5 common reasons why your diesel truck needs to be repaired

 

A diesel truck is a useful vehicle for a variety of reasons. It can tow and haul more without burning as much fuel as gasoline trucks and its engine has impressive longevity. For many, this is not advantageous, however, for companies and those in the construction industry, diesel trucks are very beneficial and suitable for the nature of their business. Though diesel trucks are great for certain activities, due to a number of causes, they can often need repairing from a diesel mechanic.

Having a diesel truck breakdown or experience issues can be inconvenient on several levels. Personally, it can affect your daily life and cost you money for the repair or replacement. If you have a business. A breakdown could mean more financial implications than just the repair of the truck and can cause logistical problems for your business.

It’s undeniable that diesel trucks are helpful for a number of reasons, however, they are invincible; they have their issues. These problems can rear their heads if your vehicle is not operated properly or maintained accurately. Some problems are not inevitable, so it’s best that you are aware of these potential issues so that you know how to prepare for them.

Where do I find a mobile diesel mechanic near my location in Sydney?

It’s never safe to drive a malfunctioning diesel truck, so we always recommend that you call a mobile diesel mechanic instead of trying to drive it. There are a number of diesel mechanics in Sydney with 24/7 service that will be able to tend to you and your truck as quickly as possible.

5 reasons why your truck may need a diesel mechanic

#1 Engine overheating

This is one of the biggest and most common issues that a diesel truck experiences. This issue is usually caused by operators of the vehicle pushing it past its limit which ends up either overheating the engine, distorting the cylinder heads, expanding the pistons or damaging the crankshaft.

Though overworking the engine is one of the most common reasons, overheating can also be caused by anything that interferes with the cooling system such as:

●    Coolant leaks
●    Clogged diesel injectors
●    Faulty cooling fan
●    Damaged thermostat

#2 Engine oil oxidation

A diesel truck, like any other vehicle, cannot be left for a long period of time without the operation of the engine. If this occurs, then air gets into the oil and creates bubbles which interfere with the lubrication ability. Many parts of an engine require lubrication to function properly. These air bubbles rupture the thin oil layers that provide lubrication and cause it to rust or experience friction. Over a short period of time, this will end up damaging the engine’s parts.

#3 Black exhaust

Black exhaust is not a problem, however, it certainly is a symptom of problems that should be identified. Bear in mind that usually, diesel trucks produce smoke that is darker than other vehicles, however, it should never be black.

If your vehicle produces black exhaust, then it's a sign that you may have a problem with your engine. This symptom can indicate that you may have a faulty injector pump or an issue with your injector, turbocharger, EGR valve or air filter.

Black exhaust can be extremely harmful to you and your employees if breathed in over a long period of time, so ensure that you get that fixed immediately.

#4 Contaminated fuel

Compared to gasoline, diesel has more viscosity, meaning that it can be more easily contaminated which paves the way for a number of problems. Diesel is commonly contaminated with water, soot and glycol. Contamination is not the end of the issue. These contaminants are very dangerous. If they enter the fuel pump or injector, your truck’s engine can experience a number of serious issues including engine disruption.

#5 Lack of power

Who would have thought robust diesel engines (they are more powerful than gasoline engines!) would have an issue with power? The power of diesel engines is one of the reasons why heavy vehicles and trucks for construction business use them, however, they can falter for a number of reasons. The lack of power is most noticeable when you start the engine or when accelerating and can be a result of the following issues.

●    Dirty oil filters
●    Malfunctioning fuel injectors
●    Clogged fuel delivery lines
●    Too much or not enough lubrication
●    Loose throttle linkage

As you can see, the majority of these issues can be a result of poor or negligent maintenance which is why it is important to ensure that your vehicle is properly taken care of.

If you require the services of a mobile diesel mechanic, then you’re in luck! Several companies in Sydney will be able to service your diesel truck or heavy machinery and ensure that it is properly repaired and functions properly.

5 tips to avoid needing to repair your heavy equipment and When does your heavy vehicle need an auto electrician?

