5 Common Engine Issues in 3-Wheelers and How to Fix Them

Three-wheelers, or auto rickshaws, are at the heart of primary transportation in urban and semi-urban areas. Commercial vehicles, such as three-wheelers, face long hours of operation while transporting passengers or even goods. Issues with three wheeler engines can be a frequent inconvenience to the driver. They may neglect the early warning signs of a broken or failing part, which can later lead to expensive repairs, loss of productive time and  decreased efficiency. Knowing the common issues along with the fixes will help provide reliable performance from a three-wheeler.

Listed below are five of the most common engine problems in three-wheelers with applicable solutions. 

1. Engine Overheating

One of the most common 3 wheeler engine problems is due to the cooling system failing, which causes the engine to overheat. The cooling system can fail due to a number of issues including low coolant, radiator being clogged, water pump not functioning, or excessive idling.  

Signs:

• The temperature gauge is rapidly rising. 
• Any steam or smoke coming from the engine area. 
• The pungent smell of burning materials from the engine compartment.

Solutions:

• Check coolant level regularly and refill if necessary. 
• Clean or change radiator to unclog flow of coolant. 
• Check the function of the water pump and engine fan, repairing/replacing if necessary. 

2. Difficulty Starting

Difficulty starting, prevalent in older or used three-wheelers, might result from any of the following issues: weak battery, sparks plugs, or fuel.

Signs:

• Engine cranks sluggishly, or it does not turn on.
• A clicking sound occurs when you turn over the ignition.
• The engine has a long crank or odd hesitations once turning on.

Fix:

• Recharge or replace the battery.
• Clean or lubricate the spark plugs.
• Check hoses going to the carburetor or fuel lines for debris.

3. Poor Engine Performance

If a nonspecific poor engine performance occurs, it is an outburst of some problems in the 3-wheeler engine. This outcome can happen from any of many reasons, from dirty fuel to choked air filters.

Signs:

• Slight lag in acceleration.
• A knocking or rattling noise occurs.
• Increased fuel usage.

Fix:

• Air filters should be checked and cleaned/oiled routinely.
• Always use clean fuels and  change for new fuels.
• You should also check the pistons, valves and  gaskets for deterioration.

4. Oil Leaking and Less Lubrication

Low lubrication, or oil leaks, can severely damage any engine on a commercial vehicle. When the engine does not have an adequate amount of oil, internal parts can overheat and lead to breakdowns.

Signs:

• Oil stains on the ground under the vehicle.
• More engine noises than normal.
• Smoke coming out of the exhaust.

Fix:

• Check the oil levels every day and fill it back up.
• Replace any worn gaskets or seals.
• Change the recommended intervals by the manufacturer.

5. Excessive Exhaust Smoke

Excessive smoke indicates that the engine is not working correctly on three-wheelers. Black smoke indicates not burning the fuel efficiently, white smoke indicates coolant leaks and  blue smoke indicates you are burning oil.

Signs: 

• Excessive smoke coming from exhaust. 
• The engine is running rough or stalling. 
• Higher fuel consumption. 

Solutions: 

• Adjust the carburetor for the correct fuel-air mixture. 
• Replace damaged piston rings or gaskets. 
• Fix the cooling system to stop leaks. 

Conclusion

Performing preventive maintenance is crucial for three-wheeled vehicles. If an owner ignores poor working engine problems, they will have inefficient travel and operation and will pay higher repair costs along with compromising safety in transportation. By following proper 3 wheeler maintenance guides, such as changing oil at the right intervals, checking coolant levels, managing good quality fuel and  undertaking repair work, the three-wheeled vehicle can perform its duties in a timely and efficient manner while prolonging engine life. 

For more articles and news, stay updated with 91trucks. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest videos and updates from the automotive world!

Related Stories:

Making the E-Rickshaw Revolution Gender-Friendly: Needed Support

Sensorise Takes Over LocoNav India Op, Launches Eagle.ai for Smarter Fleet Management