Professional Installation vs. Do It Yourself: Why Your Diesel Performance Deserves Expert Care When it comes to upgrading your diesel truck with aftermarket performance parts, the installation method you choose can make the difference between enhanced performance and costly repairs. While Do It Yourself installation might seem like an attractive way to save money, professional installation at a reputable facility offers significant advantages that far outweigh the initial cost savings. The Tr...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Cummins Diesel VIN Identification Guide: 5.9L & 6.7L Engines in Dodge and Ram Trucks (1989–2025) If you own or are shopping for a Cummins-powered Dodge or Ram pickup, knowing your engine’s generation is crucial for maintenance, upgrades, and parts compatibility. The 8th digit of your VIN reveals which Cummins engine and fuel system your truck uses. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering every generation, including the transition from Dodge Ram to Ram in 2011, model years, VIN codes, fu...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Ford Powerstroke Diesel Engines: Identify Your Engine by the 8th Digit of the VIN If you drive a Ford Super Duty diesel, knowing exactly which Powerstroke engine is under the hood is crucial for maintenance, performance upgrades, and ordering the right parts. The 8th digit of your VIN reveals your engine’s generation—each with its own strengths, quirks, and specs. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Powerstroke VIN identification, model applications, and factory performance numbers. Power...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How to Identify Your GM Duramax Engine by the 8th Digit of the VIN If you own a GM truck or van with a Duramax diesel, knowing which engine you have is essential for maintenance, upgrades, and performance tuning. The fastest way to identify your Duramax engine is by checking the 8th digit of your VIN—this single character reveals your engine’s generation, and each has its own specs and quirks. Here’s a breakdown for all major Duramax engines, including model years, horsepower, and torq...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Ford 6.7L Powerstroke Low Pressure Fuel Warning On Dash Hello folks and welcome to another Norcal Diesel Performance Tech Tip of the Day. Hope this helps folks figure out some of the more frustrating diagnostic concerns out there. Today we are talking about the Ford 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel. These truck have had some fuel system issues as well as great upgrades including the S&S DCR Pump. This tech tip comes to us today from one of the more recent concerns we had run through Orangevale Diese...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Essential Tips for Maintaining Your Bosch CP4 Diesel Injection Pump The Bosch CP4 diesel injection pump is a critical component in trucks like the Ford Power Stroke, GM Duramax, and RAM Cummins. That said it does have it's issues. Pump failure is common and can send metal debris through your whole fuel system making it a flaming dumpster fire and a very expensive paper weight. To ensure its longevity and prevent costly repairs, steps should be take to ensure a clean and fresh fuel source to...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Reasons Your Duramax Needs Exhaust Upgrades As the proud owner of a Duramax engine, you already know it's one of the most powerful and efficient diesel engines available. Built for strength, reliability, and performance, the Duramax is a favorite among diesel truck enthusiasts. But there are ways to make your Duramax engine even better by turning your attention to the exhaust system. Read all about these reasons why your Duramax needs exhaust upgrades, and take your truck and engine to the ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How To Fix a Truck That Leans to One Side A leaning truck can impact its performance and raise significant safety concerns whether your truck is an essential tool for work, a reliable daily driver, or your pride and joy for weekend adventures. Thankfully, there’s no need to worry so long as you know what to do. Fixing a truck that leans to one side takes a methodical approach so you can properly diagnose and resolve the problem ailing your truck! Inspect Your Suspension System Start by visu...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Brief Introduction to the Types of Intercoolers If you’re a car enthusiast or wanting to improve your vehicle’s performance, you’ve likely heard of intercoolers. These essential components play a key role in enhancing both the power and efficiency of an engine, particularly in turbocharged or supercharged systems. By cooling the compressed air entering the engine, intercoolers increase air density. This burns more oxygen in the combustion process, which translates to greater power out...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Optimizing Exhaust Flow for Powerstroke Diesels Many truck owners focus on upgrades such as turbochargers, air intakes, or fuel systems; neglecting the exhaust system can result in lost horsepower and reduced efficiency. Thankfully, you can optimize exhaust flow for Powerstroke diesel engines to get the performance you’ve always wanted. Before diving into the details, it’s important to understand the significance of exhaust flow in a Powerstroke diesel engine. Exhaust flow refers to the m...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Much Can a Diesel Tuner Increase MPG? If you’re a diesel truck owner, you’ve likely heard about diesel tuners and their potential to increase miles per gallon (MPG). These devices are popular for their ability to optimize engine performance, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance the driving experience. Whether you’re looking to save on fuel costs or get the best performance out of your truck, understanding how diesel tuners can increase MPG will help with the upgrade. Increased Engin...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Cat-Back vs. Axle-Back Exhaust: What’s the Difference? Looking to upgrade your car’s exhaust system but unsure where to start? You’ve probably heard terms like “cat back” and “axle back,” but do you know what sets them apart? Before investing in an upgrade, learn the differences between cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems. That way, you’ll know which is right for your truck. Location Within the Vehicle One of the primary distinctions between cat-back and axle-back exhaust s...