The Diesel Podcast

He Went to Prison. His Warning for Diesel Truck Owners.

A Presidential Pardon closed one chapter—but according to today's guest, the conversation about diesel emissions enforcement is far from over. On this episode of The Diesel Podcast, I sit down with Jon Achtemeier who was convicted of Clean Air Act violations, served four months in federal prison, and was granted a Presidential Pardon this July. Whether you own a Cummins, Duramax, Powerstroke, operate a diesel repair shop, or simply want to understand how federal emissions enforcement has affected the diesel industry, this episode provides a firsthand perspective from someone who lived through it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E883 Jul 17, 2026 47 min 25 annotations

The Smart Way to Build a 4th Gen Cummins

This week's guest shares his journey from working on diesel vehicles in the military to finally purchasing the Cummins truck he'd always wanted. We talk about why he chose a Cummins, the upgrades that transformed it into a dependable 500-horsepower daily driver, the parts he recommends, what he'd do differently, and the future plans he has for the truck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E882 Jul 17, 2026 61 min 93 annotations

Raided for Diesel Parts... Life Changed Forever

Wade LaLone of Diesel Freak shares his story on today's episode. He takes us through the day EPA officials and law enforcement arrived at his shop, the years of uncertainty that followed, his federal felony conviction under the Clean Air Act, and ultimately receiving a Presidential Pardon. We discuss the emotional toll the case took on him, his family, and the diesel community, as well as why he says the pardon gave him the opportunity to move forward with his life. ➨ BECOME A PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/thedieselpodcast -------------------------------- Protect your privacy with ExpressVPN: Get 4 extra months FREE! Go to: https://www.expressvpn.com/diesel -------------------------------- 20% off HOT SHOT'S SECRET with code: DIESELPOD20 https://www.hotshotsecret.com/shop/ -------------------------------- 20% OFF KERSHAW KNIVES with code: TDP4020266 Discount code valid until September 1, 2026 20% off your entire cart at Kershaw Knives with code: TDP4020266 FREE Shipping over $50 *Offer valid through 9/1/26 at 11:59 pm Pacific. Discount is applied before tax and shipping. The discount code must be added at the time of checkout, it cannot be added retroactively. The discount is off entire cart. No substitutes, backorders, or additional discounts can be applied.* https://kershaw.kaiusa.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E881 Jul 15, 2026 62 min 43 annotations

Can I Delete My Truck Now? EPA Pardons Explained by a Lawyer

Can you delete your truck now? Can the EPA still fine you? Did the recent EPA pardons actually change anything? In this episode of The Diesel Podcast, attorney Stewart D. Cables breaks down what the recent EPA pardons actually mean for diesel truck owners, repair shops, tuners, and the aftermarket industry. We separate fact from fiction and explain what changed, what didn't change, and what you should know before making any decisions. If you've been wondering whether diesel deletes are legal again, whether EPA emissions enforcement has changed, or what these pardons really mean, this conversation provides a factual legal explanation without the rumors or misinformation circulating online. Topics covered: • Can you legally delete your diesel truck? • Can the EPA still issue fines? • What the recent EPA pardons actually changed • What they did NOT change • How federal emissions enforcement works • What diesel owners and repair shops should know moving forward Stewart D. Cables is a founding partner of Hassan + Cables. Stewart specializes in general business representation and a variety of trial work. Stewart's practice areas include complex civil litigation, employment law, criminal and DUI defense, transactional work for corporations and LLCs, and counsel for non-profit entities. Stewart D. Cables is a founding partner of Hassan + Cables. Stewart specializes in general business representation and a variety of trial work. Stewart's practice areas include complex civil litigation, employment law, criminal and DUI defense, transactional work for corporations and LLCs, and counsel for non-profit entities. Stewart Cables E: [email protected] P: 303-625-1025 ext.2 https://www.hassancables.com/stewart-d-cables -------------------------------- Disclaimer: This video is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice of any kind. No one should act, or refrain from acting, based solely upon the information provided on this podcast, without first seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice. ➨ BECOME A PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/thedieselpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S9E880 Jul 14, 2026 44 min 44 annotations

This $2 Cummins Part Can Destroy Your Engine

If you own a 6.7L Cummins, this is an issue you need to know about. In this episode of The Diesel Podcast, we talk with a professional diesel shop owner about the Cummins grid heater bolt failure, why it happens, what damage it can cause, the warning signs to watch for, and the repair options available before it becomes a catastrophic engine failure. ➨ BECOME A PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/thedieselpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E881 Jul 13, 2026 54 min 102 annotations

Is This The Ultimate Transmission for a Cummins?

