Diesel 101: How Your Diesel Engine Works

While every type vehicle has some great and desirable features, a diesel powered engine is the first choice for many drivers. In fact, diesels are not only found in the large trucks that traditionally came to mind, but also in some passenger cars, RV’s, boats, tractors, and generators. Manufacturers and owners depend on diesel power for efficient and reliable service as well as longevity. As with any power plant, however, you’ll eventually need service and repair. At Genesis Automotive & RV Repair in Tacoma, Washington, we want to help you understand the workings of your engine and partner with you for all your diesel needs.

How It Works

Unlike a gasoline engine that compresses a gas and air mixture in the cylinders to create a small explosion, a diesel compresses only air. The air heats to an extremely high temperature as it is compressed, igniting atomized diesel fuel that is injected into the combustion chamber. Because the addition of fuel occurs fairly late in the process, the fuel-air mixture is heterogeneous (unevenly distributed). Therefore, the torque the engine produces is controlled through the amount of fuel that is added rather than the air intake. The air-fuel ratio is typically high. Both two-stroke and four-stroke cycle diesel engines are widely available in a variety of applications, but one can find enormous power plants for special uses that may be as large as 14 cylinders.

Why It’s a Great Option

Many owners prefer diesels for their longevity. Most will quickly tell you that a diesel engine lasts longer and can be rebuilt, when necessary, to run almost forever. Drivers and operators also like diesels for their efficiency. A diesel powered motor has the highest thermal efficiency of any practical combustion engine. It has a high expansion ratio and a “lean” burn, enabling heat to dissipate through the excess air. In short, you waste less fuel and usually get more for your dollar with a diesel engine. Although other forms of energy (such as electric power) are cleaner alternatives, environmentalists may agree that diesels are less toxic to the environment than gasoline engines because they run more efficiently. Diesel engines produce about 12% more power per gallon of fuel than do gasoline powered motors, so ultimately, a diesel emits less carbon waste for the same nuimber of miles traveled than does a gasoline engine.

Reasons to Choose Us for Service and Repair

Just as you have an option of which kind of engine you want powering your auto, you have a choice of where to take your vehicle for service and repair. At Genesis Automotive & RV Repair in Tacoma, Washington, we want to earn your trust and your business. Since 1993 we have been providing honest, reliable service. We take advantage of the latest technological advances and training to ensure the best quality repairs for your vehicle and the most effective service for you. We’re invested in our community, and we want to extend that relationship to you. We look forward to serving you and repairing your diesel.