 

When a piece of heavy equipment needs to be repaired, it can be a pain for your business, employees and of course, you! Heavy machinery isusually specifically designed to carry construction tasks, earthwork operation or any other task that involves intense power and heavy materials. This is why when it needs to be repaired and is down for a significant amount of time, your business can suffer. It’s worth keeping in mind that eventually, heavy equipment will need to be repaired, however, what you should try to do is reduce the number of times it needs to be repaired and unnecessary or avoidable repairs. Believe it or not, this is possible. It comes down to proper training, maintenance and control.

Should I avoid repairs by reading repair and training manuals?

A common question that many business owners have is whether simple reading their manuals is worth it. While it is advisable that business owners and managers read their heavy equipment’s manual before operation, especially because its information will play into many of our tips (explored later in the article), it is also not the only factor that contributes to your heavy equipment’s ‘health’.  

However, the repair and training manuals of heavy equipment contain important information that managers and owners tend to overlook. When this information is overlooked, the machine can be used and maintained poorly which then makes it susceptible to and causes repair issues.

In this article, we’ll discuss tips that you and your employees can take to reduce the need for repairs to your heavy equipment.

5 tips to avoid needing repairs for your heavy equipment

Develop a maintenance plan

A proper maintenance plan is one of the most important things you can do to avoid unnecessary repairs in your heavy equipment. A mobile auto electrician will ensure that your fluid and oil levels are up to par and check your equipment for any small cracks, chips or deflated and low-pressure tires. Regular maintenance translates to preventative maintenance as it prevents your equipment from incurring future damage or worsening any current issues.

To develop a maintenance plan, contact your equipment manufacturer or a heavy equipment repair electrician. He or she will be able to let you know how regularly you should have your heavy equipment serviced, according to your type of business, how often the equipment is used and its manufacturer.

Monitor your equipment for signs of wear and tear

If you own your equipment for a significant amount of time, it is most likely going to show signs of wear and tear. Even if it is seldom used (opposed to regular use), time causes deterioration in equipment. This is inevitable. The easy way to mitigate this and the fall out from unattended wear and tear is to monitor and regularly check your equipment. This will allow you to spot signs of wear and tear such as cracking, chipping, rusting and others and take corrective action. If you think that your equipment has drastically deteriorated or you notice significant issues, then we recommend that you immediately take it to your auto electrician or call a mobile auto electrician.

Check the lubrication levels of your equipment

The lubrication levels of your heavy equipment are extremely important in ensuring that your equipment runs smoothly and does not prematurely deteriorate or damage any of its internal components which can eventually shorten the time it takes for your equipment to fail. In addition to check the level of oil and hydraulic fluid, ensure that there aren’t any leaks in your equipment as well. Leaks will cause your fluid levels to rapidly drop without you noticing, causing eventual deterioration.

Don’t be tempted to overfill your lubricant levels as this can also cause issues such as grease buildup, clogs and decreased performance.

Don’t work your machine past its limit

Every machine has its limitations, even heavy equipment. This is usually included in the owner’s manual. It’s important that you and your team are aware of the limits of the machinery. If you regularly exhaust your heavy equipment capacity, its power will eventually start to deteriorate and it can experience premature wear and tear.

In short, if you’re interested in a long and healthy life with minimal repairs for your heavy equipment, then do not overwork it.

Ensure that your employees know how to operate your equipment properly

Along the same vein is ensuring that your employees and anyone else who may operate your heavy equipment is briefed and regularly trained on how to operate the machine. While initial training is important, so is regular training. Heavy equipment usually receives software updates that may change how it needs to be operated or maintained. Additionally, regular training sessions ensure that new team members are also briefed on how to use the machine. This is why it's important to fully and regularly train your team.

Owning and maintaining a heavy vehicle can be tough work, especially if it is your first time. Heavy vehicles are also an incredible investment that need to be properly maintained and operated in order to retain its value. While maintenance of value comes from proper operation and maintenance at one’s business, it also means that the heavy vehicle should be serviced and carried or checked by an auto electrician regularly and when necessary.

If it’s your first time owning a heavy vehicle, or if you’re just not familiar with the needs of a heavy vehicle, you won’t know when it’s appropriate to solicit the services of an auto electrician. However, it is key that you know this, as failure to provide your heavy vehicle with the right auto electrician services can result in unnecessary repairs, premature wear and tear, malfunctioning of the vehicle and a need for replacement parts.

In this article, we’ll discuss why your heavy vehicle will need an auto electrician.