The 68RFE has been one of the most debated transmissions in the diesel truck world. Some owners have had great luck with them, while others start looking for alternatives as power levels increase or reliability becomes a concern. In this episode, we talk with a diesel shop owner about the ATS Allison transmission conversion for Ram Cummins trucks. We discuss why some owners are making the switch, how the Allison integrates with the Cummins platform, what the installation process looks like, and how it compares to the factory 68RFE and older 48RE transmissions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E878 Jun 27, 2026 51 min 134 annotations

The Truth About Oil Additives

In this episode, we're joined by the team from Rislone to discuss what oil additives are designed to do, why they were created, and the situations where they may benefit an engine. We talk about common engine issues, how additives interact with modern oils, misconceptions truck owners have, and what drivers should know before deciding whether to use one. Whether you own a high-mileage diesel, a daily driver, or just want to better understand what's inside the bottle, this episode takes a closer look at the role oil additives play in engine maintenance and performance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E877 Jun 26, 2026 54 min 100 annotations

Is Diesel Oil Getting Hard to Find?

We’ve heard reports of oil shortages potentially extending into 2027 due to supply chain issues. A diesel shop tells us if they are seeing any restrictions and if it could impact maintenance - and even engine repairs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E876 Jun 18, 2026 68 min 116 annotations

Shelby Just Built an F250 You Can Actually Buy

We’ve all heard of Shelby and the iconic history and performance of the brand. We were shocked to learn they are building F250’s! We chatted with them about build options and the inspiration behind the build for the F250 Super Baja. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E873 Jun 17, 2026 53 min 85 annotations

Diesel Owners Have a Bigger Problem Than Fuel Prices

Everyone with a diesel truck is facing pain at the fuel pump - but something much scarier is lurking in the background. Oil availability. Events around the world, and increased U.S. exports, could be driving a shortage of oil weights and types available for diesel trucks. Today’s guest is not only a trucker facing these problems, but an enthusiast with a fleet of diesel vehicles at home. What’s he seeing? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E872 Jun 09, 2026 64 min

Why Making Big Power Isn't Enough to Win UCC

Fleece Performance and UCC Competitor Ken Bruner join us from Fleece HQ! We caught up with them right before the event for a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to win. Is it all about power? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E871 Jun 05, 2026 53 min 56 annotations

Firing the Best Employee (And Getting Better Because of It)

Lenny Reed from Dynomite Diesel stops by the podcast to talk about picking up fuel economy with injector upgrades, if he will expand into the 6.0L injector world, and why firing the best employee can be the best thing for a business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S12E870 Jun 04, 2026 73 min 147 annotations

Greg Alberalla Gives Tips for Upgrading a Cummins

Greg A joins us to talk all things Cummins! He tells us about preparing for Fast 72, build plans for his 2005, and the best way to upgrade a Cummins and avoid mistakes - or spending money twice. #teamamsoil Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E869 May 29, 2026 55 min 71 annotations

Are You Running the Wrong Oil in Your 6.7L Powerstroke?

Which oil weight is the best for 6.7L Powerstrokes? Domestic Diesel joins us today to talk about what they see in the shop, and why the factory recommendation may be wrong. Does oil brand matter? We also talk about other issues to avoid to keep your 6.7 running strong. Domestic Diesel - www.domesticdiesel.com Instagram - @domesticdiesel Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S12E868 May 26, 2026 65 min 112 annotations

Diesel Fuel is Expensive. Does This Actually Help?

