MAHLE Aftermarket Technical Messenger DPF

MAHLE Aftermarket is a renowned company within the aftermarket with a wealth of technical knowledge and experience. Among the company’s specialist areas is turbochargers and the way in which they function to maintain the engine’s optimum efficiency. This experience has enabled the original equipment manufacturer and systems supplier to notice simple, but easily overlooked mistakes being made when fitting new turbochargers.

When technicians are fitting a new turbocharger, there needs to be a thorough check of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) as there could be a build up of extremely fine soot particulates that occur with combustion, which may lead to the component breaking. This could also be the reason if performance issues continue after a new turbocharger is fitted or if the new turbocharger fails immediately.

The particulate filter has a limited uptake capacity and must be regenerated or replaced at specific intervals. If this is not done and the DPF exceeds its loading limit, the differential pressure rises. This can result in a loss of performance and malfunctions during driving and can even lead to the turbocharger completely failing.

Exhaust gases are continuously being filtered and if there is a build up of particulates, due to the excessive counter-pressure, the exhaust gases will no longer be able to pass through the DPF unobstructed, which can lead to a penetration of the bearing house, stripping the oil film from the radial bearings.

This results in increased wear and may even lead to calcination and subsequent breakage of the rotor shaft. Coked residue in the oil return line to the oil sump is a clear indication of this damage scenario. This clearly shows the importance of checking the DPF before fitting a new turbocharger, as a lack of this simple routine could lead to poor engine performance and dissatisfied customers.

For more information about the quality products available from MAHLE Aftermarket, call the sales team on: 0845 688 5007 or visit: www.mahle-aftermarket.com