Dirt Road Auto & Diesel LLC.

09/03/2026

🚐 Rescuing a Road Tripper! 🛠️
We had a 1986 Chevy G30 Cutaway RV towed to the shop after some major highway drama. The owner & her pup were traveling through town, filled up at Casey's in Hillsboro, and the RV started sputtering before completely dying. They managed to limp it to Newton before having it towed to us.

Here is how our tech tracked down the issue and got them back on their journey:
* The Intermittent Mystery: On arrival, the RV fired right up. But the next morning, it gave us a crank-no-start. Our tech checked the basics- it had plenty of spark, but when we sprayed starter fluid, it would run and then die. It was clearly starving for fuel.
* Tracking the Fuel System: The RV has a manual fuel pump, plus some newer fuel lines and a 3/8" metal inline filter already installed. The fuel gauge read low, so we added gas to ensure it wasn't just empty. Sure enough, during a test drive, it died again.
* The Fix: We tested the manual fuel pump and confirmed it was failing. After replacing the fuel pump and installing a fresh inline fuel filter, the old Chevy started up and ran flawlessly!

Safe travels to these folks on the rest of their road trip!

09/02/2026

🥵 From Hot Air to Ice Cold! ❄️

We tackled a tricky AC puzzle on this 2010 Ford Escape. The customer came in after their AC quit completely, only blowing hot air. What followed was a masterclass in thorough diagnostics by our team!

Here is how we dug in, found the root problems, and got it blowing ice cold again:
* The Initial Dig: On arrival, the vehicle had a blown AC fuse and several error codes. We replaced the fuse, topped off the system (it was low on freon), and got the system running normally. Because the customer accidentally leaked freon and dye before arrival, we gave the components a deep clean to monitor for any slow leaks.
* The Plot Thickens: After initial pickup, the AC stopped blowing cold again. We pulled it right back in to get to the bottom of it. Our tech hooked up live data and found the compressor kicking on randomly.
* The Breakthrough: Testing the electrical side showed the compressor was getting its full 12 volts, but an ohm test revealed the compressor coil resistance was at 67 ohms- well below the factory spec. The relatively new compressor was failing internally!
* The Resolution: With the customer's approval, we bypassed cheap remanufactured parts and installed a brand-new high-quality compressor. After adding some fuel to the empty tank, we took it on an extended test drive to, cycling the system repeatedly. It now cools perfectly every single time!
* Bonus Safety Notes: We also flagged a squealing main belt (the customer will handle this himself) and a sticking ignition key/switch that the customer is aware of.

We don't just guess- we test until the job is done right! Huge thanks to this customer for working with us through a complex diagnostic process.

09/01/2026

🚗 Safety First for This Daily Driver! 🛑

We inspected a 2022 Nissan Altima brought in because the brakes just started screeching. It is a daughter's daily driver, so getting it checked out ASAP was a top priority for this family!

Here is a breakdown of our comprehensive inspection and what our tech found:
* The Brake Screech: Everything actually looked completely normal with no abnormal wear on the front or back. However, the components lacked proper lubrication, and the vehicle is running semi-metallic pads, which naturally make more noise. We offered two solutions: a deep clean and l**e of the current setup, or an upgrade to quiet, noise-resistant ceramic pads.
* Bonus Safety Catch: During the inspection, we noticed the plastic undercarriage was missing clips and about to fall off. We went ahead and secured it with brand-new clips to keep it safe on the road!
* Overall Health Check: The battery tested great, front suspension is nice and tight, and tires have a healthy 6/32" of tread. All major fluids look clean and new.
* Maintenance Notes: The engine air filter and cabin air filter are both dirty and due for a replacement. Spark plugs still look good and do not need attention yet.

The customer chose not to proceed with the maintenance repairs at this time, but we are happy we could provide total peace of mind by confirming the vehicle is safe to drive. No matter what you decide, we are always here to give you honest answers!

08/31/2026

🚙 New to Him & Ready for the Road! 🛠️

We had this 2015 GMC Yukon Denali in the shop for a diagnostic and full vehicle inspection. The owner just bought it and wanted to get a clear picture of its overall health, especially with a "Service Suspension" light on and a mysterious driver's seat click.

Here is what our team found and resolved:
* Suspension Light Fix: Our tech discovered the original OEM electronic suspension had been previously swapped out for aftermarket shocks and springs. To kill that annoying dashboard light and clear the system, we installed shock simulators with the customer's approval!
* The Seat Click Mystery: The customer noticed a click in the driver's seat. After some detective work, we found that when the seat is lowered completely, it creates slack between the motor and the track. The fix? Simple! Raising the seat just a tiny bit puts tension back on the system and stops the clicking completely-no expensive repairs needed.
* Full Inspection: The air filter, fluids, and front suspension are all in great shape with absolutely no leaks. The drilled and slotted brakes are currently sitting at 5mm in the front (yellow zone), so we will keep an eye on those for the future.
* Next Steps: We did pick up a new code after the repair (B0423:61) for a stuck right temperature control feedback circuit, so we will be looking into that blend door issue next to keep the AC/heat perfectly dialed in!

Honest diagnostics and practical solutions are how we keep you moving safely without breaking the bank. Thank you for trusting us with your new ride!

