Blog
Anderson Diesel Service

October 9, 2026
Every shop has a starting point, and for our family, the story of Anderson Diesel Service starts with our dad, Rob. Dad started working at Anderson’s 39 years ago. Over the years, he worked his way up, became part owner, and helped build the foundation of the business we have today. Eventually, Dad decided to pursue another passion and went into teaching. He remained an owner and stayed involved with Anderson’s, but stepped away from the day-to-day operation of the shop. Two Brothers Growing Up Around the Shop That’s where our part of the story really begins. Growing up around the shop, my brother and I both knew we wanted to make a career out of working on diesels. My brother started working at Anderson’s part-time while going through college. I pursued the semi-truck side of the industry through college, an internship, and eventually a job at Cummins in Kearney. At the time, Anderson’s was going through a transition. After some changes in management, the shop needed someone to step in and take over the day-to-day operation. I remember asking Dad if he thought I could do it. His answer was pretty simple: “I don’t see why not.” So at just 20 and 21 years old, my brother and I took it on. During business hours, it was basically the two of us running the shop. We worked on the trucks, dealt with the day-to-day problems, answered the phones, and learned pretty quickly what it took to keep a business moving forward. Dad was teaching full-time, but he was always there when we needed him—helping after hours, answering questions, and giving us guidance along the way. Buying Anderson Diesel Service Then, in August of 2019, we had the opportunity to buy Anderson Diesel Service. We were still operating out of that little two-bay shop, and we knew pretty quickly that if we wanted to keep growing, we were going to need more room. We rented the old shop for another year and made the decision to build a new seven-bay facility on Silver Road. Then COVID hit. Like everyone else, we had no idea what the next year was going to look like. We had just bought a business, we were still young, and now we were committed to building a brand-new shop in the middle of a lot of uncertainty. But we kept moving forward. We finished the building, moved out of the little two-bay shop, and into our new seven-bay home. Seven Bays Became Fourteen And eventually, we outgrew that too. So we took another leap and added seven more bays, bringing us to the shop we have today. Dad continued teaching throughout that entire journey, but he never stopped being an important part of Anderson Diesel Service. Today, he plays a major role in our fuel injection room and continues to be someone we lean on for his knowledge, experience, and advice. Still a Family Business It’s pretty incredible to look back. From two brothers at 20 and 21 years old trying to figure out how to run a little two-bay diesel shop… To buying the business in 2019. Building a new shop through COVID. And eventually growing it into the 14-bay facility and team we have today. There have been plenty of risks, long days, mistakes, and lessons along the way. But through all of it, Anderson Diesel Service has remained a family-owned business built on the foundation Dad helped create nearly four decades ago. And we’re still building. We’re not done yet.

October 6, 2026
When your business depends on trucks, downtime is more than an inconvenience. A truck sitting in the shop can mean delayed jobs, missed deliveries, and lost time for your employees. Whether your business operates one work truck or an entire fleet, staying ahead of repairs and maintenance can help keep your trucks where they belong—on the road and working. At Anderson Diesel Service, we service and repair fleet and medium-duty diesel trucks for businesses that depend on their equipment every day. Your Work Trucks Need to Stay Working For many businesses, trucks aren't just transportation—they're an important part of getting the job done. Whether you're running service trucks, delivery and box trucks, construction trucks, landscaping trucks, agricultural service trucks, or other commercial diesel vehicles, having one down can disrupt the entire day. That's why keeping up with maintenance and addressing problems early matters. The goal isn't just to fix a truck when something breaks. It's to help keep the trucks your business depends on reliable and ready to work. Fleet Maintenance Is About More Than Fixing Breakdowns Waiting until a truck won't start or leaves an employee stranded isn't the best time to start thinking about maintenance. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance can help catch developing problems before they turn into larger repairs or unexpected downtime. Oil and filter changes, brakes, cooling systems, fuel systems, electrical components, and other wear items all need attention as miles and hours add up. For businesses operating multiple trucks, staying on top of those services becomes even more important. When Something Goes Wrong, Proper Diagnostics Matter Modern diesel trucks have increasingly complex engine, fuel, electrical, and emissions systems. A warning light or drivability problem doesn't always point directly to the component causing it. Replacing parts based on symptoms alone can get expensive quickly. Proper diagnostics help narrow down the source of the problem so repairs can be based on what the truck actually needs rather than guesswork. Diesel Fuel System Experience Matters Fuel system problems can cause hard starting, rough running, loss of power, poor fuel economy, excessive smoke, and other issues that can take a truck out of service. Diesel fuel systems have been at the heart of Anderson Diesel Service for decades. Our capabilities include fuel system diagnostics and repair, along with injector and injection pump testing and service. That experience is especially valuable when you're dealing with a commercial truck that needs to get back to work. One Truck or an Entire Fleet You don't need dozens of trucks to benefit from thinking about maintenance like a fleet. If your business relies on even one or two diesel trucks every day, keeping them maintained and addressing problems early can help reduce unexpected interruptions. For companies with larger fleets, having a diesel repair shop you can turn to for routine service, diagnostics, and repairs can make managing those vehicles easier. Fleet & Medium-Duty Diesel Service at Anderson Diesel Anderson Diesel Service works on more than diesel pickups. We provide service and repair for medium-duty and fleet trucks used by businesses throughout Grand Island and the surrounding area. From preventative maintenance and diagnostics to fuel system, engine, transmission, electrical, and general diesel repairs, our goal is to help keep the trucks your business depends on working. Have a fleet or medium-duty diesel truck that needs service? Give Anderson Diesel Service a call to talk with us about your trucks and schedule service.

