The Biggest Reason We Love Diesels: More Torque

This week our editors are on vacation, so we're posting our favorite stories worth repeating from the previous year.

Why do we see diesel pickups competing in sled pulls and we don't see Mustangs or Ferraris doing the tug of war? Well, it has to do with torque. Hot cars can master the horsepower game, but when it comes to raw power in a pulling competition, you need to bring in the big dogs for that.

A 2016 article in Car & Driver helps explain what torque is: "Torque is a rotating force produced by an engine's crankshaft. The more torque an engine produces, the greater its ability to perform work." 

You don't need to understand the science to recognize the difference. If you've ever been to a tractor pull, you can see it is a very different experience.

I mention all this because even though diesel engines are far cleaner and quieter than they were thirty years ago, they still get a lot of bad press. Diesel owners have a target on their backs. That's why it is important to remind folks once in a while why half the vehicles in Wyoming are pickup trucks and why diesels still have a function. 

The article that caught my eye is titled, 5 Reasons Why Diesel Engines Make More Torque Than Gasoline Engines. The 2018 Motor Authority story by Jeff Glucker begins, Horsepower is fun in its own way, but torque can be just as entertaining. If you want to rip stumps out of the ground, you'll want a whole lot of torque. That also means you'll likely prefer a diesel engine. Compared to their gasoline-swilling counterparts, diesel engines are the torque kings. Why is that?

Glucker then turns to Jason Fenske from Engineering Explained to get the answer.

According to Fenske these are five of the reasons diesels are Torque Monsters. 

1. The compression ratio

2. The speed of combustion

3. Bore and stroke size

4. Turbocharging

5. Diesel fuel packs more energy density

Fenske explains each of these five points in language that is relatively easy to grasp. For those unfamiliar with these things it is quite eye-opening. I strongly encourage following this link. It's a relatively short article and you will learn a lot.
https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1116200_5-reasons-why-diesel-engines-make-more-torque-than-gasoline-engines

For more, check out the article Torque vs. Horsepower: What's the Difference? (Car & Driver)

Five Questions to Help You Pick the Right Diesel Engine Oil

Our editors are on vacation, so we're posting some of our favorite stories from the previous year which we thought worth repeating.

Viscosity control? Shear stability? TBN retention? Confused? Best to start your search by understanding your application; tractor pulling, drag racing, stationary, street, off-road, etc. Let's take a look at these five simple questions.

What are your engine oil specifications? 

It’s important to follow what your original equipment manufacturer recommends. Reading your owner’s manual is the key to maximizing your equipment’s performance. Your manual contains vital API information about caring for your engine, including which oil grades are best suited for them. For example: SAE 15W-40, 10W-30, 5W-40 oil? Mineral, semi, or full synthetic base stock needs to be considered.

How important is fuel economy? 

If you’re keeping an eye on your miles per gallon, the right lubricant can help your equipment achieve its maximum fuel efficiency. By squeezing a few extra miles from each tank, you can see major savings over time. A semi or full-synthetic diesel engine oil is your best option to deliver maximum fuel efficiency without compromising engine performance, improving fuel economy by up to 2 percent under normal conditions and by up to 3 percent during cold starts.

Does your diesel engine run in a range of temperatures? 

Speaking of cold starts, temperature is another important consideration when choosing an engine oil. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can be brutal on moving parts in your equipment. Heat can quickly turn an engine into an oven, and the cold can thicken some oils until they’re practically jelly.

How old is your diesel engine? 

Most diesel owners want to stretch the life of their engine as long as possible. To perform their best, older diesel engines require attentive care, and a quality lubricant can go a long way toward maintaining them. For example, is your diesel running a DPF or no? Rebuilt for performance? Out of warranty?

Are you looking for more horse power or torque? 

Be sure to look at the oil’s data or spec sheet to see if it addresses increased performance, or is high in anti-wear protection, etc. Look for semi and full synthetic diesel engine oils that use shear stable synthetic base oils that are also high in film strength, have viscosity control, work with high compression, have a higher TBN retention, and if needed, designed to address demands of turbo or super-charged diesel engines.

We hope this has helped a little in your decision. Need a place to start? Take a look at these eight diesel engine oils: https://www.championbrands.com/diesel-engine-oils/

THIS STORY ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN SEPTEMBER 2020

The Silverado Trail Boss Steps Up to Diesel

Silverado Trail Boss now available in diesel.

