Aug 29

Love3

FAQ – Clean Truck Check – HD I/M Program

By DES Tech News DES News

In 2024, California is continuing the roll-out of a stricter emissions testing program called Clean Truck Check. To keep non-compliant trucks off the road, emissions testing for diesel vehicles will now be more stringent than ever.

This new program will include testing for on-highway commercial trucks, RVs registered in California, and other qualifying personal vehicles and agriculture equipment.

We’ve compiled some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), as well as helpful links so you can learn what needs to be done to operate your diesel vehicle in California.

LEARN MORE

Clean Truck Check – FAQ:

What does the Clean Truck Check test consist of?

Testing for the Clean Truck Check program means you will need to have one of two potential tests in order to determine compliance.

If your vehicle is OBD equipped (2013 and newer) we will perform the HD I/M test and the results will be sent to CARB electronically.
If your vehicle is older than 2013 we will perform a functional inspection and PSIP test (often referred to as an opacity test) to determine if you are compliant. To perform the test we will need access to the engine data plate, exhaust system, and throttle.

What else do I need to do?

In addition to having the physical vehicle testing done, you will need to use the online CARB portal in order to pay the annual fee. https://cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov/

Does Diesel Emissions Service offer Clean Truck Check – HD I/M testing?

Yes. We have locations in Redding, CA, and Sacramento, CA where CARB-certified staff and equipment are available to perform the testing.

Who has to participate in the CTC – VIS program?

Essentially all diesel/hybrid vehicles with a GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) over 14,000lbs will be required to stay compliant with the Clean Truck Check program. You can typically find the GVWR of your vehicle on the driver’s side door jamb label. Even non-commercial vehicles such as RVs are subject to this program if the vehicle is registered in CA.

Which vehicles are NOT subject to the regulation?

The heavy-duty vehicle types shown below are exempt from the regulation:

Zero-emission vehicles
Military tactical vehicles (title 13, CCR, section 1905)
Emergency vehicles (California Vehicle Code section 165 or California Health and Safety Code section 1797.84)
Historical vehicles (authorized by California Vehicle Code section 5004)
New vehicles with engines certified to the most stringent optional, NOx standard (less than or equal to 0.01 g/bhp-hr) -Only during the first four years of Clean Truck Check implementation (2023-2027)
Motorhomes registered outside of California
Vehicles operating under an experimental permit (authorized by California Health and Safety Code section 43014)

What is my deadline for testing?

Starting January of 2025, CA-registered vehicles will have a deadline based on the vehicle registration date. The deadline for out-of-state vehicles will be based on the last digit of the VIN. See Table II in the link below (https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/resources/documents/agricultural-vehicles-california-motor-homes-annual-compliance-requirements)

Important Milestones Diagram

NEXT STEPS

Clean Truck Check is now in full effect. To ensure your truck meets California’s emissions standards, it may be randomly selected for roadside testing using emissions monitoring devices. If your truck is flagged for potential high emissions, you’ll receive a Notice to Submit to Testing.

What to Do:

Schedule a Test: You have 30 days to get your truck tested at a certified emissions testing facility.
Make Repairs: If necessary, address any issues to ensure your truck passes the test.
Avoid Penalties: Failure to comply with the Notice to Submit to Testing or emissions standards may result in additional testing and penalties.

2024 Vehicle Compliance Deadline

All vehicles must meet compliance requirements between July 1st and December 31st, 2024. To demonstrate compliance, owners must:

Pay the 2024 Annual Compliance Fee: This fee is due by the compliance deadline.
Clear Outstanding Violations: Any unresolved enforcement violations must be addressed before the deadline.

Failure to comply may result in penalties or restrictions on vehicle use. Be proactive!

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Stay in the Loop

Keep up-to-date on Clean Truck Check regulations and requirements to avoid penalties and even DMV registration stops.

Detailed Information: Learn more about Clean Truck Check by visiting: Clean Truck Check
Stay Updated: Subscribe to receive automatic email updates on Clean Truck Check implementation and other activities.
Contact CARB: If you have additional questions, contact staff at mhdim@arb.ca.gov. CARB also has a hotline (1-866-634-3735) that provides compliance assistance for multiple CARB regulations.

DES can help you.

DES has experienced, CARB-certified technicians and the proper testing equipment to perform this service quickly at these 2 locations:

- Redding, CA
- Sacramento, CA

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has the expertise, diesel technicians, and facilities to service your aftertreatment systems successfully.

Most of our locations feature a complete DPF Cleaning facility, aftertreatment diagnostic/testing, and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for quick servicing of your emissions system.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Jun 28

Love3

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the “left coast”.

Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And where to have it done?

There are a few things to consider when setting up your plan for DPF cleaning. We will cover recommended DPF cleaning intervals, contributing factors, and common methods.

Plus we answer the age-old question “Can I just clean it myself?”

Read on!

LET'S GET STARTED!

Top 5 Factors Affecting DPF Cleaning Intervals

Ever wonder what things affect how often your DPF needs cleaning? Here are the top 5 things we’ve seen that influence DPF cleaning frequency:

City vs. Highway: Stop-and-go traffic and low speeds in city driving conditions can clog up your DPF much faster than highway hauls. Incomplete DPF regeneration cycles lead to more frequent cleanings. Cold weather also has an impact on DPF cleaning needs.
Heavy Haulers vs. Light Trucks: Big rigs, buses, and heavy machinery working hard all day tend to need DPF cleaning more often than lighter-duty trucks.
Watch those Fluids: Cheap oil and low-quality diesel with high sulfur can clog up your DPF with impurities. Use good quality fluids to extend DPF cleaning intervals. Keep a sharp eye out for upstream leaks in the engine that can damage the aftertreatment components.
Maintenance is Key: Irregular engine and DPF preventative care can cause all kinds of issues. When DPFs are neglected their efficiency and capacity decreases proportionally.
DPF Size: Smaller DPFs can fill up quicker than larger ones, requiring cleaning more often.

Sintering – The Silent DPF Killer: Unseen within the filter, ash can build up and sometimes hardens into a cement-like substance called “hard ash sintering”. This generally can’t be undone, reduces DPF efficiency & will lead to a filter replacement. Frequent, & properly performed DPF cleaning helps prevent sintering as does good upstream maintenance.

Recommendations for DPF Cleaning Frequency:

Keeping your truck’s Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clean is key to efficient operation. Nobody likes getting stranded with a derate, or worse costly repairs. But how often should you clean that DPF? There’s no magic number, but here are 5 things to consider:

Inspections are Key: Check your aftertreatment system and DPF regularly for signs of soot buildup. Catching it early saves you time and money.
The Manufacturer Knows Best (Sometimes): Your truck’s manual has recommended cleaning intervals based on its make and model. Remember, these are assuming ideal operating situations, so adjust based on your actual driving conditions.
Clean During Maintenance: Combining DPF cleaning into your other routine maintenance can minimize your truck’s downtime. The DPF can be cleaned while the truck is undergoing its other maintenance.
Warning Lights Mean Take Action: Modern trucks have DPF warning lights for a reason. Don’t ignore them! A lit light means your DPF needs attention.
Your Driving Matters: Stop-and-go traffic and heavy loads clog your DPF faster. If you spend a lot of time in the city or haul heavy equipment, consider more frequent cleaning. Don’t compare your cleaning schedule to others. Tailor it to how you use your truck.

At the end of the day, smart, regular DPF cleaning can help prevent those frustrating, and unexpected breakdowns.

Should I DIY or Use a DPF Cleaning Service?

These are a few of the “solutions“ that often come up when searching for How to Clean a DPF “on the cheap”:

Diesel Fuel Additives: These additives are mixed with your fuel to help reduce soot and ash buildup in the DPF. They can also lower the temperature needed for regeneration, making the cleaning process more efficient. Adding something to your fuel system besides fuel can be a roll of the dice. Is it worth the gamble?
Liquid DPF Cleaning Solutions: These products often promise to reduce soot buildup quickly and easily. They’re typically sprayed into the DPF through an access port, or the DPF might need to be removed and soaked in the solution. The aim is to loosen and dissolve soot and ash deposits, making regeneration or rinsing easier. This might work for a DPF that’s not super dirty, but if it’s clogged you might need to repeat the process multiple times or worse get poor results. There’s also the issue of proper disposal of the dirty water runoff.
Power-washing: This is NOT recommended! It’s very easy to damage your DPF with high water pressure. This can break apart the filter brick, damage the insulation, and remove precious metals from DOCs. Replacing a damaged filter is much more expensive than professional cleaning. Simply put, you’re taking a big risk by power-washing a DPF.

Pro-Level DPF Cleaning Methods:

Aqueous DPF Cleaning: These systems use water to wash the soot and ash from a DPF, often with a pre-soak stage. Then the filter is dried before re-installation onto a vehicle. These systems are typically faster (a few hours in most cases) than other methods and better accommodate odd-shaped units. Learn more about the Aqueous cleaning process here.

Thermal DPF Cleaning: The traditional “bake & blow” method has been around the longest. It uses high temps to burn/loosen any soot remaining in the filter to ash, once the baking process is finished – often overnight – the filter needs to be cooled down and the ash blown out of the filter. Turnaround time is usually around 24hrs. Learn about the Thermal cleaning process here.