October 1, 2026
When a Detroit DD13, DD15, or DD16 starts showing signs of a fuel system problem, it can be tempting to assume the injectors need replaced. But injectors are expensive, and symptoms alone don't always tell you exactly what's wrong. That's where proper injector testing comes in. At Anderson Diesel Service, we can test DD13, DD15, and DD16 injectors to help determine their condition before you spend money replacing parts that may—or may not—be the source of the problem. Signs You May Have an Injector Problem A failing or poorly performing injector can show up in several different ways. Some common symptoms that may point toward an injector or fuel system issue include: Rough running or rough idle Hard starting Loss of power Excessive smoke Poor fuel economy Misfires or uneven engine operation Fuel system-related fault codes These symptoms don't automatically mean an injector is bad. That's why testing can be an important part of figuring out what is actually going on. Why Test DD13, DD15 & DD16 Injectors? Replacing injectors without knowing their condition can get expensive fast—especially on a heavy-duty Detroit engine. Injector testing allows us to evaluate the injectors and identify which ones are performing correctly and which ones may have a problem. Instead of guessing, you have information to work with. Testing can be especially useful when you're trying to determine whether an injector should be replaced or when diagnosing a fuel-related engine problem. More Than Just "Does It Work?" Modern common-rail diesel injectors operate under extremely demanding conditions. Proper testing is about more than seeing whether fuel comes out of the injector. The goal is to evaluate how the injector performs and determine whether its operation is within the appropriate specifications. That gives you a much better picture of the injector's actual condition. Testing Before Replacing Can Save You Money DD13, DD15, and DD16 fuel system components aren't cheap. If you're already dealing with a truck that's down, the last thing you want to do is spend money replacing good parts while trying to find the actual problem. Testing gives you another piece of information before making that decision. DD13, DD15 & DD16 Injector Testing at Anderson Diesel Service If you're working on a Detroit DD13, DD15, or DD16 and need to know what's going on with the injectors, Anderson Diesel Service can help. We have the equipment to test these injectors and help you make a more informed decision about what needs to happen next. Whether you're a truck owner, repair shop, fleet, or technician looking to have a set of injectors tested, give Anderson Diesel Service a call. Don't guess at expensive fuel system parts. Test them.