Some people might be surprised at how long the Chevy Silverado half-ton went without a diesel engine. When you go to performance diesel competitions, the Big 3 are always well represented. But for a while the diesel option was absent in recent years. So it was that in 2020 that the Silverado stepped up its game with a turbo diesel inline six.

At the time, automotive columnist Len Ingrassia wrote last year, "The new turbo diesel inline six cylinder promotes high fuel economy, performance and a plethora of configurations to match your pocketbook and penchant for creature comforts." 

We find it interesting that GM is now adding a diesel option to the Chevy Silverado Trail Boss. As reported earlier this year, GM has its sights set on going all electric by the middle of this century. Needless to say, they obviously do not want to abandoned the diesel enthusiasts among us. Hence, GM Authority last week announced this new move for the 2022 Chevy Silverado 1500 Limited LT Trail Boss.

According to a story by Caleb Jacobs in The Drive, the Trail Boss is currently considered the most off-road capable truck in Chevy's half-ton lineup. 

Jacobs notes that "the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six that hasn't been available on the Trail Boss to this point, and it'd be great to pair that 4x4 prowess with nearly 30 mpg on the road. Now, it seems like General Motors will make it happen."

The 3.0-liter Duramax produces 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. That's equal to GM's potent 6.2-liter gas V8. The V8 can't compete on fuel economy though. Off road in 4x4 mode, Duramax numbers are 25 mpg. Running down the highway you get 29 mpg.

We applaud the move, especially since Ford is discontinuing its half-ton diesel after this month. Ram will no doubt pick up the slack with its EcoDiesel V6-powered half-ton trucks, including the Rebel 1500.

Special thanks to the industry journalists who work at keeping us informed of all the latest developments in our industry as they happen.

Diesel Engine Builders Will Appreciate Champion Oil's Professional Grade Penetrant

Earlier this year Champion Oil unveiled RX-454, a professional grade penetrating fluid for engine builders. The new Professional Grade Penetrating Oil assists engine builders with rusted and hard to free mechanical parts such as nuts and bolts.

Penetrating oil, also known as penetrating fluid, is a low-viscosity oil that helps loosen metal components because it can penetrate into the narrow space between the threads of two parts. It can also be used as a cleaner, though it should not be used as a general-purpose lubricant or a corrosion stopper.

“Champion’s RX-454 is an amazing liquid spray tool that penetrates, lightly lubricates, and stops rust,” stated Karl Dedolph at Champion Brands, LLC.  "It makes repair work easier whenever trouble is caused by corrosion, moisture, dirt or friction. It's great for drying wet ignition systems, silencing squeaks, and will not harm rubber, plastics or painted surfaces.”   

“Using penetrating fluids as general-purpose lubricants is not advisable, because such oils are relatively volatile. As a result, much of the penetrating oil will evaporate in a short amount of time, leaving little residual lubricant. Besides nuts and bolts, other uses include removing chewing gum and adhesive stickers, and lessening friction on metal-stringed musical instruments,” added Dedolph.

RX-454 Directions
TO START WET ENGINES: Remove distributor cap and spray complete electrical system sparingly.

TO LOOSEN FROZEN PARTS: Apply freely and allow to run off.

TO PROTECT METAL: Apply light, even film. 

Contains aliphatic hydrocarbons and petroleum distillates. Use in well ventilated areas. This product is compliant for sale in North America. 

• Part# 4244M 12/9 oz.
•  https://www.championbrands.com/rx-454-penetrant/

About Champion Brands, LLC

Champion, a PLZ Aeroscience Company,  is a globally recognized industry leader in specialty lubricants for over 65 years. Champion also produces and blends over 300 products including fuel, oil, engine additives, and lubricants for the racing, automotive, heavy truck, agricultural, industrial, and specialty markets. For more information call Champion at 660-890-6231 Champion Brands, LLC; 1001 Golden Drive, Clinton, MO visit championbrands.com

About PLZ Aeroscience

PLZ Aeroscience is a leader in specialty aerosol and liquid product technologies. PLZ specializes in the development, manufacturing, packaging and distribution of a comprehensive line of contract fill, branded and private label products. PLZ has a robust and proprietary portfolio of products in household cleaning, personal care, food service, maintenance, specialty and industrial, and automotive. For more information, visit PLZAeroscience.com.

About Pritzker Private Capital

Pritzker Private Capital partners with middle-market companies based in North America with leading positions in the manufactured products, services and healthcare sectors. The firm’s differentiated, long-duration capital base allows for efficient decision-making, broad flexibility with transaction structure and investment horizon, and alignment with all stakeholders. Pritzker Private Capital builds businesses for the long term and is an ideal partner for entrepreneur- and family-owned companies. Pritzker Private Capital is a signatory to the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). For more information, visit PPCPartners.com.