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Choosing Off-Road Lights for Nighttime Adventures Few experiences compare to the thrill of a nighttime adventure on rugged terrain, where the world feels quieter, the air fresher, and the sense of discovery even greater. However, venturing out into the dark requires more preparation than a daytime drive. One critical element you can’t overlook is equipping your vehicle with off-road lights. You must choose the right off-road lights for nighttime adventures so you can have fun without compro...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How To Identify an Exhaust Manifold Leak If you’re hearing odd noises or smelling unusual odors from your vehicle’s engine, you should diagnose and address the cause of the issue immediately. An exhaust manifold leak can cause engine damage, so you must understand how to identify it. Then, you can take the necessary steps to keep your truck engine functional. Listen for Unusual Noises When starting your vehicle, pay close attention to unusual noises. A loud hissing or ticking sound is ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Much Should It Cost To Install a Leveling Kit? Have you been considering installing a leveling kit on your vehicle? It can be a fantastic way to boost the appearance and functionality of your truck, giving it a more balanced stance. But how much should it cost to install a leveling kit? There are multiple variables to consider, but when you know what you need and what to look for, you can make an informed choice that best matches your vision and budget. Factors To Consider Before diving i...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Tips for First-Time Diesel Truck Owners As a first-time diesel truck owner, you may be excited about the power and capabilities of your new vehicle. However, owning a diesel truck also comes with unique responsibilities and considerations. If you want to be a responsible truck owner, then you need to know what proper care looks like. Follow these tips for first-time diesel truck owners, and you can give your new vehicle the treatment it deserves. Regular Maintenance Is Key Diesel trucks hav...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Everything You Should Know About Tuning Stages As a truck enthusiast, you might have encountered the term “tuning stages” when exploring ways to enhance your vehicle’s performance. But what exactly are tuning stages, and why do they matter? If you’re interested in tuning your truck and engine, it may be time to find out everything there is to know about tuning stages so you can make sure you’re giving your vehicle the performance upgrade it needs! What Are Tuning Stages? Tuning stag...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Most Common Types of Fuel Injector Failure As a truck owner, you should understand the different components of your engine and how they work to ensure optimal performance and longevity. One important component is the fuel injector. Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering fuel to the engine in precise amounts and at specific intervals. While fuel injectors are both durable and long-lasting, there are still many common types of fuel injector failure you should know about. When you can s...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Chip Tuning vs. ECU Remap: Which Is Right for You? If you’re a car enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of chip tuning and ECU remapping. These two methods are gaining popularity as effective ways to boost your vehicle’s performance by optimizing its engine control unit (ECU). But which one is the right choice for you and your car? It’s hard to know whether chip tuning or ECU remaps are right for you, but when you better understand both options, you can make the right choice! Understanding...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Modifications You Can Make To Increase Torque Are you looking to boost the performance of your truck? If so, one important aspect to consider is increasing torque. Torque gives your truck the power and capability to tow heavy loads or handle challenging terrains. Whether you’re hauling equipment, climbing steep hills, or looking for a more responsive drive, enhanced torque can make a significant difference. If you want to increase torque in your truck and make towing and handling challeng...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How To Adjust Throttle Sensitivity With a Tuner If you’re a truck owner, chances are you’ve heard about throttle sensitivity and its impact on the performance of your pickup truck. Why should it matter to you? Throttle sensitivity refers to the degree of responsiveness your vehicle exhibits when accelerating or decelerating. Since it affects your driving experience, you can change things around to get the ideal throttle sensitivity. When you invest in a tuner, you can easily adjust thrott...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is a governing body in the US that aims to protect the environment from pollution and destruction. One of the EPA’s many jobs is regulating diesel emissions. As an owner of a diesel-powered vehicle, you should stay informed about the regulations set by the EPA for diesel emissions, including the EPA diesel emission tiers. What Are the EPA Diesel Emission Tiers? EPA diesel emission tiers are stringent standards dictating the maximum allowable levels ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Benefits of Installing a Custom Exhaust System If you’ve ever considered installing a custom exhaust system in your truck, it may be time to take that next step. There are numerous benefits to installing a custom exhaust system, like adding power to your ride. Your truck’s exhaust system is important, so an upgrade may be worth the investment. Increased Performance Let’s start with the obvious benefit—increased performance. By swapping out your stock exhaust system for a custom one,...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The intercooler in your truck maintains the engine’s optimal temperature and prevents it from overheating. Like any other part of your truck, the intercooler is susceptible to wear and tear over time. When you know which signs of intercooler failure to look out for, you can address them before they worsen and keep your truck in top shape! Check Engine Light The check engine light might illuminate if there’s a problem with the intercooler. You should never ignore this warning sign because ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Complete Guide to the Parts of an EGR System Are you curious about the different parts that make up an EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system? Well, you've come to the right place. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a curious novice, understanding the intricacies and the different parts of the EGR system can help you maintain your vehicle better and contribute to a cleaner environment. What Is an EGR System? Before diving into the details of the different parts of an EGR system, it's ess...