Ultrasonic DPF Cleaning: The new kid on the block for DPF cleaning. It submerges the filter in a solution and uses sound waves to blast away ash. This method is powerful yet gentle on most filters. While effective, ultrasonic setups are expensive. Avoid cheap setups that might not be up to the task.

This article goes deeper into 3 of the main industrial-level DPF Cleaning techniques.

Why Professional DPF CLEANING matters

Pro-level DPF cleaning facilities offer high levels of expertise and equipment that provide thorough and efficient DPF cleaning. These facilities are equipped with specialized machines, such as industrial thermal ovens, pulse cleaners, aqueous cleaning systems, etc. designed to remove accumulated soot and ash effectively.

Additionally, professional technicians have experience in removing, installing, and handling all types of DPFs. They are well-trained to follow proper cleaning, safety, and inspection procedures before and after. In the long run, having your DPF cleaned by the experts saves time and money versus cleaning it yourself and potentially spending thousands of dollars on a replacement.

Parting Thoughts

In conclusion, we’ve covered the common factors, and established guidelines for how often to clean a DPF. Plus, there are several ways you can approach having your DPF cleaned.

Your truck is your livelihood, so we recommend avoiding the DIY route. The aftertreatment systems on today’s trucks are complex, precision-tuned, and interconnected. It’s best left to the professionals.

We can help you with that. At DES, we’ve cleaned thousands of DPFs over the last decade or so, up and down the West Coast. We manufacture DPF cleaning machines as well under our manufacturing brand, Filtertherm.

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has the expertise, diesel technicians, and facilities to service your aftertreatment systems successfully.

Most of our locations feature a complete DPF Cleaning facility, aftertreatment diagnostic/testing, and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for quick servicing of your emissions system.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Jan 04

Love3

Clean Truck Check Reporting Deadline Extended by CARB

By DES Tech News DES News, Emissions Industry Related

Clean Truck Check Reporting Deadline Extended by CARB to Jan 31, 2024

Latest News:

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) announced it is extending the reporting deadline to Jan. 31, 2024. The original deadline was Dec. 31, 2023, for fleets & owners of trucks operating in California to get registered in the Clean Truck Check database.

Background on the Clean Truck Check program:

The Clean Truck Check program aims to lower even further emissions from diesel vehicles that operate in California. This program, formerly known as the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance Program, targets heavy-duty vehicles like trucks and buses, ensuring they’re running clean and efficiently.

One key difference is that the Clean Truck Check regulations apply to all trucks operating in the state, not just trucks based in California.

Visit the CARB Clean Truck Check page

MORE INFO

How it works – Three phases:

Phase 1 (January 2023): Special sensors on the road monitor exhaust emissions, identifying high emitters.
Phase 2 (October 2023 – NOW JANUARY 2024): Truck owners register their vehicles in the Clean Truck Check database and pay a $30 annual fee. This ensures all trucks operating in California are known and accounted for.
Phase 3 (July 2024 and beyond): Similar to car Smog Checks, regular emissions testing becomes mandatory for most heavy-duty vehicles, but more often.

Trucks made after 2013 have the on-board tech needed for the new emissions rules. Older trucks will still need regular “smoke testing” for now. Most modern trucks can meet the rules with downloads of onboard diagnostics data from their existing systems at the correct intervals.

Who does CTC apply to?

Nearly all non-gasoline vehicles weighing over 14,000 pounds operating in California.

Are there any exceptions?

Yes, the Clean Truck Check program does not apply to:

Zero-tailpipe-emission trucks.
Military tactical vehicles.
Authorized emergency vehicles.
Motorhomes registered outside of California.
Vehicles operating under an experimental permit.
Historical vehicles.
Gasoline vehicles.

Goals:

Cleaner air: Reduced emissions mean healthier communities, especially for those living near busy highways and ports.
Level playing field: Everyone gets a chance to operate clean trucks, fostering fair competition within the industry.
Cost savings: Regular maintenance and repairs can prevent costly breakdowns and extend vehicle lifespan.

What to do now:

If you own a heavy-duty diesel vehicle that operates in CA: Register it in the Clean Truck Check database by January 31, 2024, and pay the $30 fee.
Stay informed: Visit the Clean Truck Check website for updates and resources: here.

Again, if you operate in California this applies to you. Remote monitoring is already in place to find high emitters. The deadline to register for Clean Truck Check has been extended to January 31^st, 2024. Register your truck and pay the fee by then to avoid penalties. Proof of regular testing starts in 2024, so get informed and keep your trucks running clean!

Clean Truck Check Reporting Deadline Extended by CARB - Go Deeper

Here’s a deeper dive into California’s Clean Truck Check program:

Enforcement:

Roadside monitors are looking for high emitters. If flagged, you will get a “Notice to Submit to Testing” letter. You will need to fix your truck and pass an emissions test within 30 days, or face penalties.

Random checks: Enforcement officers are on the lookout for non-compliant trucks.

Testing Frequency:

2013 and newer trucks: Twice-yearly emissions tests using approved telematics devices or scanners. After three years, testing frequency doubles to four times a year. Results will have to be submitted to CARB.

Pre-2013 trucks: Twice-yearly opacity tests (smog check) and visual inspections for emission system tampering.

Testing Schedules:

Trucks/vehicles registered in California: Due dates are based on the month of CA DMV registration date (e.g., March 31 and September 30 for a truck registered on March 31).

Out-of-state trucks: Due dates are based on the last digit of the VIN (e.g., March 31 and September 30 for a VIN ending in “5”).

Important Dates:

January 31, 2024: Register all trucks in the Clean Truck Check program and pay the $30 fee.

July 2024: Passing compliance tests becomes mandatory for trucks with deadlines on or after this date.

Not Just Truck Owners:

Freight contractors and brokers: Check compliance documents and keep records.

Seaports and railyards: Ensure only compliant trucks enter/operate and document non-compliant ones.

More Details and Resources:

For official information and more details visit the California Clean Truck Check online portal, CTC-VIS.

The Clean Truck Check Program Page offers helpful resources, including training videos in English, Spanish, and Punjabi. You can watch a recording of a past training webinar or attend the upcoming webinar.

UPDATE 2024-08-19:

Two CARB webinars were held via Zoom. Interested parties must register to participate. CARB staff will record one of these webinars and post it on the Clean Truck Check Reporting page. Please register for just the one meeting you wish to attend.

Date: Thursday, April 25, 2024
Time: 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: This webinar registration is closed.

or

Date: Tuesday, May 14, 2024
Time: 8:30 a.m. – noon
Location: This webinar registration is closed.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Jul 06

Love3

Updated deadlines for Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program Blog article

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program Deadlines Approaching

By DES Tech News Emissions Industry Related

UPDATED INFO!

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program Deadlines Approaching

If you operate in the Portland metro area and own an older medium- or heavy-duty diesel vehicle, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest emissions requirements to ensure that you remain in compliance. In this post, we provide up-to-date info on the upcoming deadlines and which vehicles will be impacted.

If you are a regular reader of our blog, you may recall our previous post “Breaking Down Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program”. Since then, the Oregon Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program has continued to evolve in its efforts to reduce pollution and improve air quality in the state.

Read on!

View fact sheet

MORE DETAILS

About Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program requires diesel vehicles to meet certain emission standards, which vary depending on the vehicle’s weight, age, and usage. The goal of the program is to reduce the amount of nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions produced by diesel engines, which are major contributors to air pollution and have negative health impacts.

One aspect of the program is the requirement for retrofitting older diesel vehicles with emission-reduction technology. This can include adding diesel particulate filters (DPFs), diesel oxidation catalysts (DOCs), or other emission control devices to existing vehicles. The program provides financial incentives to help offset the cost of retrofitting, making it more accessible to vehicle owners.

Program Benefits

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program has significant benefits, including reducing the impact of diesel emissions on public health and the environment. However, retrofitting a diesel engine can be expensive, especially for small businesses and municipalities. Therefore, the DEQ’s Diesel Emissions Mitigation Grant Program provides grant funding to support the purchase of retrofit systems, as well as cleaner-burning engines and diesel equipment replacements.

Eligible vehicle owners can receive grant funding that covers up to 100% of the retrofit cost.

Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program Deadline Info

Important Deadlines

However, it is important to note that some deadlines for compliance have already passed. For example, as of January 1st, 2023, owners of 1996 or older diesel vehicles may not be able to register their vehicles unless they have been retrofitted to comply with emission standards.

By January 1st, 2025, medium-duty trucks manufactured before 2009 and heavy-duty trucks manufactured before 2006 must comply with emission standards to be registered. Otherwise, they won’t be eligible for registration.

The medium-duty category encompasses box trucks, flatbeds, and service trucks with a GVWR between 14,001 to 26,000 lbs.
Heavy-duty vehicles such as tractor-trailer trucks have a GVWR exceeding 26,000 lbs.

Hence, it’s crucial to plan and ensure compliance before the deadline if you own a truck in these categories.

The Retrofit Process

DES Portland will assess your vehicle and determine which retrofit system is best suited to it. Once the retrofit system is installed, the application for DEQ certification is submitted, which shows that the retrofit meets the requirement of at least an 85% reduction of emissions. After receiving electronic DEQ certification, vehicle owners can renew their registration with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

At Diesel Emissions Services (DES), we have a proven track record of installing over 18,000 retrofits across the US, including California. Our Portland, OR location is fully equipped with a DPF cleaning facility and a comprehensive inventory of aftertreatment parts to service emissions systems.

