Pro Tips, News & Events

If you’ve ever rebuilt a high-performance diesel or dealt with repeated head gasket failures, you’ve probably heard someone mention fire rings. But what exactly are these mysterious metal rings, and why do some diesel engines absolutely need them while others run fine without them? At FridayParts, we’ve supplied thousands of head gaskets and fire ring kits over our 16 years, and we’ve seen firsthand how the right sealing solution can make or break an engine build. Let’s demystify fire rings and help you understand when they’re necessary, how they work, and whether your diesel could benefit from this upgrade.

A water pump leak on your off-road machinery is more than a minor annoyance—it’s a critical warning of potential engine failure and expensive downtime. This guide provides a complete overview for equipment owners, detailing the common causes from worn seals to coolant contamination. Learn to recognize all the symptoms, understand the serious risks of overheating, and follow our expert, step-by-step instructions for a permanent replacement. We explain why temporary fixes are not the answer for heavy-duty engines and how to prevent leaks from happening again.

Your Cummins Engine Serial Number (ESN) is the master key to ordering the right parts and avoiding costly mistakes, but finding it can be a challenge. This definitive guide ends the search. We provide detailed maps showing the exact ESN location on every major Cummins series, from the ISX and X15 to the ISB and QSK. You’ll also learn how to decode your data plate, use the free Cummins QuickServe tool like a pro, and understand why the Control Parts List (CPL) is critical. Stop wasting time and money on the wrong components—use our expert guide to get the right information, the first time.

The oil cooler may not look like much, but it plays a big role in keeping your heavy equipment running smoothly. Keeping engine oil cool and flowing helps prevent overheating, reduces wear on engine parts, and even improves fuel efficiency. But when an oil cooler starts to fail—due to cracks, clogs, or age—you’ll start noticing real trouble: rising oil temps, overheating, strange smells, and even unexpected breakdowns.

Do you know the difference between your equipment’s two main air filters? While both are crucial, they protect entirely different systems. The engine air filter acts as the lungs of your machine, protecting the engine from damaging dirt and debris to ensure peak performance. The cabin air filter is the guardian of your health, purifying the air you breathe inside the cab. This guide explains everything you need to know—from their distinct functions and locations to the critical signs that it’s time for a replacement.

An air compressor aftercooler is a device that cools the hot, compressed air coming from a compressor to reduce its temperature and moisture. The air compressor is the heart of the pneumatic tool system. The air coming out of the compressor is very hot and contains a lot of water vapor. High heat and harmful moisture usually cause silent damage to your equipment. Aftercoolers are the solution to these problems for your equipment.

Discover the real differences between aftercoolers and intercoolers in diesel engines. Learn how placement, performance, and maintenance impact your machinery’s power and reliability—clear, expert insights for every owner and mechanic. Click to get the facts and boost your engine’s efficiency!

That sinking feeling when your diesel starts pushing coolant, running rough, or showing white smoke is something no equipment owner wants to experience. At FridayParts, we’ve seen thousands of failed cylinder heads come through our doors over the past 16 years, and the damage patterns tell a story – usually one of preventable failure. Whether you’re dealing with a warped head that won’t seal or severe pitting that’s eating through material, understanding what causes these failures can save you from a $3,000-10,000 repair bill. Let’s dive into the real reasons cylinder heads fail and, more importantly, how you can prevent your engine from becoming another casualty.

The water pump and thermostat work together in the cooling system to ensure that the equipment has enough coolant circulating so that the engine does not easily exceed the maximum temperature it can withstand, 220 degrees Fahrenheit. They work together to maintain the good operation of the equipment cooling system, but sometimes, when cooling system problems occur, it is difficult to distinguish which one of them has a problem. Therefore, through this article, you will learn how to clearly distinguish which one of them fault when a problem comes, how they work together, etc., to help you make a quick judgment and replace the broken parts in time.

Ever look under the hood and wonder why there are two “radiators”? You’re not alone. While they look alike, they do totally different jobs. One protects your engine’s life, and the other boosts its power. We’ll show you how to tell them apart and why knowing the difference is key to a healthy, powerful machine.

One of the most frequently asked questions we hear in the maintenance of off-road equipment is “How much does it actually cost to replace an air filter?” Generally, the cost of replacing a filter varies, and the current price range for air filter replacement in 2025 is $10-300+. If you choose to do the repair yourself, your overall air filter cost can be reduced by about $30 to $170. In this article, we’ll break down the replacement costs and warning signs of a bad air filter. Also, we share factors that influence the price, compare DIY vs. pro costs, and discuss whether DIY replacement is a viable option.

Learn what an intercooler is and why it’s vital for any boosted engine. This guide explains how intercoolers work to increase horsepower and reliability, and breaks down the key differences between air-to-air and air-to-water systems.