4 reasons why your heavy vehicle will need an auto electrician

Maintenance/Servicing

General maintenance services are incredibly important for the upkeep of your heavy vehicle. Over time, your heavy vehicle will experience wear and tear, drops in its fluid and lubricant levels and many other issues that develop as a result of time and use. With servicing, an auto electrician will check your vehicle and replenish and repair its vitals. Where there are leaks, scrapes and cracks, he or she will repair and replace parts, to ensure that your heavy vehicle is performing at its best and to minimise the risk of breaking down or malfunctioning in the future. Generally, this service lengthens the life of your heavy vehicle.

Mobile breakdown services

Unfortunately, heavy vehicles, like any other vehicle, are prone to breaking down. The difference between a heavy vehicle break down and a car break down is that one is much harder to move and will likely cause more financial damage. A mobile breakdown service is offered by many auto electricians. With this service, the auto electrician will come to your broken down vehicle and repair it on site. This doesn’t just save you the hassle of having to move your vehicle to a shop, but it also saves you money by shortening the time that your heavy vehicle is broken down. Bear in mind that if there are more serious problems with your heavy vehicle that require special equipment, then it will need to be moved to the auto electrician’s business.

Battery replacements

Like any vehicle, batteries on heavy vehicles will eventually need to be replaced. This is usually more difficult than a car and thus, you will require the services of an auto electrician. An auto electrician will source the batter that is right for your heavy vehicle according to its manufacturer.

Air conditioning repairs

Often, heavy vehicles are working in extremely hot and humid conditions, making the air conditioning system an important part of an employee’s comfort. When the air conditioning system breaks down or malfunctions, it’s important that you do not neglect it. Apart from distressing your employee, it can also cause further damage to your car. With air conditioning issues, you should immediately contact your auto electrician. He or she will not only be able to repair the issue, but they will be able to tell you if your air conditioning malfunction was a symptom of a much larger issue.

If you require the services of a heavy equipment electrician, then you’re in luck! Several companies in Sydney will be able to service your heavy machinery and ensure that it functions properly.
 

How to prevent your auto air conditioning from needing a repair

Sydney is a warm city where thousands of motorists are constantly using their auto air conditioning system to combat the heat. However, many use it improperly, leading to damaged systems. Repairing your auto air conditioning can be costly, time consuming and painful. So, you always want to ensure that your air conditioning is performing in top shape. Additionally, practising preventative measures to both maintain the consistent quality of your air conditioning and to prevent it from developing a repair issue is key to extending the life of your system.

Let your air conditioning run for at least ten minutes every week

Regardless of how hot or cold it is, consistently let your air conditioning run for ten minutes every week. Ensure that your settings are on the highest for speed of fan and lowest for temperature. This maintains gas pressure which keeps your car’s compressor working properly and ensures that the hoses, pumps and valves in the car are kept well-lubricated.

After you run your air conditioning, you can run your car’s defrost mode for 5 to 10 minutes. This avoids the build-up of mildew and excess moisture which lend to bad odours in your car.

Get a full service done every two years

Keeping up to date with your car services allows your technician to spot any leaks or damages that can lead to potentially larger and more expensive problems for your air conditioning system. Always ask if your mechanic can check refrigerant levels and to regas your entire system. Some mechanics can skip this step mistakenly however, it is vital in detecting and preventing issues with your air conditioning system. Always ensure that you get your car serviced before Australia’s hottest months. It prevents you from getting stuck with a malfunctioning air conditioning service during one of the country’s notorious heat waves.

Use your air conditioning even when it’s cold

Even if the temperature is cold and there’s no need for air conditioning, try to use it. A little known fact is that one of your air conditioning’s functions is to remove humidity from the car. This is why during the winter you may find that your car windows fog up—there’s a lot of humidity in the air.

If you start practising these measures you will:

•     Save money from expensive auto air conditioning repair and replacement costs
•     Prevent uncomfortable car rides in the heat
•     Avoid being left without a car during your auto air conditioning repair

How do you know when your auto air conditioning needs to be repaired?

