Ask the Expert: Is there ever a time when a forced regeneration of a diesel particulate filter is necessary?

March 15, 2016

In certain situations, a forced regeneration is required and must be properly completed.

Q: Is there ever a time when a forced regeneration of a diesel particulate filter is necessary?

A: Yes. Every time the vehicle’s boost system or exhaust system comes apart, for any reason, make sure a regeneration gets forced and ensure it properly completes. If an EGR failure occurs, it must be assumed that antifreeze went through the entire emissions system.

Clean the temperature sensors, inspect and clean the turbocharger(s), and get both the DPF and the diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) cleaned right then.

A common practice is to soak the DPF/ DOC in hot water with a capful of dish soap for 12 hours. Then, rinse it with lots of hot water until most of the oil/coolant in the DPF has been floated off. Allow both to drip dry atop several bricks or blocks of wood for 24 hours, then put it back on the truck and let the active regeneration system finish the job.

Information provided by FSX Equipment

About the Author

Drew Taylor | Vice President of Global Marketing, FSX Equipment

Drew Taylor is vice president of global marketing for FSX Equipment (www.fsxinc.com). The company provides filter cleaning systems and services for cleaning diesel particulate filters (DPFs) and industrial filter cartridges utilized in the trucking, transit, off-road, railroad and power generation industries.