Components That Require Oil or Fluid
Diesel Engines
Your heavy-duty diesel engines require both engine oil and coolant to function properly. The engine oil lubricates the engine’s inner components, and the coolant absorbs radiant heat. These two fluids allow for your engine’s operating temperature to be controlled. If either of these fluids breaks down, your engine will overheat and may become damaged. Common damage of prolonged overheating includes blown head gaskets and warped pistons. Engine oil should be replaced every 3 to 6 thousand miles, whereas engine coolant needs to be replaced every 30 to 60 thousand miles.
Transmission and Differentials
Your transmission and differentials are important drivetrain components. They both contain a series of gears that need to be lubricated at all times. Without this lubrication, the gears may erode due to excess friction and heat. Most manufacturers recommend that the fluid in both these components be changed every 30 to 60 thousand miles.
Steering Fluid
Your steering assembly uses fluid to move your wheels back and forth. This isn’t necessarily true for semi-trucks with electric steering, but most trucks use hydraulic-based assemblies. This steering fluid also needs to be replaced. Symptoms of bad steering fluid include loud noises when steering, overheating steering fluid and loss of power steering.
Contact Us
For a full list of which components need oil or fluid, give us a call here at Lanier Truck Repair.
