Every day before starting, check the engine oil, coolant or fins, fuel and air filter, and look for leaks. Change the oil and filters at the hours in your manual – for many stationary engines every 100 to 250 running hours. Use clean diesel, keep the air filter clean in dusty areas and use genuine parts.
A well-kept stationary diesel engine can run a posho mill or pump for many years. Most breakdowns we repair come from a few simple things being missed.
Every day, before starting
- Check the engine oil with the dipstick. Top up to the mark with the grade in your manual.
- Check the cooling. On water-cooled engines, check the coolant or water level. On air-cooled engines, make sure the cooling fins are not blocked with dust or flour.
- Check the fuel and drain any water from the fuel filter or water separator if fitted.
- Look at the air filter. In dusty places or mills, clean it daily. A blocked filter wastes fuel and wears the engine.
- Walk around the engine and look for oil or fuel leaks, loose bolts and worn belts.
Every week
- Check belt tension and alignment on mills and pump sets.
- Clean the outside of the engine so you can spot leaks early.
- Check the mounting bolts – vibration loosens them.
At every service interval
Follow the hours in your engine manual. For many stationary engines:
- Engine oil and oil filter – about every 100 to 250 running hours
- Fuel filter – about every 250 to 500 hours, sooner if the diesel is dirty
- Air filter element – replace when cleaning no longer restores it
- Valve clearances and injector check – at the intervals in the manual, by a trained mechanic
Keep a simple log book: date, running hours and what was done. It helps you plan services and protects your warranty.
Running in a new engine
For the first 50 or so hours, avoid running the engine at full load for long periods, and change the oil early as the manual advises. This helps the engine last longer.
Fuel matters
Dirty or watery diesel is one of the main causes of injector and pump failure. Buy fuel from a trusted station, store it in clean, closed containers and filter it when filling.
Signs to call a mechanic
- Black smoke, loss of power or hard starting
- Knocking noises
- Oil in the coolant or water in the oil
- The engine overheating
Book a service online with our service booking form and we will arrange a technician.
Common questions
Why does my diesel engine produce black smoke?
Black smoke usually means the engine is overloaded, the air filter is blocked or the injectors need servicing. Check the air filter first, then have the injectors checked.
Which oil should I use in a stationary diesel engine?
Use the oil grade and specification given in your engine manual. Using the wrong oil can shorten engine life and affect the warranty.
This guide gives general advice. For your exact machine, follow the manufacturer’s manual or ask our team.