08/28/2026

🚙 CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT: 1979 Ford Bronco 🚙

We recently had this stunning 1979 Ford Bronco in the shop for some serious diagnostic work! The customer brought it in because the fuel pump wasn’t kicking on when the key turned, and it was experiencing some strange shifting issues with its C6 transmission.

Our tech got right to work digging through the wiring. After finding a blinking Holley Sniper screen and clicking relays, we traced the issue to a broken power wire at the starter relay, along with a dusty, corroded relay and breaker. But we didn't stop there. Something was still drawing the system down, so we started checking grounds. We discovered this beast only had one ground from the battery to the block! ⚡️

To fix it right, we built custom, heavy-duty new ground wires from the engine to the frame on the driver’s side, and added another ground from the battery to the passenger frame. The result? Total power restoration! The Holley screen boots up perfectly and the fuel pump primes exactly like it should.

Next up was the shifting issue. The C6 was hanging in gear and shifting weird. We hooked up our vacuum tools and found the vacuum going to the transmission modulator was completely inadequate. We hunted down the leak, fixed it, and got the vacuum back into factory spec. We also rerouted incorrectly run vacuum lines to include the vacuum canister, which instantly improved drivability and brake function! 🛑

To perfect the shift points, we upgraded the old purple-stripe modulator to a green-stripe vacuum modulator designed to delay shift times. Testing proved it made a massive difference- the transmission no longer hangs in first gear and shifts smoothly through second and third!

While we were under the hood, we also found every single intake bolt was loose. We retorqued them all to Edelbrock specs and secured the Holley Sniper throttle body to seal up any potential leaks.

It was an absolute pleasure getting this classic running strong and shifting right. Thank you for trusting us with your ride!

08/21/2026

08/19/2026

This 2017 Ram 1500 is ready to head back out on the road after getting some major preventative maintenance and a few upgrades! 🛠️

While our customer was away on a cruise, our team got to work taking their dollar farther with top-quality service.
🔧 Work Completed:
* Exhaust Manifolds: Installed the new exhaust manifolds purchased on the last ticket.
* Spark Plugs: Replaced the plugs to keep the engine firing efficiently.
* Fluid Flushes & Services: Completed a brake fluid flush, transmission service, rear differential service, and a full coolant service.

💪 Tech Findings & Going the Extra Mile:
The coolant system was heavily contaminated with dirt, rust, and debris, taking a full 3 hours to flush completely clean. Even though it took much longer than our initial estimate to do the job right, we only charged for one additional hour because that is how we do small-town friendliness!

The truck is running cool, clean, and smooth just in time for pickup after returning from vacation!
#1500

08/18/2026

This classic 1974 Ford F250 came to us struggling under a load with a noticeable pulsation and misfire at lower RPMs. Our team dug deep to get this 7.5L powerhouse running smoothly again! 💪

Here is how we took this customer's dollar farther:
🛠️ The Diagnosis & Repair:
* Found the Issue: We pulled the spark plugs and uncovered a lean condition and misfires.
* Vacuum Leak Fixed: A smoke test was clear, but spraying brake clean revealed a hidden vacuum leak at the valve cover. We replaced the passenger side valve cover gasket.
* Carb Tightened: All 4 carburetor screws were loose, so we torqued them down.
* Ignition Overhaul: The distributor rotor bug was deteriorated and the contacts were in very poor condition. We replaced the entire cap and rotor assembly to replace old, used parts from a previous build.
* Bonus Maintenance: Completed a fresh oil change to keep the engine healthy.

🚀 The Result:
The truck is now running exactly as it should! The engine feels strong after fixing the vacuum and ignition issues.

Thank you for trusting us with your classic truck!

08/17/2026

Putting safety first just in time for the school year! 🎒🚗

We recently had this 2005 Mini Cooper in the shop. The original goal was a straightforward brake replacement before classes start. However, during the teardown process, our technician uncovered some critical safety issues underneath that needed immediate attention.

The driver-side lower control arm nut was missing because the ball joint bolt had sheared clean off. The rear bushing was disintegrating causing it to fall apart during tear down, and the forward ball joint was seized solid inside the control arm.

Our tech spent two hours working hard to save the original control arm to keep costs down for the customer. Once the rubber bushing failed completely, we made the decision to save time/labor and install a brand-new control arm instead. To top it off, the CV axle boot was torn in half, causing the axle to separate effortlessly during removal. The passenger side was in the exact same dangerous condition.

For this vehicle to be safe and correct for a student driver, replacing all of these components was absolutely mandatory. True to our values, we did not charge the customer for the additional two hours spent trying to save the old parts.
After replacing the brakes, control arms, and CV axles, this Mini Cooper drives straight as an arrow and is officially ready for the school parking lot! Thank you for trusting us with your family's safety.

08/14/2026

Heavy equipment safety and reliability are our top priorities! 🚜💪

We recently had this 2021 Bobcat T770 skid steer in the shop for multiple diagnostic issues, and our team jumped right in to get it sorted out before the customer's August deadline.

The customer brought it in because the male and female flat-face couplers were sticking and refusing to let attachments hook up properly. During our inspection, we found the lower coupler on the Bobcat was completely damaged. We also noted the lift arms needed a new spring, long bolt, washer, and nut on the right side to function safely.

Since the customer needed the machine back on the job immediately, we planned to address the glow plug ground issue during their next scheduled service block.
We love keeping our local businesses moving forward efficiently without breaking the bank!