Diesel News - Behind the Dmax Runaway that broke the internet

Diesel News – Behind the Dmax Runaway that broke the internet

Carnage Of The Week

The Duramax Chevelle Loses A Piston

We hate to see it, but even Rick Fletes knew the Duramax in his Chevelle owed him nothing. After making 160mph passes in the quarter (1,500-rwhp) on Mahle performance cast-aluminum pistons, in excess of 50 psi in the crankcase pointed directly toward a cracked piston. The unfortunate carnage came after Rick competed in (and completed) Raceweek 2.0 and then decided to head to Xtreme Raceway Park in Ferris, Texas for some more racing. In the near future, Rick plans to get away with honing the troubled cylinder and slapping a new piston in place. Long-term, eight forged pistons will likely make it into Rick’s next LB7build.

Highlights

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One Of The Gnarliest Runaways You’ll Ever See

Randy Overton is a Canadian-based truck puller who’s been die-hard Duramax for years. These days, he’s campaigning a late-model bodied GMC coined “Evil Diesel” with a Wagler-built DX460 under the hood. The aluminum V-8 is mechanically-injected via a Wimer P-pump and you could say it’s set on kill. At a recent hook in the Great White North, the engine ran away on Randy at the end of the track—and it was about as violent a thing as we’ve seen in the dirt. But instead of engaging the clutch and allowing the engine to rev to the moon, Randy let the tires keep digging while he reached for the air guillotine, thus saving the engine. As you read this, Wimer has already updated the P-pump and Randy is likely on his way back to the pulling track.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKFlj5AdsNo

Meet Matt Kubik’s Bumpside 6.7L PSD Conversion

If you know who Matt Kubik is, the driver of the P-pumped, 7.3L-powered Mustang that owns the Power Stroke quarter-mile record, then you know he is a Blue Oval guy through-and-through. Well, turns out he likes classic Ford trucks, too, which is a good thing being that he is one of the craftiest enthusiasts you’ll come across. His latest project entails stuffing a 6.7L Power Stroke under the hood of a crew cab, bumpside body Ford, along with positioning a 6R140 TorqShift sitting behind it. The vintage body sits atop a ’15 Super Duty frame and ‘05+ axles, too.

The Ultimate Side-Of-The-Road Fix

Sometimes, you have to fix the diesel bus on the way to the baseball game… Luckily, the Rend Lake Warrior’s had Brady Ingram onboard. Fresh out of High School, Brady started attending Rend Lake College’s diesel mechanic program this semester and happens to be the son of Scheid Diesel’s Brad Ingram. With teammate Ryan St. Ledger offering a helping hand, a blown radiator hose was patched together using athletic tape while every bottle of water within sight was used as temporary coolant. Once the bus made it off the interstate, Rend Lake welding student, Kade Gibson, who lives nearby, brought the correct hose to Brady and team, along with the appropriate coolant. End result: the Warriors made it to the game with an hour to spare, and the bus 100-percent repaired.

Source: https://www.rendlakewarriors.com/sports/bsb/2022-23/releases/Warrior_Student_Athletes_Fix_Broken_Bus-_Save_the_Game

Emissions

Climate Week In NYC…Yikes

Despite the headline above, it wasn’t all doom in gloom in the Big Apple last week. Rather, Diesel Technology Forum Executive Director, Allen Schaeffer, called attention to the fact that modern, advanced diesel technology is the best bet for working toward net zero carbon at the present time. Especially in the commercial transportation industry, electric technology is years away from being perfected. But diesel technology exists today that’s capable of reducing emissions at a fraction of the cost of what it will take to go all-electric. “Reduction in carbon dioxide emissions can be achieved at 25-percent of the cost of electrification by accelerating the turnover of older trucks to new advanced technology diesel models,” Schaeffer said.

Source: https://www.dieselforum.org/

GM Pushes For All-Electric Passenger Vehicles For Model Year 2027 And Beyond

On September 20, General Motors and Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) announced recommendations that seek to accelerate a “zero emissions,” all-electric future for passenger vehicles in model year 2027 and beyond. In it, GM and EDF urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish industry standards that ensure at least 50-percent of new vehicles sold by 2030 are zero-emitting. GM Chair and CEO, Mary Barra, was quoted as saying “General Motors has the ultimate goal of eliminating tailpipe emissions from new light duty vehicles by 2035.” It appears GM would like to help shape future emissions regulations in order to accurately form its long-term, EV business model.

