Natural gas engines are becoming increasingly popular for industrial businesses. With comparable levels of efficiency and lower emissions than their gasoline counterparts, it’s simple to understand why.
If you’re interested in investing in a natural gas engine for your business or already have one, you may be wondering what some of the best ways to extend its lifespan are. Read along with TRIC Power Products as we discuss our top preventative maintenance tips for your industrial natural gas engines.
- Watch Out for Indicators
The most straightforward way to tell if your natural gas engine needs repair is its built-in indicators, which pinpoint what exactly needs attention. Here are a few of the most common indicators found on natural gas engines:
- Oil Pressure
- Fuel Pressure
- Coolant Temperature
- Exhaust Temperature
- Knock Detection Sensor
If you’re unsure what the indicators are for your specific engine, consult the manufacturer’s manual or your gas engine technician.
- Perform Regular Oil Changes
Like diesel and propane engines, natural gas engines still need regular oil changes to maintain proper working order. Oil ensures parts are continually lubricated despite constant heat and pressure. Natural gas engines have many moving parts close to each other. For example, if your engine’s piston rings aren’t adequately lubricated, they could potentially cause friction against the cylinder walls and lead to engine damage.
If you have a natural gas engine and need repairs, turn to TRIC Power Products for expert guidance and support. Our licensed technicians will take care of everything, from diagnostics with OBD tools to comprehensive repairs.
- Perform Regular Coolant Inspections
Natural gas engines generally run hotter than their diesel or gasoline counterparts. As a result, ensuring your coolant levels are maintained is essential to the proper functioning of your engine. If you’re continually noticing higher-than-normal temperatures, that may be a sign that it’s time to check your engine’s coolant system.
While you should regularly check coolant levels, we recommend leaving coolant changes to a licensed engine technician. Engine technicians not only have specialized knowledge but also have access to industry-standard tools to ensure the coolant is in working order.
- Use High-Quality Replacement Parts
If your natural gas engine needs parts replaced, make sure your service technician uses the highest-quality parts available. No amount of preventative maintenance can compensate for poorly constructed or misaligned engine parts. Using these kinds of engine components can lead to increased wear and tear and, eventually, even engine failure.
At TRIC Power Products, we only use OEM or OE-quality parts taken right from our shop. Shop our high-quality batteries, alternators, and starters.
- Follow a Consistent Maintenance Schedule
Let’s face it: Between administrative paperwork, dispatching and logistics, filing permits and licenses, and all of the other tasks to get done every day—there’s a lot for business owners to manage. It can often feel like there are not enough hours in the day—especially when it comes to maintenance. Unfortunately, the reality is that natural gas engines require proper maintenance and prompt repairs, no matter how busy business gets.
Many certified engine technicians offer planned maintenance programs, ensuring comprehensive maintenance at regularly pre-scheduled intervals. Service planning ahead of time gives business owners more time to focus on what really matters.
Stay Powered, Not Panicked with TRIC
When maintained correctly, gas engines can be one of the most effective ways to generate clean, reliable, and low-emission power for your equipment. With over 18 years of experience in the industrial sector, we’re your go-to experts for support. Reach out to our team today to book your consultation and learn more about our in-depth engine solutions.