Power problems with my Deuce

[ColinJ]

Hey Guys

I hope someone can help diagnose the problem I have with my M35A2C turbo-equipped multi-fuel REO.

When moving up an incline (doesn’t have to be a particularly steep gradient) the truck loses power, so that I slow from my usual 45 mph (up or down) and struggle to maintain 30 mph. As the climb up the incline starts, the turbo whistle increases in pitch and I feel a gentle nudge in my back as the turbo power kicks in, but after just a couple of seconds the turbo wistle pitch decreases and there is a very noticeable decrease in speed and power, with often the turbo increasing and then rapidly decreasing in pitch as though “hunting”. When driving on the flat the turbo whistle/power seems OK, though when changing from 4th to 5th, she does struggle a little getting through/over 1500-1700 rpm.

Last year on the way home from a meet, the bottom end of my exhaust blew out, and I had to limp about 120 miles or so home – would this have damaged the turbo? Otherwise she’s in good shape mechanically, the engine has only 94 hours and 2400 miles on the clocks…….

thanks, Colin

 

[cranetruck]

Sounds like a fuel delivery problem, check all filters and fuel tank for dirt or anything that will limit the flow when demand is high, even a pinched fuel line....

 

[Ferroequinologist]

My hydraulic head is going bad, and I'm having the same symptoms your having.

 

[renovate7]

When I pulled my fuel pump out of the tank to inspect I found the screen covered in gunk. I changed the primary fuel filter to the spin on set up. I pulled the two secondary filters and found them covered in gunk. After cleaning/changing the above it starts MUCH easier and seems to have more power. Start with the simple stuff first.

 

[Katch1]

for sure start simple, just start at the tank and work your way twords the engine. Eliminate fuel delivery probs first.Never estimate hte need for a good fuel treatment on a vehicle that does'nt get worked hard these engines like to be worked, driving empty will not keep the temps up enough to ensure a good burn, especially in the cool enviornment of the U.K.