September 24, 2026
If you own a 2019–2024 Ram with the 6.7L Cummins, you may have heard concerns about the factory hydraulic roller lifters and camshaft. For owners facing camshaft or lifter repairs—or those planning to keep their trucks for years—the Hamilton flat tappet conversion provides an alternative to reinstalling the original-style hydraulic roller valvetrain. At Anderson Diesel Service in Grand Island, Nebraska, we install Hamilton flat tappet conversion kits and help owners decide whether the conversion is right for their truck. What Does the Hamilton Flat Tappet Conversion Do? The conversion replaces the factory hydraulic roller camshaft and lifters with a matched solid flat tappet valvetrain. Hamilton’s 2019–2024 conversion kit includes: A 178/208 forged-steel camshaft DLC-coated steel tappets Upgraded pushrods Adjustable rocker arms with DLC-coated trunnions The components are designed to work together as a complete system. This is more than simply replacing a camshaft or installing a different set of lifters. According to Hamilton, the kit fits 2019–2024 Ram 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped with the 6.7L Cummins. It is also certified for street use in 49 states but is not offered for California applications. Why Do Cummins Owners Consider This Conversion? The truck already needs camshaft or lifter repairs If a camshaft or lifter problem has already been confirmed, the engine will require significant disassembly and repair. This creates an opportunity to compare two options: reinstalling original-style hydraulic roller components or converting the engine to Hamilton’s flat tappet system. The right choice depends on the condition of the engine, how the truck is used, the repair budget, and how long the owner plans to keep it. The owner plans to keep the truck long term Major engine repairs are an investment. Owners who rely on their trucks for work, towing, farming, or daily transportation often want to consider long-term reliability when deciding how to proceed. A properly installed and maintained conversion may make sense for someone who plans to keep the truck rather than trade it soon. The owner wants an alternative valvetrain design The Hamilton kit replaces the factory hydraulic roller setup with a solid flat tappet design using a matched camshaft, tappets, pushrods, and adjustable rocker arms. However, concern about the factory valvetrain does not automatically mean every 2019–2024 Cummins needs an immediate conversion. The truck’s condition, symptoms, mileage, and intended use should be evaluated before recommending a major repair. Is the Conversion Maintenance-Free? No. Proper installation and continued maintenance are essential. Unlike the factory hydraulic setup, the solid flat tappet system requires correct valve-lash adjustment. Hamilton specifies: 0.010 inch intake valve lash 0.020 inch exhaust valve lash Valve lash must be set correctly after the initial run-in and checked again when required. Incorrect lash can damage the tappets and their protective coating. Oil selection is also important. Hamilton requires approved 15W-40 oil under normal operating conditions or an approved 5W-40 oil in sub-zero conditions. The oil must provide the additive package and film strength needed by a flat tappet valvetrain. This is not a “install it and forget about it” upgrade. Anyone considering the conversion should understand the oil and valve-lash requirements before moving forward. Why Proper Installation Matters A Hamilton flat tappet conversion is a detailed internal-engine repair. Proper installation includes more than replacing parts. The engine must be inspected for related damage and contamination. The sealing surfaces, lubrication system, camshaft, tappets, pushrods, rocker arms, and valve adjustment all require careful attention. Metal contamination from an existing failure can damage new valvetrain components. Initial lubrication and oil pressure are also especially important during startup and break-in. That is why the engine should be evaluated before the kit is installed. The extent of an existing failure may affect the total repair and determine whether additional parts or machine work are needed. Is the Hamilton Conversion Right for Your Truck? It may be worth discussing if: Your 2019–2024 Cummins has a confirmed camshaft or lifter problem The engine is already being disassembled for valvetrain repairs You intend to keep the truck long term You understand the oil and valve-lash requirements You want to compare the conversion with reinstalling factory-style components It may not be the right recommendation for every truck. A healthy engine without symptoms, a truck with extensive internal damage, and a truck that will soon be sold may each require a different approach. The first step should be inspecting the truck and understanding the full condition of the engine. Hamilton Flat Tappet Conversion Installation in Grand Island, Nebraska Anderson Diesel Service installs Hamilton flat tappet conversion kits for 2019–2024 Ram trucks equipped with the 6.7L Cummins. We’ll evaluate your truck, explain what we find, and help you compare the available repair options. If the conversion makes sense, we’ll also explain its maintenance requirements so you know what to expect after installation. If your Cummins has valvetrain noise, a suspected camshaft or lifter problem, or you want to discuss the Hamilton conversion, call Anderson Diesel Service in Grand Island at (308) 389-3590 . Anderson Diesel Service Grand Island, Nebraska Cummins diagnostics, engine repair, and Hamilton flat tappet conversion installation

