Q Can you supply torque specifications and assembly procedures for my engine?
A In many cases we can supply these specifications. Call for additional details and limitations. Unfortunately we cannot photocopy and distribute copyrighted information from any source. We stock and sell service information published by some of the engine companies we represent. Due to the diversity and age of the published information, we cannot be responsible for the ultimate accuracy of the information.
Q What kind of oil should I use in my engine?
A That information may or may not be available to us. If the engine is one of the lines supported by us we usually have the manufacturer’s specifications on hand. In general the latest API specification engine oil is acceptable.
Q How often should I change my engine oil?
A Engine oil change intervals are specified by the particular engine or equipment manufacturer. Many factors affect this such as engine oil sump capacity, engine loading percentage, the type of environment the engine is used in, whether the engine is turbocharged or naturally aspirated, etc. We have some of this information available on a case-by-case basis.
Q Should I use engine oil additives?
A Most of the engine manufacturers we represent do not recommend the use of engine oil additives.
Q What type of coolant antifreeze should I use?
A In general most of the engine lines we represent require a 50/50 mixture of non–ionized distilled water and ethylene glycol long-life coolant antifreeze. This should be premixed outside of the engine in a clean container. Change periods will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Q Should I use engine coolant additives?
A Most of the manufactures we represent do not recommend the use of cooling system additives.
Q Can I use ultra low sulfur diesel fuel (ULSDF) in my diesel engine?
A Most modern industrial diesel engine will not exhibit any problems using ultra low sulfur diesel fuel (ULSDF). The biggest concern is the reduced lubricity of the ULSDF. In some cases you may notice a slight reduction of available engine horsepower. There are some good fuel additives on the market that help address this issue. In any event we recommend you use a non-alcohol based additive. Alcohol based additives can cause problems with some rubber fuel lines and o-rings. You can contact our fuel injection shop for the specific brands we use and sell.
Q Is biodiesel fuel recommended?
A In general most of the major engine manufacturers will now permit the use of biodiesel fuels in their engines without affecting the warranty coverage. All engine manufacturers have specific guidelines and fuel specifications that must be met. Field experience has demonstrated that biodiesel fuels tend to break down faster than conventional mineral-based diesel fuels and due to the cleaning properties of the fuel filter, plugging may be an issue. There are numerous sources of information on the internet that will give you additional insight into the storage and use of biodiesel fuel.