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Category: Exhaust

5 Reasons Why Your Semi Truck Engine Is Overheating

Semi truck engine overheating poses some very real and serious risks to your safety and the safety of those around you. If your truck’s engine is overheating, take it to a mechanic or call mobile truck repair immediately, rather than driving it home or taking it on the road while under duress. Here are five reasons why your semi truck engine is overheating that you need to know about.

1) Thermostat Failure

Many truck drivers don’t know that if their engine is overheating, one of the first things they should check is to make sure the air conditioner and heater in the cab are working. A possible cause of overheating is a bad thermostat. When a thermostat fails, it can stop cooling the motor when it’s needed most, leading to overheating. This usually results in an illuminated check engine light or a warning message on your dashboard display such as engine too hot.

Semi Truck Engine is Overheating
Semi Truck Engine is Overheating

2) Dirty Cooling System Components

Many of the parts on your truck engine’s cooling system may get dirty over time, creating more heat and less efficiency. A clogged radiator may not allow air to flow through it, increasing the temperature of the coolant and reducing engine performance. Other problems that can arise are dirty or faulty water pump, thermostat and fan belt. Some newer semi trucks have aluminum radiators; these components will need to be inspected regularly because aluminum is softer than traditional steel metals and is more prone to erosion.

3) Worn out Cooling System

The antifreeze’s main function is to keep your engine from freezing in cold climates and from overheating in hot climates. It is possible that there is a leak in the radiator or that your coolant level is too low and needs to be replenished. Low coolant levels may lead to other problems, including warped or cracked hoses and head gaskets that have failed due to heat. If the problem persists, you will need professional assistance in order to avoid damaging your engine even more severely.

4. Failed Belt System

A failed belt system can cause your truck engine to overheat. This happens when the serpentine or timing belt that drives various components of your engine breaks and becomes wrapped around other vital engine parts, such as the alternator. You may notice a burning smell or the audible screeching of belts coming from one side of the truck only if this is the issue. You might also experience rapid acceleration and delayed braking if you’re driving downhill with your engine improperly aligned. If you’re overheating frequently, try using one hand to feel for loose belts by taking off any covers that might obstruct you from doing so.

Semi Truck Engine is Overheating

5) Exhaust Leaks

Exhaust leaks can be a major cause for engine overheating and loss of power. You should keep an eye on your exhaust pipe for any sign of leaking. A broken or cracked exhaust manifold will also cause the motor to overheat because it restricts the flow of exhaust gases from escaping. Heavy duty exhaust gaskets are available at most auto parts stores to repair minor leaks, but if you have a large leak that’s still not fixed, you’ll need to replace the muffler assembly or exhaust pipe. If your vehicle’s vibration becomes more pronounced when the brakes are applied, it could mean that the brake shoes have worn down too far and are rubbing against their metal plates. Replacement may be needed if replacement parts are not available locally.

Need Semi Engine Repair? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of semi truck engine repair or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.

Semi Truck Exhaust Repair: Don’t Let Your Rig Fall Apart

The exhaust on your semi truck can cause all sorts of problems if it’s not taken care of properly. A simple crack can result in a catastrophic failure, so it’s crucial to make sure that you’re investing in exhaust repair and maintenance instead of putting off the inevitable. The information in this article will help you make sure you understand the ins and outs of semi truck exhaust repair, and see how checking your exhaust sytem should be an integral part of your truck maintenance routine.

What Does A Semi Truck Exhaust System Do?

The exhaust system of a semi-truck is responsible for routing used gases away from the engine and into the atmosphere. It starts at the exhaust manifold, where gases exit the engine, and ends at the tailpipe. In between, there are a number of different parts that work to clean and route the exhaust. These include the catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter, muffler, and resonator. They all serve their own specific function, but they work together to create a safe environment inside the cab while also helping the driver maintain optimal performance on the road.

Mufflers come in two types: A straight pipe and an acoustic one. Straight pipes reduce noise levels by trapping sound waves inside themselves before releasing them outside as wasted energy. Acoustic mufflers also reduce noise levels but use tuned tubes to absorb some of those sound waves before releasing them as wasted energy outside of the vehicle’s frame. Catalytic converters are designed to convert carbon monoxide into harmless molecules like water vapor and carbon dioxide with help from small amounts of platinum or rhodium inside them. Diesel particulate filter (DPF) design to remove diesel particulate or shoot from the exhaust.

Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair
Mobile Semi Truck Tire Repair

How Does A Semi Truck Exhaust System Fail?

There are many ways a semi truck exhaust system can fail. The most common way is from corrosion. The fumes from the engine are very hot and full of chemicals that can eat away at the metal, causing it to break down and eventually fail. This is why it’s important to have your exhaust system inspected and repaired regularly. Another common reason for failure is when something hits the pipe and causes a dent or bend in the metal. Over time, this will weaken the entire pipe until it breaks off entirely.

One more cause for failure is when someone welds on an extension without strengthening where they made the weld first. Without any reinforcement around this area, the weld can crack over time and destroy all of the piping connected to it. Finally, sometimes people just buy cheap parts that don’t match up with their particular rig.

How to Know If Your Semi Truck Exhaust System is Not Working

The exhaust system on a semi truck is vital to the overall function of the vehicle. If the system is not working, it can cause a number of problems. Here are some signs that your semi truck’s exhaust system may not be working properly:

  • You notice a decrease in performance.
  • The engine is louder than usual.
  • You see smoke or fumes coming from the exhaust pipe.
  • The check engine light is on.
  • You notice an increase in fuel consumption.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take your rig to a qualified technician for repairs as soon as possible.

Semi Truck Exhaust Repair

Does Semi Truck Exhaust Repair Require a Professional?

If you have a damaged exhaust system, it’s important to get it repaired as soon as possible. Otherwise, you run the risk of fumes and dangerous gases leaking into the cab of your truck, which can be incredibly dangerous for you and any passengers. While you can technically repair an exhaust system yourself, we highly recommend taking your rig to a professional. They have the experience and expertise to get the job done right, and they also have access to the best parts and materials.

Need Mobile Semi Truck Exhaust Repair? Call (443) 790-8887 Today!

If you’re in need of exhaust repair or roadside assistance, look no further than A1 Emergency Roadside Service. We can come to your location and perform repairs quickly and efficiently. Our fleet is ready for service 24 hours a day and we offer a wide range of repairs from bodywork to exhaust systems. Contact us today for more information.