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Things To Know About Exhaust Back Pressure If you’re a car enthusiast who loves tinkering under the hood or someone who wants to know more about their truck, you need to understand exhaust back pressure. This important variable can hurt your truck in the long run, so if you want to be a responsible truck owner, be sure to know these things about exhaust back pressure. With this knowledge, taking care of your truck can be easy. What Is Exhaust Back Pressure? Exhaust back pressure is the fo...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Short Guide to Measuring for Shock Extensions Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic with years of experience or a beginner just starting out in the world of vehicle maintenance, understanding how to properly measure shock extensions is important. With the right measurements, investing in a suspension upgrade can be easy. If you’re interested in boosting your vehicle’s suspension, proper measurements are a must. Measure From Center to Center One of the most crucial measurements for shock ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 of the Most Powerful Stock Diesel Truck Engines If you’re in the market for a new diesel truck or engine, you’re probably aware of all the options—picking one is a lot easier said than done! Whether you need hauling power for work or want a reliable daily vehicle for personal use, these powerful stock diesel truck engines have you covered with their performance and efficiency. Cummins 6.7L Turbo Diesel This engine is a favorite among truck owners due to its impressive power, durabilit...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Here’s How an Aftertreatment System Works If you own a diesel vehicle, you may have heard about aftertreatment systems. These systems are becoming increasingly important in the automotive industry because they reduce harmful emissions. But what are these aftertreatment systems, and how do they work? Here, we’ll break down the basics of aftertreatment systems in an easy-to-understand manner so you can grasp all you need to know about these essential systems. Initial Phase: Exhaust Gas Entr...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Ways To Prevent CP4 Failure on a Powerstroke Whether you’re a mechanic with years of experience or a truck owner eager to maintain your prized vehicle, understanding the intricacies of your engine is crucial for its performance. The CP4 fuel pump is one component of Powerstroke engines that has a tendency to fail prematurely. When you know what to look for, you can successfully prevent CP4 failure in a Powerstroke and keep your truck running smoothly for years. Use High-Quality Fuel One of ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Much HP Can You Get Out of a 6.7 Cummins? If you’re in the market for a heavy-duty truck, chances are you’ve come across the popular 6.7 Cummins engine. This rugged and reliable powerhouse has been a favorite among truck enthusiasts for years, thanks to its impressive horsepower and torque capabilities. If you’re wondering how much HP you can get out of a 6.7 Cummins, the answer is up to 400 horsepower, depending on driving style and other variables. When you understand more about t...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Powerstroke A Powerstroke engine is a great choice for your truck, so you might wonder how to find the best one for your pickup truck. This buyer’s guide to choosing a Powerstroke is here to help. With an understanding of everything that goes into these engines and what to look for in your search, you can give your truck the upgrade it deserves! Start With Determining Your Needs Before diving into the world of Powerstrokes, it’s important to assess y...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Is It Necessary To Use an Air Filter Wrap? If you’re tired of constantly replacing your air filter or are worried about the contaminants that could be entering your engine, it may be time to invest in an air filter wrap. These wraps do a lot of good for you and your truck, but is it actually necessary to use an air filter wrap? If you’re unsure, step back, evaluate the different benefits that these wraps can bring to you and your truck, and decide for yourself. Protects Against Contaminan...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The Difference Between Lift Kits and Leveling Kits Are you looking to give your truck an elevated look, or do you want to enhance its off-roading capabilities? If so, you may be considering installing either a lift or leveling kit. While both options can raise the height of your vehicle, they serve different purposes and have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. There are numerous differences between lift kits and leveling kits, and when you understand them, you can make the right c...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The 4 Main Types of ECM Tuning for Cummins If you’re looking to improve the performance of your Cummins engine, you should consider electronic control module (ECM) tuning. This process involves adjusting the settings on your truck’s computer to optimize its performance, enhance drivability, and improve fuel efficiency. ECM tuning can tailor your engine’s behavior to suit your needs. Which type of ECM tuning is right for your Cummins engine? Performance Tuning Performance tuning is the m...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Reasons Why You Should Never Stack Tuners If you’re a truck owner or a mechanic, you may have heard of the concept of “stacking tuners.” This practice involves using multiple tuning devices to boost a truck’s performance and adjust engine parameters. However, as tempting as it may be, you should never stack tuners for many reasons. Stacking Tuners Can Damage Your Engine Stacking tuners can sound good from the outside, but when you do this, you’re pushing the engine far beyond its fa...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How To Make Your Exhaust Louder or Quieter The exhaust on your truck is a component that’s easy to neglect, but you will start to notice it if it’s too loud or if it’s not loud enough. If your exhaust isn’t performing as expected, it may be time to start looking into how you can make your exhaust louder or quieter. A few changes will do a lot of good to bring your desired exhaust sound to life! Louder Sounds If you’re a driver who loves the thrill of the road and you want to announc...