Preventative Maintenance for a Smooth and Reliable Ride
RG Diesel, LLC is a full-service preventative maintenance and repair center specializing exclusively in diesel trucks. We provide comprehensive services for all your domestic or import diesel trucks to keep them running at full power. Serving all brands and models of diesel engines in Greeneville, we have the tools and expertise needed to ensure your diesel truck operates exactly as intended by its manufacturer. Reach out to us now at 423-823-9987 to schedule your preventative maintenance appointment.
Why do my diesel truck's brakes squeak?
The most common reason brakes squeak is that they are worn out. The squeak is the sound of the metal wear indicator on the brake pad coming in contact with the metal rotor.
Since your brakes are the top safety feature on your diesel truck, which requires substantial stopping power, come by RG Diesel, LLC and get them replaced right away if the squeaking is persistent.
However, if you hear a squeaking only when you press the brake pedal the first 2-3 times when you first start driving in the morning, it is typically the result of overnight moisture build-up (dew or rain) on the rotors and is likely nothing to worry about.
Why is my diesel truck making a squealing noise?
If you hear a persistent squealing, it may be a slipping fan belt (or serpentine/accessory belt).
Listen for a few warning signs, such as a chirping or squeaking noise. Those sounds are usually caused by misalignment of the belt and the pulley or the belt being worn or loose.
If you come by RG Diesel, LLC in Greeneville, our professional diesel repair technicians can inspect and realign or replace the belt to stop the noise and fix it before your belt completely breaks, which can lead to rapid diesel engine overheating or battery drain.
Can diesel engine rattling be fixed?
Yes. Many diesel engine rattles can be fixed quickly and affordably.
The most common reason for engine rattling is a collapsed valve lifter. This needs to be repaired quickly or it can cause misfires. Other common causes that need immediate attention are a failing serpentine/drive belt tensioner, a worn drive belt, or low oil pressure (critical in turbodiesels). If the rattle is intermittent, it may be a poor connection between the connecting rod and the crankshaft.
If the noise is loud, it may be a cracked flex plate or a rusted heat shield. Higher mileage diesel trucks may have an engine rattle resulting from piston slap or degrading sound dampening features. Sometimes what sounds like an engine rattle is not the engine at all but a cracked Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or catalytic converter shield.
If your diesel engine is rattling, bring your vehicle to RG Diesel, LLC immediately for expert diagnosis before a minor issue becomes a major engine failure.
Why does my diesel truck make a noise when I turn the steering wheel?
If your diesel truck makes strange sounds or clicks when you turn the steering wheel, the most common cause is low steering fluid. Over time, the steering fluid decreases and air enters the steering mechanism, causing unwanted noises.
Come to RG Diesel, LLC to top off your fluid reservoir with power steering fluid. The noises should start to go away immediately. If the sound returns quickly, your diesel truck could be leaking steering fluid. Our professionals in Greeneville can help you diagnose and repair leaks quickly and affordably.
Why does my diesel truck squeal when I start it in the morning?
A loud squealing noise when you first start your diesel engine is most often caused by a loose or worn serpentine belt (or drive/accessory belt). This belt powers accessories like the alternator and power steering pump.
However, if the noise is a deeper hissing or rumbling, and particularly persistent, it couldindicate an issue with the timing belt (sometimes called a cambelt). If a timing belt breaks on an interference diesel engine, it can cause catastrophic damage.
Since the noise could range from a minor belt alignment issue to a major component failure, come to RG Diesel, LLC right away for a professional diagnosis and replacement to protect your diesel engine.
Why are my wheels making a chirping sound when I accelerate?
The most common reason why your diesel truck's wheels make a chirping or squealing sound, especially during acceleration, is a failing wheel bearing. If you also notice a grinding or grating noise coming from your wheel, this can be a strong indication that a wheel bearing is failing.
