When you think about diesel engines, you probably think about large trucks and machinery, and maybe a few oddball cars over the years.  But how long has diesel really been around, and why is it used the way it is today? Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA has the answers you need to become more in-tune with your diesel truck and engine. 

No matter what type of fleet vehicles or commercial trucks you maintain, the fuel system on your diesel is an integral part of keeping you on the road. Gas systems are pretty simple - there’s basically just a pump that pushes gasoline to the injectors. Diesels are a bit more complicated.

At Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA, we understand that no matter how well something is maintained, everything breaks eventually. Fortunately, our team of expert mechanics can repair just about anything, saving your business a lot of money in the process.

Is your engine knocking or ticking? Here’s some information on engine noises, what they mean, and what to do about it, from Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA.

Whenever your engine starts making a noise it shouldn’t be making, it’s always a cause for concern. If you’re hearing a rhythmic ticking or knocking sound, definitely have it checked into immediately. Here are some causes of engine ticks and knocks, and what to do about them.

You’re Chevrolet, Ford, or Ram diesel pickup is a heavy-duty machine, designed to tackle all kinds of situations. The ball joints that connect your suspension to the rest of the truck are under a tremendous amount of strain, both on and off-road - it’s important to keep an eye on them, and make sure they’re in proper working order. Here’s how to gauge the condition of your ball joints, from the professionals at Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA.

Keeping your fuel system maintained will prevent premature parts failure and poor running conditions. Here at Zylstra Automotive & Diesel we have tips on the important aspects of diesel fuel system maintenance, to keep your diesel fleet trucks running smoothly - longer.

Air.Air in the system causes all kinds of issues, from hard starting, poor running conditions, or an engine that won’t run at all. If too much air gets in the system, the fuel pump won’t be able to deliver fuel, and the engine will stall, die, or fail to start.  Air enters the system via a leak or a bad seal - a deteriorated o-ring, worn component, faulty hose, or otherwise. Here we inspect your lines and connections to ensure they are in good shape and track down any leaks we notice air in the system.

If you’re running a truck (or trucks) without an auxiliary oil cooler, it may be something you want to consider. Here’s some information on auxiliary oil coolers, what they are, and why they’re a great upgrade, from Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA.

Here at Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia we often do diagnostics and sometimes the problem is obvious after hooking the car up to the computer and reading the codes.  However, sometimes it isn't obvious during a test drive or after hooking it up to all those computer programs!  You know there is a problem and a Check Engine Light is on with the fleet customer telling you the car has been having issues starting and the light has been going off and on depending on several factors.  No pattern, no simple answer but the problem becomes obvious when you start following the "threads of the issue" thanks to all that ASE Technician training.

We see this with our fleet customers, our regular Visalia car pool drivers and our diesel truck drivers so it isn't just one type of driver that ends up with a nightmare on their hands costing thousands of dollars to repair, asking about the costs of a JASPER replacement engine!  The fact is your driving habits and maintenance habits can easily avoid this issue!  6 EASY STEPS - Service, Tires, Don't Ignore Service Engine Lights, Keep it Clean & Stop Driving Crazy!

Is your truck used for towing? Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current setup or rig up something new, our technicians have you covered. Here’s some useful information on towing equipment, from Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA.

Your pickup truck is heavy and hard working, whether it’s a Chevy, Ford, or Dodge. If you add towing to the mix, it’s even heavier and has to work harder. Your brakes are one of the most wear and tear prone systems on your diesel pickup, but at Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA, we can help you keep yours in good shape.

Whether you drive a Duramax, Cummins, or Powerstroke diesel pickup, you have an exhaust system that is prone to failure. When you have a leak that needs attention, Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA can help.

Brake pads are important - you don’t need them to go, but you do need them to stop. At Zylstra Automotive & Diesel in Visalia, CA, we like to keep your vehicle stopping exactly as it should - it’s less dangerous, and it keeps insurance premiums low. So, how do you know if your brake pads are going bad? How do they work? What even are they? We’ve got the answers!

If there’s an issue with your diesel fuel system, the most important thing to remember is to fix it sooner rather than later. With gas engines, you can often power through a fuel issue for quite some time - they’re irritating, but not often permanently damaging.