Fuel Injectors

Diesel fuel injectors operate under extreme pressure to force fuel directly into the combustion chamber. In common rail injection, the pump pressurizes the fuel before sending it to the injectors. The injectors then release the fuel as a fine mist so it ignites when it mixes with pressurized air. 

Each cylinder has a diesel injector. They open and seal once every rotation per minute (RPM), usually ranging from 2,000 to 2,500 RPM. Mechanical injectors pressurize the fuel and open automatically when they reach the required psi. Instead of building pressure, electric injectors receive pressure-ready fuel from the fuel pump so they can fire on demand. They are controlled by the Injection Driver Module (IDM), which grounds the injectors to open the nozzles. The IDM will then break the circuit to close the nozzles, thus completing the process. How long the injector stays open depends on the required horsepower output from the engine.

The injectors can clog with soot, carbon and debris flowing through the fuel and oil. Water separation in the fuel tank can lead to rust. Poor lubrication can also cause the nozzle head to crack or melt, which prevents the injector from firing. Contaminated fuel and oil will spread debris to each diesel injector. Change your oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, insulate your fuel from extreme temperature changes that cause water separation, and clean your filters to remove debris. A faulty diesel fuel injector can cut power, reduce acceleration and reduce your mpg rating. Most injectors need to be replaced every 100,000 to 150,000 miles. 

Shop for a replacement diesel fuel injector and all other quality diesel products by make/model or engine type to maintain fuel efficiency and horsepower.