Even when everything is running smoothly, maintaining a fleet of high mileage trucks is no easy task. Fuel and exhaust systems are interrelated, meaning keeping one clean keeps the other clean as well. Let’s answer some common questions.
QUESTION: What should I be aware of in my fleet’s fuel system?
ANSWER: Keeping an eye on the exhaust system can help you detect a few different issues.
If the equipment is releasing more exhaust than normal, it could mean that deposits are building up on the injectors.
If the exhaust is releasing a thick, black smoke, it is a sign that there may be incomplete combustion occurring or too much fuel being added. Incomplete combustion can be due to injectors malfunctioning, deposit build up, or even improper injection timing.
Another area to monitor would be the frequency of regens. If the fuel in the engine is not burning completely, the additional soot created will put extra strain on the diesel particulate filter, leading to an increase in regens.
QUESTION: What lubricant tips do you have for fleet vehicles?
ANSWER: For engines, most OEMs are looking for an oil that meets API specifications. New equipment is specifically looking for the current API CK-4 service category. Oils that meet this API CK-4 specifications have gone through lots of testing to ensure it can withstand the demands of today’s engines, and a benefit with API CK-4 is that this service category is backwards compatible. This means it can be used in new equipment as well as older equipment calling for an older API service category.
Using full synthetic lubricants can provide many benefits to equipment. Synthetic lubricants are more resistant to oxidation and drastic temperature changes and are better suited to keep equipment protected. Because of synthetic oils stability, you have the ability to reduce the amount of oil changes and have comfort in knowing wear is minimized.
For peace of mind, a LubeScan® Used Oil Analysis program can detect potential problems before they lead to equipment damage and failure. A used oil analysis program is key to preventing the loss of equipment and the unexpected downtime that comes with it.
QUESTION: What products should I consider to keep my fleet vehicles running smoothly?
ANSWER: Using a full synthetic diesel engine oil, like Cenex Maxtron Enviro-Edge, can provide many benefits. This product is engineered to improve fuel economy by up to 3%, has the current API CK-4 service category and comes with a high Total Base Number (TBN) to neutralize acidic compounds that can damage the engine. Cenex Maxtron Enviro-EDGE also contains the EnduroVis™ viscosity modifier, an advanced radial polymer that helps maintain 80% of the oils original viscosity throughout the drain interval.
On the fuel side, using Cenex Roadmaster XL premium diesel can help keep equipment feeling brand new. Cenex Roadmaster XL contains a robust additive package that contains an injection stabilizer, aggressive detergents to keep the fuel system clean and a cetane improver that provides a cleaner burn compared to other fuels.
Using Cenex premium diesel and synthetic oil is a great way to help keep your fleet running smoothly at all times.
And to find your local Cenex dealer or learn more tips to optimize your fleet, visit Cenex.com.