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What Are the Most Cost-Effective Powerstroke Upgrades? The Powerstroke engine is a top-notch Ford engine, but there’s still more power that you can tap into. While they’re still an investment, many cost-effective Powerstroke upgrades can take your truck and engine to the next level and completely transform your driving experience. Air Intake System When it comes to increasing horsepower and torque, upgrading your air intake system is an excellent first step. A high-quality cold air intake...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Open vs. Closed Cold Air Intake: The Pros and Cons Cold air intakes are among the best upgrades for your truck. Which option is better between open and closed cold air intakes? They both have pros and cons, so it’s important to get a good understanding of them. When you see the distinct benefits and drawbacks, you can determine the best one for your truck. Increased Airflow At the heart of vehicle performance lies the principle of airflow. An open air intake system champions this by facilit...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Facts About Exhaust Aftertreatment Systems Exhaust aftertreatment systems are a major part of modern vehicles, but what exactly are they and what do they do? These systems are incredibly important, and when you learn some key facts about exhaust aftertreatment systems, you can better appreciate them. These systems benefit you as a driver and help contribute to a greener planet. Emission Control Systems Exhaust aftertreatment systems, also known as “emissions control systems,” play a cru...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The Dos and Don'ts of Truck Lifting Kits Truck lifting is exciting, but it’s not the easiest process in the world. You need to make many considerations so you can get the most out of the lift without encountering issues down the road. With these dos and don’ts of truck lifting kits, you can bring out the full potential of your truck and stay safe in the process. A little bit of work and care can go a long way in taking your truck to the next level! Do Your Research Before lifting your tru...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What Are the Best Diesel Upgrades for Off Road? Trucks are great for driving on and off the road, but off-roading demands much more effort from your truck. Thankfully, truck upgrades can make off-roading easier. If you really want to get the most out of your truck, you need to find the best diesel upgrades for off-roading on the market. Cold Air Intakes One way to enhance your diesel engine’s performance is by installing a cold air intake system. This upgrade increases the flow of cold air ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Tell-Tale Signs of Fuel Injector Failure The fuel injector is a crucial component in any vehicle. It sends fuel into the engine at precise times, but it will degrade over time, which can lead to failure. Thankfully, when you’re aware of the tell-tale signs of fuel injector failure, you can fix them before they spiral out of control and damage the engine. Engine Hiccups and Misfires When the engine starts to misfire or hesitate, the fuel injectors may be malfunctioning. These jerking issues ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What’s the Difference Between Diesel Tuners and Modules? If you have a truck with a diesel engine and want to take its performance to new heights, you may be considering a tuner. Or are you considering a diesel module? Multiple options can help you augment your engine’s performance, but what is the difference between these diesel tuners and modules? When you understand these differences, you can find the option that’s better for you and your diesel engine. How Do They Work? To kick thin...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Engine control units (ECUs) are important parts of your vehicle, but what exactly are they? What specific role do ECUs play in your truck? Whether you’re a passionate enthusiast or a skilled mechanic, it’s important to dive into your vehicle’s intricacies and learn everything there is to know about engine control units (ECUs). These vehicle fixtures have a vital role in the modern automotive industry, and you must understand all about this crucial component of your vehicle’s engine. W...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What Can Cause an Exhaust Manifold Leak? If you notice a bad smell or loud noises coming from your truck, it could have an exhaust manifold leak. These leaks are annoying and dangerous if you don’t handle them sooner rather than later. You may be wondering what could cause an exhaust manifold leak so that you can be on the lookout. When you know the prevalent causes, you can understand how to stop this issue from happening again. Exhaust Gasket Failure One of the primary culprits behind an ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Long Should a Truck’s Exhaust System Last? If you own a truck, you’re probably aware of how long different components last. You need a service check here and there and an oil change about 5,000 miles. What about the exhaust system? You might overlook this system and not know how long it can last. Spend time learning about your truck’s exhaust system to give it the care it needs. Typical Lifespan Pinpointing the lifespan of a pickup’s exhaust system isn’t easy. However, with regu...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Oiled vs. Dry Cold Air Intake: How To Choose Cold air intakes can do a lot of good for you and your truck, but there’s no one-size-fits-all cold air intake. There are many different options available, and the two biggest kinds of cold air intakes you need to choose between are oiled and dry cold air intakes. There are a unique set of advantages and limitations, and with the right understanding of those differences, you can pick the cold air intake that’s right for you and your truck. What...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The 4 Different Types of Exhaust Stack Styles Whether you’re a truck owner or someone intrigued by the artistry of automotive customization, it’s important to know the different types of exhaust stack styles. From the classic vertical stacks to the angled stacks, there’s a lot to learn and love about exhaust components. When you learn more about their differences, you’ll be able to find the best exhaust stack for you and your truck. Straight Cut The straight-cut style is a favorite am...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
