Tech Tips

TECH TIPS

DPF CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE TIPS

There is more than one way to clean diesel particulate filters. (DPF’s) 

DPF’s are typically removed and cleaned on location or sent to a third party to be cleaned. This removes about 66% of ash and costs about $300-$600. 

Alternatively, the filter can be cleaned while it is still attached to the vehicle, often with a fuel injector flush service. In this process, the exhaust inlet-side pressure sensor, which is located on the side of the DPF filter housing, is removed. A DPF cleaner nozzle gun with an attachment is inserted and used to inject a cleaning solution. After this, the engine is started and ran at a fast idle. The DPF cleaning fluid is injected into the filter and exhaust pressure from the fast idling engine forces it through the cordierite galleries.

Forté diesel additive cleans and lubricates the whole of the fuel system both pre and post-combustion. In addition to improving overall engine power and efficiency, it reduces downtime and component replacement in both direct and indirect injection engines.

It is important to include DPFs in a preventive maintenance program. Connections should be regularly inspected and the sensors checked for resistance.

If a temperature sensor goes out of range, you either never have to regenerate or you always have to regenerate. If there is a sensor problem, check the ohm rating with a probe on the front and back sensor. If it’s not within 5-10%, it’s time to change the sensors 

Filter media should also be inspected for damage caused by thermal events.

The EPA mandates a minimum of 4,500-hour cleaning intervals, but every duty-cycle is different. Many fleets don’t inspect their DPF’s frequently enough. 

The DOC (diesel oxidation catalyst) should also be inspected for anything abnormal, such as the caking of black soot along its surface. Clean the DOC as necessary. Cleaning the DOC is generally recommended for every second DPF cleaning.

It’s never too soon to clean your DPF, but it is possible to wait too long. 
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