2021 Champion New Products
and Announcements

Champion Brands Celebrates 65 Years in the Lubricant Business

Champion Oil's Winter-Blend Diesel Flo Fuel Additive Gets an Upgrade

Highlighting A New All-Season Air Brake Anti-Freeze from Champion Brands

Champion’s Classic & Muscle 15W-50 Motor Oil for Vintage Trucks

Blue Flame Contingency Program for Drag Racers: How to Get Your Piece of the Action

Champion Oil Seeking Diesel Vehicle Builds for SEMA 2021

Special Offer For New Champion Diesel Oil Distributors

Champion Blue Flame Diesel Engine Oil Recommended for Limited-Edition Shelby F-250 Super Baja Pick-Up

Champion Oil Introduces a Professional Grade 80% Ether Starting Fluid
Champion Blue Flame Diesel Engine Oil Supports OOIDA Members
Champion Offers Power-Shield Assembly Lube & Oil Booster to Diesel Engine Builders

Champion’s Limited-Slip Friction Modifier Additive Formulated for Diesel Pick-Ups

Champion Launches API CK-4 Premium Heavy Duty SAE 10W-30 Diesel Engine Oil

Going for Gold: Looking for the Perfect Diesel Engine for This Audi R8

Decisions, decisions. 

What happens when you take a supercar with a gasoline engine and attempt to swap it out for a diesel? This is what Darkside Developments, a shop in England, is attempting to do with an Audi R8.

The story by Brad Anderson appeared on Carscoops this week, accompanied by a video in which builder states, "This is a cry for help." The help he was seeking was not money to finish the build, but rather help in making some important decisions.

Creating a video like that is intriguing because the shop is utilizing a technique called "crowdsourcing." Crowdsourcing is a method for obtaining information by enlisting the services of a large number of people in order to get input regarding a project. 

The primary decision Darkside had been grappling with was whether to drop in a diesel V6 with a massive turbocharger, or to drop in a V8 diesel with two turbos hanging out from the back.

The current engine they intend to swap out.

The compounding issue on the V8 selection would be finding a suitable manual transmission that would mate well with an engine that powerful.

Anderson says that he doesn't believe Audi fans would be all that thrilled by this kind of build. Nevertheless, we think diesel enthusiasts may be paying attention.

"While it would certainly be cool to see a diesel-powered Audi R8 on the road," Anderson writes, "such a vehicle wouldn't be entirely without precedent. In fact, Audi famously unveiled the R8 Le Mans Concept back in 2008 with a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 4923 hp at 4,000 rpm and a monstrous 738 lb-ft (1000 Nm) of torque between 1,750 and 3,000 rpm."

Audi purportedly gave serious consideration to putting it into production, but finally took a pass. 

UK-based Darkside Developments specializes in performance diesel tuning. They do fabrication, tuning, mods, off road, project cars, and racing. They ship all over the world and have a loyal following for their workmanship and high standards. According to Carscoops, their objective, with regard to this diesel swap, was to use the diesel R8 as a top speed car rather than one focused on track times, "something that the R8 is probably more suited for."

Related Links

Diesel Powered Car of the Week: Audi R15 TDI

The Original Story at Carscoops

Darkside Developments

Eliminating Performance Roadblocks on a '94 to '98 5.9L Cummins Diesel

While reading a Driving Line story about 5.9-second diesel drag trucks, another story caught my attention. It was an excellent tutorial on how to get more performance and power from a mid-90s Cummins diesel engine. We'll give a brief overview here of the highlights and then link to the story, which includes photos that illustrate exactly what is being described.

Don't you hate it when something is explained but you have no clue how to do it because you don't know exactly what you are looking for. This article shows and tells, and is worth bookmarking.

The article by Mike McGlothlin, published last summer, is titled Performance Roadblocks of the '94 to '98 5.9L Cummins. This particular Cummins hit the road in '94-'98 Dodge Ram three-quarter and one ton trucks. 

The article opens by noting how durable the Cummins engines of this period were. 500,000 miles is not unusual at all with a few performance modifications. The factory setup was somewhat conservative for this engine, however, so get get the most from it McGlothlin zeroes in on the various ways this superb engine could be improved.

Roadblock 1: The P-pump
This is a Bosch P7100 mechanical injection pump, a "little engine" on the engine. Because of its factory setup the P-pump is more of a limiter than contributor of power. Hence, the starting point for more power is to move this roadblock.