Our experienced retrofit installers have the knowledge and equipment to cater to all your retrofit needs. We take pride in serving heavy-duty diesel fleets and equipment operators in Oregon to help create a cleaner and healthier environment for generations to come.

Be Proactive - Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program

Take Action Sooner Than Later

To avoid any last-minute rush and potential non-compliance, it is recommended to start the process of scheduling your retrofit as soon as possible. It is important to keep in mind that the DEQ certification process can take up to three months, so do not wait until the deadline is near to begin the process.

Taking timely action should give you the necessary time to complete the retrofit process and avoid any penalties for non-compliance.

Be Proactive!

The Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program in Oregon is an important initiative that aims to reduce harmful emissions from diesel vehicles and improve air quality in the state. While some compliance deadlines have already passed, there are still opportunities to retrofit older diesel vehicles to comply with emission standards. It is important to stay up to date with the program’s requirements and deadlines and take proactive steps to ensure that your diesel vehicle is compliant.

If you own a medium-duty truck older than 2009 or a heavy-duty truck older than 2006, make sure to take action now to meet the upcoming 2025 deadline.

By doing so, you can help contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

Don’t wait to begin the process! Scheduling your retrofit can take time, and DEQ can take up to three months to provide certification.

Key dates for 2024 for grant funding:

The estimated dates of the grant application and deadlines are below. These are subject to change based on the timing and availability of funds and the schedule of implementation tasks.

Feb. 1, 2024 – Grant program opens for applications
May 30, 2024 – Grant program closes for applications
Aug. 15, 2024 – Grant awards announced
Dec. 2, 2024 – Funding for projects becomes available

Need more information?

You can also learn about DEQ Oregon’s grant program and how to secure funding to improve your fleet’s emission reductions and bring those older diesel vehicles into compliance by visiting the Oregon Retrofit Compliance page.

If you have any retrofit-related questions, feel free to contact Jeff Wells, our Retrofit Manager at DES Portland, by calling 844-556-3150 or emailing info@des.direct.

DES Portland can help you plan for these upcoming regulations and vehicle restrictions arriving in both 2025 and 2029.

To learn about DEQ Oregon’s Grant program go on over to our Oregon Diesel Grants page. Learn all about how to apply for retrofit grants. Get help reducing your fleet’s emissions and getting those older diesel vehicles into compliance.

Contact our Retrofit Manager, Jeff Wells. Jeff is a trained retrofit facilitator and main contact for retrofits. He is based in Oregon to expressly help fleets and operators with installation questions, estimates, and pre-application assistance.

Again call Jeff W at 844-556-3150 or email info@des.direct

We are honored to assist heavy-duty diesel fleets and equipment operators in the State of Oregon to help improve air quality and the environment for future generations.

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has the expertise, diesel technicians, and facilities to successfully install your fleet’s retrofits. We’ve installed well over 18k retrofits in California and across the United States. We have relationships with a wide range of approved retrofit suppliers.

Our Portland, OR location also features a complete DPF Cleaning facility and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for servicing your emissions systems for years to come.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Mar 20

Love3

What You Need to Know About Oregon’s Diesel Emissions Mitigation Grant Program

By DES Tech News DES News, Emissions Industry Related

UPDATE: The window for 2024 grant applications in Oregon is: Feb 1 to May 30, 2024. ACT NOW!

The state of Oregon is offering a grant program that could help you if you own an older medium or heavy-duty commercial vehicle with a diesel engine.

Millions of dollars in funding are available, but to benefit you need to act quickly!

What You Need to Know!

Owners of medium and heavy-duty commercial vehicles with diesel engines in the State of Oregon are eligible for a grant that will pay for a retrofit on their vehicles. This is an exciting opportunity to reduce the harmful diesel emissions your vehicle emits.

This program is funded by the Volkswagen Diesel Emissions Environmental Mitigation Trust, a settlement that is designed to reduce emissions from older, more polluting medium and heavy-duty diesel trucks and equipment currently operating in Oregon.

Again, the dates for submitting your 2024 grant applications are Feb 1st to May 30th, 2024. It can be a process, don’t wait to get your vehicle(s) assessed and the paperwork completed.

In a video provided by the Oregon DEQ, they described why this program is so important:

“The goal of the Oregon DEQ is to establish a transparent and accessible program that measurably reduces diesel emissions in Oregon in the places where it is needed most.”

The State of Oregon will be receiving a total of $72.9 million dollars over a 10-year period between 2017 and 2027. All the funds must be used by October of 2027, or the State of Oregon will be forced to return unused funds, so there is a level of urgency to have vehicle owners apply and get their vehicles retrofitted.

To date, the State of Oregon has allocated, $10.9 million on administrative costs related to managing the program, and between $18 – 22 million on the school bus program (SB 1008). They have spent $8.8 million on 439 school buses so far and are planning on retrofitting 450 school buses by the end of the year.

There is approximately $40 million dollars left in the fund and the plan is to spend $8 million a year over 5-years until all the funds have been spent. This funding is for public sector projects and if your vehicle is eligible will cover 100% of the exhaust control retrofit.

Which Vehicles Qualify for the Program?

Eligibility has been established by the Oregon DEQ and is focused on vehicles that have older diesel engines. These are generally vehicles that pre-date modern diesel emissions systems that have since been mandated by the EPA.

Eligible Commercial Vehicles:

Eligible trucks would be 1992-2009 engine year models.

Eligible buses would be 2009 or older, class 4-8, and a GVWR greater than 14,000 lbs and used for transporting people.

Eligible diesel equipment would be one in the following categories: large trucks, buses, freight switchers, ferries and tugs, medium trucks, airport ground support equipment, forklifts, or port cargo handling equipment.

An eligible Off-Road vehicle means a diesel engine of more than 25 horsepower that is not designed to propel a motor vehicle on public highways.

There is a short window of time to apply for grants in 2024. Oregon DEQ is accepting 2024 grants for diesel-powered vehicles between Feb 1st and May 30th, 2024.

Learn more about the grant from the official Oregon DEQ page.

Why Should You Get a Retrofit Done?

The following information was taken from Oregon.gov.

HB 2007 establishes deadlines, after which certain older model, diesel engine vehicles cannot be titled or registered in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington Counties unless they meet retrofit requirements.

The gross vehicle weight rating for diesel vehicles categorized in HB 2007 are:

Medium-duty (14,000 – 26,000 lbs.)

Heavy-duty (>26,000 lbs.)

Gross vehicle weight rating means the value specified by the manufacturer as the maximum loaded weight of a single or a combination vehicle.

The legislation allows a vehicle to be registered or titled after the phase-out deadlines if it is equipped with DEQ/EQC-certified retrofit technology. The legislation also exempts certain vehicle types from phase-out deadlines. For vehicles regulated by HB 2007, DEQ will complete a rulemaking to establish criteria for certification of approved retrofit technologies by 2021.

The engine model years and deadlines for registration of approved retrofit options are:

Jan. 1, 2023: Publicly and privately owned medium- and heavy-duty trucks with an engine model year 1996 or older cannot be registered

Jan. 1, 2025: Medium-duty trucks with an engine model year 2009 or older cannot be titled and heavy-duty trucks with an engine model year 2006 or older cannot be titled.

Jan. 1, 2029: Publicly and privately owned medium-duty trucks with an engine model year 2009 or older cannot be registered. Publicly owned heavy-duty trucks with an engine model year 2009 or older cannot be registered. Privately owned heavy-duty trucks with an engine model year 2006 or older cannot be registered.

We Will Take You Step-by-Step Through the Process

Diesel Emissions Service is your partner for the application process. We’ve sent additional personnel to our location in Oregon to help you navigate the grant application process, provide vehicle evaluations and estimates for the retrofits.

With over 18,000 emission control devices installed by our expert teams, we know retrofits. We can assist in choosing the right retrofit for your application, then our professional installation crews will install the system to ensure peak performance and durability.

There are 4 steps you need to take:

Step 1: Contact DES to schedule an appointment. Our phone number is 1-844-556-3150 or you can email us.

Step 2: We will perform a Pre-Assessment and install a data logger on each vehicle you want to apply for the grant with.

Step 3: Complete the data/forms required by the Oregon DEQ.

Step 4: Once data logging is complete, we will give you a quote to submit with your application package.

NOTE: The window for 2024 grant applications is Feb 1 to May 30th, 2024. Don’t wait to get started – these things take time.

Take the First Step

Owner-operators, fleets, municipalities, and construction companies looking to apply for these funds should contact Diesel Emissions Service and schedule a call or site visit to help with the application phase.

Again our phone number is:

Or you can email us.

Visit our Oregon Grant page for more information on the application process.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

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June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Jan 03

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Clean Air Construction program in Portland Metro area article

What you need to know about the Clean Air Construction Program

By DES Tech News DES News, Emissions Industry Related

Retrofit assessment vouchers now available

The Clean Air Construction (CAC) Program.

Public agencies in the Portland Metro Area have partnered together to reduce diesel emissions from construction projects through the Clean Air Construction (CAC) Program.
These emissions reductions will be accomplished in 2 ways:

1. Enacting idle reduction procedures on construction sites. A phase-in schedule that restricts older diesel engines from operating onsite, requiring retrofit or upgrades for non-compliant equipment.

2. This regional program requires contractors on applicable projects to register equipment online. Compliance with the CAC requirements is verified in several ways, including onsite audits.

