There are many ways to get a little extra Willys Workshop out of your diesel engine. These include diesel performance upgrades to improve airflow, exhaust and fuel efficiency. Here are three things you need to know before making any diesel performance upgrades.

Diesel engines operate on a two- or four-stroke cycle, compressing air to ignite the diesel fuel injected into the cylinder. The combustion process converts chemical energy into mechanical energy to propel the piston down the cylinder, which then pushes the exhaust out the tail pipe. Diesel engines produce much more torque and horsepower than gasoline cars, but their initial acceleration is shorter because the compression ratios are higher.

Off-Road Dominance: Diesel Performance for All-Terrain Adventures

Because of the high compression ratios in diesel engines, the camshaft duration tends to be short and with minimal overlap. However, you can increase the lift and duration with a diesel performance camshaft. When choosing a cam grind, always talk with the customer to find out what they are using their vehicle for (street/towing, sled pulling or drag racing) and make sure the camshaft is optimized for that application.

A good quality diesel fuel can make a huge difference in your engine’s performance. Try Co-op Premium Diesel, which is TOP TIER® certified, backed by the world’s leading automakers and engine manufacturers. It has a higher cetane number, provides better lubricity and includes detergents to help clean injectors. The results are more power, less wear and tear on your engine and better fuel economy. It’s available at your local Co-op gas station or through bulk fuel offices.