The Diesel Podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What testing does a Ram truck go through before it ever reaches a dealership? We're joined by Doug Killian, Chief Vehicle Synthesis Manager at Ram, the guy responsible for making sure every system on their trucks works together and survives real-world use. We talk about what goes into testing the new Ram diesel truck lineup, from engine and transmission performance to towing, payload, off-road durability, and emissions. Doug breaks down how these trucks are validated for harsh environments and long-term reliability before they ever reach customers. We also asked Doug, if he were ordering a Ram truck today, what engine, cab configuration, and trim level he would choose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diesel swaps are becoming more popular and it can be overwhelming with all the choices. Diesel Conversion Specialists joins the show to give tips for swapping a diesel and making it as seamless as possible. From Cummins and Powerstroke swaps, to TDI's and more, this episode covers the swap questions you have! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Banks Power joins us to talk about their philosophy on truck upgrades, the diesel market, and saving 6.7L Cummins from grid heater nut failures. Jay Tilles, Banks Marketing Director, podcast host, and radio legend, joined us for this in-depth look at performance. *20% off HOT SHOT'S SECRET with code: DIESELPOD20* https://www.hotshotsecret.com/shop/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest walks us through fitting an LLY Duramax in his 1998 Sierra! We ask him what got him started down the diesel road, challenges with fitting it into the truck, and his ultimate plans for power and performance! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hot Shot's Secret chats with us about a commonly overlooked part of maintenance - Spring cleanout. All Winter your diesel truck endured cold starts and increased idle time. What does that do to a fuel system? Does engine oil take a beating as well? We cover a Spring checklist to ensure your diesel truck doesn't skip a beat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dynomite Diesel just set a new benchmark for diesel performance. Owner Lenny Reed tells us about building the first diesel engine to hit 3000HP on fuel only, who helped with the build, and how anyone can replicate it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

J&K Engines tells us about their 6.3L Powerstroke build and why it's a favorite for towing, performance and more. We also discuss misconceptions about building a Powerstroke and what the shop actually sees for failures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

6.7L Powerstroke owners no longer have to be stuck with a CP4 and the expensive damage it can cause. S&S Diesel joins us today to talk about their DCR conversion and how it injects reliability into the 6.7L Powerstroke platform. 20% off HOT SHOT'S SECRET with code: DIESELPOD20 https://www.hotshotsecret.com/shop/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when classic American iron meets diesel torque? I sat down with the vehicle's owner and builder and talked about the reason behind the build. We go over the biggest challenges, why a Cummins made sense for the engine swap, and how it performs in the real world! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Power Service joins us today to talk about a major problem that gets overlooked - bacteria and fungus growth in fuel tanks. We discuss why it happens, what can happen to the fuel system, how to stop it and prevent it from happening again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diesel isn't dying by accident. It is being shaped by policy, perception, and who actually shows up to fight for it. Kory Willis chats with us about where diesel is headed and why truck owners can't afford to sit on the sidelines anymore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Department of Justice released a memo halting criminal charges for individuals and businesses doing diesel deletes. So how and why are they still being sued? Are diesel deletes still not legal? Lawyer Stewart Cables joins us today to unpack the latest! Stewart D. Cables is a founding partner of Hassan + Cables. Stewart specializes in general business representation and a variety of trial work. Stewart's practice areas include complex civil litigation, employment law, criminal and DUI defense, transactional work for corporations and LLCs, and counsel for non-profit entities. Stewart Cables E: stewart@hassancables.com P: 303-625-1025 ext.2 https://www.hassancables.com/stewart-d-cables -------------------------------- Disclaimer: This video is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice of any kind. No one should act, or refrain from acting, based solely upon the information provided on this podcast, without first seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Austin Denny joins The Diesel Podcast for a 2026 season preview. After last year's crash, the Pro Mod 6.0L is back together and headed to Hardway Performance for a major step forward: integrating ECU Masters' new diesel specific standalone ECM on a 6.0L Powerstroke. Austin breaks down the limitations of the factory computer, why going fully standalone could be a game changer for staging, burnouts, tuning, safety strategies, and RPM potential, and what it means to finally move beyond the constraints of the factory PCM and FICM. We also talk about his conservative approach to the season with lots of short passes first, building confidence, chasing records, and why he still believes the 6.0L platform has plenty of fight left. We also dive into the growing excitement around UCC, massive purses, new classes, and how high level competition continues to push the entire diesel aftermarket forward. Plenty of real talk about the work behind the scenes, the late nights, the pressure, and why getting hooked on diesel drag racing becomes a lifelong obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fleece Performance joins us to talk about their 6.0L Powerstroke heads and how they address factory weak points. If you have a 6.0L, this is a must see upgrade that helps the reliability of your truck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Helderburg joins us on the podcast to talk re-crafting Land Rovers! Founder Paul Potratz tells us about creating the company, a unique ownership experience, TDI diesel engines, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It can be easy to get ripped off buying truck parts or with a shady shop. Vinny Himes has spent 20 years in the industry and we asked him for red flags to avoid when shopping.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Power Hungry Performance chats with us today about a new way to tune 7.3's. They've pioneered tuning for decades and their current project will integrate with Edge monitors, and eventually Apple and Android smartphones. Same proven tunes, but with 2026 technology! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lenny Reed, founder of Dynomite Diesel Products, talks about his UCC 2026 build, what warranty detail really matters, supporting customers and dealers, plus getting back on track with physical fitness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Justin from JH Diesel and 4x4 chats with us today about the most common thing breaking diesel trucks, expansion of his shop, products he likes for his personal trucks, and more! We also talk about his YouTube channel and what's helped it grow. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode dives into a factory flaw a lot of Cummins owners don't know about - the grid heater bolt. Fleece Performance tells us why the issue exists and a solution they have for both the bolt and maintaining cold starts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Major developments have taken place with delete enforcement recently. Lawyer Stewart Cables joins us talk about a pardon for a man in Wyoming, another case where charges were dropped (first of its kind), and if all cases will be handled the same. We also discuss if agricultural equipment will be exempt from emissions and rollbacks. Stewart D. Cables is a founding partner of Hassan + Cables. Stewart specializes in general business representation and a variety of trial work. Stewart's practice areas include complex civil litigation, employment law, criminal and DUI defense, transactional work for corporations and LLCs, and counsel for non-profit entities. Stewart Cables E: stewart@hassancables.com P: 303-625-1025 ext.2 https://www.hassancables.com/stewart-d-cables -------------------------------- Disclaimer: This video is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to provide legal advice of any kind. No one should act, or refrain from acting, based solely upon the information provided on this podcast, without first seeking appropriate legal or other professional advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Two iconic brands, Fleece Performance and Amsoil, have combined to release a brand new line of oil for diesel trucks. From engine break-in to towing and racing, this product line has every truck covered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Randy's Transmission has a major announcement about a partnership that will skyrocket transmission technology, potential, and reliability. We catch up with them from the PRI Show to talk about 68RFE's, the ZF 8 speed, cooling, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Spencer from Dirty Diesel Customs chats with us about his 3rd Gen Cummins. He tells us how he turned it into the ultimate daily driver, what parts he chose for reliability and performance, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With Winter here, diesel fuel can become a major issue as the temperature falls. Power Service joins us to talk about preventing fuel from gelling and what winter blend fuel really means.. We also talk about products to use if your fuel filter is already gelled.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices