Boise, Idaho – For Immediate Release – All trucks are built for hauling, but diesel has far greater towing capacity for hard-working vehicles than gas. Gage Burlingame, master mechanic and diesel engine repair specialist, explains why a diesel engine has more power than its gas-fueled cousins. "Big trucks don't just run on diesel because of better fuel economy," says Burlingame. "The way diesel engines are designed automatically translates engine movement into hauling power. Gas-powered engines have a short stroke with pistons that don't have to travel far to move the crankshaft. In a diesel engine, that stroke is longer and moves the crankshaft farther from its neutral position." A longer stroke takes more time from start to finish, which is why diesel trucks operate at lower RPM than gas-fueled engines. That longer moment arm also produces more torque.
"Think of torque as a kind of lever," says Burlingame. "A bigger lever does more work, and the same is true of an engine with greater torque." Diesel engines have more torque than gas-powered engines, so they can haul more. For drivers who use their trucks for work hauling construction supplies, horse trailers, landscaping gear and equipment trailers, high towing capacity is a must. "Don't forget: A truck also has to carry its own weight, so torque is especially important for reaching off-road sites that might have obstacles or steep grades in the way," adds Burlingame.
The master mechanic notes that diesel's muscle has a price. "Maintenance is important for all your equipment, but the tolerance is tighter for diesels. Modern common rail injectors and filtration systems need more frequent maintenance to perform. If you're making the switch from gas to diesel, you'll get to know your diesel engine maintenance crew pretty well," he says. Manufacturers' suggestions vary depending on the make and model, but drivers with Ford Powerstroke engines, GMC/Chevy Duramax trucks or Dodge Cummins diesel vehicles should plan for oil changes every 3,000 to 4,000 miles instead of the 5,000 or more recommended for gas-powered cars that don't have to do as much work.
"Because they spend less on fuel per pound, diesel drivers who use their trucks to haul heavy loads get better fuel economy overall," says the diesel engine repair technician. "Weight inevitably takes a toll on fuel efficiency, but it takes a smaller bite out of a diesel engine's fuel use." That's important for people with boats, campers and other RVs to move as well as to drivers with hard-working trucks. "No one ever wants less power in a truck. Whether it's moving construction equipment during the week or a boat on the weekend, trucks with more power give you more options."
For more information about diesel engine trucks, visit http://www.gemstatediesel.com/diesel-injectors/