3 Benefits of Upgrading Your Truck’s Suspension If you’re tired of feeling every bump and dip in the road when driving your truck, it may be time to consider a suspension upgrade. When you invest in a high-quality suspension system, you’ll quickly feel the difference. Upgrading your truck’s suspension system has many benefits, so make the change and give your pickup the boost it needs. Improved Handling and Control When you upgrade your truck’s suspension system, you can anticipate ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Turbocharger Chances are you’ve heard about turbochargers and their remarkable ability to boost engine performance. Note that turbochargers have a limited lifespan. Multiple factors affect the lifespan of a turbocharger, and you can take hold of them to ensure your turbocharger lasts a long time. Driving Habits Your driving habits play a significant role in the longevity of your turbocharger. Aggressive driving and constant acceleration strain the tur...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Here’s How To Bulletproof a 6.0 Powerstroke The 6.0 Powerstroke engine is over 20 years old now, but that age doesn’t mean it’s any less hard-working than its counterparts. There’s still a lot to love about this engine, and with the right care, effort, and upgrades, you can bulletproof your 6.0 Powerstroke engine. It takes some research and work, but it’s worth it when you see your engine operating at peak performance for longer. Common Issues To gain a comprehensive understanding o...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What are Injector Balance Rates and IQA Codes? Injector balance rates and IQA codes are two different things but they are also connected. These terms can be complicated so lets break it down for the crayon eaters. Balance rates are adjustments made by the vehicle engine computer to "balance" injector output. This creates a smoother running engine, quieter injection and better performance. Nothing is perfect in this world, engines and fuel systems are no different. Two exact same fuel injector...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 of the Best L5P Duramax Upgrades To Consider You may already be familiar with the quality of your L5P Duramax engine, but do you know of its untapped potential? The L5P Duramax has many upgrades you should consider in order to obtain exceptional performance from your engine. These upgrades will help take things to the next level! Performance Tuning Performance tuning is an absolute must for enhancing your L5P Duramax. By custom-tuning the engine, you can unlock its horsepower and torque and...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Dodge Cummins engine is a great thing to have under your hood, but that’s not the end of your journey. With that Cummins engine, you can do some amazing things, but you must know where to look and what’s right for you. Before even taking your truck out on the road, it’s important to learn and invest in the first four Dodge Cummins upgrades you should do, the upgrades that will make driving efficiently and in style easy. Cold Air Intake A cold air intake system is a performance upgrade...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
When it comes time to tune your vehicle and take performance to the next level, you have multiple options you’ll need to choose from. Tuning comes in all different shapes and sizes, but how do you know when something you’re doing is actually helping your truck’s performance? Gauges help shine a light on your truck’s metrics, but are these gauges necessary for performance tuning? Read on to learn the great advantages to having gauges in the truck that you’re performance tuning. What ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Complete Guide to Diesel Towing Upgrades Whether you tow every now and then or tow every day, it’s important that your vehicle can actually get the job done. Different days present different challenges in terms of what you want to tow, and you need to make sure that your truck can handle it. Thankfully, with this complete guide to diesel towing upgrades, you can confidently tackle whatever towing challenge comes your way. Understand Your Truck’s Existing Towing Capacity First and foremo...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Diesel exhaust fluids (DEFs) enhance engine performance and reduce emissions. There’s a lot to love about this exhaust fluid, but storing it is tricky. After learning how to store diesel exhaust fluids by reading this brief guide, you can make sure they hold onto their purity without compromising your safety. Cool and Dry Store DEFs in a temperature-controlled environment to keep them in good condition. Ideally, you should store them at 12–77° F (-11–25° C). Exposure to extreme heat o...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Why Engine Air Filters Benefit Your Truck’s Fuel Economy Have you noticed a decrease in your truck’s fuel economy? Perhaps you’re making more trips to the gas station or noticing an increase in your gas budget. Multiple variables affect your truck’s fuel economy, and you can boost it with high-quality engine air filters. Improved Engine Airflow A clean air filter enables better airflow into your engine. An uninterrupted airflow reduces the workload on your engine, so it doesn't have t...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
4 Tips To Extend the Life of Your Exhaust System The exhaust system is one of the most meticulous pieces of equipment on a vehicle. So, it needs the right maintenance to keep it working for a long time. Regular maintenance and care are vital to extend the lifespan of your exhaust system and keep it functioning at its best. It’s not always easy, but with the right tips and techniques, you can keep your exhaust system performing for years to come. Clean, Clean, Clean Over time, as you embark ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A Brief Overview of Fuel Injection Timing If you’re eager to figure out how your truck’s engine operates and the crucial role that fuel injection timing plays in its performance, then you’ve certainly come to the right place. Understanding fuel injection timing seems more complicated than it actually is, and you can take your truck’s performance to the next level once you understand it. What Is Fuel Injection Timing? Fuel injection timing is a critical aspect of engine performance. It...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What Is an Exhaust Manifold and Why Is It Important? An exhaust manifold is crucial for enhancing your vehicle’s performance, but how exactly does it work? If you’re a passionate diesel enthusiast who is always seeking ways to elevate your truck’s power and torque, turn your attention toward your exhaust manifold. This piece of equipment is crucial in your truck, making a significant difference in optimizing your vehicle’s performance. However, before investing in an exhaust manifold,...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Tuners Dodge Cummins Owners Should Consider Getting Are you looking to upgrade the performance of your Dodge Cummins engine? If so, choosing the right tuner is crucial. A tuner can help you unlock the full potential of your engine and improve its overall performance. However, not all tuners are the same—there are some specific tuners Dodge Cummins owners should consider getting to take their truck’s performance to the next level. Handheld Tuners These are portable devices that can be easi...