Part of understanding how to prevent your auto air conditioning from needing a repair is understanding when it’s malfunctioning. Sounds contrary? It’s not. The reason this is important is because being able to quickly identify when your auto air conditioning is not functioning properly can prevent more damaging and more expensive issues from occurring. There are a few red flags that can signal that your auto air conditioning is on the way out. If any of these occur to your system, we recommend that you immediately visit your nearest auto electrician.

•     Abnormal odours
•     Interrupted airflow from the air conditioning vents
•     Sudden warm airflow
•     Leakage of refrigerant or oil
•     Weak airflow (even when turned to the maximum settings)
•     Abnormal noises
•     If your compressor clutch does not move

It’s clear that these preventative measures will save you and your car. If you haven’t been practicing these, then head to your nearest auto air conditioning repair technician and check out your system. It could save you in the long run.  

Do you need an auto air conditioning repair technician for your car? There are several companies in Sydney who will be able to help repair and replace your auto air conditioning system.

What are the 6 signs that your auto air conditioning may need repairing

In hot Sydney, one of the worst things that can happen to your automobile is the breakdown of its air conditioning. To avoid a completely non-functioning air conditioning, there are some signs that you may be able to pick up on. If you catch your air conditioning before it fully breaks down then you’ll be able to repair it and prevent an uncomfortable ride in your vehicle.

Why does an automobile’s air conditioning need to be repaired?

A variety of reasons can contribute to the malfunctioning of your air conditioning system. It can range from improper operation, wear and tear or manufacturing issues. Here are some of the most common reasons.

●     Leaking or depleted refrigerant – Refrigerants absorb heat and convert it into cool air. This process is responsible for your car feeling cool, so if it malfunctions, then you’ll begin to feel warm.

●     Coil and condenser failure – The condenser cools the highly pressurised refrigerant vapours coming from the compressor. It can become blocked and overheat.

●     Faulty fan – The fan is responsible for circulating the air through the coils, if it fails, the airflow will remain warm.

●     Frozen or broken evaporator – A faulty evaporator causes your car’s system to switch between cold and hot air.

●     Poor expansion valve and orifice tube – These tubes can freeze, causing icy air to flow through your system.

Now, that you understand what can cause a car to malfunction, let’s discuss 6 common signs that your air conditioning may need repairing.

Warm air conditioning

This is an obvious sign but, if your air conditioning suddenly starts circulating warm air, then you definitely have an issue. Before you visit a repair service, first ensure that your heat is not turned on and that your cool air is—this is just to avoid an unnecessary trip to an auto electrician. If you do have a warm airflow then it may be due to lack of refrigerant, a clogged expansion tube, broken compressor or blower motor or a failed fuse or switch.

Poor airflow

If you’re experiencing a weaker than usual airflow then it may be that something is blocking the air from coming out of your vents. Ensure that your air conditioning is turned on high in order to make certain that airflow is indeed weak. Poor airflow may be due to: accumulated mould or mildew in the evaporator core, loose blower hose, overheated ventilation fan, or opened case seals.

Leaking dashboard

If your mats are cold and damp or water-stained, then check your dashboard. If it’s leaking then it may be a sign that your air conditioning is about to malfunction. The water comes from a clogged hose which prevents water from sipping out. If your system is old, this can be a sign to look out for. Ensure that you get this repaired immediately. Water in your air conditioning system can cause further damage to your system and car, causing you more money.

Unusual noise

Whenever you hear your air conditioning system making noise, don’t think that it will pass. It can be a sign of a larger problem. A rattling noise may be an indication that you have either a broken condenser or fan belt or debris in either. Carry it immediately to your air conditioning repair service provider to ensure that the problem is sorted.

Unusual odours

If you notice that the air coming from your air conditioning smells like damp or sweaty clothes then it may be that your system’s cabin air filter is dirty or old and worn. If it’s dirty, you’ll need to get it cleaned but if it’s dirty and worn, you’ll need to get a replacement. Leaving your air filters in your car without regular cleaning or replacing then can lead to increased fuel consumption and a strain on your auto air conditioning system. If it is not your air filter, then another possible cause may be a mouldy evaporator case or air vent.

A burning odour may indicate that your compressor is burnt or overheated, preventing your system from working properly. You’ll need to immediately repair the wirings of your compressor.

