If you have a diesel engine, there are a few different ways that you can take care of the engine and ensure that it runs properly. Like all engines, diesel engines need a little care and attention in order to function correctly. With a little monitoring and effort, your diesel engine will continue to function properly.

Keep An Eye on the Coolant

One of the most important things to keep an eye on with a diesel engine is the coolant. With diesel engines, you want to make sure that the coolant in your vehicle doesn't become acidic. When the coolant becomes acidic, it can cause rust to develop within the interior of your vehicle's cooling system.

There are strips you can purchase that will test the acidic nature of your engine's coolant. If the coolant is too acidic, you need to flush the coolant. It is a good rule of thumb to flush the coolant with a diesel engine at least once a year. Flushing the coolant will help ensure that the coolant is clean and property keeping your vehicle's engine cool and lubricated.

Change Out the Fuel Filter

How often the fuel filter needs to be changed can vary greatly from one diesel vehicle to another. In general though, somewhere between every 10,000 and 25,000 miles your fuel filter should be changed. Your owner's manual should let you know exactly how often the fuel filter should be changed.

When the fuel filter gets clogged with debris, your vehicle is not able to put enough clean fuel into the engine, which can cause some serious damage to your engine. Make sure that you change the fuel filter based on the recommendations from your specific manufacturer.

Get the Oil Changed

With a diesel engine, how often you change the oil depends on the type of oil you use. With standard oil, it's a good idea to change the oil every 3,000 miles. With synthetic oil, you get about twice the number of miles, and only need to change your oil every 6,000 or so miles.

Keep in mind that you don't have to wait to hit that mileage before taking your vehicle in for an oil change. It's okay to take your vehicle in a couple hundred miles before or after the recommended oil change mileage. Just don't ride around for too long with old oil in your vehicle

Also, if you do a lot of towing with your vehicle, you may want to get your oil changed sooner. Towing puts extra strain on your vehicle and can cause your vehicle to need an oil change at an accelerated rate.

Take good care of your diesel engine by keeping a close eye on the coolant and flushing it at least once a year. Change out the fuel filter on schedule, and stay on top of your oil changes.

For professional help, get in touch with a company like South Houston Engine.