How to Improve Diesel Engine Performance

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For those planning on investing in a vehicle soon, whether for personal or business use, a diesel engine may be the ideal choice. The sales of diesel-powered cars are likely to increase in the coming years. Diesel engines offer better fuel economy and boast a longer lifespan, lower emissions, and better performance.

If you currently own a vehicle with a diesel engine, consider ways to improve its performance to get more power out of it. Today, various diesel upgrades are available, ranging from engine tuning and component modifications to aftermarket products.

With the array of options, selecting the right upgrade option can take time and effort, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t fret; factors such as customer reviews, company reputability, price, and quality can narrow your choices quickly. You may check out dpfpartsdirect.com and other similar online providers of diesel engine parts and aftermarket products to ensure a good head start.

Once you decide to improve the overall performance of your vehicle’s diesel engine, here are several options worth considering:

1. Upgrade the Exhaust System

The stock exhaust on most vehicles is usually small in diameter, with several bends. However, these bends in the stock pipes strain the engine when pushing out the exhaust gases. If you want to enhance the performance of your diesel engine, switch to an exhaust pipe with a larger diameter. Ideally, the dimensions should be between 3 1/2 and 5 inches, with only a few curves.

A high-flow exhaust system brings about several improvements, such as better engine sound, horsepower, and torque. Additionally, when there’s better airflow, it can effectively maintain the proper engine temperature to prolong its lifespan.

2. Level Up the Air Intake

Another way to level up the performance of your vehicle’s diesel engine is to invest in an upgraded airflow kit. Doing so will enable more air to move into it for better power.

The kit works by drawing cold air from the outside of the engine compartment. Due to the dense quality of cold air, it holds more oxygen, increasing the amount of power the engine generates. Once you level up the air flow system of your car, it gives a boost to the horsepower and improves fuel economy at the same time. Remember that fuel economy is the primary concern for private vehicles and those in the commercial and industrial sectors. So taking this upgrade is a great deal.

3. Modify the Engine Control Module (ECM)

After optimizing the airflow, consider making the necessary modifications to your car’s engine control module (ECM), which is the vehicle’s onboard computer. Consider it a cost-effective upgrade for your car. Generally, the ECM is responsible for controlling engine performance by regulating crucial parameters such as maximum revolutions per minute (RPM) and air-fuel mixture in a diesel engine.

Reprogramming or replacing the ECM by a reputable mechanic helps modify these settings to allow your engine to gain better horsepower and torque for a boost in performance.

Working with a professional is a practical decision since the remapping and tuning can be complex. Doing so will avoid the chances of ending up with a blown-out engine or being unable to pass the emission testing. Aside from improving power, the upgrade is also a great way to enhance overall diesel efficiency.

4. Install New Fuel Injectors

After making the necessary improvements to the engine’s airflow and adjustment to the ECM for better power, you may focus next on the fuel injectors.

Investing in new fuel injectors enables fuel to reach the engine efficiently and boost horsepower. When you have more energy, it brings more power to your engine. In most cases, you should also consider leveling up the fuel pump to accommodate the performance fuel injectors’ demands well.

If you’re planning on getting performance fuel injectors, know that most come with individual injector nozzles that generate more pressure and are efficient in atomizing the fuel. In the long run, the upgrade contributes to your diesel engine’s better performance and fuel economy.

5. Consider the Addition of Turbochargers

One way to improve the power of a diesel engine is by utilizing a performance turbocharger. If it’s your first time using one, it works by driving more air into the engine while pressurizing the air intake. Using a turbo allows high power generation while enhancing the engine’s efficiency.

Generally, a stock turbo can boost the air flow three to four times. But if you have a good upgrade, a performance turbo can boost airflow ten times better than a non-turbo engine, resulting in better horsepower.

6. Schedule Routine Maintenance

Routine checkups of your diesel engine will play a critical role in ensuring it stays in optimum condition for years to come. When you follow a regular maintenance inspection, it significantly improves performance. Working with a reputable professional is the best decision to keep your vehicle in good shape at all times.

Final Thoughts

Investing in the right upgrades for your diesel engine can improve overall performance and functionality. When you consider these essential upgrade options, you’ll be on the right track to boosting fuel efficiency, horsepower, and overall performance for years to come. Working with a professional to tackle these upgrades will ensure the best outcome for your vehicle’s diesel engine.

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