NEW CASTLE, Pa. — Progressive Diesel Injection has been keeping its customers’ equipment up and running since 1971 when Harry Ratvasky Sr., founded the company.

The full-service diesel engine machine shop employs four full-time and one part-time employee.

Training

Technicians train to be qualified to work on the newest diesel engines — most of which are electronic, said business partner Sharon May.

May said as the new emission regulations are put into effect, maintenance and repairs to diesel engines will be more complex.

“We will need to attend even more training and be equipped to repair and maintain the new diesel engines and components including regeneration systems and particulate filters,” May said.

The Marcellus shale development will also impact the business, said May, as the emissions requirements on engine manufacturers will require new tooling and training for repair facilities.

Location

Progressive, located at 451 North Gate Circle in New Castle, Pa., specializes in fuel system repair and can also completely rebuild your engine.

“Customer satisfaction has always been our priority,” said May. “We have always been family-owned and operated and we have the training and tools necessary to repair the diesel engines in today’s market.”

Company development

Once Progressive got business going in the early 1970s, things took off. In 1979, the company began fuel system repairs.

After 20 years of serving satisfied customers, Progressive outgrew its shop, so, in 1998, the company moved to a larger shop in Neshannock Township.

One year later, Progressive became a Perkins engine dealer and in 2003 became a dealer for Alliant Power and Garrett turbochargers. In 2005, the company signed on as a dealer for Cummins engines.

The company is also a Kubota industrial engine dealer.

Products

In addition to service, Progressive stocks a range of performance products for GM, Ford and Dodge pickups to increase horsepower and torque.

Progressive also has performance and stock products available for tractor pullers.

“We will work with the customer to help them make the best decision about repairing or replacing their equipment,” said May.

As for the future, May predicts the increased cost of new engines will result in more business for Progressive Diesel.

“More businesses will want to rebuild existing engines rather than purchasing new engines,” May said.

Details

Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and appointments are available Saturdays. Call 724-658-4690 or send an e-mail to smaypdi@comcast.net. Check out the website at www.progressivedieselinjection.com.