Diagnosing any vehicle can be tough, especially a new diesel truck, which has only grown in complexity with electronic fuel injection, SCR, and DEF systems. These systems need regular maintenance or they can become problematic for diesel trucks. A few of the most common issues many owners see today are:
- Check Engine Light (CEL) or error codes
- Failed emissions test
- Reduced fuel economy
- Reduced power
Diesel trucks now rely on Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems to meet strict pollution rules. These systems use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF), also called AdBlue, to turn harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx) in the exhaust into harmless nitrogen and water.
SCR systems work well, but they can have a buildup of white crystal deposits. These deposits form when DEF breaks down, which causes the SCR system to clog. These crystals can build up in the SCR system’s tank, pump, lines, and injector. This buildup disrupts the chemical reaction and hurts the system’s performance.
“A clogged or malfunctioning SCR in a diesel vehicle can lead to several issues,” a spokesperson from Rislone (a leading automotive chemical company) told us. “The ECU (Electronic Control Unit) may trigger warning lights and throw error codes due to the malfunctioning emissions system. This problem can reduce engine performance or even put the vehicle in ‘limp mode’ to prevent further damage. Additionally, a clogged SCR results in higher NO (nitrogen oxide) emissions, which may cause the vehicle to fail emissions tests and lead to potential legal issues as they relate to street worthiness. The increased exhaust backpressure from the blockage can also lower fuel economy, reduce performance noticeably, and put extra stress on the engine and related components over time.
“In regions where diesels are prevalent (e.g. Europe), SCR problems are already becoming more widespread, and it’s beginning to happen here in the USA. Simple SCR care helps prevent the buildup of white crystallized urea, which, if left untreated, can lead to an expensive physical repair totaling over $3,000.”
Rislone offers several DEF products to deal with SCR crystal buildup.
Rislone DEF Crystal Clean Diesel DEF & SCR Emissions System Cleaner
First, Rislone DEF Crystal Clean Diesel DEF & SCR Emissions System Cleaner cleans the system of a diesel truck. The cleaner dissolves existing crystal deposits throughout the SCR system. It works on the tank, pump, heater, sender, lines, injector, decomposition tube, reactor, and mixer.
Rislone DEF Crystal Clean is good for trucks that have never had their SCR system treated, show signs of crystal buildup, or have SCR-related trouble codes from an OBD-II scan. It also helps in bringing back proper flow and function.
Rislone DEF Treatment
Second, Rislone DEF Treatment prevents future crystal buildup. After cleaning with DEF Crystal Clean, add this to the DEF tank when refilling. This process helps keep the SCR and DEF parts clean and working well. It also lowers the chance of future problems.
Using Rislone DEF Treatment regularly is a good way to maintain the SCR system and avoid costly repairs. By using Rislone’s two-step system, diesel truck owners can take care of SCR crystal buildup and keep their trucks running well and meeting pollution standards.
The two products represent a two-step process for servicing your SCR system to keep your diesel truck running for years and hundreds of miles to come. For less than $30 you can prevent thousands of dollars in damage.
Is Your Diesel Truck’s SCR System Performing at Its Best?
We’d love to hear from you if you think you may be experiencing crystallization or other issues with your SCR system. Email us at [email protected].