Inconsistent air temperature

If your air conditioning is working fine and then suddenly goes warm, then cool again and keeps waffling back and forth then it may be that your evaporator is either frozen, blocked or broken. Don’t think that the air conditioning will fix itself, this problem won’t go away unless you head to your nearest repair shop to fix the evaporator. Another cause can be a damaged compressor clutch, a blown fuse or leakage.

Do you need a repair technician for your air conditioning? There are several companies in Sydney who will be able to help ensure that your air conditioning is working at 100% for a hot Aussie day.

How to keep your automotive air conditioning in tip-top condition

Your automotive air conditioning system is extremely important to help keep you cool in the summer! Especially in Australia - keeping a comfortable temperature while driving is a necessity. If you have ever been left without cool air on a hot summer day, then you know how much air conditioning systems can make a difference. Your auto air conditioning system should be serviced regularly to ensure it is working at an optimum level.

When should you check your car’s air conditioner?

Before summer

If you smell any foul odours

If the car has been immersed in water

If there are any unusual noises

If it no longer functions as well as it used to

Automotive air conditioning service procedures

Depending on the particular problem you are experiencing with your car’s air conditioner, the type of service may differ. However, usually, most routine automotive air conditioning service procedures involve:

Leak checks

Sensor failure checks

Replacement of filters

Replacement of refrigerants

Replacement of corroded rubber/silicone components

Maintaining and checking your automotive air conditioning system does not only keep your car’s interiors cool, but it also has a number of other benefits including:

Fog-free windows and windshields

A safer and more comfortable ride

Less wear on the engine

A safer and more comfortable ride

In order to keep your cars, air conditioning system in good shape, you will need to ensure you are maintaining it regularly. Here are some ways you can maintain your automotive air conditioning system.

1. Clean your filter:
It is important that you maintain your car including its air conditioning system and clean and replace the air filter on a regular basis. Over time the air conditioning filter gets dirty which reduces airflow and forces your air conditioning to work harder.


2. Don’t overwork the system:


Your car’s air conditioning system is more efficient when it is working - because the faster the engine turns, the faster the air conditioning compressor runs, allowing the system to cool more effectively.


3. Turn off the auto stop-start feature:


Many new cars come with an auto start/stop system which can be beneficial in traffic. However, using this will also turn off your air conditioning system every time it stops the engine. The constant on and off the system makes it work harder and can also make it harder to keep the car cool.


4. Sort problems right away:


If you feel there is a problem with the air conditioner, it is important that you don’t prolong it. Waiting to call for service can lead to further issues in the future. Get in early to make sure your auto air conditioning repair keeps you cool for the summer!

If you are experiencing problems with your automotive air conditioning system, be sure to get it checked out before it’s too late. There are numerous automotive air conditioning services and technicians in Sydney who will be able to handle all your auto air conditioning malfunctions, fitting and repairs.

How often should you take your truck to a service centre?

If you own a commercial truck and want it to last for a very long time, we recommend prioritising regular servicing to ensure that your vehicle is in the best possible condition. Just like anything you buy, if you don’t take care of it, it will slowly start to deteriorate. Truck services may not be at the top of your to-do list, however, it is important that you schedule in regular services at a 24-hour mobile truck service in Sydney to prevent you from being stranded alone on the road.

When should you have your vehicle serviced at a truck service centre?

There are a couple of general things you could look out for if you are unsure about when your truck needs services. These include:

Kilometres reached:

the average duration recommended for servicing for long-haul usage is around 30 000-50 000 km’s or at least once a year. Whichever comes first. Depending on the use of your vehicle, this will differ. Truck service centres will generally carry out basic procedures like oil changes, filter changes and safety checks. This allows the mechanic to inspect for early signs of wear and tear before it becomes a major problem. Many mobile truck service mechanics in Sydney will also recommend bringing in the truck after it hits 150 000km’s for a more substantial inspection and maintenance service.

Truck application:

one of the main factors that affect servicing frequency is the application of how the truck is being used. Long haul trucks are on the road for longer periods of time and are put through strenuous work on a daily basis. This trucks will require more frequent servicing due to their size and load.

Season and location:

it is also beneficial to service your truck before the winter season to ensure it is performing in tip-top shape for the cooler months and harsh weather conditions. Typical checks will include having the air system inspected, checking the coolant, testing batteries and the engine.

