1400 S. Outer Rd. Eureka, MO 63025 636-938-5777

Blog Page at Midwest Motors in St. Louis, MO

Leap year

Surrounded in history and superstition, February 29 only comes once every four years— and we have one Monday. Here are a few facts about leap day.

Bachelor’s Day

In Ireland, February 29 is Bachelor's Day - a traditional holiday when women propose to men. Scotland began the tradition in 1288 by passing a law permitting women to propose and if refused, the man had to pay a fine. Now, the tradition is just an amusing historical tidbit.

2. Gregorian calendar roots 

Pope Paul III, the last of the Renaissance popes, was born on a leap day in 1468. Interestingly enough, it was another pope who established the Gregorian calendar - Pope Gregory XIII.

Julius Caesar introduced the idea, but the math he used wasn't quite right, creating too many leap years. Essentially, every 400 years, we ended up with three extra days, so to compensate, centuries must be divisible by 400 to count as leap years. Years like 1700, 1800 and 1900 are only 365 days long, rather than 366.

Top 5 Reasons to puchase a diesel truck

Top 5 Reasons To Purchase A Diesel Truck


Diesel trucks can be more beneficial than their gasoline-powered counterparts in many ways. The fuel is more expensive than regular gasoline in some areas, but the small cost difference pales in comparison with the multiple benefits. It is wise for first-time buyers to research the different types and sizes of diesel trucks available. People who are looking for work vehicles or trucks to haul heavy loads will be enticed by diesel trucks. From light-duty trucks for everyday use to medium and heavy-duty trucks for farm work or other serious tasks, buyers have plenty of options available. There are five main reasons people shopping for trucks should consider vehicles with diesel engines.

1. Better Gas Mileage


Diesel engines are better for people who want good gas mileage. They are more efficient and do not produce as much waste heat. Although diesel fuel is typically more expensive than gasoline, the fuel efficiency a diesel-powered truck achieves makes up for the cost difference. Diesel trucks get at least five miles per gallon more than gasoline trucks with similar output.

2. Better Horsepower and Torque


Gas engines have less horsepower per cubic inch than diesel engines. Also, diesel engines have more torque and a larger power band. Gas-powered trucks may accelerate faster initially, but diesel trucks maintain their power better while in motion. Diesel trucks are better for people who plan to carry heavy loads, and they actually accelerate faster with a heavier load. They are ideal for people who plan to use them for a business or the type of work that requires hauling things regularly.

3. Better Engine Longevity


The life of a diesel engine tends to be about three times longer than the life of a gasoline engine. While gasoline engines need to be rebuilt after about 125,000 miles, diesel engines can accumulate 375,000 miles before they need to be rebuilt. Diesel fuel is naturally heavier and has its own lubricants. Both of these factors contribute to less wear and erosion on the engine's moving parts. A diesel truck's engine also has fewer moving parts than a gasoline engine, which makes it easier to repair. When repairs are needed, owners have the option of saving money with reconditioned parts instead of buying new ones. Even many used diesel trucks have plenty of engine life left.

4. Better Reliability


Diesel trucks do not have complex ignition systems that require as much maintenance as gas trucks. This makes them more reliable, which is another bonus for people looking for a work truck. Their higher thermal efficiency also gives them more strength, and most diesel trucks can haul up to four tons without the fuel efficiency being affected. People who plan to haul boat trailers or utility trailers will find this useful.

5. Improved Engines


Some people may be hesitant to buy a diesel truck because of environmental concerns. However, the good news is that diesel engines have been steadily improving over the past several years. Manufacturers are continually striving to work on engines that produce fewer particulates in the exhaust. Some of the newer Dodge, Ford, and GMC diesel trucks have engines that are designed to burn fuel more cleanly.


Midwest Motors, just outside of St. Louis Missouri, in Eureka Missouri is a full service CM Dealer.  Sales, Service, and installation, all done here in our shop!  We also sell and service used trucks, we have diesel mechanics to get your truck up and running!  Give us a call, and let us show you the Midwest Motors way!   


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