An engine meter monitors engine running time for proper maintenance intervals. Different designs track specific processes, such as actual running time or RPM. Engine meters are compared to hub meters to decipher drive time versus idle time. Tampering with the meter can result in termination. Modern versions work within the vehicle’s computer system and are less prone to tampering. The use of engine monitoring systems is increasing to avoid engine problems and benefit operating budgets.
An engine meter is a device used to monitor the running time of an engine. This is important to monitor proper oil change and maintenance intervals. There are different types of motor meter designs, all made to monitor specific processes. Some designs monitor and track actual engine running time, while others record engine speed in revolutions per minute, or RPM. Most engine gauges are connected to the electronic or ignition system of the engine and are not easily disconnected.
The typical use of an engine gauge is to monitor the running time of the diesel engine. This is done due to the tendency of diesel engines to spend a lot of time idling. The diesel engine is difficult to start in cold weather and as such is left to idle in cold weather. The typical engine meter will track the total time the engine has been running and not just actual driving time. This creates a much more accurate method of tracking motor function and execution time.
In many cases, the engine meter will be compared to the vehicle’s odometer or a hub meter. The hub meter is mounted on a vehicle’s wheel and monitors the actual driving time a vehicle spends on the road. By comparing the hub gauge to the motor gauge, a mechanic can decipher the difference in drive time versus idle time. This feature also shows the driver’s actual driving time compared to resting or sitting time.
Most companies that operate vehicles with engine meters also provide a very stiff fine up to and including termination for any driver caught tampering with the meter. The cost of a modern semi diesel engine is staggering. Any attempt to alter information that could jeopardize maintenance is often considered a reason for termination.
While the typical engine meter is a mechanical device that works with an electrical system, there are more modern versions that work within the vehicle’s computer system. This internal meter is connected to the vehicle’s on-board computer and can only be accessed by downloading the information. This type of meter is much less prone to sabotage and tampering by an operator. In many cases, the driver of the vehicle does not know that the meter exists. More sophisticated systems can be monitored on the fly using an onboard monitoring system.
With the cost of maintaining and operating a fleet of semi trucks on the rise around the world, the use of engine monitoring systems is increasing. The ability to avoid engine problems through good preventative maintenance is beneficial to the operating budget. This is another case of a low cost unit responsible for a much higher cost unit.
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