcase ventilation systems that need maintenance.
Turbocharger Systems
- Forced Induction: Most modern diesels use turbochargers to increase power and efficiency.
- Oil Dependencies: Turbochargers depend on clean oil and proper oil changes for longevity.
- Intercooling: Intercoolers cool compressed air for better performance and emissions.
- Variable Geometry: Advanced turbochargers use variable geometry for improved response.
- Maintenance Requirements: Turbochargers need proper cooldown procedures and oil maintenance.
Glow Plug Systems
- Cold Starting Aid: Glow plugs heat combustion chambers for easier cold starting.
- Individual Testing: Each glow plug should be tested individually for proper operation.
- Cycle Times: Modern glow plug systems have specific heating cycles controlled by the engine computer.
- Replacement Intervals: Glow plugs typically last 60,000-100,000 miles depending on use.
- System Diagnosis: Glow plug system problems require specialized diagnostic procedures.
Diesel Maintenance Requirements
- Oil Changes: Diesel engines require more frequent oil changes and specific oil grades.
- Fuel Filters: Change fuel filters more frequently than gasoline engines require.
- Air Filters: Keep air filters clean for proper turbocharger operation and engine breathing.
- Coolant Service: Diesel engines run hotter and stress cooling systems more than gasoline engines.
- DEF System: SCR-equipped diesels need regular DEF refills and system maintenance.
Cold Weather Diesel Operation
- Glow Plug Operation: Ensure glow plugs work properly for reliable cold starting.
- Fuel Gelling: Use winter-grade diesel fuel or additives to prevent fuel gelling.
- Block Heaters: Engine block heaters improve cold starting and reduce wear.
- Battery Requirements: Diesel engines need more battery power for starting than gasoline engines.
- Coolant Protection: Ensure adequate antifreeze protection for diesel operating temperatures.
Performance Diesel Modifications
- Tuning Options: Diesel engines respond well to computer tuning for increased power.
- Turbocharger Upgrades: Larger or more efficient turbochargers can increase performance.
- Fuel System Modifications: Upgraded injection systems can support higher power levels.
- Exhaust Systems: Performance exhausts can improve power and sound.
- Cooling Upgrades: Higher power levels may require improved cooling systems.
Diesel Fuel Quality
- Water Contamination: Water in diesel fuel causes injection system damage and poor performance.
- Biological Growth: Bacteria and algae can grow in diesel fuel tanks, causing fuel system problems.
- Fuel Additives: Quality additives can improve fuel system cleanliness and performance.
- Storage Considerations: Diesel fuel degrades over time and may need stabilizers for long-term storage.
- Fuel Testing: We can test diesel fuel quality and contamination levels.
Common Diesel Myths
- Diesels Are Dirty: Modern diesels are very clean with proper maintenance and operation.
- Diesels Don’t Need Maintenance: Diesels require more maintenance than gasoline engines, not less.
- “Any Oil Works”: Diesels require specific oil grades and change intervals.
- Diesels Last Forever: While durable, diesels need proper maintenance for longevity.
- Diesel Problems Are Expensive: Many diesel problems are preventable with proper maintenance.
Heavy-Duty Applications
- Commercial Vehicles: Trucks and commercial equipment have unique service requirements.
- Towing Applications: Vehicles used for heavy towing need more frequent service.
- Fleet Maintenance: Commercial fleets benefit from preventive maintenance programs.
- Severe Service: Stop-and-go operation, idle time, and dust exposure require adjusted service intervals.
Cost Considerations
Diesel service costs reflect the complexity of modern diesel systems:
- Routine Maintenance: $150-400 for oil changes and basic service
- Fuel System Service: $300-800 for injection system cleaning
- Emissions System Repair: $500-2,000 for DPF or SCR system service
- Turbocharger Service: $1,000-3,000 for turbocharger replacement
- Major Engine Work: $3,000-8,000 for engine rebuilds or major repairs
Preventive maintenance prevents expensive diesel problems.
Why Choose Our Diesel Service
We’ve been servicing diesel engines for over 15 years and understand their unique requirements. Our technicians have specialized training in modern diesel systems including emissions controls and high-pressure fuel systems.
We have the diagnostic equipment and tools needed for proper diesel service and use quality parts designed for diesel applications. Whether you need routine maintenance or complex repairs, we provide knowledgeable service that keeps your diesel running efficiently.
Schedule Your Diesel Service
Don’t let diesel problems reduce your power, economy, or reliability. If you’re experiencing starting problems, smoke, reduced performance, or emissions system warnings, give us a call for specialized diesel diagnosis.
Diesel engines require knowledgeable service from technicians who understand their unique systems. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to problems keep your diesel operating efficiently and reliably for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Areas We Serve
- Winchester Lexington
- Lane Allen Lexington