Tangent and Albany Auto Repair

Ford diesel pickups are designed for heavy-duty work, yet fuel system problems can impede their efficiency. Being aware of potential issues can aid in maintaining optimal performance. Fuel Pump Failures - which can lead to difficult starts, engine stalling, or total engine shutdown, are a frequent issue. Replacing the fuel filter regularly and opting for quality fuel can help prolong your fuel pump's lifespan. Clogged Fuel Filters - A clogged fuel filter can impede fuel flow, causing diminished engine performance and reduced fuel economy. Adhering to the manufacturer's guidelines for fuel filter replacement is critical to prevent this problem. Water in the Fuel System - Water in the fuel system can severely damage both injectors and the fuel pump. Employing a water separator and consistently draining trapped water can avert such damage. Maintaining a clean and efficient fuel system is vital for your diesel pickup's durability and performance. We can take care of yo ... read more

Those who love Fords, love Ford diesel pickups - if you're a Chevy, GMC or Dodge person I will get to them too - I promise. Fords are renowned for their strength and reliability, there are a few things you should know about your diesel engine.  This can help you maintain your truck and avoid costly repairs. Injector Failure - premature fuel injector failure which is often caused by poor-quality fuel. Symptoms include rough idling, misfires, and a significant drop in fuel efficiency. Regularly using high-quality diesel, changing your fuel filter and regular maintenance can prevent premature failure. They are a wearing part though so they will need to be replaced at some point.  Turbocharger Problems - is your turbocharger lagging? Or has it failed?  These problems might be due to oil contamination, wear, or excessive exhaust temperatures. Regular oil changes and keeping an eye on your truck's exhaust system can help prevent a ... read more

Seeing white smoke from your diesel engine can be alarming. Not only is it a sign that something isn’t right, but it can also indicate other underlying issues that may need immediate attention.  White smoke from a diesel engine often indicates the presence of un-burned fuel or coolant in the exhaust system. When these substances are not properly combusted, they create a white vapor that exits through the exhaust. Typically un-burnt fuel causes black smoke, but we have seen it cause white smoke as well.  The primary reason for white smoke is a coolant leak. When coolant leaks into the combustion chamber - and it doesn't belong there. It mixes with the diesel fuel, causing incomplete combustion. This result can be from a damaged head gasket, a cracked engine block, or a faulty cylinder head. A sure sign of a coolant leak is a sweet smell accompanying the white smoke or a noticeable drop in the coolant level.  Another common reason for white smoke is ... read more

Youu might have heard the term "diesel engine runaway." This frightening phenomenon occurs when a diesel engine revs uncontrollably, often leading to severe damage if not promptly addressed. Understanding the causes behind this issue can help prevent it and help prepare you if it ever occurs. A diesel engine runaway happens when the engine starts to consume fuel uncontrollably. Unlike gasoline engines, diesel engines rely on compression to ignite the fuel, which means they can run on a variety of fuel sources, including engine oil or other flammable substances that might find their way into the combustion chamber. This is where the problem begins. One common cause of diesel engine runaway is a failure in the turbocharger. The turbocharger, which boosts engine power by forcing more air into the combustion chamber, can leak oil from its seals into the intake system. When this oil gets into the combustion chamber, the engine treats it as fuel. Since the engine can keep ru ... read more

Experiencing a sudden stall while driving can be both frustrating and concerning. Fuel System Issues: One of the primary reasons for car stalling is related to fuel system issues. This can include problems with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, or a clogged fuel filter. Inadequate fuel delivery to the engine can disrupt the combustion process and lead to a stall. Ignition System Failures: Issues within the ignition system, such as a faulty ignition coil, spark plugs, or a malfunctioning distributor, can result in stalling. Without a reliable spark to ignite the air-fuel mixture, the engine may cease to operate. Airflow Problems: Proper airflow is crucial for the combustion process. Any obstruction or malfunction in the air intake system, like a dirty air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and cause the engine to stall. Sensor Malfunctions: Modern vehicles rely on various sensors to monitor and regulate engine performanc ... read more