Given the substantial weight and torque of diesel trucks, maintaining healthy wheel bearings is crucial for safety and stability. If you are in Greeneville, Mosheim, Newport, or the surrounding area, come by RG Diesel, LLC, and we can diagnose and fix the problem quickly.
Why are my windshield wipers not working?
There are two primary categories for windshield wiper failure: they won't turn on (electrical issue) or they turn on but don't clear the glass (wear/mechanical issue).
1. Wipers Won't Turn On (Electrical Issues)
If your wipers don't move at all, the power source or control mechanism has likely failed:
- Blown Fuse (Most Common): This cuts power to the entire circuit. We can replace the fuse quickly and affordably.
- Wiper Motor Failure: The motor that drives the wiper arms may have failed or burned out.
- Control Arm/Switch Fault: An electrical fault in the switch on your steering column prevents the signal from reaching the motor.
2. Wipers Failing to Wipe Water (Wear & Mechanical Issues)
If the wipers are moving but leaving streaks or not clearing the glass effectively:
- Worn-Out Wiper Blades (Most Likely): Wiper blades are made of rubber and degrade over time. They need to be replaced frequently to ensure clear visibility.
- Linkage Failure: The mechanical connection between the motor and the wiper arms may be loose or broken.
Need help diagnosing or fixing the problem?
Come by RG Diesel, LLC! We can quickly and affordably address blown fuses, motor issues, and replace worn wiper blades.
How much does it cost to replace windshield wipers?
The cost to replace windshield wiper blades is generally very affordable.
The average cost for a windshield wiper blade replacement, including both the blades and labor, is between $40 and $80. The final price can vary based on the specific type of blade your vehicle requires (e.g., conventional, beam, or winter blades).
Need a quick and affordable service?
Come by RG Diesel, LLC and we can replace your windshield wipers quickly and affordably, restoring your clear, safe view of the road.
Can I replace both windshield wiper blades or just one?
It is highly recommended to replace both windshield wiper blades at the same time.
- Equal Wear: If one blade is showing signs of wear and failure, the other blade is likely in a similar condition and will fail soon, as they are used equally.
- Cost Efficiency: Wiper blades are typically sold as a pair, making it more cost-effective to replace both at once rather than buying singles on separate occasions.
- Optimal Performance: Replacing both ensures you have maximum clarity and safety on both sides of your windshield.
Pro Tip: If your vehicle has both front and rear wiper blades, it's a good practice to replace them all simultaneously to maintain optimal visibility in all directions.
Why is water leaking on my foot on the driver's side?
Water leaking onto the driver's side floor or your foot is a concerning issue, but often has a simple fix:
- Blocked Air Conditioning Drain Hose (Most Common): The drain hose for your air conditioning system is designed to route condensation outside the vehicle. If it becomes clogged, the water backs up and often leaks into the cabin. This is usually a simple repair.
- Broken Door Seal: The rubber seal surrounding the driver's door may be torn, cracked, or improperly seated, allowing rainwater to leak directly inside.
- Leaking Heater Core/Heat Exchanger: This is part of your car's heating system. If it leaks, you will likely notice water and an odor of coolant (a slightly sweet smell), or a greasy residue on the inside of your windshield.
What should I do if my diesel vehicle creates a small oil leak on my driveway?
A small oil leak on your driveway requires two immediate actions: cleanup and diagnosis.
1. Driveway Cleanup (Temporary)
To prevent the oil from staining your concrete or asphalt, act quickly while the stain is still wet:
- Absorb the Spill: Cover the stain completely with an absorbent material like clay cat litter, sand, cornmeal, cornstarch, or baking soda.
- Wait and Sweep: Once the spill has dried and the material has absorbed the oil, sweep up the absorbent material and dispose of it properly.
- Clean Residual Stain: Wash away any remaining residue with soap and water.
2. Vehicle Diagnosis (Crucial)
Do not ignore an oil leak, as it can seriously affect your car's engine health and safety.
A small oil leak is a critical indication that something is wrong with your vehicle, whether it's a minor gasket issue or a more serious problem.
