Carli Suspension 6-Inch Radius Arm Upgrade

Carli for Maximum Performance

Upgrading the suspension on your diesel truck isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about performance, ride quality, and long-term durability. At Deer Park Diesel, we recently tackled a major lift and traction upgrade using Carli Suspension’s 6-Inch Radius Arm System and heavy-duty traction bars. Here's a breakdown of why we chose this setup and what you should know before investing in your own diesel performance build.

Carli Suspension 6-Inch Radius Arm System: Is It Worth It?

If you're planning a serious lift kit for your Cummins, Duramax or Power Stroke, Carli’s 6-Inch Radius Arm System is a top-tier upgrade. This fully bolt-on suspension system is designed to improve ride stability, wheel alignment, and suspension travel—perfect for truck owners who want off-road reliability without sacrificing on-road comfort.

These radius arms are extremely heavy-duty and built to last. They help eliminate the slop and flex that cheaper control arms can introduce. However, be warned: this upgrade isn't cheap.

Budget Tip: If your main goal is to fit bigger wheels and tires, you can start with extended control arms and circle back to radius arms later.

Solving Axle Wrap with Traction Bars

One of the biggest problems we faced after the lift was axle wrap. When you punch the throttle and your axle hops, you're not getting clean power to the ground—and over time, that can destroy components.

Our Fix: Installing traction bars immediately tightened up rear-end performance, especially during acceleration. The truck now feels more planted, more responsive, and better controlled. That said, the bars do hang low, so we’ve sacrificed a bit of ground clearance—something to keep in mind if you plan to take your truck off-road often.

There are high-clearance traction bar options on the market, and we may explore those in a future phase of this build.

Should You Upgrade Your Diesel Suspension Now or Later?

Here’s the bottom line: Not every mod has to be done at once. Your diesel truck build should match your goals, whether that’s daily driving, towing, overlanding, or hitting trails around Spokane, Washington.

We recommend starting with critical upgrades—like traction bars if you're battling axle wrap—and building your way up. Carli Suspension parts are premium for a reason, but you can always stagger your upgrades to fit your budget.

Final Thoughts from Deer Park Diesel

At Deer Park Diesel, we live and breathe diesel performance and these Carli 6-Inch Radius Arm System and traction bars have made a big difference in our build, and we’re excited to see how this truck performs on- and off-road.

📲 Stay Connected

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— The Deer Park Diesel Team

📺 Watch the Full Video:

🎥 Shop Truck Build Ep. 3: Carli radius arms & traction bars on the shop truck

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What Are the Most Common Sprinter EcoDiesel Engine Problems?

July 28, 2025

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans with the EcoDiesel engine have become popular among businesses, delivery services, and van-life enthusiasts thanks to their efficiency, power, and reliability. However, like any engine, the EcoDiesel isn’t without its quirks and potential problems. Understanding the most common issues these engines face can help you maintain your Sprinter, avoid unexpected breakdowns, and ensure a long service life. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF Clogging) The diesel particulate filter (DPF) is designed to trap soot and reduce emissions. Over time, the filter fills with soot and needs to be regenerated (cleaned) through high exhaust temperatures. Short trips, stop-and-go driving, or idling for long periods can prevent proper regeneration. When the DPF becomes clogged, it can lead to reduced power, poor fuel economy, and even force the engine into “limp mode” to protect itself. EGR System Issues The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system reduces emissions by recirculating a portion of exhaust gases back into the intake. While effective, this system can lead to carbon buildup inside the intake manifold and EGR valve. Over time, this buildup restricts airflow, affecting engine performance and leading to rough idling, hesitation, or even stalling. Cleaning or replacing EGR components is often necessary to restore proper function. DEF System Failures Sprinter EcoDiesel engines use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. The DEF system includes sensors, injectors, and a reservoir. When the DEF system develops issues, such as faulty sensors or injector failures, drivers may see warning lights on the dashboard. In some cases, the engine may limit power or refuse to start if DEF-related problems are ignored. Turbocharger Problems The turbocharger boosts engine power and improves efficiency. However, it can be prone to problems, especially if maintenance isn’t kept up. Oil contamination, poor oil quality, or extended oil change intervals can damage the turbo’s bearings or seals. Symptoms include whistling noises, reduced power, and excessive exhaust smoke. Regular oil changes and using high-quality oil can help avoid these issues. Fuel Injector Failures Diesel engines rely heavily on precise fuel injection. Over time, injectors can become clogged or fail, leading to rough running, misfires, or decreased fuel efficiency. Contaminated fuel or neglecting fuel filter changes increases the risk of injector problems. Keeping up with scheduled fuel system maintenance reduces these risks and protects your engine. Glow Plug and Starting Issues Diesel engines use glow plugs to heat the combustion chamber for smooth cold starts. Worn or failing glow plugs can make starting difficult in colder weather and cause rough idling immediately after startup. Replacing glow plugs as needed is important, especially in regions with cold winters. The Importance of Routine Maintenance Many of these common problems are preventable or can be caught early with proper maintenance. Regular oil and filter changes, maintaining DEF fluid levels, and using high-quality fuel are key practices that help keep the EcoDiesel engine running smoothly. Addressing warning lights and dashboard alerts promptly can also help avoid more serious damage. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Small Symptoms Minor performance changes like hesitation, smoke, or a loss of power are often early signs of more significant issues. Ignoring these can lead to costly repairs, unexpected downtime, and reduced engine life. Paying attention to changes in how your Sprinter drives and sounds can help catch problems before they escalate. Trust Deer Park Diesel in Clayton, WA At Deer Park Diesel in Clayton, WA, we specialize in diesel engines and know the unique needs of Sprinter vans with EcoDiesel engines. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair a wide range of issues, including clogged DPFs, faulty injectors, and turbocharger problems. Whether you use your Sprinter for business, adventure, or daily driving, keeping it reliable and efficient is essential. Schedule an inspection or maintenance service with us today and keep your Sprinter EcoDiesel running at its best.