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Must-Know Solutions to Common Suspension System Problems As a passionate car enthusiast, you understand the frustration and inconvenience that comes with dealing with suspension issues. Understanding the must-know solutions to common suspension system problems can help you successfully resolve these problems on your own, saving you time and money. It will still take work, time, and resources, but you’ll be better off in the end. Car Leaning One common issue that you may have noticed is that...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Common Mistakes When Installing Exhaust Systems Are you planning to install an exhaust system on your vehicle? It’s a great way to enhance the performance and sound of your engine, but it’s not as simple as just buying the parts and bolting them on. Many people make common mistakes during the exhaust system installation process that can lead to issues down the road. If you learn about these mistakes, you can work to avoid them and make your exhaust installation go smoothly. Using the Wron...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Inline Tuners: What They Are and Why You Should Have One Whether you're a passionate car enthusiast or simply someone who wants to keep their vehicle performing at its best, it may be time for you to invest in an inline tuner. These tuners serve as an indispensable tool for any truck owner, allowing you to optimize your vehicle’s performance and unleash its true potential. But before jumping into that, it’s important to know what inline tuners are and why you should have one. What Are Inl...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Car’s Air Filter If you’re experiencing reduced fuel efficiency or noticing strange smells from your engine, it may be time to swap out the air filter. An old and clogged air filter will make your car sluggish, so you should pay attention to these signs you need to replace your car’s air filter. When you notice something is amiss with your vehicle, figure out the cause of the issue so you can fix it as soon as possible. Reduced Fuel Efficiency A clogged ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Signs Your Cold Air Intake System Is Failing A responsible truck owner must be vigilant about the well-being of their vehicle’s components, particularly when it pertains to performance-enhancing systems like a cold air intake. This crucial system plays a vital role in delivering cool and dense air into your engine, resulting in notable improvements in power output and fuel efficiency. But over time, your cold air intake system may exhibit signs it’s failing, which can significantly impact...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Things You Didn’t Know Can Ruin Your Diesel Engine Diesel engines are popular among car and truck enthusiasts due to their reliability and efficiency, but that doesn’t mean they’re impervious to wear and tear. Even with regular maintenance, hidden threats can ruin your diesel engine and cause major damage over time. Incorrect Fuel Diesel engines are finely tuned machines that require diesel fuel for optimal performance. Using the wrong fuel, such as gasoline or low-quality diesel, can h...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
8 Signs of Transmission Issues Everyone Should Know Your truck needs to switch gears as your speed increases so that your engine can put out more power. Your gears determine the power available, and your transmission is your truck’s gearbox, the thing that makes gear changes possible. These gear changes are an important part of driving a healthy truck, which is why everyone should know the different signs of transmission issues. That way, when they notice one of these signs, they can give t...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Does a Truck’s Exhaust System Relate to Its Engine? The engine is one of the most important parts of your truck, but it’s not an isolated component. It works alongside the numerous other parts and systems under your hood, like your exhaust system. The components work hand in hand, but how exactly does a truck’s exhaust system relate to its engine? Simply put, without an exhaust system, you would not be able to drive your truck. Protect the Cabin One of the first and most obvious way...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Programmers vs. Tuners: What’s the Difference? A lot of people drive diesel vehicles, but not everyone’s truck is driving as optimally as it could. Your engine has a lot of untapped potential, and if you want to bring out that potential and boost your engine’s performance, it’s time to invest in a diesel tuner or programmer. Both can help your truck go to the next level, but to understand which is right for you and your truck, you must understand the difference between programmers and...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Everything You Need To Know About Your Truck’s RPM Your engine is one of the most important parts of your truck, and one metric of your truck’s performance is its RPM. If you want to fully understand how your truck works and ensure it’s running as optimally as it should, you must stay on top of your engine and RPM. You need to know almost everything about your truck’s RPM to be a responsible truck driver and get that RPM in the proper operating window. What Is RPM? The first thing you...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Things To Know When Tuning Your Powerstroke Ford is one of the leading car manufacturers of today, and while their Powerstroke engine is incredibly heavy duty and high quality, you can take things to the next level. A tuner is a great way to tap into all the potential that this engine has, but you need to be careful when using one. Learn the key things to know when tuning your Powerstroke so you can safely get the most out of your engine. Tuning Can Result in a Cleaner Engine One of the best ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Air Filters vs. Air Intake: What’s the Difference? The air entering your truck’s engine is one of the most important parts of its function. Do you know how the air enters the machinery? Your vehicle’s air intake system is made up of many parts, including the air filters. It may be hard to tell the difference between air filters and air intakes, but once you understand the difference, you can keep your truck clean and give it the care it needs to function. The Basic Difference While the ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Air Intake Maintenance Tips Everyone Should Know An engine doesn’t automatically power your vehicle; you need to supply it with the right oil and fuel. However, the combustion reaction in the engine requires something else as well—air. Air is a necessary component in the combustion reactions that power your engine, and the air intake brings in the crucial air for this process. An air intake is an important part of your vehicle, so everyone should know some key air intake maintenance tips ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
