A guide to semi-trucks and their engines

If you've been on the highway lately, then you know just how common semi-trucks are on the road. These huge vehicles are not to be missed and they serve an important function that we should never ignore - transporting goods over long distances on a regular basis and making sure that we get what we need when we need it.

Because of their primary function, these trucks were designed with endurance and strength in mind. The first semi-truck dates back to 1898, when Alexander Winton designed a "car carrier" to transport his cars to customers. From

Guide to Semi Trucks and their Engines

Since then, semi-trucks have been used for a variety of additional heavy hauling needs. Below is a detailed description of these incredible vehicles and their engines.

The basics of semi-truck engines and what makes them so unique

Semi-truck engines are in a league of their own and are inherently different from the engines found in regular vehicles. Unlike car engines, semi engines are six times larger and six times heavier than car engines, with average specifications including 400 to 600 horsepower and a torque range of 1,000 to 2,000 ft-lbs. They are also built with long distances in mind, requiring stops only for oil changes or engine maintenance.

Because of their larger size, the semi-engines are equipped with more oil, with many requiring something like 56 liters to work. These vehicles have more gears than the average car, with an average of about 10 gears. This design contains makes it easier for the driver to maneuver the vehicle on all types of terrain and slopes. Unlike many other cars, the standard semi-truck is also equipped with a turbocharger and an air brake system. For those who attend auto mechanic school, it is interesting to understand these basic differences.

The Inside Story of a Semi-Truck Diesel Engine

Semi-truck engines run on diesel fuel, which provides them with better torque and traction. Because diesel fuel has more available energy, it can help improve the fuel mileage of a semi-truck - covering about 20 to 35 percent more ground per liter than a gasoline engine. Further developments have been made to make diesel more environmentally friendly. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) to reduce sulfur emissions that are considered toxic to the environment. the use of ULSD is now widely used and regulated by the EPA in semi-truck engines.

Semi-trucks typically use diesel engines

Semi-truck engines come in many shapes and sizes, each with its own specifications and reputation. Engines need to be durable and reliable, and are serviced by their respective dealers and manufacturers. With that in mind, some of the most popular semi engines include the Paccar engine - a 13-liter engine that delivers 500 horsepower and a maximum torque of 1,364 pound-feet. Others of note include engines for Freightliner/Western Star trucks, as well as the DAF XF engine.

Diesel has more available energy and provides better fuel efficiency for semi-trucks