We tend to be skeptical when it comes to fuel economy gains because it can vary so much depending on the product. Hot Shot’s Secret tackled this skepticism with us during a discussion about fuel additives. Can the math show a fuel savings? 20% off HOT SHOT'S SECRET with code: DIESELPOD20 https://www.hotshotsecret.com/shop/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S12E869 May 26, 2026 65 min 87 annotations

The Weirdest Ram Failure We’ve Seen (Fixed)

A diesel shop reached out to us with failure on a Ram truck nobody had heard of. They guide us through the issue and how it took tons of time, ingenuity, and help to uncover what made the truck undrivable. *20% OFF KERSHAW KNIVES with code: 20TD8FR26* Discount code valid until April 30th, 2026 20% off your entire cart at Kershaw Knives with code: 20TD8FR26 FREE Shipping over $50 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E867 May 26, 2026 67 min 123 annotations

The Weirdest Ram Failure We’ve Seen

A diesel shop reached out to us with failure on a Ram truck nobody had heard of. They guide us through the issue and how it took tons of time, ingenuity, and help to uncover what made the truck undrivable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E867 May 16, 2026 51 min 77 annotations

Why 6.0L Powerstroke Injectors Fail

Jed from Holder’s Diesel Performance chats with us about why 6.0 injectors take a beating, how they build them in the shop to be reliable, keys to maintenance, and his journey in the Powerstroke world. We also talk about a 1968 Ford he’s doing a 6.0 swap on! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S8E866 May 15, 2026 57 min 67 annotations

Bad Diesel? How Fuel Quality Is Quietly Killing Engines

How bad is diesel fuel from station to station? Power Service gives us a look into fuel quality minimums, and why truck owners should take control over their fuel. This becomes even more crucial for trucks constantly on the road and fleets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E865 May 13, 2026 57 min 124 annotations

UCC Champ Reveals Perfect Daily Driver Power Level

2024 UCC Champ Ken Bruner talks with us about returning to the event this year, what’s changed, and how he picks the right parts to run. We also discuss how that translates to daily drivers and where the sweet spot is for power, towing, and reliability! @amsoil Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E864 May 12, 2026 54 min 97 annotations

Mechanic Shortage is About to Hit Truck Owners Hard

The automotive industry - which we depend on for parts and maintenance - is facing a crisis. Manpower. More people are retiring than new people joining. Will this create longer wait times for repair and maintenance? Today’s guest joins us to talk about ways to bring more people in, and for businesses to find the right employees. Will it get worse before it gets better? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E862 May 01, 2026 63 min 92 annotations

7.3 and 6.0 Owners - This is the Future of Tuning

Power Hungry Performance joins us to discuss new tuning options that just hit the market - and more about to roll out! From tuning with the Edge CTS3, to your phone and data-logging, it’s all about to change for 7.3 and 6.0 owners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E861 May 01, 2026 64 min 156 annotations

Did the EPA Just Legalize DEF Deletes? Kory Willis & Lawyer Explain

The EPA recently announced changes to DEF systems on diesel engines. Social media was ablaze with talk of deletes being legal. Kory Willis from PPEI and Attorney Stewart Cables explain what happened and what it means for diesel truck owners. We also ask listeners questions about loopholes for deletes, why some shops are marketing them, and more. Stewart D. Cables is a founding partner of Hassan + Cables. Stewart specializes in general business representation and a variety of trial work. Stewart's practice areas include complex civil litigation, employment law, criminal and DUI defense, transactional work for corporations and LLCs, and counsel for non-profit entities. Stewart Cables E: [email protected] P: 303-625-1025 ext.2 https://www.hassancables.com/stewart-d-cables -------------------------------- Disclaimer: This video is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice of any kind. No one should act, or refrain from acting, based solely upon the information provided on this podcast, without first seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E860 Apr 20, 2026 82 min 175 annotations

Major Flaw with Diesel Fuel Isn’t Talked About Enough

FASS Fuel Systems joins us today to talk about a major issue with fuel that can rob fuel economy, performance, and might be destroying injection pumps. We also discuss a recent trip they made to the Arctic Ocean and keeping the fuel flowing at -35F. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S10E859 Apr 18, 2026 77 min 182 annotations

Overheating, Coolant Leaks & Corrosion

This time of year is when trailers come out and trucks start towing more in warmer temperatures. It’s also when a lot of owners see coolant drips on the ground, rising engine temps, and other issues. Rislone joins us today to talk about what can cause these issues, proper maintenance, and products that can help in an emergency. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

S8E858 Apr 17, 2026 59 min 173 annotations