Ford Genuine OEM Diesel Parts

For over 20 years Ford has been offering the Power Stroke line of diesel engines in everything from select SUVs and vans to their lineup of F-series pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. Diesel equipped trucks can deliver up to a 30 percent increase in fuel economy, they’re free of maintenance intensive parts such as spark plugs, wires and distributors and have a much longer lifespan than their gasoline powered counterparts. Consider as well that because of their higher torque ratings they are optimal for hauling and towing large amounts of cargo, which makes them ideal for both civilian and commercial applications alike.

While extremely reliable, that doesn’t mean that today’s diesel engines are free from servicing. Below are few basic tips for keeping your diesel running smoothly by utilizing OEM parts and fluids. 

1. Oil: While today’s newer gasoline vehicles can go as high as 10,000 miles between oil changes, diesel engines require more frequent flushes. On average a well-used diesel engine should have its oil and filter changed every 5,000 miles to prevent unwanted sediment build up and to keep them running strong. It’s also a good rule of thumb to check a vehicles oil dipstick once every few weeks.

2. Water Separators: Water can sometimes find its way into diesel fueling systems by way of condensation and water vapor if diesel fuel sits stagnant. Therefore most diesel engines employ a water separator, a device that collects water from fuel. While some separators are self-cleaning, some units still need to be manually drained. It is imperative that the water not only be drained via a standard petcock valve on a regular basis, but that the system is kept in constant check to see how quickly it fills up under normal conditions. 

3.Glow Plugs: The point of a glow plug is simple – heat the engine to the point where combustion can take place. Like all wearable items though, over time, they can wear out. Symptoms of failing glow plus may include slow starting, or a complete starting failure, engine misfires, rough idle, hesitation and or white smoke until the engine warms up.

Checking your glow plugs is a relatively uncomplicated affair. First locate you glow plugs via your vehicles service manual and disconnect any wires that run to them. Second, utilizing a 12-volt test light, hook the clip to your batteries positive terminal. Third, make contact with the terminal of the glow plug itself (NOT THE WIRING HARNESS) and if the test light does not activate then you’ve got a bad glow plug – remove and replace accordingly. Checking your plugs on a regular basis will help to keep your vehicle operating correctly.

4. Gaskets: Since diesel engines are generally put under more stress due to the harsh conditions of commercial usage, it’s common practice to inspect both the gaskets themselves and their mounting bolts to they’re free of leaks. In the event leaks are found, consult your service manual and replace.

Why purchase factory OEM parts from your local dealer or their website?

Is it possible to find cheaper replacement parts then what’s being offered at the local dealer? Possibly. However before going that route, ask yourself the following questions:

- Are all aftermarket parts the same quality as those purchased from the dealer?
- Do you know where the aftermarket parts are manufactured?
- Have these parts been engineered correctly and are they OEM approved?

Remember, you’re looking for only the best quality replacement components for your vehicle, so make sure a certified dealer technician is consulted before making any changes or upgrades.