Source: https://newspressusa.com/publicReleaseView/74369/8447?token=yN4kvprTYlOyHY8qcGxA&email_encrypt=Y2FyZ3V5NDIxMUB5YWhvby5jb21FbWFpbEhhc2g=

Parts Rack

Banks iDash

What’s going on under your hood? The iDash from Banks Power allows you to see critical powertrain information your dashboard won’t share with you. The super gauge can perform tuning diagnostics, display key parameters, and can also data log. As for viewing, the iDash offers up eight parameters on five fully customizable screens. That’s 40 vitals—all available at the touch of a button. Combined with Banks’ DataMonster, which keeps a memory of sensor readings so you don’t have to, you can data log up to 100 parameters. The iDash also integrates seamlessly with Banks tuners, its SpeedBrake, and the even company’s PedalMonster.

Source: https://bankspower.com/

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the steps to prevent a diesel runaway?

Steps to Prevent a Diesel Runaway

Diesel runaway is a critical issue that can lead to severe engine damage. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent this from happening.

1. Schedule Routine Maintenance

Regularly maintaining your vehicle is crucial. Set up consistent check-ups with your mechanic to identify and address potential problems early on. During these visits, professionals can inspect crucial components prone to wear.

2. Inspect the Turbocharger

The turbocharger is particularly susceptible to damage and buildup. Regularly check it for any signs of wear, such as cracks or splits in the intake hose. If you spot oil or residue accumulating, it’s time to consult with a mechanic.

3. Monitor Critical Engine Parts

Pay attention to the condition of the turbocharger, hose, and crankcase. These parts are essential for the smooth operation of your diesel engine. Look out for any indications of cracks or damage. These components carry lubricating oil, so it’s important they stay intact to prevent potential runaway scenarios.

4. Replace Worn Parts Promptly

When metal components degrade due to time or use, they can become liabilities. Regular monitoring helps in catching these issues early. Ensure any compromised parts are promptly replaced by a professional to avoid further complications.

What should you do if a diesel runaway occurs while driving?

What to Do if a Diesel Runaway Happens While Driving

Experiencing a diesel runaway can be alarming, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your safety:

Stay Calm and Respond Quickly: The first step is to remain as calm as possible. Panic can complicate the situation, so focus on taking immediate action.
Safely Pull Over: Gently ease off the accelerator to reduce speed gradually. Find a safe spot, like the shoulder of the road, and steer your vehicle to the side.
Use the Brakes Judiciously: Apply the brakes firmly but not abruptly, as you bring the vehicle to a complete stop. Avoid harsh braking which could lead to loss of control.
Shut Off the Engine: If it’s safe to do so, attempt to turn off the ignition. If the key or button won’t respond, cutting off the air supply by blocking the intake manually might be necessary—though this is an advanced technique and should be attempted only if you’re knowledgeable about your vehicle’s mechanics.
Exit the Vehicle: Once stopped, carefully exit the vehicle to maintain a safe distance in case of fire or further mechanical failure.
Seek Professional Help: Contact emergency services such as the local fire department or a certified mechanic. They will provide further assistance and address the runaway situation effectively.
Avoid Restarting the Engine: Until professional help arrives, do not attempt to restart the engine, as this could exacerbate the problem.

By following these steps, you can manage a diesel runaway safely and effectively, minimizing risks to yourself and others on the road.

What causes a diesel runaway?

A diesel runaway occurs when an engine revs uncontrollably, often leading to catastrophic damage if not quickly resolved. Understanding the causes can help prevent such costly incidents. Here are some primary triggers:

Oil in the Intake

One of the most frequent culprits is oil making its way into the engine’s intake system. While lubricating oil is vital for engine health, a leak can spell disaster.

Turbochargersand crankcase ventilation systems are usually the points of failure. Damaged seals here allow oil to seep into the intake, where it mixes with air.
If a crankcase ventilation pipe or piston rings are worn, they can let oil enter the combustion chamber, leading to excessive gas buildup and potential explosions.

Contaminated Air Supply

Though less common, a diesel runaway can also result from contaminated air.

Diesel engines require specific types of fuel and struggle to process others like propane or natural gas. If these mix with incoming air, it taxes the engine, possibly triggering runaway conditions.

