Bob McDonald
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10 Things Your Diesel Customer’s Oil is Trying to Tell You

Not only does oil lubricate as a means of controlling friction but also has to control contamination, temperature, corrosion, shock, wear, and pressure. Oil analysis is the only true way to put a set of “eyes” on the engine’s condition and the condition of the oil as to when it should be changed.

Pistons and Rings – The Technical Price for Horsepower

Pistons and piston rings have been a hot topic of discussion among engine builders. At some point in our past, it seems as though there have been some piston shape and design changes along with some applied thermal and friction coatings – the same can also be said for piston rings. Piston rings seem to have become smaller with different shapes, finishes and coatings.

Understanding Engine Treatments – What components can benefit from coatings? You may be surprised at the treatments available.

If you were to place technological advances on a scale, I would say that engine coatings would probably rank near the top. Engine coatings have a lot of merit, but unfortunately are often overlooked. Engine coatings have a reputation that they are only beneficial for racing applications. Yes, coatings are regularly applied and highly appreciated

Challenges of Change – 10 Things You’ll Learn From Oil Analysis and How They Affect Engine Condition

For most consumers, a preventive maintenance program for their automobile consists of nothing more than an oil change. While a regular oil change is very important, the most critical part of changing the oil is to know when to change the oil. The interval of the oil change is often dictated by one of two

Big Power, Big Products – Search for increased longevity and durability in diesels continues

Modern diesel engine platforms offer a great source of power potential regardless of the manufacturer. I suppose that is why the mid-size diesel truck has become so popular among the younger generation. Take an engine that already makes power and find ways to make more. Turbocharged diesel engines have a huge amount of power gains

Building A Ford 460 Stroker

Any automotive enthusiast would agree that the quest for more power is the true addiction. From simple bolt-ons to hardcore internals such as different bore and stroke combinations tend to fuel our burning desire. Every enthusiast seems to have a passion for a particular brand of manufacturer. Take for instance the Flathead Ford V8 engine.

Rebuilding the Ford Triton V10 Engine

It looks as though for 2017, Ford is going to be bringing back the 6.8-liter Triton V10. There has been a lot of advertisement through the media on the matter and it seems everyone thought the V10 no longer existed. To everyone’s surprise, the V10 actually never stopped production. Many thought that when Ford quit

Understanding Diesel Diagnostic Trouble Code P0251

When working on Cummins engines that are Common-Rail injected (2003 MY and up), you may experience diagnostic trouble code P0251. The customer complaint is usually a loss of power when the truck is in a hard pull, especially when towing. I see this quite often at the shop. This code can be somewhat chronic if

The BIG chill – Cryogenic Metal Treatment Benefits May Not Be Visible But Are Real

What is the purpose behind deep freezing engine parts (and other components)? Though its roots go back to the 1800s, the cryogenic craze started about 20-plus years ago when news was that some Pro Stock teams were “freezing” engine parts. The only answer given when asked “why” was that the cold temperatures somehow moved the

Dyno Decisions – Your Test Requirements Should Dictate Your Correct Dyno

Most engine builders either have an engine dyno or rent the use of an engine dyno at someone else’s facility. The purpose of running an engine on the dyno is primarily a way of “protecting the investment.” This not only insures the workmanship of the engine builder but also the interest of the customer.

The Value and Benefit of Sonic Testing

Sonic testing is probably one of the most valuable tools of engine building – and often the most overlooked. It allows the engine builder to gain a basic perspective of the integrity of the parts that are going to be used for the engine build.

Building a Ford 460 Stroker

Every enthusiast seems to have a passion for a particular brand of manufacturer.