There are various state grant programs available to assist with the costs of retrofitting your older diesel construction vehicles. CAC also offers free technical assistance to small firms and COBID-certified contractors

Learn more about CAC requirements on the program web page, and contact cleanairconstruction@portlandoregon.gov to learn if the CAC standards impact your work.

Participating in reducing diesel particulate matter emissions will provide Portland residents with better air quality, eliminate potential noncompliance fines, and see the real-time results of your efforts.

CAC Phase-In Schedule

The phase-in schedule describes requirements for all diesel-powered nonroad construction equipment greater than 25 horsepower and all on-road dump trucks and concrete mixers used on public construction projects.

All equipment working on a CAC project will need to be registered in CAC’s online compliance database, The Yard.

Schedule Your Fleet Assessment Today!

The City of Portland is offering free fleet assessments and compliance plans for COBID-certified and small firms in light of the Clean Air Construction Standard (CAC) requirements that went into effect on January 1, 2022.

Support You’ll Receive

Review of equipment and vehicles that are subject to the CAC regulations
A compliance plan that indicates the date by which your equipment can be used on a CAC site, and which equipment can be upgraded for extended compliance
An inventory of equipment that will help you meet CAC requirements, including registration in the CAC database
Most of the information needed to apply for future grant opportunities.

GET MORE INFO & ASSISTANCE

CAC Retrofit Assessment Voucher Program

One way to comply with Clean Air Construction requirements is to install and maintain an engine retrofit. Retrofitting may be appropriate for older equipment with engines manufactured 10-15 years ago or more. For some equipment, a retrofit can be very effective at reducing diesel emissions from engine exhaust.

Who can apply for a retrofit assessment voucher?

COBID-certified or small construction firms that currently perform work as a subcontractor or a prime contractor with an agency in the Clean Air Construction Collaborative may apply.

A voucher provided by the Clean Air Construction Program covers the cost of the retrofit assessment.

What does the retrofit assessment provide?

An assessment is the first step to determine if engine retrofit is a suitable solution for a particular vehicle/piece of equipment. If a retrofit is suitable, a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) may be recommended, and associated costs will be outlined.

In some cases, the assessment may find that retrofit is not suitable. If this is the case, the Clean Air Construction program will help you identify other compliance pathways.

Who conducts the retrofit assessment?

Engine retrofit specialists at Diesel Emissions Service (DES) provide this service in the voucher program. Diesel Emissions Service is a leader in the application of retrofit technologies and has installed over 18,000 emission control devices since 2006. DES is authorized by manufacturers to do this work for all major makes/models of nonroad and on-road diesel vehicles/equipment.

Diesel Emissions Services your retrofit specialists

How do I request a retrofit assessment voucher?

To request a voucher send an email to: cleanairconstruction@portlandoregon.gov

In the email, please include:
- Name of business
- The agency/agencies your business holds contracts within the Clean Air Construction collaborative
- Primary contact name, email, and phone number
- If COBID certified, please include the certification number and type
- If not COBID certified, please list bonding capacity (for small businesses)
Include the equipment/vehicle registration number (or Equipment ID in the absence of a registration number) from The Yard for each piece of equipment/vehicle requested.

What happens after I make the request for a voucher?

After eligibility is verified:

The Clean Air Construction Program will provide a voucher code and contact information for the retrofit assessment specialists.
Appointments for the assessment can then be scheduled directly with the retrofit assessment specialists (Diesel Emissions Service) at this point.

What can I expect during the retrofit assessment?

Non-road vehicles:

The technician will record all necessary information about the equipment and determine whether it is safe to install a retrofit while the machine is in operation. DES will then decide if the equipment is suitable for a Passive system, Active system, or Diesel Oxidation Catalyst based on their review. If a Passive system can be utilized, a data logger will be installed to track the temperature of the engine exhaust. The data logger will be removed once the required operating hours have been completed. The results will be available within one week.

On-road vehicles:

During the appointment, a technician will document all necessary information about the vehicle and determine the best location to install the retrofit. A temporary data logger will be installed in the exhaust stream to monitor the temperature of the engine exhaust, which will provide insight into the vehicle’s duty cycle. Once the required time for testing has been completed, the truck will return to the location to have the data logger removed. The results of the test will be available within one week.

On trucks that cannot use a passive system, the same process applies but a data logger will not be installed.

What’s the next step after the retrofit assessment?

The vendor will send a recommendation report for diesel emissions reduction technologies to the contact email of each participating firm.

The Clean Air Construction coordinator will then follow up with any additional information or resources about the report recommendations. Grants or other resources to help offset the cost of retrofits may be available. The coordinator can provide more information about these resources.

More Information About Clean Air Construction & Equipment Registration

FAQ Section:

Tap/click the questions to expand/view the answer.

When we are assigned a project in CAC’s The Yard database, we have to add our subcontractors to the project. Do all our subcontractors need to register, or just the ones that have equipment that falls into the registration categories?

Just your subcontractors that have (or rent) equipment in the categories covered by the Clean Air Construction standard need to register: all non-road equipment (except hand tools) and all on-road dump trucks and concrete mixers – this includes any non-diesel equipment in these categories.

For example, a flagging subcontractor with just pickup trucks does not need to register.

What is an Engine Family Name? (Finding Diesel Engine Emission Certification Information)

The Engine Family Name (EFN) (may also be called emission family name/number) is a 10-to-12-character alpha-numeric code assigned by the engine manufacturer that allows specific engine certification information to be determined. It can be found on the engine control label (ECL).

For more information on how to find the EFN and other engine details needed to register your equipment in The Yard, check out: Finding Engine Details for Equipment Registration in The Yard

I registered my on-road dump truck in The Yard. Why didn't I receive a registration decal for it?

The mailing of registration decals for CAC-applicable on-road vehicles will be delayed until late 2023. This is because the CAC requirements for on-road vehicles will not take effect until January 1, 2024. Delaying the mail date of the decals will extend their lifespan, reducing the need for replacements due to wear and tear.

I attested my CAC-applicable equipment in The Yard, but I have not received my registration decals yet. How long does it take to receive them once I attest my equipment?

After an equipment owner registers and attests their equipment in The Yard, the CAC Program Coordinator reviews the registration to confirm the compliance status. Once the equipment has been confirmed, it is added to a queue for decal assignment and mailing. This queue is processed every two weeks. You will receive a notice via The Yard when your registration decal(s) have been processed for mailing.

If more than two weeks have passed, please check your messages/notifications in The Yard for any requests for additional equipment details needed to confirm the equipment’s compliance status.

What if the engine label on my engine has worn off or I otherwise do not have enough information to complete the engine data fields when registering my equipment?

Complete as much information as you can and email the Clean Air Construction Program Coordinator for further assistance. You can also request replacement engine labels for your equipment by contacting the original engine manufacturer or equipment dealer and providing the engine serial number.

What are the consequences for non-compliance with the Clean Air Construction requirements?

Each Clean Air Construction partner agency has its own process for non-compliance based on its procurement rules.

Please reference your contract with the specific agency to understand the consequence if a piece of equipment on the project site is found to be non-compliant.

As a subcontractor, am I responsible for ensuring any of my subcontractors or suppliers register their equipment in The Yard?

The prime contractor is ultimately responsible for ensuring compliance with Clean Air Construction requirements, as they are the entity that signed the contract with the relevant agency. Therefore, it is the prime contractor’s duty to ensure compliance with these requirements.

What the prime contractor’s expectations are around who is responsible for getting applicable Tier 2 subcontractors’/suppliers’ equipment registered is something that the prime and the first-Tier subcontractors need to work out within their agreements.

Within The Yard, any Equipment Owner User can invite another Equipment Owner to register their equipment in The Yard, so that functionality is accessible to subcontractors.

What does the Clean Air Construction (CAC) initiative mean for my business?

If you are looking to work on an applicable public agency’s construction project valued over that agency’s applicable CAC threshold on or after January 1, 2020, you need to be aware of the CAC requirements. CAC requirements include two components:

Idle reduction requirements that went into effect on January 1, 2020.
Phased-in diesel engine requirements – beginning with the oldest and dirtiest engines – went into effect on January 1, 2022.

See the Clean Air Construction Overview & Requirements page for specifics on applicable agency thresholds and the phase-in schedule.

What types of construction projects does the CAC initiative apply to?

The specific type of construction projects the CAC requirements apply to will vary by applicable public agency, depending on that agency’s applicable contract dollar threshold and how construction was defined in a specific agency’s CAC adoption document. See the Clean Air Construction Overview & Requirements page for specifics.

Why are public agencies in the Portland Metro area adopting Clean Air Construction requirements?

In the Portland Metro area, levels of pollution from diesel engines exceed the State’s adopted health benchmarks. These engines produce fine, sooty particles that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing negative impacts on the cardiovascular and nervous systems and acting as a known carcinogen. Despite the significant health risks, the State of Oregon does not regulate diesel particulate matter, disproportionately affecting the residents and workers in the Portland Metro area.

To address this issue and improve air quality, public agencies in the Portland Metro area are implementing requirements from the CAC in their projects to reduce the negative health impacts of diesel pollution.

Why does the idling requirement allow engines to idle for 5 minutes?

Diesel engines require a period of idling to cool down after periods of heavy operation in order to maintain their lifespan and performance. Shutting down a diesel engine before it has cooled down can cause damage and negatively impact its performance. The CAC’s nonroad idling requirement aligns with the State’s 5-minute idling requirement for on-road vehicles in the public right of way, which aims to reduce the negative impact of idling on engine life and performance.

