Jerking is one of the problems you will or have experienced as a truck owner. Jerking when accelerating is an indication of various problems. If you ignore it, it will escalate into other issues that are expensive to fix.
The feeling annoys you and makes it difficult to handle your truck while driving. You can avoid it only by knowing why it happens and what to do to fix it. Here are the reasons and how to fix them.
Clogged Fuel Injectors
Fuel injectors become dirty and clogged as they inject fuel into the combustion chamber. When this happens for a long time, it can compromise how your injectors function, interfering with how your truck accelerates.
When the injectors are clogged, the rate at which fuel flows into the combustion chamber will either go high or reduce, and your truck will jerk in such a scenario. To solve this, consider buying and fitting new fuel injectors.
Clogged Air Filters
Air filters become clogged and dirty after usage for a long time. When clogged, your truck starts to stutter and stops functioning as it should. Such happens because clogs block the air from passing through the filters.
Air is an essential ingredient for combustion to take place. When its supply is limited, your truck will jerk whenever you accelerate because the combustion chamber cannot produce adequate power.
The solution to this is to buy and install a new air filter. It is essential to replace your air filters when replacing oil filters and oil.
Blocked Catalytic Converter
A catalytic converter plays the role of neutralizing the harmful gases from the combustion chamber. As it performs its functions, it starts to break down due to regular use. It usually blocks after a long time of usage. When such happens, your truck will jerk whenever you press the gas pedal.
The catalytic converter is a complex part of the exhaust system. When you feel it is developing problems, consider consulting a technician to handle and repair it.
Faulty Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are the most important part of the ignition system. Its primary role is to supply sparks that initiate the combustion of fuel and air in the combustion chamber. It is prone to wear after serving for a given duration. When such happens, you will experience jerks whenever you accelerate.
The solution to this is buying and fitting new spark plugs. You can fit the spark plugs alone if you have basic mechanical knowledge. But it is essential to consult a professional to do it on your behalf.
Faulty Gas Lines
Sometimes the gas lines become faulty, which is due for several reasons. When this happens, little, more, or no fuel will flow into the combustion chamber, and as a result, the way your truck functions will change.
When such happens, consider servicing the entire gas line.
Conclusion
Your truck can jerk whenever you press the gas pedal for several reasons. Jerking is usually a warning that something is not working perfectly in your truck, and you should consider checking it. Truck jerks can result in major damages that are costly to repair. This guide has covered several possible reasons and what to do to fix it.