Understanding Engine Blow-By on Your Diesel Generator
Diesel generators are built to be tough. Even so, these workhorse units have their own unique set of problems that can develop. Engine blow-by is a problem that can occur with any diesel engine, even large commercial diesel generators.
Blow-by can affect the lifespan and performance of your generator, so knowing the signs and symptoms is important for preventative maintenance measures. In this blog post, we’ll explore what engine blow-by is, how you can recognize it, and what you can do about it.
What Is Engine Blow-By?
Inside a diesel engine, mixtures of air, fuel, or combustion gases sometimes leak into the crankcase from between pistons and cylinder walls. This sometimes occurs from gaps between piston rings but can also result from improper piston fitting or piston damage. In some cases, blow-by is visible as excess gas is released from the generator.
Without proper assessment from a qualified technician, this may lead to decreased operating efficiency and permanent damage. Some engine blow-by is normal and unavoidable, but excessive blow-by is a symptom of more significant issues that should be addressed as soon as possible.
Signs of Excessive Diesel Engine Blow-By
The earlier engine blow-by gets identified, the better. Here are some signs to watch out for that indicate it’s time to call in a professional:
- White smoke from valve covers or the oil-fill tube
- Oil film around the oil-fill tube
- Engine misfiring or trouble starting
- Rough idling, especially when the engine won’t keep running
- Soot buildup from a disrupted combustion process
- Sputtering noises
Why You Should Get Maintenance on a Generator Experiencing Blow-By
Blow-by reduces a generator’s optimal performance. Diesel engines use compressed ignition to ignite the diesel fuel, but blow-by reduces the pressure needed to ignite properly, leading to misfires. Gases slipping past piston rings prevent the pistons from effectively pushing down, further reducing performance.
Generators experiencing blow-by should have immediate maintenance or repairs to fix the problem but should be able to run for a short time in an emergency. Blow-by is well-known for causing engine damage beyond repair, so running one for too long can require your generator to be replaced altogether.
Preventing Diesel Generator Blow-By
As serious as blow-by may be, it’s preventable. Steps you can take include:
- Regular maintenance and oil changes
- Cleaning or replacing compromised engine components
- Use of premium oils and fuel
- Professional oil sample checks
Choose Generator Services, Inc. For Generator Repairs & Maintenance
Throughout Columbia and the Midlands region, Generator Services, Inc. has been the preferred generator repair and maintenance provider for 30+ years. Our experts are insured, licensed, and background-checked. We’re a family-owned and -operated service provider, available 24/7, specializing in generator services. Customers can take advantage of our upfront pricing, military/veteran/senior discounts, and financing options.
Contact the professionals at Generator Services, Inc. today to get more information about engine blow-by and schedule services in the Columbia area.
