All In: A Case Study – Precision DPF Services
Precision DPF Services, based in Houston, Texas, just celebrated their one-year anniversary cleaning DPFs (they are also an REP Distributor). They started out in this business pretty much from scratch, inspired by a truck-driving family member, some deep market research, and the American dream.
We contacted Tommie, Duy, and Oscar, business partners at PDS, to learn more about their experience with Filtertherm and Redline Emissions Products (REP). Their entrepreneurial journey is informative and inspirational – whether you’re considering starting a business in this industry or not.
These guys are notable since they are not only an authorized REP Distributor and clean DPFs with Filtertherm – they use BOTH the Aqueous and Thermal methods. They have been able to make innovative use of the strengths of both types of DPF cleaning machines, by combining the cleaning power & capacity of Thermal with the speed & flexibility of Aqueous. They can clean all types of filters – light duty to heavy duty, odd shapes, heavily soiled, and even whole One Box units.
We sent them a series of questions to better understand their story – here is what they said.
GETTING STARTED
Q: What factors helped you decide to start cleaning DPFs?
A: Our journey into DPF cleaning began with my father, who spent 35 years in the trucking industry. Growing up, I often heard about the challenges he faced when his truck needed service—especially the high costs and prolonged downtimes that kept him off the road, sometimes for days or even weeks, particularly when he was far from home. When he retired in 2022, I asked him, ‘What was the repair that cost you the most?‘ He replied, ‘There were many, but the one that hit me by surprise was my DPF.’ His biggest frustrations were the lack of knowledge about aftertreatment systems, and the expenses and delays involved in servicing the DPF, especially with limited service providers available.
After researching the industry, we saw there was a real need for quick-turnaround, cost-effective solutions. With the help of my partners, I learned about Filtertherm Aqueous cleaning, which offered us the capability to provide same-day service. Our goal is not just to offer an efficient solution but to educate fellow drivers, helping them minimize costs and reduce downtime.
Q: What were the top 3 highlights of your first year?
A: Listen, evolve, make deals, & put yourself out there.
- Because of the lack of knowledge in not just the industry as a whole, but of our market, we’ve had to take on being not just a service/product provider but also a source of education and resource for information. Subsequently, the realization of this has required our business model to evolve by listening to our customers as well as paying attention to our market as a whole – specifically as it relates to cost, timing, and overall menu of services offered. We’ve greatly evolved our service offerings based on listening to our customers and partner mechanics.
- Closing deals with two big players in the Houston market.
- Attending our first Texas Truck show exposed us to many fleet companies and repair shops.
Q: What were the main challenges you overcame getting started?
A: We faced a unique set of challenges in launching our DPF Cleaning/Parts business.
Coming from a background in real estate, with expertise in finance, commercial property management, and analytics, we had no prior experience or knowledge of the DPF industry. Building this business from the ground up required learning the technical aspects of DPF systems and understanding the specific needs of the market.
Additionally, we had to navigate a competitive landscape where many potential customers already had established relationships with other providers. Learning how to effectively communicate our value and educate customers on the benefits of our services was critical. Overcoming these hurdles taught us resilience and deepened our commitment to continuous improvement and customer service.
Pictured above: Precision DPF Services partners Tommie, Duy, and Oscar.
FILTERTHERM: THE CLEAR CHOICE
Q: What made Filtertherm the best choice for your new DPF Cleaning business?
A: Filtertherm was the clear choice for us because of the accessible resources available on rep.direct.com. Comprehensive educational materials made it easy to understand the technology and its benefits, giving us confidence in our purchase.
Having immediate access to knowledgeable representatives who answered our questions over the phone was another key factor. This direct support set Filtertherm apart from other options, where inquiries often required form submissions and waiting days for a callback.
Filtertherm’s combination of reliable resources and responsive service made our decision straightforward.
Q: After 1 year, what do you like best about your Filtertherm DPF Cleaning setup?