If your truck has reached a stage where it is giving you continuous problems, you may face the tough decision on whether you should repair your truck or buy a new one. Repair bills for trucks can be quite costly, but buying a new one can also do a lot of damage to your bank account.

Reasons you may want to fix your current truck:

Even though repairing a truck may be costly, it is always less expensive to repair a truck than buy a new one

A new truck loses approximately 20% of its value as soon as you drive it off the dealer. If you already have a truck, it has already taken the depreciation hit. It may be worthwhile to just get it repaired

If you choose to repair your truck now, it will give you more time on the road and enable you to get your finances in order

Reasons you may want to buy a new truck:

If you don’t want to worry about future breakdowns and your mechanic has advised you that your current truck is going to give you problems, the best bet may be to purchase a new one

Tired of the back and forth to the truck service centre? Some issues can be fixed while others may be costing too much. If this is the case, you should consider purchasing a new truck

If you are looking for an upgrade and want something new and a little more flashy, a new truck is definitely the best option

Newer means safer. If your truck is really old and isn’t safe to drive, we recommend looking into purchasing a new one

Are you looking for a mobile truck service mechanic in Sydney for a service or just for some advice? Electroworx automotive electrical services provide the highest quality auto electrical repairs for trucks and heavy vehicles for most makes and models. Don’t wait until its too late, and schedule your truck service today!

Air conditioning: Don’t let your car AC system lose its cool over winter

There are some things in life that require more attention than we might think. One of which is the car air conditioning system.

Unlike humans, vehicles cannot just naturally adjust to the seasonal changes without the assistance of the owner.

Especially transitioning from summer to winter, auto air conditioning systems need extra attention. Let’s face it, they just don’t like winter.

Auto air conditioning systems that have been neglected for a significant amount of time, especially during the winter months, can lead to costly repairs down the track.

Simply put, investing in regular maintenance with an auto electrician as well as weekly preventative tips you can do at home, will help keep it functioning smoothly

Don’t let your car air conditioning system lose it's cool just because winter is around the corner.

Helpful tips to keep your auto air conditioning system in tip-top condition throughout winter-time in Sydney!

Run it!

It is time we took some advice from Chris Brown’s 2005 hit single ‘Run it!’ and implement it into our weekly task of letting the car air conditioning system run.

For up to 10 minutes per week during the ‘off season’, it is recommended that car air conditioning systems are left running in order to improve their overall function.

If done regularly,  letting the air conditioning system run, will help clear any build-up of mould or unwanted nasty odours from growing or spreading. This will also be effective in preventing potential long term damages to the system.

Add more or change the refrigerant

Two years is the maximum length of time you should keep your refrigerant oils in your car without changing it or adding more.

Make it a habit of changing the oils in your car every so often, in order to avoid any large damages that can be caused by lack of care.

Vehicles that are not well maintained will lose up to 10% of the gas in their air conditioning system per year, resulting in a 10% loss of cold air.

Manage the ozone generator

An ozone generator is a tool used to produce gas ozone and helps purify water and air.

In order to be effective, ozone in the air needs to reach a high-level to successfully remove any pollutants in the air and thus be purified.

In order to carry this out successfully, the treatment requires experts who can handle each step with precision and safety.

Ask any qualified auto electrician to perform this check, most of whom include it as part of their auto air conditioning maintenance.

A vehicles air conditioning system can be difficult to comprehend and maintain without the help of an experienced professional.

It is highly recommended to have a skilled auto electrician carry out important tests to avoid potentially costly repairs in case of big damage.

Why auto electrical maintenance is important for any vehicle especially during winter: 

As we enter Sydney’s harsh winter season, the chances for air conditioning systems to encounter complications is increased.

In short, thorough maintenance is necessary.

Carrying out weekly tasks at home as well as periodic checks with an auto electrician will prevent any serious damage that can be caused due to neglect.  If a car air conditioning system has been left without regular maintenance, vehicle owners could face potential risks which could mean thousands of dollars in repairs.

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If you are looking for a trustworthy, Sydney based auto electrician who can service your vehicle in the comfort of your own home, the experts at Electroworx are the team to call.

With over ten years of experience and unrivalled 24/7 mobile auto electrician emergency services, you can rely on the team to provide quality services at your convenience.