September 17, 2026
Accidentally putting diesel exhaust fluid—commonly called DEF—into a diesel fuel tank can happen more easily than many people realize. The DEF and diesel fill points may be located close together, and one distracted moment can lead to an expensive mistake. There’s no reason to feel embarrassed. What you do next is what matters most. What Should You Do First? If you realize that DEF was added to the diesel fuel tank: Do not start the engine. Do not turn the key on. Do not attempt to drive the truck. Have the truck towed to a qualified diesel repair facility. Starting the engine can circulate contaminated fuel through more of the system, potentially increasing the extent and cost of the repairs. Why Can DEF Cause So Much Damage? DEF is designed for the emissions system, not the fuel system. It is injected into the exhaust to help reduce emissions. When DEF enters the diesel fuel system, it can contaminate or damage components including: The fuel tank Fuel lines Fuel filters The high-pressure fuel pump Fuel rails Diesel injectors Modern common-rail diesel systems operate at extremely high pressures and contain components manufactured with very tight internal clearances. Contamination can lead to corrosion, deposits, loss of lubrication, and component failure. Does the Truck Need a Complete Fuel-System Replacement? Not necessarily. The required repair depends on several factors: How much DEF entered the tank Whether the key was turned on Whether the engine was started How long the truck was driven How far the contamination traveled Whether any fuel-system components were damaged If the truck was never started, the contamination may be limited. If it was driven, the DEF may have circulated throughout the high-pressure fuel system. That is why the system needs to be inspected before the proper repair can be determined. Will Insurance Cover DEF Contamination? Some insurance policies may cover accidental fuel contamination, but coverage varies. The decision is made by the customer’s insurance company and depends on the individual policy and circumstances. Anderson Diesel Service can document what we find, prepare the necessary estimate, and work with your insurance company throughout the repair process. We cannot guarantee coverage or claim approval. DEF Contamination Repair in Grand Island, Nebraska At Anderson Diesel Service, we diagnose and repair contaminated diesel fuel systems on Power Stroke, Cummins, and Duramax pickups. If DEF gets put into your diesel fuel tank, don’t panic and don’t start the truck. Have it towed to our shop so we can inspect the system and determine the next steps. No judgment—just help. Call Anderson Diesel Service in Grand Island at (308) 389-3590 .

By Anderson Diesel Service
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August 8, 2025
We're Expanding to Serve You Better Big things are happening at Anderson Diesel Services—we’re building a major addition to our shop! The framing is up and the roof is on, thanks to Morton Buildings, and we’re getting closer to opening the doors on our expanded space. What’s Coming: More service bays A dedicated wash bay [...]

By Anderson Diesel Service
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August 1, 2025
VOTE HERE We Need Your Vote, Grand Island! Anderson Diesel Service is proud to be nominated once again for Best Repair Shop and Best Parts Store in the 2025 Best of Grand Island Awards! We couldn’t have done it without your support in the past — THANK YOU for helping us earn previous wins. Your [...]
By Anderson Diesel Service
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May 17, 2022
Anderson Diesel Service in Grand island is looking to hire a full-time diesel technician to start immediately. We are looking for someone who is dependable, trustworthy, and ready to work hard in a fast-paced environment. Ideal candidates would have experience working on diesel pickups. Will required to have your own basic hand tools. Pay is [...]

By Anderson Diesel Service
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November 22, 2019
Your local diesel parts store Anderson Diesel Service is much more then your diesel pickup repair shop. We are hooked up direct with a lot of the popular diesel parts manufactures like BOSCH, ALLIANT POWER, and FASS to name a few. This allows us to sell you great quality diesel parts at a [...]
By Anderson Diesel Service
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August 28, 2017
Promotion Code: Bosch For 25% off list price on all Bosch products! Bosch injectors now have 2 year unlimited mile parts and labor warranty!
By Anderson Diesel Service
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August 18, 2017
Alliant Power is pleased to announce a joint distribution agreement with PurePower Technologies® (PPT) in which Alliant Power will exclusively distribute PPT’s industry-leading new and remanufactured OEM diesel fuel injectors! Alliant Power and PurePower are now co brands for the OEM 6.0 Powerstroke injector! These injectors are taken right off the same assembly-line that the Ford Motorcraft [...]
By Anderson Diesel Service
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February 27, 2017
We make sure your Diesel pickup is running great! We have been a primer diesel pickup repair shop for over 30 years. We service Dodge Cummins, Chevy Duramax, and Ford Powerstroke. Our diesel experts are highly trained in diesel diagnostics and gets you fixed right the first time. We use only the best quality parts on the market today to insure reliability. We have all the [...]

By Anderson Diesel Service
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February 20, 2017
Inside a 6.6 Duramax L5p! General Motors first introduced the 6.6L Duramax V-8 diesel engine for its ’01 Chevrolet and GMC light trucks. GM cooperatively designed and built the engine with Isuzu to replace the 6.5L oil-burner that was discontinued the year prior. This new engine marked a leap forward in the design, technology, and [...]

By Anderson Diesel Service
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February 6, 2017
Anderson Auto Parts-Diesel Service has been a Bosch Diesel Service center for over 30 years and are your experts in diesel pickup diagnosing! Genuine OE Injectors Bosch is the world’s leading supplier of diesel fuel injection systems and is standard equipment on many diesel engines today. Bosch genuine OE injectors provide superior performance and durability [...]
By Anderson Diesel Service
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January 23, 2017
Anderson Auto Parts is a Robert Bosch Injection pump authorized rebuilder and only use genuine Bosch replacement parts to insure you get the best in reliable and longevity. We have been rebuilding injection pumps and more for over 30 years.

