Additionally, older diesel engines with manual fuel pumps can experience mechanical failures where the pump continuously delivers fuel, aggravating the runaway.

Preventive Measures

Regular Maintenance:Regular checks on turbochargers and crankcase systems can help catch potential leaks early.
Air Quality Monitoring:Ensure that the air entering your diesel engine is free from incompatible fuels to avoid contamination.

By paying attention to these factors, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a diesel runaway, ensuring your engine operates safely and efficiently.

How can monitoring the turbocharger help prevent diesel runaway?

Preventing Diesel Runaway by Monitoring the Turbocharger

Keeping an eye on your turbocharger is crucial in preventing diesel engine runaway, a dangerous condition where the engine revs uncontrollably. Here’s how regular monitoring can help:

Early Detection of Wear and Tear
Turbochargers are central to engine performance but are also prone to wear. Regular checks can spot early signs of potential problems, such as unusual noises or vibrations.
Identifying Physical Damage
Look for any cracks or splits in the intake hoses and surrounding components. Damage here can lead to air leaks, affecting the engine’s ability to maintain proper combustion balance.
Preventive Measures Against Oil Leaks
Accumulation of oil or residue around the turbocharger might indicate seal issues. When oil leaks into the turbo, it can fuel the engine autonomously, leading to runaway. Immediate attention to these leaks can prevent disastrous consequences.

By diligently monitoring the turbocharger, you’re not just maintaining engine efficiency but also ensuring your vehicle’s safety and longevity. Regular inspections and timely interventions can save you from costly repairs and dangerous situations.

What is a diesel runaway?

Understanding Diesel Runaway

A diesel runaway is a hazardous situation where a diesel engine continues to operate uncontrollably despite being switched off. This phenomenon occurs when the engine keeps receiving fuel and air, causing a dangerous increase in RPM (revolutions per minute).

How It Happens

Fuel and Air Intake:Even with the ignition turned off, the engine might still intake fuel and air. This combination fuels the engine, enabling it to run without proper control.
Unregulated Speed:As more fuel burns, the engine’s RPM skyrockets. This excessive speed can result in intense vibrations and loud engine noise, often accompanied by black smoke billowing from the exhaust.

Risks and Consequences

Engine Damage:The extreme conditions can lead to catastrophic engine failure, with parts potentially breaking apart.
Safety Hazards:Flying debris from the engine poses serious danger to anyone nearby, and unexpected vehicle movement could lead to accidents.

Addressing a diesel runaway promptly is crucial to prevent both mechanical damage and personal injury. Always seek professional assistance when suspecting a potential runaway scenario.

Why is regular maintenance important for preventing diesel runaway?

Why is Regular Maintenance Essential for Preventing Diesel Runaway?

Regular maintenance is crucial in preventing diesel runaway, a hazardous condition that can severely damage your engine. Diesel runaway occurs when the engine runs uncontrollably, often due to excess lubricating oil entering the combustion chamber. But how can regular maintenance help avoid such scenarios?

Identify and Address Wear and Tear

Over time, crucial components of your vehicle like the turbocharger, hoses, and crankcase endure wear and tear. If left unchecked, cracks or damage in these areas can lead to leaks, where oil can inadvertently feed into the engine, causing it to rev without control. Routine maintenance allows experts to inspect these parts for signs of wear, ensuring any potential issues are addressed before they spiral into major problems.

Professional Evaluation

Skilled technicians have the expertise to detect subtle signs of damage that might escape an untrained eye. During regular check-ups, professionals assess the condition of engine parts and recommend replacements if necessary. This proactive approach helps maintain the engine’s integrity, minimizing the risk of a runaway incident.

Prevention is Key

By scheduling consistent maintenance, you can prevent small issues from becoming significant hazards. Think of it as giving your vehicle a regular health checkup – it’s better to treat minor ailments now than face severe breakdowns later. Maintenance extends your engine’s life and enhances overall performance, providing peace of mind every time you hit the road.

In summary, regular maintenance isn’t just about keeping your vehicle running; it’s about safeguarding it against potential disasters like diesel runaway. Prioritize these check-ups to ensure a safer and smoother driving experience.

How can contaminated air lead to a diesel runaway?

