What Is A Semi-Truck Engine Overhaul?

A typical overhaul means giving the engine a new life. While most engines stand up to the test of time through proper care and maintenance, wear and tear will inevitably build up after years of use. You have two choices: buy a new one or have the existing engine overhauled. 

Overhauling an engine is a major commitment, but it’s the ideal choice for many situations. Here’s what goes into an overhaul of a semi-truck engine and how you can tell when your truck needs it!

What Is A Semi-Truck Engine Overhaul? 

 

Overhauling a semi-truck engine combines restoration and rebuilding, involving dismantling, cleaning, inspecting and repairing a truck’s diesel engine. It may involve replacing piston liners and rings, oil pumps, bearings, gaskets, seals, cylinder heads, injectors, water pumps, and other parts.

The engine may also undergo some tests using factory-approved procedures. Thorough inspections and tests can determine which replacements and repairs are needed so that your drivers can get back out on the road as soon as possible. 

Overhauls are not necessary because of engine failure. Haulers can stay ahead of breakdowns on the road by having an overhaul performed every one million kilometres. The job is more comprehensive than simply replacing parts like the head gasket or injectors. Minor replacements can still mean you’re driving your semi on borrowed time.

 

How Do I Know I Need An Engine Overhaul?

 

One main reason for an overhaul is when the engine fails. Before the engine fails, though, you can tell it’s ready for an overhaul when it shows some signs, including:

• Hard starting
• Low power
• Poor fuel economy & high oil consumption
• High engine blow-by
• Wear metals show up in oil
• Multiple parts failures
• It’s emitting blue or white smoke

The problem might not be noticeable. If you’re constantly hauling heavy loads with your rig and are nearing the one-million-kilometre mark, it might be the right time to initiate an overhaul. By this point, if you notice any engine noise (for example, a pinging sound), bring your semi-truck to a shop for a check-up.

To determine if an overhaul is necessary, you may require shop tests like an oil analysis and crankcase blow-by testing. Lab tests can provide valuable information related to the present condition of the engine. 

 

Why Would You Overhaul A Semi-Truck Engine?

 

Because engines can lose efficiency and performance for many reasons, an overhaul can offer drivers a way to ensure that every component they rely on is up to standard. When performed on a regular schedule, overhauls can be a cost-effective approach to engine maintenance, despite the potential high upfront cost of the job. 

If your engine isn’t meeting the standards of your business or the industry, an overhaul might find issues that you didn’t expect. It’s a form of proactive repair that can let you address concerns that could have consequences, saving you both time and money. While you’re having the job done, you can have other inspections performed to ensure your whole rig is ready for the road.