What Are Air Intake Systems and Why Are They Important? While a lot of different components in your truck work together to keep things moving, you may not think about how important something like air is. Your truck has an air intake system that you cannot drive without, but you may be wondering what air intake systems are and why they are important. Read on to discover everything you need to know about air intake systems. What Are Air Intake Systems? Before diving any further into why air int...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Understanding Why a Broken Exhaust Is Dangerous It’s not safe to drive with anything broken in your vehicle, but operating a vehicle is more manageable with certain damaged components than others. One of the worst things that can break in your vehicle is the exhaust system. Considering that it handles incredibly toxic fumes and emissions, a broken exhaust system is incredibly dangerous. The dangers of driving with a broken exhaust system come in many forms, and properly understanding them w...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The exhaust system is one of the most important parts of a vehicle, but it degrades over time if you don’t give it the right care and attention. However, maintaining your exhaust system takes a lot of work, and it’s not always simple. Thankfully, there are some exhaust system maintenance tips everyone should know that will make maintenance easy and ensure you can keep your exhaust system in good condition. Look for Warning Signs One maintenance tip that works for all vehicle parts, includ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Diesel exhaust systems, while a crucial part of the overall vehicle mechanism, are often shrouded in mystery for many vehicle owners. These systems expel exhaust gases from your car and play a significant role in maintaining optimal engine performance and reducing harmful emissions. Understanding the common misconceptions about diesel exhaust systems will ensure the longevity of your vehicle and contribute to a cleaner environment. They Don’t Require Regular Maintenance Diesel exhaust syste...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
How Automotive Suspensions Have Improved Over Time The automotive suspension system has come a long way since manufacturers began producing cars. Today’s modern suspensions are much more efficient and reliable than those developed in the past, offering a smoother, safer, and more comfortable driving experience for motorists. Advancements in materials, design, and technology have all played a crucial role in the evolution of suspension systems. Automotive suspensions have improved a lot over...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
If you're a pickup truck driver, you probably like to personalize your ride. One of the best ways to do this is by adding cool modifications to your diesel truck. From exterior changes like new wheels and suspension upgrades to interior changes like new audio systems or lighting, there are plenty of ways to make your truck truly yours. The world is full of cool modifications you should add to your truck; you just need to find what’s right for you. Exterior Upgrades An upgraded suspension sy...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Wheel alignment may not be as important as engine or battery issues, but you still cannot ignore these issues as they affect your vehicle’s performance and interfere with other components. Understanding the warning signs of wheel alignment issues is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s safety. You can identify and address these problems in a timely manner when you stay vigilant, preventing damage to you and your vehicle. Uneven Tire Wear A key indicator of misaligned wheels is the prese...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Exhaust brakes are important parts of any diesel engine. They reduce wear and tear on the brakes, improve fuel economy, and decrease downtime for maintenance and repair. When you understand the benefits of exhaust brakes, you can see why they should be part of your diesel engine setup. Improved Braking Power One of the most significant advantages of incorporating exhaust brakes into your diesel engine setup is enhanced braking power. Exhaust brakes work by slowing down the engine, which incre...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The exhaust system is one of the most critical parts of your vehicle, keeping harmful exhaust fumes out of the cabin. This system comprises many smaller parts, like the muffler and catalytic converter, but the most visible part of the system you see on the end of many cars and trucks is the exhaust tip. This tip redirects the exhaust away from your vehicle, but it is mostly cosmetic. Even with that to consider, there are still some differences that make choosing the right-sized exhaust tip an...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
One of the best aftermarket modifiers you can get for your truck is a tuner. These tuners connect with the electronic control unit (ECU) on your truck and change some different operating parameters so you can get optimal performance out of your truck. While you can’t directly change how much horsepower the tuner adds to your truck, you can make some changes that get you the horsepower boost you’ve always wanted. What Is Horsepower? To first understand how much horsepower the tuner will ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The cold air intake is one of the best improvements you can get for your truck, but it’s not perfect. Like every other component, these air intakes wear down over time. You should regularly inspect it to spot any issues as they pop up and address them before they turn into something worse. However, you might wonder how often you should inspect your cold air intake. Knowing when to take a good look at everything will help keep your cold air intake in good condition so that your truck can rea...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
