If you drive a diesel-powered car or truck from 2009 or newer, you most likely have a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) installed as part of the exhaust system. The DPF is designed to improve air quality by filtering out harmful particles normally found in diesel exhaust. The particles then accumulate on the DPF until it is cleaned. If you let your DPF get too dirty, it can cause permanent damage. So what do you need to do to keep it clean?
You want to drive your preferred vehicle, but sometimes that price of gas can preclude you from doing this. Here are a few tips you can consider to help improve your gas mileage and reduce your expenses. Slow down
It has been proven that driving faster requires more horsepower, and thus and increased need for fuel. Driving slower can, in fact, improve how many miles you get per gallon. Try sticking to the speed limit and you will notice a difference in economy. Consider a lighter vehicle
This triggers a process called regeneration. In regeneration, the DPF heats up to temperatures as hot as 1200-1500 degrees Fahrenheit to incinerate the particles that are blocking the DPF. After being incinerated, the particles are released in the form of a harmless gas and the filter is, once again, clean.
Electric Fans Many have determined that running electric fans while driving your diesel in the city and on the freeway can contribute up to an additional two miles per gallon. Definitely enough to give it a try.
The Truth: New technology, such as a diesel retrofit, can make it so that your engine uses less fuel while idling. Basically, with newer technology, idle reduction technology pays for itself, especially in regards to long-haul fleets.
The reason why these two circumstances are problematic for DPFs is because the engine isn't working hard enough to generate the power necessary for regeneration to occur. Most vehicles with DPF systems installed will signal a warning if the DPF is 80% blocked.
One thing that people don't often pay enough attention to when trying to improve fuel economy is the aerodynamics of your vehicle. Some modifications to your diesel truck can help in this regard, whether it is a grille block or other things.
Gearing
If you ignore the 80% warning and keep driving at low speeds or idling your vehicle, your DPF will eventually become completely blocked. This situation requires professional attention. If you ignore the problem, you can cause permanent damage to your DPF and experience reduced performance of your car or truck. Some DIYers will try removing their own DPF and clean it with a pressure washer or air compressor.
Using your EGT gauge can be helpful. They are a good indicator of the amount of fuel your diesel engine is consuming. Tire Pressure. It is recommended to run your tires at 80psi to help you improve your fuel economy. This may affect the ride of your truck, but the trade off of savings can be really nice. Acceleration
The Truth: Diesel-powered cars aren't typically hauling a 50 ton payload, so it's pretty ridiculous to assume that they're slow and sluggish. In fact, diesel engines are more powerful than gasoline engines at speeds below 65-which is where you do most of your driving, anyway. A diesel engine gets better acceleration and pulling power at lower speeds, as well. Unless you're driving to the grocery store at 75 mph, a diesel engine will be more efficient and powerful than your regular gas-powered car. So go ahead and pour another cup of coffee, and crank up a good truckin' song on the radio, because diesel engines are here to stay!
You want to drive your preferred vehicle, but sometimes that price of gas can preclude you from doing this. Here are a few tips you can consider to help improve your gas mileage and reduce your expenses. Slow down
It has been proven that driving faster requires more horsepower, and thus and increased need for fuel. Driving slower can, in fact, improve how many miles you get per gallon. Try sticking to the speed limit and you will notice a difference in economy. Consider a lighter vehicle
This triggers a process called regeneration. In regeneration, the DPF heats up to temperatures as hot as 1200-1500 degrees Fahrenheit to incinerate the particles that are blocking the DPF. After being incinerated, the particles are released in the form of a harmless gas and the filter is, once again, clean.
Electric Fans Many have determined that running electric fans while driving your diesel in the city and on the freeway can contribute up to an additional two miles per gallon. Definitely enough to give it a try.
The Truth: New technology, such as a diesel retrofit, can make it so that your engine uses less fuel while idling. Basically, with newer technology, idle reduction technology pays for itself, especially in regards to long-haul fleets.
The reason why these two circumstances are problematic for DPFs is because the engine isn't working hard enough to generate the power necessary for regeneration to occur. Most vehicles with DPF systems installed will signal a warning if the DPF is 80% blocked.
One thing that people don't often pay enough attention to when trying to improve fuel economy is the aerodynamics of your vehicle. Some modifications to your diesel truck can help in this regard, whether it is a grille block or other things.
Gearing
If you ignore the 80% warning and keep driving at low speeds or idling your vehicle, your DPF will eventually become completely blocked. This situation requires professional attention. If you ignore the problem, you can cause permanent damage to your DPF and experience reduced performance of your car or truck. Some DIYers will try removing their own DPF and clean it with a pressure washer or air compressor.
Using your EGT gauge can be helpful. They are a good indicator of the amount of fuel your diesel engine is consuming. Tire Pressure. It is recommended to run your tires at 80psi to help you improve your fuel economy. This may affect the ride of your truck, but the trade off of savings can be really nice. Acceleration
The Truth: Diesel-powered cars aren't typically hauling a 50 ton payload, so it's pretty ridiculous to assume that they're slow and sluggish. In fact, diesel engines are more powerful than gasoline engines at speeds below 65-which is where you do most of your driving, anyway. A diesel engine gets better acceleration and pulling power at lower speeds, as well. Unless you're driving to the grocery store at 75 mph, a diesel engine will be more efficient and powerful than your regular gas-powered car. So go ahead and pour another cup of coffee, and crank up a good truckin' song on the radio, because diesel engines are here to stay!
About the Author:
When the California Air Resource Board's diesel emissions regulations first came out, Michael Schwartz, now President of FleetServ, began getting calls from panicked Fleet Managers looking for straight-forward information and compliance assistance. While FleetServ (formerly known as ACT Compliance) was originally formed to meet this need, over time it has evolved into much more.
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