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If you have spent any time around an engine, regardless if it is diesel or gas-powered, you will have no doubt heard or even seen people talk about crankshafts. It is a simple, yet complicated moving part that helps keep the pistons and other vital engine components moving safely.
But did you know crankshafts can get bent? Yes, it does happen! What can you do to help prevent this issue from happening? What causes a bent crankshaft in the first place? All of these issues and more will be answered in this post.
Highway & Heavy Parts is committed to helping keep your diesel engine run properly, and being able to detect a potential issue before it gets too serious is crucial. We have created this article so that you know what to do if you suspect your rig’s engine suffers from a bent crankshaft.
What Is A Crankshaft?
Understanding what a crankshaft is and how it operates is crucial to know when something is wrong. Simply put, crankshafts are what help guide the pistons thought-out their stroke. Its job is to precisely take the power and torque created by the combustion process and turn it into useful mechanical energy.
Diesel engines, much like any other internal combustion engine, are made to work within extremely tight tolerances, and even the smallest defect or deformation can throw everything off balance. Crankshafts are usually made from strong steel or durable cast iron to stand up to the high torque and horsepower numbers of a diesel engine.
4 Problems That Cause a Diesel Crankshaft To Bend
Knowing why something has failed is just as important as replacing the damaged part. Let’s have a closer look at how the common crankshaft bends are created. Remember, these are just the most common causes and not the only ones.
1. Extreme Heat
It's no secret that diesel engines generate extreme amounts of heat. They are made to endure pressures, oftentimes much more than their gas counterparts. Unfortunately, with enough heat, even the strongest and most durable parts will become susceptible to bends.
2. Bearing Failure
Crankshafts are usually held in place by a set of bearings that go between the engine block and the crankshaft itself. If the bearings fail or get severely worn, the crankshaft will develop play unwanted play. It is important to get this resolved as soon as possible to avoid any further issues with your diesel engine.
3. Poor Operating Conditions
The best thing you can do to avoid crankshaft problems is to make sure everything is in good running condition. Several factors can help prevent early crankshaft failure. Refraining from over-revving or causing unnecessary stress on your engine is one of the best ways to help stop a crankshaft from warping or bending.
4. Improper Handling
Although made from very durable materials, crankshafts can be easily damaged if not handled properly during the installation process. Even something as simple as dropping or hitting it before installation can deform it.
The crankshaft in your diesel engine is precisely machined and perfectly balanced so that it can spin hundreds of times per second without added vibration or creating unwanted stress on other critical engine components. Want to know more about camshaft installation? Have a look at our other post here!
What Kind Of Damage Can Be Done By A Bent Crankshaft?
A bent crankshaft can pose a pose serious risks to the overall condition of your engine. One of the most common signs of damage caused by a bent crankshaft is main bearing damage. A bent crankshaft will reduce the oil clearance and therefore could cause further damage inside your diesel engine.
When rebuilding your engine, the state of the old bearings can tell you a lot about what kind of life the engine has had. We have posted a picture below of worn-out crankshaft bearings to help you get a better idea.
Do you think that your diesel engine problems could be caused by something other than common crankshaft issues? Check out our common diesel engine problems post here!
What Causes Similar Engine Issues?
The modern diesel engine is extremely complex and therefore can have several issues that can disguise themselves as crankshaft issues. Something as simple as improper torque or getting the bolt sequence wrong can cause serious problems down the road.
A distorted crankcase is often the result of high temperatures or excessive stress, all of which can do damage to the crankcase, pistons, etc. Knowing the source of the problem is often easier said than done. And in the case of a bent crankshaft, a complete engine teardown may be the only option.
Final Words
If you think your diesel engine may suffer from a bent crankshaft, Highway & Heavy Parts has everything needed to help get you back on the road in no time. Our ASE-certified team of experts is ready to answer any questions you might have about a bent crankshaft or pretty much any other diesel engine problem you might encounter.
Give us a call at 1-844-985-3408 or request a quote online today!
Diesel Engine Resources
Related Articles:
CRANKSHAFT AND ENGINE BEARING INSTALLATION GUIDELINES
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BREAK-IN A DIESEL ENGINE? COMMON BREAK-IN PROCEDURES
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