If you want your truck to go where you need it to go, and do so safely, then you need to trust all its different components. Getting on the road can be a challenge if you’re unsure about the health of your tires or your exhaust system. If you want to know that your truck will run safely, you need an exhaust gas temperature sensor. Stay Safe Exhaust gas temperature sensors help you monitor your exhaust gas temperature. It can adjust your different engine specifications accordingly to ensure ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The exhaust system in your vehicle is one of the most important parts, taking the toxic fumes from your engine’s combustion and redirecting them away from your vehicle. It’s an important process, but it’s also a dirty one, and without the right cleaning, it’s easy for your exhaust system to get dirty. Thankfully, properly cleaning your exhaust system is also somewhat easy—you just need to know about your different components and the best way to clean each. Exhaust Pipes One of the f...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The suspension system is one of the most important parts of the car, but it’s also one that only a few people think about regarding improvements and upgrades. Many drivers don’t do much to change their suspension. But without the right upgrades, your vehicle won’t drive as smoothly as you may want. If you want a smooth and easy drive, you must get these four must-have items to improve your suspension system. Sway Bars Some must-have items that will dramatically improve your suspension s...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
A truck is a great vehicle to drive, and you can pursue a world full of customizations and improvements to take it to the next level. Some customizations are simple; others require unique technology, like a tuner. Tuners allow you to change some configurations in your truck, and when done right, they can even improve your truck’s fuel efficiency. However, this modification requires some finesse and understanding since many settings are quite fragile. How Do Tuners Work? Before jumping into ...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
The exhaust system is one of the more complicated systems in a vehicle. Just because it’s complicated doesn’t mean every individual part is. Some exhaust parts are surprisingly easy to install and modify. You must understand the nuances before getting on your back and getting to work. Without the proper understanding, these simple components can turn into nightmares. Exhaust Mufflers The muffler is one of the more recognizable components of the entire exhaust system, and it’s one of the...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Just by seeing one on the road, you might not be able to pick out a diesel truck from a gas one. However, if both trucks are next to each other and you open up the hoods, you will notice the different parts that make each truck unique. Get to know your diesel truck’s main components, so you’re informed when it comes time for diesel-specific maintenance and repairs. How Does a Diesel Engine Work? Before going into the different components that make a diesel truck unique, it’s important t...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Managing a truck takes a lot of work, and you can use many tools to keep it in shape and even improve it. One of these tools is a diesel tuner, and when you use it, you can improve some internal configurations that the manufacturer placed on different parts of your truck. These diesel tuners can tell you a lot about your truck, and when you use one, you can change those configurations, giving your truck the performance boost you’ve always wanted. Speed Limiter The speed limiter in many mode...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
There are many ways to boost your truck’s performance, but not all modifications are equal. Some are tricky and don’t help your truck much, while others, like a new cold air intake, are simple and will give your truck a massive performance and horsepower boost. A new cold air intake adds a lot of horsepower to your truck. Let’s discuss how much. What Is Horsepower? Before jumping into how much a cold air intake will boost your truck’s horsepower, it’s important to understand what ho...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
When you own any vehicle, you look for warning signs that something may be wrong and find ways to improve your gas mileage at every opportunity. Oftentimes, it’s not possible, but you can get a little mileage boost with an air intake. It can improve your vehicle’s gas mileage in a few ways, keeping you on the road longer with fewer gas station stops. Oxygen Content One of the ways an air intake can improve your gas mileage is by boosting the oxygen content of the air entering your engine....| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Trucks are wonderful pieces of technology, and each has untapped potential. Each vehicle has a specific way everything runs, but your engine and other vehicle parts can still perform even better. Tuning is a great way to realize your truck’s potential, but there are some important things to keep in mind when buying a diesel tuner. Read on for helpful tips and information regarding this process. What Is Tuning? Before getting into the things you need to remember when buying a diesel tuner, y...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Diesel tuners are wonderful pieces of technology that can take your diesel trucks to the next level. You can manage and optimize different performance metrics on your vehicle by plugging the tuner into your vehicle’s on-board diagnostic system (OBDII). Each driver has different needs, and using a diesel tuner can save you money in various ways, so don’t hesitate to invest in one as soon as possible. General Performance Boosts The first way a diesel tuner can help you save money is with ge...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
There are some components in vehicles that everyone knows about, such as the tires, engine, and battery. However, these parts won’t work unless other vehicle parts, like the alternator, air intake, and transmission, do their job. The transmission is one of the most important parts because it helps your vehicle change gears, and the transmission fluid needs to stay at the right line pressure level. Vehicle experts know what line pressure is and why it’s important, and after reading, you’...| Norcal Diesel Performance News
Whatever diesel vehicle you have, you must ensure it’s running as optimally as possible. To do that, you’ll need to maintain the vehicle carefully and regularly and keep all the fluids high. It may also need more fine-tuning. You should know about some important diesel diagnostic software to help you unlock more horsepower. Diesel Explorer 2.0 Diesel Laptops has released comprehensive diagnostic software that is great for reading different diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) and faults in th...| Norcal Diesel Performance News