A: First and foremost, the support from REP has been invaluable. Coming from a different industry without prior knowledge, their team has been available to answer our questions and guide us through any issues, making the transition much smoother.
The setup itself is another highlight—both easy to operate and highly effective in cleaning DPF systems for light and heavy-duty vehicles. We’ve been consistently impressed with its performance.
Lastly, the operational costs are surprisingly low. Despite high energy rates, the energy efficiency of the equipment—especially the oven, Aqueous cleaner, and dryer—keeps our costs down, making it not only effective but also economical to run.
Q: Why did you decide to get both the Aqueous & Thermal DPF cleaning machines?
A: We initially chose the Aqueous cleaner to offer same-day service, especially for light-duty DPF systems that don’t require cutting and welding. Adding the Thermal oven came as a recommendation to help remove baked-in contaminants. It turned out to be an excellent choice, allowing us to expand our capabilities to include cleanings for the Detroit One Box system.
Using the oven to pre-treat especially dirty filters before the Aqueous cleaning has also minimized the need to frequently change dirty filter socks on the Aqueous, significantly improving our workflow efficiency.
Q: Has it been worth the investment? How so?
A: Absolutely, in multiple ways. Having both the Aqueous cleaner and Thermal oven has equipped us to handle both light and heavy-duty applications, greatly expanding our service range.
This dual capability allows us to effectively clean even contaminated filters, which is a valuable offering for our customers. Additionally, it has enabled us to market specialized cleaning services, including solutions for the Detroit One Box.
Q: How many DPFs have you guys cleaned in this first year?
A: We have done a total of 109 cleanings. This breaks down to 84 for Heavy Duty applications, 19 Light Duty, and 6 Off-road applications.
Q: Do you feel well-supported and informed as a Filtertherm user?
A: Yes, we do feel well-supported. Anytime we’ve encountered an issue with the equipment, a representative has been available to guide us through troubleshooting and repairs, which has been invaluable.
REP + FILTERTHERM = BETTER SALES & SERVICE
Q: What factors helped you to decide to become an REP distributor?
A: We wanted to go beyond cleaning services and offer a complete solution, which includes parts. Being an REP distributor gives us access to a wide range of DPF/DOC filters for both light and heavy-duty applications, as well as various sensors.
Additionally, we stock gaskets and clamps—parts that many of our competitors don’t offer. Our customers appreciate the convenience of getting everything they need from us instead of making additional trips to the dealership.
Q: What do you like most about the REP product line?
A: Our top three favorite things about the REP product line are product availability, the all-in-one gasket and clamp kits for the Detroit One Box, and the packaging quality.
The all-in-one kits for the Detroit One Box are a standout feature, as they streamline our inventory and simplify the purchasing process for customers.
Additionally, the quality packaging keeps parts secure and organized, making handling and storage easier.
Q: What are some of your bestselling REP parts?
A: So far, it’s the gaskets and clamps, and EGT sensors for the Detroit One box.
Q: Has cleaning DPFs helped you sell more parts and vice versa?
A: Cleaning DPFs has naturally driven parts sales, especially for gaskets and clamps. We include these parts with all of our cleanings to ensure trouble-free reinstallation for our customers.
Q: Do you feel well-supported and informed as a REP distributor?
A: Absolutely. Whenever we encounter challenges, such as identifying the correct part number or thread pitch for bung replacements, we can rely on REP support. A representative is always available to assist, which makes a big difference in resolving issues quickly.
The ability to order parts for emergency repairs has also allowed us to meet urgent customer needs effectively, further reinforcing our reliability and commitment to service.
UNSUNG HERO – FILTERTRAK
Q: How has using FilterTrak benefited your DPF Cleaning operation?
A: FilterTrak has brought great value to our operation and has received excellent feedback from our customers.
The ability to provide before-and-after photos along with key metrics and detailed comments during inspections enhances transparency and trust.
