Here is a list of some spare parts that you may need.
* Many problems with the diesel engine are to do with the cooling system. Some have a coolant filter to control the acidity level of the coolant and reduce the likelihood of corrosive particles building up inside the engine block.
* Coolant hoses should be checked frequently to ensure they have not worked loose or degraded. Having some additional coolant hoses in your spare parts box is a good idea.
* Gaskets should be carefully monitored due to the fact that they work under extreme operation conditions. If one gasket starts to leak the whole lot should be replaced as they are also likely to start leaking sooner rather than later.
* Mounting bolts should be re-torqued regularly as the vibration of the engine can cause them to come loose.
* The engine filter element is likely to become dirty quite often and needs to be replaced. Diesel engines use a lot of air in running, but the filter is not highly visible. To ensure that the problem does not go unnoticed many people use an air filter indicator on the side of the housing of the air filter. By changing colour, this item will tell them when the filter is becoming dirty before any problems develop.
* Some diesel engine owners use after coolers if their engines are turbo charged.
* The right oil filter is also necessary for diesel engines. Since sulphur and carbon are created from the diesel being burned - or actually from it not being totally burned, an oil filter is necessary so that corrosive particles do not enter the engine fuel. You have to be sure to get the right one for your vehicle.
* An early warning device can be installed in the dash that will warn the driver if the engine is overheating. This is particularly important for diesel engines as permanent damage can result from overheating.
* Some diesel engines use two different types of fuel filters to ensure there is no build-up of moisture in the engine. Some fuel tanks have breather vents that allow condensation to escape. They should be checked to ensure that they are not blocked up.
* Glow plugs are used to heat the engine and help prevent the build-up of black soot. These are especially necessary in cold weather and are essential in any spare parts box.
* In locations where the winter is very cold, an electrical heater can be installed to the cylinder block, or a heater element in the heater hose. Starting fluid can also be sprayed sparingly on the combustion chamber in severe conditions.
