How To Improve Your Diesel Truck’s Performance

Trucks can provide plenty of power, torque, and general usefulness. But they can always be better. Here’s how to improve your truck’s performance.

If you own a diesel engine truck, you already know how useful they are. Whether for work or play, trucks can get you from point A to point B and provide plenty of power, towing, and hauling ability once you get there. However, it’s likely that your truck still has room for optimization. Here’s how to improve your diesel truck’s performance.

Install a Better Turbocharger

There are dozens of ways to increase your diesel engine’s horsepower, but the easiest and best way is to upgrade your turbocharger. When you buy and install a bigger and better turbocharger, you improve the airflow in the engine. The turbocharger compresses the air entering the engine, adding more oxygen. This leaves even more room for fuel. The explosive mixture increases boost pressure, reduces lag, and adds power to the torque for extra hauling and towing power.

Use Fuel Additives

This is a wide suggestion since there are multiple fuel additives you can pour into your truck’s tank. Ask your mechanic or check the owner’s manual for suggestions. Some let the engine burn fuel more cleanly, reducing gunk in it. Some increase the number of miles you can get per gallon. Others, like cetane boosters, increase the fuel’s octane rating and improve your driving experience and performance. Still others look after certain engine parts, such as injector cleaners. Be aware that some additives promise more than they deliver, so choose wisely.

Upgrade the Exhaust System

If you’re handy or know a mechanic, remove the factory-installed exhaust system and replace it with a performance model. Larger-diameter exhaust systems make for more efficient and smoother exhaust flow. Exhaust ejects more swiftly, preventing it from backing up into the engine, which would force it to work harder than it needs to. And it makes for a powerful roar as well!

Keep Up With Basic Maintenance

Too many people forget that basic maintenance is the best way to ensure their vehicle lasts a long time. Make sure to top off and replace all fluids before they get dirty or fall below acceptable levels. Oil is the biggest culprit when it comes to faulty performance or engine failure. Check the owner’s manual for how often you should change the oil. Generally, changing it every 3,000 miles (or 6,000 miles if you use the synthetic stuff) is a good policy. Monitor oil and air filters to ensure they’re clean and doing their jobs. They’ll keep the pressure off your engine by ensuring the oil and air are flowing unimpeded. And don’t forget the air in your tires. Well-inflated tires provide a smooth ride and less work for the engine.

Those are just a few tips on how to improve your diesel truck’s performance. Take care of your truck, and it’ll take care of you. And don’t forget to spring for a car wash occasionally to keep it looking nice!