One of our partner mechanics even shared that our report comments helped him identify a coolant leak on a customer’s truck. When we noted residue on the DOC, he investigated further and found a minor coolant leak he might have otherwise missed.
Q: What specific features of FilterTrak do you find most useful?
A: The photo storage and customer report generation features are what we value most. Storing photos allows us to maintain a detailed record of each filter we service, while the reporting feature helps us pull customer records easily for follow-ups and routine maintenance reminders.
This functionality not only keeps us organized but also supports proactive customer service.
Sidenote: FilterTrak is a software tool designed specifically for DPF cleaning operations large and small. It stores and organizes all your DPF Cleaning data in one place including before and after pictures, filter & customer data, cleaning history and even generates detailed cleaning reports. Learn more here.
LOOKING FORWARD:
Q: What are some of the ways you’ve been able to attract and retain customers?
A: We’ve found success through a mix of cold calling, site visits, Google marketing, and joining local trucking clubs.
- Cold calling and site visits allow us to directly connect with potential customers and establish strong, personal relationships.
- Google marketing has helped in improving our online presence, reaching customers actively looking for DPF cleaning services.
- Additionally, being members of local trucking clubs has helped us network within the community, build trust, and stay engaged with customer needs.
Together, these strategies have been key in both attracting and retaining customers.
Q: Do you have any recommendations or tips for new DPF cleaning operations?
A: Understanding your market and listening closely to customer needs are essential. Take the time to become a subject matter expert—not only will this build trust, but it will also set you apart in the industry.
Many of our customers have expressed appreciation for the way we explain how aftertreatment systems work and why we follow specific cleaning practices. This approach reassures them that we’re offering genuine solutions, not just a service.
Building that trust through education helps create long-term customer relationships and a reputation for quality.
Q: What are you looking forward to for your DPF Cleaning/Parts business in the coming year?
A: We’re focused on becoming industry experts and a trusted educational resource for our customers. Our goal is to be the #1 service provider in the Greater Houston area, known not just for quality and reliability but also for empowering drivers and fleet managers with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
We’re looking forward to expanding our reach, strengthening relationships with our clients, and setting new standards for efficiency and service excellence in DPF cleaning and parts.
TO SUM UP
We hope you have been inspired by this inside view into operating a DPF Cleaning & parts business. We know everyone can benefit from these actionable steps and real-world insights. Perhaps you are now considering the possibility of starting your own DPF Cleaning and aftertreatment parts business.
Key Takeaways:
- Find your “why”. Having a deep understanding of your motivation is vital. Whether it be to build a legacy, serve your community, realize financial freedom, etc.
- Do your research. Keep learning about the industry, your customer’s pain points, and how to fix them. Analyze your market and get involved at different levels.
- Evolve to Grow. Try new approaches, and learn from other’s mistakes and successes. Challenge your assumptions and never stop growing as a person and business owner
Like Tommie, Duy, and Oscar, at Precision DPF Services, we value bringing innovation, education, and excellence to this industry. If you need DPF cleaning or aftertreatment parts in the Houston area, contact them today.
If this real-world story has ignited even a small spark of interest or inspiration, reach out to learn how you too can find the path to success in this business!
Give us a quick phone call, or email if you’d like to explore the possibilities of being an authorized REP parts distributor or start your own business cleaning DPFs.
Redline Emissions Products is the industry leader in simplifying and servicing the diesel emission system.
Browse our website to learn more about our extensive range of aftertreatment products, equipment, & services. And don’t forget our Cross Reference Tool for looking up emissions parts.
For inquiries or more information on our aftertreatment parts, DFP Cleaning equipment, or how to become an authorized REP distributor, feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you and provide the support you need every step of the way.
Want to find out about becoming a Redline Emissions Products® dealer? Contact Anthony Soto, National Sales Manager for REP to find out more. Call 888-295-4670
Need Tech Support or need help troubleshooting a DPF problem? No problem! Contact REP Support at 1-888-564-4209
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