Understanding Diesel Runaway Due to Contaminated Air

Contaminated air can indeed lead to a diesel engine runaway, although it’s not the most common cause. This phenomenon occurs when a diesel engine’s air intake is compromised by substances like natural gas, propane, or other fuels that the engine is not designed to combust.

How Contaminated Air Affects Diesel Engines

Fuel Sensitivity: Diesel engines are engineered to operate on specific types of fuel. Introducing foreign substances such as natural gas or propane into the air intake can overwhelm the engine’s capacity to process air-fuel mixtures correctly.
Engine Overload: When these non-compatible fuels are mixed with the air, the engine might attempt to burn them along with diesel. This can lead to erratic engine speeds because the engine unexpectedly burns more fuel than intended.
Increased Risk of Runaway: As the engine starts burning fuels it cannot control, the RPMs can surge uncontrollably. This condition is known as a runaway, where the engine continues to accelerate despite attempts to shut it down.

Preventative Measures and Solutions

Regular Maintenance: Ensure all seals and filters are checked and replaced as needed to prevent outside pollutants from entering the engine.
Environmental Awareness: Keep the engine away from areas where it might be exposed to incompatible fuels or gases.

By understanding how diesel engines react to contaminated air and taking appropriate precautions, you can reduce the risk of engine runaway scenarios.

How does oil in the intake contribute to a diesel runaway?

Understanding Diesel Runaway: The Role of Oil in the Intake

Diesel runaway is a dangerous condition where an engine revs uncontrollably, often leading to severe damage or even destruction. One significant contributor to this issue is oil entering the intake system. But how exactly does this happen?

Pathways for Oil to Enter the Intake

Turbocharger Malfunctions:The turbocharger is a common entry point for oil. Damaged seals in the turbo can allow oil to escape, mixing with incoming air before it reaches the combustion chamber. This unregulated addition of oil acts as a fuel source.
Crankcase Ventilation Issues:Another common pathway is through the crankcase. Over time, the ventilation pipe might develop damage, allowing oil to bypass worn piston rings. This oil can then seep into the combustion chamber, where it contributes to runaway conditions.

Why Oil in the Intake is Problematic

Fuel and Air Mixture:The presence of oil in the intake adds an uncontrolled fuel source to the engine’s air mixture. Since oil is highly combustible, it provides excess energy, pushing the engine beyond its designed operational limits.
Gas Buildup and Explosions:As oil continues to mix with air, it contributes to an increase in combustible gas within the engine. This scenario can escalate quickly, leading to excessive pressure and potential explosions.

By addressing potential leaks and maintaining engine components like the turbocharger and crankcase ventilation, the risks associated with oil in the intake can be minimized. Regular checks and maintenance are key to ensuring your diesel engine operates smoothly and safely.

How can you physically stop a diesel engine during a runaway?

Randy let the tires keep digging while he reached for the air guillotine, thus saving the engine. In the heat of the moment, knowing how to stop a runaway diesel engine can mean the difference between a minor scare and a major disaster.

Stopping a Runaway Diesel Engine

When faced with a runaway diesel engine, it’s crucial to cut off the air supply swiftly. Here’s how you can do it:

Spray a Fire Extinguisher: Aim the extinguisher at the intake or throughout the engine to displace oxygen with carbon dioxide, effectively halting combustion.
Block the Intake: Physically obstruct the air intake using a rag or another solid object. This method stops airflow, which is essential for the engine to continue running.

However, there are situations where blocking the air intake is not feasible. If there’s damage along the intake hose, you’ll need an alternative approach.

For vehicles with a manual transmission:

Hold Down the Brakes: Ensure your vehicle is at a complete stop.
Shift into High Gear: Engage a high gear to increase resistance.
Release the Clutch: Let go of the clutch pedal to stall the engine, cutting off its power supply.

These techniques, when executed correctly, can bring a runaway diesel engine to a stop, preventing further damage and ensuring everyone’s safety.

What obstacles might you face, and how can they be overcome?

Damage along the intake hose can make blocking the air supply difficult. In such cases, using the manual transmission technique can serve as an alternative method to stop the engine.

What should be done if the air supply cannot be blocked?

If blocking the air supply isn’t feasible, and the vehicle has a manual transmission, you can apply the brakes, shift into a high gear, and release the clutch to stall the engine.

Why do these methods work?

These methods are effective because they prevent oxygen from reaching the engine, which is necessary for combustion and engine operation.