Do idling requirements apply to trucks?

The CAC idling requirements only apply to nonroad diesel engines. Individual public agencies adopting the CAC requirements may have additional project site idling requirements included in contract requirements as per separate ordinances, resolutions, or policies.

Isn't turning the engine on/off to avoid idling bad for the engine?

No. In fact, idling can reduce engine life and wastes fuel and money. Check out the following resources from other States:

Idle-Free California
Metro Vancouver

Why are the CAC engine requirements phased-in over so many years?

The CAC’s phase-in approach for engine requirements aims to balance the need for emissions reductions with the burden of compliance on contractors. This approach allows contractors to gradually upgrade their applicable equipment and vehicles, minimizing the impact on their business operations and competitiveness in bidding for local public projects. However, these upgrades can come at a significant cost, which is why the phase-in schedule is in place to give contractors time to plan and prepare for the necessary changes.

What if my supplier is delivering materials on a flatbed truck to the project site, are they required to meet the CAC?

The CAC requirements only apply to nonroad construction equipment and on-road cement mixers and dump trucks. Flatbed trucks and other delivery vehicles are not otherwise subject to the CAC requirements.

As a contractor, what do I need to do to demonstrate compliance?

Contractors (prime and sub-contractors, and applicable suppliers) will be required to submit to the CAC Program all requested diesel equipment/vehicle information needed to verify compliance, including confirmation that retrofit devices are maintained on the equipment in proper operating condition. Further details on the compliance process and required information will be developed as part of the program development in 2020. While details are currently being developed, it is the intent that:

upon determining compliance with the requirements, the CAC Program will issue an equipment/vehicle decal for each compliant piece of equipment/vehicle, and the decal must be displayed on the compliant equipment/vehicle at all times in a location readily visible by agency staff.
random on-site inspections by agency staff (or approved program operator) will be conducted on a project-by-project basis.
contractor and vehicle compliance information will be housed in a database accessible by all local public agencies that have adopted the CAC requirements to verify compliance across jurisdictions.

What if I can’t find a compliant piece of equipment?

Contractors may apply for exemptions to the diesel engine requirements on a per project basis in circumstances where:

The equipment/vehicle is required for an emergency (including for underground equipment operators).
The required emission control device would obscure operator lines of sight or otherwise impact worker safety, or the equipment is not able to be retrofitted with a verified emission control device, and no compliant rental equipment is available within 100 miles of the job site.
The contractor can demonstrate that due to the uniqueness of the equipment/vehicle or similar special circumstances, it is not reasonable to comply with the diesel engine requirement for a specific piece of equipment/vehicle.

How do I find out if my construction equipment or vehicle engines are subject to the CAC requirements?

Review the Compliance Options Protocol steps. The first few steps identify which construction equipment/vehicle engines are subject to the CAC requirements. See the Clean Air Construction Overview & Requirements page for specifics.

How do I determine compliance of an on-road vehicle?

Please check the model year of the engine and ensure that all exhaust control systems are functioning properly. Vehicles with engines from 2007 or later and properly functioning exhaust control systems are in compliance.

To determine compliance of nonroad equipment, how do I look up the engine Tier?

Engine tier can be looked up by knowing the engine model year and the horsepower of the equipment. Reference the EPA Nonroad Ratings/Tier Chart.

What options are available to upgrade my vehicles/equipment for compliance with the CAC requirements?

There are several options for contractors to comply with the CAC requirements. For future purchases and capital investments, contractors should:

Include CAC requirements in their plans for future vehicle/equipment purchases and replacements as vehicles and equipment reach their end of life.
Prioritize purchases of low-carbon or alternative fuel equipment and vehicles, such as electric, renewable diesel, or compressed natural gas (CNG).

To upgrade existing equipment for compliance, contractors have several options at various price points, beginning with the lowest cost options:

Rent compliant vehicle/equipment for use on the job
Retrofit vehicle/equipment with emission control devices
Repower existing vehicle/equipment with new Tier 4 engine for nonroad equipment
Replace engine with a 2007 or newer engine for on-road engines
Purchase used vehicle/equipment that was 2014 or newer nonroad or 2007 and newer on-road
Purchase new vehicle/equipment

Are there technical and financial resources to assist with the cost of upgrading my equipment?

There are technical and financial assistance resources for diesel equipment and vehicle owners to help comply with CAC requirements. For more details on grants, onsite technical assistance, and training resources, see the Clean Air Construction Assistance page.

How many public agencies have adopted the CAC requirements?

For a current list of public agencies that have adopted the CAC requirements, check the Clean Air Construction Overview & Requirements page.

What support the program will provide the contractors?

As part of the program development process in 2020, the CAC Program will determine the details of contractor support, including the minimum level of technical assistance and web-based resources that will be provided to help contractors register their vehicles/equipment and ensure CAC compliance. These resources will be made available to assist contractors in navigating the requirements of the program.

Other aspects of contractor support currently being considered and/or pursued include:

Utilization of State of Oregon VW Settlement money for grants that support diesel engine retrofits or replacements.
Assisting contractors with pursuing EPA DERA grant funds for diesel engine retrofits or replacements.

If the City of Portland determines that my equipment and vehicles are compliant with the CAC requirements, will that approval be accepted by other agencies who adopt the CAC requirements and vice versa?

Yes. One of the main goals in taking a regional approach to developing the CAC initiative is to reduce the administrative burden on contractors by not having multiple standards and multiple compliance processes.

Important Diesel Information

What is the significance of the diesel engine?

Diesel engines are a vital component of modern life, known for their high power output, fuel efficiency, and strong torque at lower speeds.

They are widely used to transport commercial goods across Oregon and the rest of the country, as well as to power a significant portion of heavy construction equipment. While new technologies offer the potential for cleaner engine alternatives, the reliable and durable diesel is likely to remain an essential part of commercial activity for the foreseeable future. However, the major issue with diesel engines is the air pollution they produce.

Does retrofit equipment affect the effectiveness of my diesel equipment?

Successful retrofits are very common as technology has improved over the years – but success also depends on how well the equipment owner understands how to maintain the retrofit device. The CAC Committee is working on training materials related to maintaining retrofits and will update resources as they become available on the Clean Air Construction Assistance page.

What is diesel exhaust?

Diesel exhaust is produced when fuel is burned in a diesel engine, resulting in a complex mixture of gases, fine particles, and toxic air pollutants. The main gases of concern are carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and nitrous oxide. Major particles include soot, hydrocarbons, sulfate, nitrate, and metals such as aluminum, iron, silicon, titanium, and zinc. The exhaust also contains various other toxic gases and particles, including formaldehyde, acetone, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The specific composition of diesel exhaust varies and is influenced by factors such as the type of vehicle, fuel type, use or task of the vehicle, vehicle speed, and maintenance status. Weather conditions, including air temperature, can also affect the gases and particles present in the exhaust.

What are the problems associated with diesel exhaust?

Diesel engines release pollutants that can harm the environment and impact human health. These pollutants can be deposited on land and eventually make their way into water bodies, causing acid rain and increasing nitrates in wetlands, lakes, and streams. Acid rain and soot deposition can also cause metal corrosion and reduce the lifespan of buildings, bridges, and other structures.

Communities near sources of diesel emissions, such as busy truck and bus routes, areas of chronic traffic congestion, freight terminals, and construction sites, are more likely to experience the negative impacts of diesel exhaust. In the Portland metro area, African American and Latino populations face up to three times higher exposure rates, due to their proximity to high development and transportation activities.

Diesel exhaust is the largest source of black carbon particles in the United States. Black carbon is a major contributor to global warming, second only to carbon dioxide. These particles are released into the atmosphere and absorb heat, which can increase air temperatures. When they fall on snow and ice fields, they absorb light and release heat, causing an increase in melting rates.

Why is the Portland Metro Area at a greater risk of exposure to diesel exhaust?

According to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), Portland has a higher health risk from air toxins exposure compared to less densely populated areas of the state. DEQ has identified that the toxins of greatest concern in Portland are benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and soot from diesel engines. Since Portland is at a greater risk of exposure to these toxins, and since the increased risk is primarily due to diesel exhaust, it is likely that people living in the Portland Metro area are at a higher risk of exposure to diesel exhaust. This risk is primarily driven by the population density of the Portland Metro area, the number of vehicles on the roads, and the amount of construction, freight, marine, and rail activity within the Metro boundary.

How can diesel exhaust be reduced or controlled?

Improved technology can significantly reduce pollution from diesel engines, as we’ve seen in the commercial trucking industry over the last 15 years. These technologies include improved engine design, idle reduction, and cleaner fuels, as well as exhaust aftertreatment technologies such as improved catalysts, diesel particulate filters, and NOx reduction technology. Regular inspection and maintenance to ensure that the control technology is functioning properly is also important in keeping emissions rates low.

Why does the Clean Air Construction initiative focus on construction vehicles and equipment?

Construction equipment is designed and built to have a long lifespan, and it is not uncommon to see equipment that is 30+ years old on job sites. These older vehicles do not have the advanced pollution control technology for NOx and fine particulates that comes standard on the US EPA Tier 4 equipment that is manufactured today. Also, there are few incentives for business owners to retrofit or replace older equipment if that equipment remains operational. The Clean Air Construction program leverages public dollars to reduce diesel emissions on public construction projects, which in turn helps to minimize a large source of diesel emissions in the Portland area. Since these types of projects are within the Portland city limits, meaningful reductions will occur where people actually live and breathe.