The goal is to modify the air-fuel ratio. To do this, adjust the AFC (air-fuel control) by adjusting the pre-boost screw. (The article includes photos so you know where to find it.)

The second adjustment is to tweak the star wheel that sits on top of the AFC housing. By gingerly rotating the star wheel toward the passenger side you will increase the engine's power. If you go too far you will have black smoke that you do not want, so tweak accordingly.

The third adjustment again focuses on the AFC. Bring the AFC forward as far as it will go. The author writes, "Combining a full-forward AFC with the aforementioned star wheel rotation, it’s not uncommon to see a 60hp and 200 lb-ft gain."

His fourth trick is to have you remove the P-pump's fuel plate. To do this you will have to remove the AFC housing. These four moves alone will make a difference and cost nothing to implement. He then turns to a couple of "cheap" maneuvers.

His "Cheapie Fueling Fix #1" is to pick up and install a $15 Mack rack plug. This alone will add up to 35 hp to your truck. His "Cheapie Fueling Fix #2" is a timing adjustment.  

Roadblock 2: RPM
The second Roadblock, McGlothlin explains, has to do with RPM, or lack thereof. "If you perform all (or even some) of the fueling mods listed above, your power band will remain limited until you address the factory governor springs." The solution he says is to get a 3,000 RPM governor spring kit.

Roadblock 3: Lack of Boost
The adjustments you have made so far should have added 100 hp and 250 ft-lb. of torque. But the with factory turbo untouched, you're missing out on the full potential this engine offers.

His first suggestion is to install a boost elbow. This is a $25 item that enables youto fine-tune boost. It comes with precautions, though. 

Roadblock 4: Factory Torque Converter or Clutch
Another weak link to consider addressing, especially after you have removed all the other roadblocks to performance.

If this kind of thing interests you, but you have a different kind of engine, be sure to check out the forums (listed in the right hand column of this blog) where a lot of smart and experienced people gather to share ideas and help their fellow diesel friends.

You will find the Driving Line article here. 

Winners and Photos from Last Weekend's East Coast Diesel Nationals Gives

All photos courtesy Diesel Motorsports

For a lot of people, their first exposure to diesel competition took place at a county fair.  County fairs are a tradition as American as apple pie. In fact, your first apple pie might have even been at a pie eating contest at a county fair. Fairs give communities a chance to show off what is special in their communities. They are also lathered with nostalgic memories, becoming a gathering place for young and old alike. 

These thoughts came to mind when I read this headline from the Journal-News: County Fair Tractor And Truck Pulls Rescheduled (Again) For Aug. 22. It was that word "Again" that tipped us off to the biggest challenge all motorsports promoters face: the weather. 

EAST COAST DIESEL NATIONALS 2021

This past weekend in Numidia, Pa., the day opened with a bright sun scattering its arrows of light across the landscape. It seemed a good omen, since the East Coast had been receiving buckets of rain nearly daily for a week while a large swath of the country has been experiencing a drought.

Unfortunately the day's events were later cut short... by more rain. Despite the weather, racers persevered and we had winners in a number of categories so the the day was not a complete washout. The 2500+ attendees who came to Numidia saw 175 competitors in a limited event that included racing, pulling, dyno and Show-N-Shine.

Champion Blue Flame Oil is pleased announce the following winners for the East Coast Diesel Nationals last Saturday in Numidia, PA.

 

ET Bracket

Champion – Jake Allison

Heads -Up

Champion – Marlin Shirk

Sled Pulling

WorkStock

1 – Matthew Fessler – 339.19

 

Hot WorkStock

1 – Tom Hassler – 317.95

 

2.5/2.6 Class

1- Brenden Finck – 315.28

3.0 Class

1 – Jared Brown – 342.68

 

2WD 6200 LB Trucks

1 – Dale Forrester – 311.39

 

8500 LB Mod Tractors – (Single/Multiple engine)

1 – Vern Zerby – 315.81

 

7800 LB Tractors
1 – Amber Blizzard – 351.12

* * * 

Diesel Motorsports is the official sanctioning body for this event. In addition to tractor pulling and drag racing in multiple classes, there's a Show 'N Shine and a Dyno competition. The full range of events can be found here. 

Special thanks to Ron Knoch and the Diesel Motorsports team for doing all they can to make their motorsports events to be a rewarding experience for diesel enthusiasts and their fans. Here are a few additional photos from this past weekend.

Here is a list of upcoming Diesel Events.

If you know of an event you'd like us to add,

place it in the comments. See you at Rocky Top.