An engine failure is preventable
We all know that Cummins makes a great diesel engine, they have been doing it for years. The newer 6.7L engines have a weak point and that is one small bolt that is on the grid heater. Before we get into that let's discuss what a grid heater is and what it does.
When it is cooler outside a diesel engine needs a bit of help to get started. Ford and Chevy use glow plugs - which work in a completely different way. While Cummins uses a grid heater. This heats the incoming air before it enters the engine and allows the engine to start easier. Now that we know what a grid heater does let's talk about the issue at hand.
The factory grid-heater assembly uses an electrical connection that passes through the heater plate. Over time with heat cycles, electrical resistance, vibration, corrosion these can all damage the stud, bolt, or retaining hardware. The connection may become loose, overheated, distorted, or partially melted. When this happens the bolt can separate and fall into the intake manifold. When this happens, the bolt may find it's way into one of the cylinders. When this happens is causes damage to the cylinder walls, pistons, valves and cylinder head. It can also cause complete engine failure.
How we do we fix this? That's a great question. There is no real warning sign. You might get a check engine light for a fault code, but that is not always the case. Typically the engine will continue to operate as normal until it doesn't. We do have a solution though. There is an upgrade kit that eliminates the issue and gives you piece of mind.
If you do have concerns that your grid heater is failing please do not drive your vehicle until you know that it is not the grid heater that is causing the issue.
Questions? Give us a call and let us take care of you. 541-791-2886
Happy Adventures,
Heather
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