If you've noticed a persistent ticking noise emanating from your car, it's essential not to ignore it. Unusual sounds can be early indicators of potential issues within your vehicle. In this blog post, we'll explore common reasons behind a car making a ticking noise, helping you understand the possible culprits and the importance of addressing them promptly. Valvetrain Issues: A ticking noise often originates from the valvetrain – the system responsible for opening and closing the engine's valves. Over time, wear on components like lifters, pushrods, or rocker arms can lead to ticking sounds during engine operation. Low Oil Level or Quality: Insufficient or degraded engine oil can contribute to ticking noises. Adequate lubrication is crucial for the smooth operation of engine components. Regularly check and maintain the proper oil level, and adhere to recommended oil change intervals with high-quality oil. Lifter or Tappet Issues: Hydraulic lifte ... read more

Witnessing your car emit smoke, particularly a bluish tint, can be alarming and raise concerns about potential engine issues. In this blog post, we'll delve into the reasons why your car may be burning oil, exploring common culprits and emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing this issue to ensure the longevity of your engine. Worn Piston Rings: One of the primary reasons for oil burning is worn piston rings. These rings create a seal between the piston and cylinder, preventing oil from entering the combustion chamber. When rings wear out, oil can slip past, leading to combustion and the characteristic bluish smoke from the exhaust. Valve Seal Issues: Valve seals play a crucial role in preventing oil from entering the combustion chamber through the valves. Over time, these seals can degrade or become damaged, allowing oil to burn during the combustion process. Cylinder Wall Damage: Damage to the cylinder walls, often due to wear or insufficient lubrication ... read more

When diesel engines produce smoke, it's usually indicative of two potential issues that can impact their performance. The first common cause is an excessive amount of fuel entering the engine without being efficiently utilized during combustion. This can occur due to issues such as a malfunctioning fuel injector or an incorrect fuel-to-air ratio. The second reason for smoke in diesel engines is related to oil consumption. If the engine is burning oil along with fuel, it can result in visible smoke emissions. This scenario often points to problems like worn-out piston rings, valve seals, or other components in the engine that are allowing oil to enter the combustion chamber. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the optimal efficiency of your engine. When too much fuel goes unburned or when oil is consumed improperly, it can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potential damage to engine components over time. Regular inspections and ma ... read more

Your medium-duty truck's engine is a complex symphony of components working together, and at the heart of this orchestration are the spark plugs. Though often overlooked, these small devices play a critical role in the combustion process, impacting your vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability. 1. **Optimal Combustion:**    The primary function of spark plugs is to ignite the air-fuel mixture within the engine cylinders. Over time, the electrodes on spark plugs can wear down, leading to inefficient combustion. Changing your spark plugs ensures that the ignition system operates at its best, promoting optimal combustion for a smoother-running engine. 2. **Fuel Efficiency:**    Worn-out spark plugs can contribute to decreased fuel efficiency. Inefficient combustion results in incomplete burning of fuel, leading to wasted energy and reduced miles per gallon. By installing new spark plugs, you maximize the efficiency of the combustion p ... read more

While the engine is often considered the heart of a vehicle, the fuel system plays a vital role in ensuring its optimal performance. Among the crucial components of this system is the diesel fuel filter.  1. **Contaminant Removal:**    Diesel fuel, like any other fluid, is susceptible to contamination over time. Impurities such as dirt, debris, water, and microscopic particles can find their way into the fuel. The fuel filter acts as a guardian, capturing these contaminants before they reach the engine. Regular filter changes prevent the accumulation of harmful substances that could compromise engine efficiency. 2. **Optimal Engine Performance:**    A clogged or dirty fuel filter can impede the flow of diesel fuel to the engine. Reduced fuel flow results in an inadequate supply of fuel to the combustion chamber, affecting the engine's performance. Changing the fuel filter at recommended intervals ensures a consistent and sufficient fuel supply, allowing t ... read more