Diesel Engine Maintenance: Keep Your Workhorse Running Strong
If you drive a diesel, you already know—it’s built different. Whether it's your farm truck, work van, or heavy-duty semi, a diesel engine is a powerhouse. It’s made for hauling, towing, and getting the job done. But just like anything that works hard, it needs regular care to stay reliable.
At B&R Repair, we see a lot of diesel rigs come through—some well-maintained, and some that are on the edge of a costly breakdown. The difference usually comes down to simple, routine maintenance.
Here’s what you should know about keeping your diesel running right.
🔧 Diesel Engines Are Tough—But Not Maintenance-Free
Diesels are built for power and durability. That’s why farmers, contractors, and folks pulling trailers rely on them. But that extra power comes with a few extra maintenance needs. Skip a few oil changes or neglect your fuel filters, and your dependable rig can start giving you real headaches.
🛢️ The Big Ones: What Diesel Engines Really Need
Here are the key services we recommend keeping an eye on:
1. Regular Oil Changes
Diesel engines work under higher pressure and heat, and the oil gets dirtier faster—especially if you're towing, idling, or working in dusty conditions.
👉 We recommend changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on use.
2. Fuel Filter Replacement
Clean fuel is everything in a diesel. Bad fuel or a clogged filter can leave you stranded.
👉 Change your fuel filter every 10,000 to 15,000 miles—or sooner if you get questionable fuel from time to time.
3. Air Filter Checks
Dust, pollen, and field debris can choke your intake and reduce performance.
👉 Check your air filter every service and replace as needed—especially if you're working around dirt roads or fields.
4. Coolant System Maintenance
Diesels run hotter than gas engines, and keeping them cool is critical—especially when hauling.
👉 Make sure your coolant is topped off, clean, and flushed every 2–3 years.
5. Glow Plug Inspection (Cold Starts)
Midwest winters are nothing to mess around with. Glow plugs help your diesel start up when it’s chilly.
👉 If your truck is slow to start or smokes on cold starts, it’s time to have them checked.
🚜 Rural Driving = Rougher Conditions
We’ve worked on enough diesels around Bureau County to know: country roads are no picnic for your engine. From dusty fields to long idles and heavy towing, rural use is considered “severe driving” by diesel standards.
If your diesel sees:
Towing
Frequent short trips
Lots of idle time
Off-road or gravel road use
…you’ll want to stay ahead of your maintenance schedule. Trust us, preventive care is way cheaper than a breakdown on the job.
✅ Why Diesel Owners Trust B&R Repair
We’ve worked on everything from Power Strokes and Duramaxes to Cummins and Paccar with more hours than most folks have miles. Here’s what you’ll get when you bring yours to us:
Diesel-experienced techs who know these engines inside and out
Honest advice—no upsells, no scare tactics
High-quality parts, filters, and fluids that stand up to real use
Fast turnaround so you can get back to work
Whether it’s a farm truck or the family tow rig, we’ll help you keep it running like it should.
📍 Ready for a Diesel Checkup?
If it’s been a while since your last oil change, filter swap, or general diesel checkup, now’s the time. Staying ahead of maintenance will save you time, money, and a whole lot of trouble down the road.
📞 Call B&R Repair at (815) 699-2641 or swing by our shop. We’re located just off the Wyanet-Walnut blacktop, in between Walnut and Wyanet, only about a 10 minute drive from Princeton.
We’ll give your diesel the care it needs—without the dealership price tag.
Proudly serving the diesel drivers of Bureau County and the surrounding area.