Next Step: Bring your car to RG Diesel, LLC as soon as possible to have the source of the leak diagnosed and repaired before it causes engine damage.
Why is my diesel leaking a sweet-smelling fluid?
If you detect a sweet-smelling fluid leaking from your diesel vehicle, the most likely culprit is leaking coolant (antifreeze).
Why This is a Serious Concern
A coolant leak can quickly become a serious problem for a diesel engine:
- Overheating Risk: If your diesel gets too low on coolant or antifreeze, it will overheat and may cause significant engine damage.
- Common Leak Points: In diesel engines, leaks can often originate from the EGR cooler or high-pressure coolant hoses.
Immediate Action is Key: A coolant leak must be fixed immediately to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
What are the 4 types of engine motor oil?
Engine oil is categorized into four basic classes based on its composition and intended use. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual to determine the correct type of oil for your engine.
The four types of motor oil are:
- Conventional Petroleum-Based Motor Oil: This is the most common and traditional type of lubricant, derived directly from crude petroleum.
- Synthetic Motor Oil: This oil is made up of artificial chemical compounds, typically derived by breaking down and rebuilding petroleum molecules. It offers superior performance, stability, and protection compared to conventional oil.
- Synthetic Blend Motor Oil: This is a combination of conventional petroleum-based motor oil and synthetic motor oil. It provides many benefits of full synthetic oil at a lower cost.
- High Mileage Oil: This oil is specifically formulated for vehicles with high mileage (usually over 75,000 miles). It contains additives and seal enhancers designed to condition seals and reduce the likelihood of leaks and oil consumption often associated with older engines.
What are the steps for performing an oil change?
Performing an oil change involves a systematic process to remove old, contaminated oil and replace it with fresh lubricant and a new filter.
Here are the five essential steps for a proper oil change:
Drain Old Oil: Remove the drain plug from the oil pan and completely drain the old, used engine oil into a container.
Remove Old Filter: Carefully remove the old, saturated oil filter.
Install New Filter: Install a new, recommended oil filter (often pre-lubricating the rubber seal).
Refill Engine: Replace the drain plug securely and fill the engine with the correct type and amount of new motor oil.
Check Oil Level: Start the engine briefly, then shut it off, wait a few minutes, and use the dipstick to check and ensure the oil level is correct.
What are the three main types of oil filters?
Oil filters are classified by the filtration media (the material that catches contaminants) they use. Selecting the right filter ensures proper protection for your engine.
The three primary types of oil filters are:
1. Cellulose Media Filters:
- This is the most common type of disposable oil filter found in standard vehicles today.
- The media is made from natural wood or cellulose fibers.
- They are highly effective at capturing larger contaminants but have less capacity and filtration efficiency for very fine particles compared to synthetic options.
2. Synthetic Media Filters:
These are made from high-quality synthetic fibers (like fiberglass or polymer).
- They are known for their ability to catch and remove the smallest particulates and can withstand complex chemical reactions and higher oil flow rates better than cellulose. They offer superior longevity and performance.
3. Micro-Glass Media Filters:
- These are considered high-end oil filters often used in heavy-duty or performance applications (like some diesel engines).
- They include an extremely fine metal media or micro-glass material. This design maximizes contaminant capacity and offers the highest level of efficiency, capturing more fine particles than either cellulose or standard synthetic filters.
How often should oil filters be changed?
The replacement frequency for your oil filter is crucial for engine health and depends on your vehicle's manufacturer.
Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual to determine the precise maintenance interval for your oil filter.
- Most Common Recommendation: Many manufacturers recommend that the oil filter be replaced every time you get your oil changed.
- Alternative Recommendation: Other manufacturers, particularly for certain vehicles using standard oil and filters, may only recommend replacing the filter every other oil change.
Best Practice: To ensure maximum engine protection, most mechanics advise replacing the filter with every oil change, regardless of the manual's recommendation.
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