What are the health impacts of diesel exhaust?

Exposure to diesel exhaust can have immediate health effects. Diesel exhaust can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, and it can cause coughs, headaches, lightheadedness, and nausea. Exposure to diesel exhaust also causes inflammation in the lungs, which may aggravate chronic respiratory symptoms increase the frequency or intensity of asthma attacks, and increase susceptibility to respiratory diseases like COVID-19.

Diesel particulate matter is a known human carcinogen. There are also non-cancerous, long-term health effects associated with exposure which include asthma, heart disease, chronic lung disease, neurological damage, and premature mortality.

What are the societal costs of diesel exhaust?

The levels of diesel pollution in Oregon result in significant public health impacts. Including:

Over 400 premature deaths
Over 140 non-fatal heart attacks
Over 25,000 work loss days

The monetized value of diesel pollution health impacts in Oregon exceeds $3 billion annually.

Who is most impacted by diesel exhaust?

The elderly, people with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, children, and certain occupations such as railroad workers, truck drivers, loading dock workers, diesel mechanics, and construction equipment workers are most impacted by diesel exhaust due to their increased sensitivity and exposure to fine-particle pollution. In Oregon alone, over 29,000 workers are at risk of negative health effects from diesel exhaust. Children in particular are more susceptible to the effects of fine particles, which can lead to increased frequency of childhood illnesses and reduced lung function.

Who do I contact with questions related to the CAC initiative?

Refer to the contact information on the Clean Air Construction Overview page.

DES is here to help you

To assist Oregon’s diesel fleets to navigate these new regulations, we’ve compiled as much helpful information as possible regarding Oregon’s various emission reduction programs and initiatives.

Get more info from our companion project page on Oregon Retrofit Compliance.

Learn about DEQ Oregon’s Grant program and how to get funding to improve your fleet’s emission reductions and bring those older diesel vehicles into compliance. Oregon Diesel Grants page.

Or feel free to contact Jeff Wells our Retrofit Manager at DES Portland for any of your retrofit-related questions.

Call 844-556-3150 or email info@des.direct

Do you have a medium- or heavy-duty diesel vehicle powered by a 2009 or older engine? Phase-out periods for these vehicles are also coming!

DES Portland can help you plan ahead for these additional regulations and vehicle restrictions arriving in both 2025 and 2029.

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has successfully installed well over 15k retrofits in California and across the United States. Our Portland OR location has a complete DPF Cleaning facility and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for servicing emissions systems. We have the equipment, expertise, and experienced retrofit installers for whatever you need.

We are honored to assist heavy-duty diesel fleets and equipment operators in the State of Oregon to help improve air quality and the environment for future generations.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

May 13

Love3

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program article

Breaking Down Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program

By DES Tech News Emissions Industry Related

NEWS FLASH

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program

In an ongoing bid to reduce pollution, Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program is nearing a major milestone on January 1st, 2023. If you live in the Portland metro area and have an older medium- or heavy-duty diesel vehicle, this program may apply to you!

We’re breaking down the retrofit compliance program in Oregon, so keep reading to learn which vehicles are impacted and how to stay in compliance.

Fact Sheet: Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program

View fact sheet

MORE DETAILS

Why is Oregon phasing out older diesel engines?

Even though diesel emission-reducing technology has improved in the last few decades, the state of Oregon is still seeing significant pollution from older on-road diesel engines. One method to reduce these harmful emissions includes the installation of appropriate retrofit technology. Retrofits are aftermarket systems that are installed on a vehicle to reduce pollution from diesel engines.

HB 2007 (2019)

In 2019, the Oregon Legislature responded to these concerns and passed HB 2007 (2019) to reduce diesel emissions in Oregon. The bill requires DEQ to approve retrofit systems for use in medium- and heavy-duty diesel engines, including box trucks and tractor trailers, and to create a method for issuing certifications of compliance.

It also establishes deadlines for older diesel engines after which they cannot be titled or registered in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties.

Lastly, the bill establishes renewal, registration, and titling phase-out dates, as well as exemptions on certain vehicles.

Which vehicles are affected by this program?

Medium- and heavy-duty vehicles with a 1996 or older engine model year are subject to the phase-out date of January 1st, 2023. That means they will not be able to be registered in Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties without an approved retrofit emissions system.

The engine model year is on the vehicle emission label. Contact a local engine dealer or the manufacturer to get a replacement label if it’s missing or illegible. Typically, the engine model year is one year older than the chassis model year. For example, a 1997 vehicle typically has a 1996 model year engine installed.

The two vehicle weight classifications categorized in HB 2007 (2019) are:

Medium-duty with a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,001 – 26,000 lbs. (box trucks, flatbeds, service trucks)
Heavy-duty with a gross vehicle weight rating of over 26,000 lbs. (tractor-trailer trucks)

How much does a retrofit cost?

Retrofits can cost a lot but there are ways that businesses and municipalities in Oregon can get help. HB 2007 (2019) authorized DEQ’s Diesel Emissions Mitigation Grant Program to provide grant funding, subject to availability, to support the purchase of retrofit systems, as well as cleaner burning engines and diesel equipment replacements.

Vehicle owners who apply and are awarded the grant funding will be eligible for up to 100% of the retrofit cost. It’s estimated that DEQ will have approximately $8 million available each year until at least 2026.

How does the retrofit process work?

STEP 1: Contact DES Portland.

We have completed over 18,000 retrofits, so we know what we’re doing! We’ll go over what type of retrofit system is right for your vehicle and will get you in compliance with the state of Oregon. Our retrofit systems are EPA and CARB verified.

STEP 2: Retrofit installation & certification

We install your retrofit system, and you submit your application for DEQ certification. The certification shows that your retrofit meets their requirement of at least 85% reduction of emissions.

STEP 3: Registration

Once you receive your electronic DEQ certification, you can renew your registration with ODOT.

Don’t wait to begin the process! Scheduling your retrofit can take time, and DEQ can take up to three months to provide certification.

Key dates for 2024 for grant funding:

The estimated dates of the grant application and deadlines are below. These are subject to change based on the timing and availability of funds and the schedule of implementation tasks.

Feb. 1, 2024 – Grant program opens for applications
May 30, 2024 – Grant program closes for applications
Aug. 15, 2024 – Grant awards announced
Dec. 2, 2024 – Funding for projects becomes available

Graphic from Oregon DEQ Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program page

Get more information

To help Oregon’s diesel fleets navigate these new regulations, we’ve compiled as much helpful information as possible regarding Oregon’s numerous emission reduction programs and initiatives.

Get more info from our companion project page on Oregon Retrofit Compliance.

Learn about DEQ Oregon’s Grant program and how to get funding to improve your fleet’s emission reductions and bring those older diesel vehicles into compliance. Oregon Diesel Grants page.

Or feel free to contact Jeff Wells our Retrofit Manager at DES Portland for any of your retrofit-related questions.

Call 844-556-3150 or email info@des.direct

Do you have a medium- or heavy-duty diesel vehicle powered by a 2009 or older engine? Phase-out periods for these vehicles are also coming!

DES Portland can help you plan ahead for these additional regulations and vehicle restrictions arriving in both 2025 and 2029.

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has successfully installed well over 15k retrofits in California and across the United States. Our Portland OR location has a complete DPF Cleaning facility and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for servicing emissions systems. We have the equipment, expertise, and experienced retrofit installers for whatever you need.

We are honored to assist heavy-duty diesel fleets and equipment operators in the State of Oregon to help improve air quality and the environment for future generations.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

May 06

Love3

Oregon’s One-Time Fleet Reporting blog - Featured

Oregon’s One-Time Fleet Reporting Requirement

By DES Tech News DES News, Emissions Industry Related

NEWS FLASH

Oregon’s One-Time Fleet Reporting Requirement – The deadline is fast approaching.

If you have a fleet in Oregon, you need to know about Oregon’s One-Time Fleet Reporting Requirement! You must complete the reporting form by June 30th, 2022, so read on to learn about the requirements and how to submit your form.

Oregon’s One-Time Fleet Reporting - Fact Sheet

View fact sheet

MORE DETAILS

What is the One-time Fleet Reporting Requirement?

The one-time reporting requirement is for fleets and businesses that operate or direct the movement of on-road vehicles in Oregon. This applies to vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) greater than 8,500 lbs., which includes most trucks, buses, and delivery vans.

Why do fleets need to report?

The one-time fleet reporting requirement is part of Oregon’s Clean Trucks Rule, adopted in November 2021. The rule was designed to lower emissions by encouraging manufacturers to sell more zero-emissions vehicles. By collecting data from fleets, the DEQ will better be able to create policies and recommendations to encourage lowering emissions.

Who is affected by the One-Time Fleet Reporting Requirement?

You must report if you are a fleet owner, business, government agency, municipality, or broker with on-road vehicles over 8,500 lbs. GVWR, if in 2021 your entity operated a facility in Oregon and meets any of the following criteria:

Had gross annual revenues greater than $50 million in the U.S. for the 2021 tax year, including revenues from all subsidiaries, subdivisions, or branches, and had one or more vehicles under common ownership or control that were operated in Oregon in 2021.