What are the methods to stop a runaway diesel engine?

You can interrupt the engine’s airflow by using a fire extinguisher to displace the oxygen with carbon dioxide or by physically blocking the intake with a rag or another object.

How can you cut off the fuel and air supply to stop a diesel runaway?

Randy let the tires keep digging while he reached for the air guillotine, thus saving the engine. When dealing with a diesel runaway, acting swiftly to cut off the fuel and air supply is crucial. Diesel engines rely heavily on these two elements to keep running, so identifying and stopping any fuel leaks is vital.

Steps to Stop a Diesel Runaway:

Identify the Fuel Source:Quickly locate the source of the fuel leak. This might involve inspecting the fuel lines or injectors.
Safely Stop Fuel Flow:If the cause of the runaway is known, stop the fuel flow as safely and quickly as possible. This can involve closing valves or disconnecting lines.
Use an Air Guillotine:An air guillotine, like the one Randy used, is a tool designed to rapidly cut off the air supply to the engine, effectively stopping it.
Alternative Measures:If neither the fuel nor the air can be stopped, relocate the vehicle to a safe area and prepare to extinguish any potential flames using a CO2 extinguisher.

In emergencies, being prepared with the right tools and knowledge can make all the difference.

What is a contingency plan if the primary solution fails?

As a backup, if stopping the fuel and air inputs isn’t possible, find a secure place for the engine to burn and prepare to extinguish it safely.

What safety considerations should be taken into account?

It’s important to ensure that any actions taken to stop the fuel flow are done with safety as a priority, minimizing risks to yourself and others.

What should you do if you cannot stop the fuel and air intake?

If you can’t interrupt the fuel and air intake, the best course of action is to let the engine burn in a controlled environment and then use a CO2 extinguisher to put out the fire.

How can you identify the source of the problem?

Identifying and halting the source of the fuel leak is crucial, as it allows you to directly address the issue causing the runaway.

What are the critical components to address in a diesel runaway?

To stop a diesel runaway, it’s essential to cut off both the fuel and air supplies, as these are necessary for the engine to keep running.

What are the solutions for stopping a diesel runaway?

One Of The Gnarliest Runaways You’ll Ever See

Understanding Diesel Runaway

Diesel runaway can be an adrenaline-pumping, chaotic experience, whether you’re at the track or on the road. It’s a phenomenon where the engine revs uncontrollably, often due to excess fuel or air entering the system. Here’s how to tackle it if you find yourself in a similar bind:

Cut Off Fuel and Air Supply

To stop a diesel runaway, the primary goal is to cut off the fuel and air supply. Diesel engines rely on this mixture to keep running:

Identify the Source: If you know where the leak is, stop the fuel flow safely.
Air Blockage: Use an air guillotine, like Randy did, or a rag to block the intake and cut off the airflow.

Stay Safe on the Road

If you’re on the road when it happens:

Pull Over Safely: Gently release the accelerator and apply the brakes.
Contact Help: Once stopped, reach out to local authorities or fire services for assistance.

Stop the Engine

Multiple tactics can halt the engine:

Fire Extinguisher: Spray it into the intake to replace oxygen with carbon dioxide.
Manual Transmission Trick: If applicable, hold the brakes, shift to high gear, and release the clutch to stall the engine.

By weaving these strategies into your approach, you can manage a diesel runaway with the precision of a seasoned truck puller like Randy Overton. Keep these methods in mind, ensuring you’re ready for any unexpected engine chaos.

Are there alternative methods for vehicles with manual transmission?

For manual transmissions, engage the brakes, shift into high gear, and release the clutch to stop the engine.

What should you do if you cannot stop the fuel and air intake?

If unable to halt the fuel and air supply, let the engine burn in a secure area and extinguish it with a CO2 extinguisher.

How can you physically stop the engine during a runaway?

One method involves using a fire extinguisher to replace the air with carbon dioxide, or physically obstructing the air intake with an object to cut off airflow.

What immediate actions should you take if a diesel runaway occurs while driving?

Safely pull over, gradually ease off the accelerator, apply the brakes, and once stopped, reach out to emergency services for assistance.

How can you stop a diesel runaway if you’re inside or outside the vehicle?

Whether you’re inside or outside the vehicle, the key is to halt the supply of fuel and air. Identifying the fuel source and safely stopping it is essential to cease engine operation.