Every day, trucks drive across country transporting everything from food and medical supplies to construction materials. And while many trucks are equipped with modern GPS technology and sensors that help them navigate roads they’ve never driven before, other trucks are still operated manually. These are the trucks that are used in the construction industry; they carry heavy loads, operate on remote job sites, and are often driven by contractors who lack the same level of experience needed to operate a modern truck. Given the amount of dust and dirt that comes with this type of work, these trucks can quickly accumulate a coating of dirt and dust that is hard to remove. In fact, many drivers are so used to the build-up that they don’t even think twice about it when they see it coating the engine and other parts of their vehicles.
How to clean a semi truck's engine
The first thing to do when cleaning a semi truck’s engine is to make sure that you have the right cleaning supplies. For example, you’ll need a degreasing agent to remove the dirt and grime from the engine block, transmission and differentials. You’ll also need an anti-corrosion agent to prevent the engine from getting damaged by acid build-up. And you’ll also need a degreasing agent and an anti-corrosion agent for the fuel system. Once you’ve gathered the right cleaning supplies, follow these steps for cleaning a semi truck’s engine:
Step 1: Disassemble the Engine
Before you can start cleaning the engine, you’ll first need to take it completely apart. This will allow you to access all the different parts and to clean them individually. Start by removing the spark plugs. Then remove the oil filter, the air filter, the air filter housing, the throttle body, the fuel filter, the fuel filter housing, the fuel pump, the oil pump, and the oil pickup.You can save time by cleaning all these parts together and then reassembling them once they’re clean. Be sure to use the correct type of lubricant when cleaning the engine, and be careful not to over-fill the engine oil tank.
Step 2: Clean the Engine Components
Once you’ve removed all the parts from the engine, you’ll need to clean each one individually. Begin by cleaning the engine block with water and a degreasing agent, such as car or diesel fuel. Once the block is clean, dry it completely and then apply anti-corrosion agent to prevent the engine from being damaged by acid build-up.Next, clean the cylinder heads, followed by the oil pump, the fuel pump, the fuel injectors, the air filter, and the air filter housing. The intake and exhaust valves can be cleaned with a brush and a degreasing agent. Finally, clean the transmission, the differentials, and the drive shaft.
Step 3: Clean the Fuel System
If you’re cleaning a manual transmission, you’ll also need to clean the fuel system. First, remove the fuel filter, the fuel filter housing, and the fuel rail. Then, clean the fuel tank and the fuel lines. Make sure to be extremely careful when handling the fuel, as it is extremely flammable.Finally, clean the air filter and the air filter housing. Once you’ve finished cleaning the fuel and air systems, you’ll be ready to re-assemble the engine.
Conclusion
If you’re cleaning a semi truck’s engine, you’ll need to use special cleaning agents and cleaning techniques. You’ll also need to be extremely careful when handling the different parts of the engine, as they’re often very sensitive and can be damaged very easily.