Master Mechanic Offers Suggestions on Keeping Your Diesel Clean

MERIDIAN, Idaho - July 4, 2014 - PRLog -- Boise, Idaho – Modern diesel engines are cleaner than ever, but the hard-working trucks that use the fuel often show a little dirt. Mud, grass, bugs and other kinds of soil are inevitable by-products of working and playing hard, but as one Boise diesel engine repair and maintenance specialist notes, a dirty diesel truck is more than an eyesore.

"Paint serves a purpose," says Gage Burlingame, master mechanic and diesel engine maintenance expert at Gem State Diesel, "and it isn't just to make your truck look good. Well-maintained paint keeps all the corrosive things your truck goes through off the metal and protects your truck's body from damage." Rust can't get past an intact paint job, he says, so keeping a clean exterior is about more than keeping up appearances. "Rub a little mud between your fingers, and you'll feel how gritty it is. That grit acts like sandpaper and chews through a clear coat and into the paint if you let it stay on your vehicle."

Birds, bees and other flying things also do their fair share of damage to a truck's finish. "You can't get away from a few bugs on your truck, especially if you're doing any off-road driving, but don't let them stick around. Many species leave oily, acidic residue when they smear across your paint job, and over time, they'll leave a permanent mark – maybe as revenge," he added. "Bird droppings are another source of trouble on paint, and they need to be washed off soon." Burlingame recommends using a commercial de-greaser on stubborn debris: "Water won't cut it, and even soap can have a tough time getting rid of some messes completely, but a pre-treatment takes away all of it."

Once you have the exterior of your vehicle in good shape, he says, look to cleaning its engine. "Diesel engines run hot, and heat causes thermal breakdown of engine oil. For your truck's long-term health, it needs oil changes as often as every 3,000 miles, depending on its make, model and use. During a diesel engine maintenance inspection, your trucks' diesel fuel injection system and filters also need to be checked and cleaned."

"Whether you drive a GMC/Chevy Duramax engine, a Ford Powerstroke truck or a Dodge-Cummins vehicle, keeping it in good shape now means you'll have it for the long haul," says Burlingame. "It's also important for trade-in value, so don't ignore a few bugs or a little mud."

For more information visit: www.gemstatediesel.com or call: 208.288.5555