Posted on 10/31/2024
Have you ever struggled to start your diesel engine on a frosty morning? Diesel engines are notorious for their starting difficulties in cold weather. But why does this happen, and can you do anything to avoid it? Understanding the unique characteristics of diesel engines and how they respond to colder temperatures can help you keep your engine running, no matter the weather. How Cold Weather Affects Diesel Engines Diesel engines work differently than gasoline engines. They rely on compressed air to ignite fuel rather than using spark plugs. When you start your diesel engine, the air inside the cylinders gets compressed, generating heat. This heat is what ignites the diesel fuel and gets your engine running. But here’s where cold weather throws a wrench in the process. When the temperature drops, the air inside the engine becomes denser and colder, which means the engine has to work harder to generate the necessary heat. As a result, the fuel ... read more