Oregon One-time Fleet Reporting 5 or more vehicles in fleet

Any fleet owner in the 2021 calendar year that had five or more vehicles under common ownership or control.
Any broker or entity that dispatched five or more vehicles into or throughout Oregon in the 2021 calendar year.
Any Oregon government agency, including all state and local municipalities, that had five or more vehicles that were operated in Oregon in 2021
Any federal government agency that had five or more vehicles that were operated in Oregon in 2021.

When is the One-Time Fleet Reporting form due?

Fleets must submit their reporting form by June 30, 2022. The form is an Excel document with three sheets of in-depth reporting information, so don’t wait until the last minute!

Where do I download the form?

Go to https://www.oregon.gov/deq/aq/programs/Pages/mdhdreporting.aspx and download the reporting form. Once complete, email it to mhd.fleetrporting@deq.oregon.gov.

Get more information

Download the Fact Sheet and/or the Fleet Reporting booklet here >

You can access more info and details from the official Oregon One-Time Reporting page

Or feel free to contact Jeff Wells our Retrofit Manager at DES Portland

Call 844-556-3150 or email info@des.direct

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has successfully installed well over 15k retrofits in California and across the United States. Our Portland OR location has a complete DPF Cleaning facility and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for servicing emissions systems. We have the equipment, expertise, and experienced retrofit installers for whatever you need.

We are honored to assist heavy-duty diesel fleets and equipment operators in the State of Oregon to help improve air quality and the environment for future generations.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Apr 06

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Informational Open House on Oregon’s Emissions Reduction Programs

By DES Tech News DES News, Emissions Industry Related

NEWS FLASH

In April we hosted a free, informational OPEN HOUSE. More to come…

Topic: How to Navigate Oregon’s Emissions Reduction Programs.

If your company or fleet operates older diesel vehicles/equipment in the State of Oregon, there are new regulations that will affect you, and grant programs that can provide assistance.

We understand that this can be a complex and challenging subject. This open house is designed to equip you with the information you need to move forward.

When: stay tuned for more information about upcoming events.

Where: Diesel Emissions Service, 9861 North Vancouver Way Portland, OR 97217

Open House OR Emissions Reduction programs

View flyer for more info

Retrofit questions? We can help.

Call: 844-556-3150

By email: info@des.direct

MORE DETAILS

Change is in the air for Oregon’s diesel truck fleets and equipment operators.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the City of Portland, and other localities are rolling out various programs and regulations related to reducing diesel emissions and improving air quality. These will impact many diesel fleets and equipment operators across the state.

We are here to help you navigate through these changes and opportunities. To that end, we are hosting an Open House event to help provide the information you need and get answers to your questions.

The free, no-obligation open house will be hosted at the Diesel Emissions Services (DES) location in Portland, OR at 9861 North Vancouver Way Portland, OR 97217.

The event takes place on April 26th, 2022. We are offering 2 sessions for you to choose from 2 PM and 6 PM.

We are looking to host more of these events to help equip Oregon’s fleets and diesel vehicle operators. Stay tuned. More updates to follow…

Who will be there?

Sean Edgar of CleanFleets will be the presenting industry professional. He will help explain the regulations & how to find the best path forward for your fleet. Sean is an expert on emissions compliance with years of experience helping fleets in California.

Meet our Retrofit Manager, Jeff Wells, and the DES team. Jeff is our in-state retrofit facilitator and contact person. He is based in Oregon to expressly help fleets and operators with installation questions, estimates, and pre-application assistance.

We have also invited representatives from OR DEQ & the City of Portland to be on hand to hear your concerns and answer your questions about the various programs and regulations.

What Topics & Programs will be Covered?

Some of the topics that you will learn more about are:

Important deadlines – learn about dates for getting your grant application in, compliance dates, etc.
Vehicles affected – find out more about which diesel vehicles are covered and which are exempt.
Grant assistance – there are funds available to help reimburse all or part of a vehicle replacement/retrofit with clean emissions technology.
Retrofit options – retrofitting a vehicle can extend its useful life while meeting new clean air standards.
Compliance Q & A – speak with someone about your compliance, retrofit, and timeline questions.

There are several programs and requirements that the Oregon DEQ and other state and local governing bodies are implementing now and in the coming years. These include:

Interested in Attending?

We would love to host as many people as possible at this event, but space is limited.

Please choose either the 2 PM or 6 PM session, and then RSVP to reserve your spot.

Call 844-556-3150 or email info@des.direct

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has successfully installed well over 15k retrofits in California and across the United States. Our Portland OR location has a complete DPF Cleaning facility and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for servicing emissions systems. We have the equipment, expertise, and experienced retrofit installers for whatever you need.

Cleanfleets is an environmental engineering company with proven results for diesel equipment owners facing costly compliance and maintenance issues. Clean Fleets offers quality, one-stop compliance solutions and provides emissions enforcement resolutions to the diesel equipment community.

We are honored to assist HD diesel fleets and equipment operators in the State of Oregon create better air quality and improving the environment for future generations.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

June 28, 2024 in DES Tech Tips

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

DPF Cleaning: How Often? Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the "left coast". Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And…

Dec 17

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Reducing Idling Reduces Costs

By DES Tech News Emissions Industry Related

Since its inception, Diesel Emissions Service has been helping fleets reduce their emissions. CEO Steve Hoke was recently interviewed on IDLE TALK with GoGreen Communications CEO Ron Zima. During the interview, they discussed the importance of reducing idle times for heavy-duty fleets, why they should, and the downstream costs associated with excessive idling.

According to Argonne National Laboratory, long-haul heavy-duty trucks consume more than a billion gallons of fuel per year just during rest stops; including work trucks and passenger cars, over six billion gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel combined are wasted on idling annually.

The topic of reducing idling behavior has been controversial in the heavy-duty industry. Large fleets use their resources to analyze idling costs, while smaller fleets can feel helpless. In addition, factors like city traffic, driver behavior, and municipal and off-road duty cycles further complicate the issue.

About DES and IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets

DES was established in 2006 as the emissions division of parent company North State Truck Equipment, Inc., which has been serving the heavy-duty truck market since 1978. DES was established to help California businesses meet and exceed the strict CARB and EPA emissions regulations placed on diesel trucks. Since 2006, DES has sold and/or installed over 15,000 emissions control devices and is now an industry leader in diesel emissions on the west coast and beyond.

Ron Zima was the classic North American idler, leaving the car running in his daily life. He believed it didn’t use much gas, and there was no harm in idling. However, a conversation with his children’s school principal led him to discover that idling not only wastes money and creates emissions, but also harms the health of adults and children alike. Ron started IDLE FREE for our kids® in 2006 and has since grown his company GoGreen Communications Inc. to include fleets across North America. With the IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets eLearning program, fleets can reduce idle time up to 80%.

Both Steve and Ron believe that going idle free is an easy way for fleets to save money and look like heroes to their customers.

Why Go Idle Free?

Reducing idle times has many benefits for fleets. Minimizing the time, the engine is running uses less fuel, and creates fewer emissions. What most fleets don’t realize, however, is that excessive idling has major downstream costs besides these. Both DES and GoGreen encourage fleets to reduce their idle times for big rewards.

In the past, much of the argument for going idle free relied on guilt and shame, as the transportation industry is one of the highest carbon emitters. However, IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets relies on winning the ‘hearts and minds’ of drivers. Greater than 80% of the time, drivers flip their old beliefs and behaviors on idling an engine. At home and at work!

But Isn’t Idling Good for the Engine?

There is a pervasive myth among diesel drivers that idling is good for the engine. However, “diesel-powered engines hate idling,” Ron said in the interview. Steve explained further that “the diesel engine is at its dirtiest at startup… the second dirtiest [is] idle time.” Manufacturers design the emissions control system to work best when the engine is in motion with a load. This myth leads to thousands of dollars in unnecessary costs.

Downstream Costs of Driver Idling Behavior

Idling increases wear and tear on the engine, thereby accelerating the maintenance schedule and increasing the risk of expensive repairs. Steve shared an infographic during the interview consisting of data gathered by the American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council (TMC).

The average cost of a heavy-duty emissions repair is $514.
The average cost of a roadside breakdown is $448 through $760.
Fleets average 213,967 miles between emissions failures.
A fleet with 500 trucks spends $27k a month on emissions repairs, up 1837% from pre-2010 numbers.

These statistics show that reducing emissions system repairs by reducing idle time is an easy cost-saving measure for fleets.

Savings From Going Idle Free

“Idle time is a proxy for productivity,” Steve commented. If a truck isn’t moving, it’s not making money for the fleet. Factoring in idle time means that during the colder months or during city driving, idle time could be drastically cutting into profits. Reducing idle times by even a small percentage can increase a fleet’s profit margin.

In addition, by increasing the maintenance interval, fleets can reduce the amount of downtime per truck. In most parts of the country, a DPF cleaning service takes about 24 hours, during which time the truck is out of service. Lowering idle time is a great way to get more in-service time from each truck.

Much of the idle reduction efforts in the heavy-duty industry have centered around larger fleets. Large fleets can use advanced and expensive hardware to monitor idle time across the fleet, but this may be out of reach for some smaller fleets. A more cost-effective way for these smaller fleets to reduce idle time is to change the behavior of drivers.

IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets eLearning Program

IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets consists of short, engaging, unforgettable videos and interactive lessons and the popular IDLE FREE Calculator that can be accessed anywhere in the world on a computer or smartphone. The curriculum transforms driver behavior by using GoGreen’s three universal values in terms of the impact of their unconscious idling habit on: ‘their kids, their cars, their cash’. Drivers love the program! They save fuel and emissions in their personal vehicles and then bring their idle free behavior to work, often thanking management for the program! Steve recommended the course for all drivers and fleets across the country.

Won’t Electric Vehicles Solve the Problem?

When will EVs replace heavy-duty trucks? Longer than 40 years from now, says Steve, due to electric vehicles not having the range, torque, and horsepower of diesel engines, as well as limited charging station availability. And while electric vehicles might seem like the answer to emission problems, their eco-friendliness may be outweighed by the production and use of lithium batteries. Time will tell, but for now, reducing idle time is one of the most cost-effective ways for fleets to lower emissions and save on fuel.

Reducing Your Fleet’s Idle Time

If advanced idle-tracking and battery-backup systems aren’t in your fleet’s budget, an eLearning course like IDLE FREE for our kids® for Fleets will encourage your drivers to reduce idle times. Fleet maintenance managers can also discover the lower maintenance costs associated with going idle-free. Finally, the entire business will thrive when less idling leads to higher profits.

Find out more about the course at goidlefree.com.

Go IDLE FREE

Have questions about the DPF cleaning schedule that’s right for your fleet?

Head over to dieselemissionsservice.com/contact.

At DES we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses across the West Coast.

Diesel Emissions Service (DES) is a division of North State Truck Equipment Inc, a family-owned business, who has been providing bus and truck repair solutions since 1978. In 2006, we started focusing on diesel aftertreatment retrofits (DPFs, DOCs, SCRs), troubleshooting, repair, and services to help customers in applying the correct technology for compliance with the growing clean-air regulations. Since that time, we have sold and installed more than 18,000 aftertreatment devices across the country.

We have two locations in California as well as facilities in Portland, Oregon, and Surrey (Vancouver), British Columbia. DES offers a full line of DPFs and DPF accessories through the Redline Emissions Products® brand – including DPFs, DOCs, clamps, gaskets, weld bungs, CACs, sensors, etc. at our online superstore. We also carry brands like Durafit, Skyline, GESI, Redline Detection, Filtertherm®, and more.

If you would like to schedule an appointment for your commercial truck, contact us today.

We’re social, to stay informed follow DES on any or all of these platforms.

More News

Get the latest on the industry and DES.

DES Tech News

In 2024, California is continuing the roll-out of a stricter emissions testing program called Clean Truck Check. To keep non-compliant trucks off the road, emissions testing for diesel vehicles will now be more stringent than ever.

This new program will include testing for on-highway commercial trucks, RVs registered in California, and other qualifying personal vehicles and agriculture equipment.

We’ve compiled some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), as well as helpful links so you can learn what needs to be done to operate your diesel vehicle in California.

LEARN MORE

Clean Truck Check – FAQ:

What does the Clean Truck Check test consist of?

Testing for the Clean Truck Check program means you will need to have one of two potential tests in order to determine compliance.

If your vehicle is OBD equipped (2013 and newer) we will perform the HD I/M test and the results will be sent to CARB electronically.

If your vehicle is older than 2013 we will perform a functional inspection and PSIP test (often referred to as an opacity test) to determine if you are compliant. To perform the test we will need access to the engine data plate, exhaust system, and throttle.

What else do I need to do?

In addition to having the physical vehicle testing done, you will need to use the online CARB portal in order to pay the annual fee. https://cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov/

Does Diesel Emissions Service offer Clean Truck Check – HD I/M testing?

Yes. We have locations in Redding, CA, and Sacramento, CA where CARB-certified staff and equipment are available to perform the testing.

Who has to participate in the CTC – VIS program?

Which vehicles are NOT subject to the regulation?

The heavy-duty vehicle types shown below are exempt from the regulation:

Zero-emission vehicles

Military tactical vehicles (title 13, CCR, section 1905)

Emergency vehicles (California Vehicle Code section 165 or California Health and Safety Code section 1797.84)

Historical vehicles (authorized by California Vehicle Code section 5004)

New vehicles with engines certified to the most stringent optional, NOx standard (less than or equal to 0.01 g/bhp-hr) -Only during the first four years of Clean Truck Check implementation (2023-2027)

Motorhomes registered outside of California

Vehicles operating under an experimental permit (authorized by California Health and Safety Code section 43014)

What is my deadline for testing?

Important Milestones Diagram

NEXT STEPS

Clean Truck Check is now in full effect. To ensure your truck meets California’s emissions standards, it may be randomly selected for roadside testing using emissions monitoring devices. If your truck is flagged for potential high emissions, you’ll receive a Notice to Submit to Testing.

What to Do:

Schedule a Test: You have 30 days to get your truck tested at a certified emissions testing facility.

Make Repairs: If necessary, address any issues to ensure your truck passes the test.

Avoid Penalties: Failure to comply with the Notice to Submit to Testing or emissions standards may result in additional testing and penalties.

2024 Vehicle Compliance Deadline

All vehicles must meet compliance requirements between July 1st and December 31st, 2024. To demonstrate compliance, owners must:

Pay the 2024 Annual Compliance Fee: This fee is due by the compliance deadline.

Clear Outstanding Violations: Any unresolved enforcement violations must be addressed before the deadline.

Failure to comply may result in penalties or restrictions on vehicle use. Be proactive!

.

Stay in the Loop

Keep up-to-date on Clean Truck Check regulations and requirements to avoid penalties and even DMV registration stops.

Detailed Information: Learn more about Clean Truck Check by visiting: Clean Truck Check

Stay Updated: Subscribe to receive automatic email updates on Clean Truck Check implementation and other activities.

Contact CARB: If you have additional questions, contact staff at mhdim@arb.ca.gov. CARB also has a hotline (1-866-634-3735) that provides compliance assistance for multiple CARB regulations.

LINKS:

CARB Clean Truck Check Links:

More links:

For motorhomes subject to annual testing requirements, see this page.

For motorhomes subject to semi-annual testing requirements, see this page.

DES can help you.

DES has experienced, CARB-certified technicians and the proper testing equipment to perform this service quickly at these 2 locations:

Diesel Emissions Services (DES) has the expertise, diesel technicians, and facilities to service your aftertreatment systems successfully.

Most of our locations feature a complete DPF Cleaning facility, aftertreatment diagnostic/testing, and a full inventory of aftertreatment parts for quick servicing of your emissions system.

We hope you found this article helpful. At DES, we believe in putting out educational and informative content to not only our customers but for the general industry to grow and benefit from.

To share this article, use one of the social media icons above.

DES is a recognized leader in the diesel emissions industry. We provide a wide range of services for municipalities, fleet operators, and all manner of transportation and construction businesses all across the west coast.

We’re social, follow DES on your social network of choice.

More News

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

Clean Truck Check Reporting Deadline Extended by CARB

Oregon’s Diesel Retrofit Compliance Program Deadlines Approaching

DPF Cleaning: How Often?

Trucks gotta run clean! Especially here on the “left coast”.

Whatever the case may be, you might be wondering how often to clean your DPF. And where to have it done?

There are a few things to consider when setting up your plan for DPF cleaning. We will cover recommended DPF cleaning intervals, contributing factors, and common methods.

Plus we answer the age-old question “Can I just clean it myself?”

Read on!

LET'S GET STARTED!

Top 5 Factors Affecting DPF Cleaning Intervals

Ever wonder what things affect how often your DPF needs cleaning? Here are the top 5 things we’ve seen that influence DPF cleaning frequency:

City vs. Highway: Stop-and-go traffic and low speeds in city driving conditions can clog up your DPF much faster than highway hauls. Incomplete DPF regeneration cycles lead to more frequent cleanings. Cold weather also has an impact on DPF cleaning needs.

Heavy Haulers vs. Light Trucks: Big rigs, buses, and heavy machinery working hard all day tend to need DPF cleaning more often than lighter-duty trucks.

Watch those Fluids: Cheap oil and low-quality diesel with high sulfur can clog up your DPF with impurities. Use good quality fluids to extend DPF cleaning intervals. Keep a sharp eye out for upstream leaks in the engine that can damage the aftertreatment components.

Maintenance is Key: Irregular engine and DPF preventative care can cause all kinds of issues. When DPFs are neglected their efficiency and capacity decreases proportionally.

DPF Size: Smaller DPFs can fill up quicker than larger ones, requiring cleaning more often.

Recommendations for DPF Cleaning Frequency:

Keeping your truck’s Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clean is key to efficient operation. Nobody likes getting stranded with a derate, or worse costly repairs. But how often should you clean that DPF? There’s no magic number, but here are 5 things to consider:

Inspections are Key: Check your aftertreatment system and DPF regularly for signs of soot buildup. Catching it early saves you time and money.

The Manufacturer Knows Best (Sometimes): Your truck’s manual has recommended cleaning intervals based on its make and model. Remember, these are assuming ideal operating situations, so adjust based on your actual driving conditions.

Clean During Maintenance: Combining DPF cleaning into your other routine maintenance can minimize your truck’s downtime. The DPF can be cleaned while the truck is undergoing its other maintenance.

Warning Lights Mean Take Action: Modern trucks have DPF warning lights for a reason. Don’t ignore them! A lit light means your DPF needs attention.