How-tos

Access step-by-step repair and maintenance guides to keep your off-road equipment running smoothly with our expert tips!

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What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Position Sensor?
Jan 20, 2026

What Are the Symptoms of a Bad Throttle Position Sensor?

A faulty TPS causes major performance issues in your equipment. This guide covers key throttle position sensor symptoms, from engine hesitation to erratic shifting, and shows you how to test, diagnose, and replace the sensor yourself.

Top Tips for Diesel Engine Maintenance
Jan 19, 2026

Top Tips for Diesel Engine Maintenance

Diesel engine maintenance is the foundation of reliable off-road equipment performance. From airflow and fuel filtration to cooling systems and emissions components, disciplined maintenance habits help prevent overheating, power loss, and unexpected derates. This guide breaks down practical diesel truck maintenance strategies that also apply to loaders, excavators, dozers, and other diesel-powered machines—helping operators reduce downtime, protect high-cost components, and plan part replacements before minor issues turn into major repairs.

Coolant Temperature Sensor: Location, Bad Signs, Replacement
Jan 19, 2026

Coolant Temperature Sensor: Location, Bad Signs, Replacement

This guide shows you the coolant temperature sensor location on heavy machinery. A faulty sensor can cause bad fuel economy, black smoke, and overheating. We’ll cover the symptoms, common trouble codes, and a step-by-step replacement guide.

Why is My Oil Pressure High & How to Fix It?
Jan 17, 2026

Why is My Oil Pressure High & How to Fix It?

When your oil pressure is high, it’s a serious warning. It doesn’t mean better lubrication; it means a blockage is starving your engine. This guide covers the common causes—from the wrong oil to a clogged filter—and how to fix them.

How to Test an Ignition Coil?
Jan 16, 2026

How to Test an Ignition Coil?

Is your tractor or excavator losing power or misfiring? A bad ignition coil could be the culprit. This guide shows you how to test an ignition coil using simple methods like the power balance test, spark check, and multimeter measurements.

How To Change The Serpentine Belt On A 6.7 Cummins?
Jan 15, 2026

How To Change The Serpentine Belt On A 6.7 Cummins?

A failing serpentine belt on a 6.7 Cummins engine can quickly lead to charging issues, overheating, and accessory failures in off-road machinery. This guide explains what the serpentine belt does, when it should be replaced, and how to install it correctly while inspecting related components like tensioners and idler pulleys. By treating the belt as part of a complete accessory-drive system, operators can prevent repeat failures and reduce costly downtime.

Signs of a Head Gasket Leak & How to Fix It
Jan 15, 2026

Signs of a Head Gasket Leak & How to Fix It

Spotting a head gasket leak early can save your engine. Watch for key symptoms like overheating, a major drop in power, milky engine oil, or constant white exhaust smoke. This guide covers the common signs, causes, and tests.

5 Essential Snow Blade Methods for Off-Road Machinery
Jan 14, 2026

5 Essential Snow Blade Methods for Off-Road Machinery

Think you know how to use your snow blade? Pros use 5 simple patterns to plow faster and smarter. Learn back-dragging, windrowing, and how to stack snow high without damaging your lawn. This guide turns your winter chore into a skill.

What is SPN 2003 FMI 31? Causes and Fixes
Jan 13, 2026

What is SPN 2003 FMI 31? Causes and Fixes

SPN 2003 FMI 31 is a common but often misunderstood transmission fault code in off-road machinery. This guide explains what the code means under the J1939 standard, why it occurs, and how to diagnose it step by step. From sensor signal conflicts to CAN bus communication issues, you’ll learn how to restore drivetrain reliability and choose the right transmission parts to prevent recurring downtime.

Complete Guide to Decoding DTC Fault Codes
Jan 12, 2026

Complete Guide to Decoding DTC Fault Codes

DTC fault codes are essential for diagnosing electrical and mechanical issues in off-road machinery before they escalate into costly failures. This guide explains how DTC codes are structured, how J1939 SPN and FMI identifiers work in heavy equipment, and how operators and technicians can use fault data to improve troubleshooting accuracy, reduce downtime, and extend component life through proper maintenance and reliable replacement parts.

How to Choose the Right Spark Plug Heat Range for Off-Road Engines
Jan 12, 2026

How to Choose the Right Spark Plug Heat Range for Off-Road Engines

Spark plug heat range decides whether your engine stays clean or keeps fouling plugs. Learn the simple hot vs. cold tradeoff—and the warning signs before rough cold starts turn into real damage.

At What Temperature Does Diesel Fuel Freeze?
Jan 11, 2026

At What Temperature Does Diesel Fuel Freeze?

What temp does diesel freeze? Standard #2 diesel clogs filters around 10-19°F as paraffin wax gels. This guide explains the cloud point, CFPP, and pour point, plus how to prevent gelling and safely thaw your fuel system.