Tier IV Engine Maintenance Tips

Tier IV Engine Maintenance Tips

Tier IV engines are equipped with advanced emission control systems designed to minimize environmental impact while enhancing efficiency and performance. In this article, we will dive into the world of Tier IV engines, exploring their key features, benefits, and essential tips for maximizing their potential.

Understand Tier IV engines

Tier IV engines represent the latest generation of industrial engines, meticulously engineered to comply with stringent emissions regulations set by the EPA. These regulations focus on reducing harmful pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM), and carbon monoxide (CO), emitted by diesel engines. There are two types of Tier IV compliant engines:

CEGR – CEGR uses an exhaust gas recirculation cooler (EGR) to lower the combustion temperature of the engine through mixing fresh air with exhaust gas. Particulates are captured by a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to keep them from entering the air. The remaining emissions are less harmful N2 and CO2 gases.

SCR – Selective Catalytic Reduction uses a liquid reductant agent known as diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), which is injected through a special catalyst into the exhaust stream of the engine. It creates a chemical reaction that turns nitrogen oxide into harmless nitrogen and water.

Improve fuel efficiency

Tier IV engines feature optimized combustion processes and advanced fuel injection systems compared to older models, resulting in improved fuel efficiency. Less fuel use lowers operational costs and also reduces the carbon footprint of your equipment. Despite their emission control systems, Tier IV engines maximize performance without compromising power, ensuring that heavy equipment can operate at top performance.

Only use high quality, low sulfur diesel fuel

High quality, low sulfur fuel is required by both the EPA and Tier IV engines themselves. Impurities in low grade fuel can lead to fuel system clogs, increased emissions, and reduced engine performance. Plus, using fuel that is not ultra low sulfur can lead to serious damage to your machine’s fuel system, DPF, or exhaust after treatment system. You may also be charged fines or penalties by the EPA. Ultra low sulfur diesel can be found at most diesel fueling stations.

Put the right oil in your machines

Modern Tier IV engines need CK-4 or FA-4 oils, which are designed to meet strict performance standards and work seamlessly with advanced aftertreatment systems on newer machines. Adding the incorrect oil to your equipment may cause damage to your machine's emissions components and lead to expensive repairs and downtime. CK-4 oils are backwards compatible, so they can also be used in older machines, while FA-4 oils are specifically formulated for 2017 and later engines and deliver better fuel efficiency. 

Take the right steps with your DPF

Most diesel particulate filters (DPFs) last at least about 3,000 to 3,500 hours. The filters are cleaned through a regeneration process that occurs while the filter is on the machine. When you need to replace it, read your owner's manual to find its exact location on your specific machine.

Be proactive with DEF

Refilling the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) tank should be part of your regular maintenance or refueling schedule. Machines that use DEF will have a fluid gauge and a warning signal when the level is low, similar to a fuel gauge. It’s important to be proactive about checking the DEF levels, and change the supply module filter at the interval suggested by the manufacturer.

If you have any questions about Tier IV engines or maintenance, contact our team today!