This article deals with Class 7 and 8 trucks. The cost for cleaning and replacement is lower than indicated in the article and the basics are the same for all diesel engines. In-town delivery vehicles seem to be more prone to clogging than an over-the-road vehicle.
Only within the last eight months has the issue begin to surface and become a problem for owners of lighter classed vehicles. This is due to the miles that delivery/service runs in comparison to over the road trucks.
The EPA is requiring the use of a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to reduce diesel pollution that comes from trucks, buses, etc.
This filter is installed on each truck and there’s an indicator in the cab for the driver to watch. As long as the truck is going faster than 20 mph when the filter gets full, it will automatically regenerate itself and burn off the collected particulate. If the truck is idling for some time, a light will appear, notifying the driver to manually regenerate the filter.
After regeneration, there is a small amount of ash (similar to fireplace ash), that is left in the filter. Eventually, the filter will become clogged, even after repeated regenerations. At this point, warning lights come on and if the driver doesn’t get the filter cleaned, the engine will lose power and eventually shut off completely.
A DPF can be cleaned. Of course this is preferable to waiting too long and having to replace the DPF at a cost of anywhere between $5,000-10,000. The cleaning schedule depends on the manufacturer’s specifications. Volvo, Cummins, Caterpillar and others all have different recommendations.
The Ring Power Corporate News contains the article referred to above, click to be taken to learn more about DPF cleaning for trucks, etc.
