Modern diesel trucks, including the Ford Powerstroke, Dodge Cummins, and Chevrolet Duramax, are powerful, high-tech machines built for endurance. When it comes to specialized repairs, working with a diesel expert ensures the best outcome. The following guidelines will help ensure a swift and accurate diagnosis for your truck:

1. Prepare for Diesel Service

Do Your Homework: Before bringing your truck in for repairs or service, review the basics.

Read the Manual: Read the owner’s manual to learn about the specific systems and components unique to your diesel engine (e.g., turbo operation, DPF regeneration, DEF levels).

Follow Schedules: Adhere strictly to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedules.

Keep a Log: Maintain a log of all past repairs, performance upgrades, and recent services.

2. Pay Attention to Warning Signals

You know your diesel truck better than anyone else. You drive it every day and know how it feels and sounds when everything is right. Do not ignore its warning signals.

Use All Your Senses: Inspect your truck frequently, checking for:

• Unusual signs: Sounds (knocking, sharp tick, low whistle), odors (burnt oil, fuel), drips, leaks, smoke, warning lights, or abnormal gauge readings.
• Performance Changes: Changes in acceleration, engine output, boost pressure, or fuel economy.
• Wear: Worn belts, hoses, or problems in handling, braking, steering, or vibrations.
• Note the Timing: Detail exactly when the problem occurs:
  • Is the issue constant or periodic?
  • Does it happen when the engine is cold or only after it has warmed up?
  • Does it occur at all speeds? Only under acceleration? During braking? When shifting?
  • When did the problem first start?

3. Communicate Your Findings at Our Location

Once you arrive at our specialized East Tennessee facility, clear communication is critical for a fast diagnosis:

Be Prepared: Carry a written list of the symptoms and observations you documented.

Describe Symptoms: Be ready to precisely describe the symptoms, including noise type (if applicable) and the location and fluid of any leaks (as requested in the original client notes).

Resist Diagnosis: Just as you would with a physician, tell us where it hurts and how long it’s been that way, but let the certified technician diagnose and recommend a remedy.

4. Stay Involved & Ask Questions

Ask Questions: Ask as many questions as needed to fully understand your repair, requesting simpler terms if necessary.

Wait for Diagnosis: Do not rush the technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis. You may ask to be called and apprised of the problem, the recommended course of action, and the costs before work begins.

Understand Policies: Before you leave, be sure you fully understand all shop policies regarding labor rates, guarantees, and acceptable methods of payment.

Provide Contact: Ensure we have a current telephone number where you can be reached.