DETROIT DIESEL
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
ENGINE OPERATION INSTRUCTION
PREPARATION FOR STARTING ENGINE FIRST
in storage, may be insufficient for proper lubrication
TIME
when the engine is started for the first time.
Before starting an engine for the first time, carefully
read and follow these instructions. Attempting to run the
It is recommended that the engine lubricating system be
engine before studying these instructions may result in
charged with a pressure prelubricator, set to supply a
serious damage to the engine.
minimum of 25 psi oil pressure, to ensure an immediate
flow of oil to all bearings at the initial engine start-up.
NOTE: When preparing to start a new or
The oil supply line should be attached to the engine so
overhauled engine or an engine which has
that oil under pressure is supplied to the main oil gallery.
been in storage, perform all of the
With the oil pan dry, use the prelubricator to prime the
operations listed below. Before a routine
engine with sufficient oil to reach all bearing surfaces.
start (at each shift), see Daily Operations in
Use heavy-duty lubricating oil as specified under
the Lubrication and Preventive Maintenance
Lubricating Oil Specifications.
Then remove the
Chart.
dipstick, wipe it with a clean cloth, insert and remove it
again to check the oil level in the oil pan. Add sufficient
Cooling System
oil, if necessary, to bring it to the full mark on the
dipstick. Do not overfill.
Install all of the drain cocks or plugs in the cooling
system (drain cocks are removed for shipping).
If a pressure prelubricator is not available, fill the
crankcase to the proper level with heavy-duty lubricating
Open the cooling system vents, if the engine is so
oil as specified. Then pre-lubricate the upper engine
equipped.
parts by removing the valve rocker covers and pouring
lubricating oil, of the same grade and viscosity as used
Remove the filler cap and fill the cooling system with
in the crankcase, over the rocker arms.
clean, soft water or a protective solution consisting of
high boiling point type antifreeze, if the engine will be
Turbocharger
exposed to freezing temperatures. Refer to Engine
Coolant. Keep the liquid level about two inches below
Disconnect the turbocharger oil inlet line and pour
the filler neck to allow for fluid expansion.
approximately one pint of clean engine oil in the line,
thus making sure the bearings are lubricated for the
Use a quality rust inhibitor if only water is used in the
initial start. Reconnect the oil line.
cooling system.
Air Cleaner
Close the vents, if used, after filling the cooling system.
If the engine is equipped with oil bath air cleaners, fill
On marine installations, prime the raw water cooling
the air cleaner oil cups to the proper level with clean
system and open any sea cocks in the raw water pump
engine oil. Do not overfill.
intake line. Prime the raw water pump by removing the
pipe plug or electrode provided in the pump outlet elbow
Transmission
and pour water in the pump.
Fill the transmission case, marine gear or torque
CAUTION: Failure to prime the raw water
converter supply tank to the proper level with the
pump may result in damage to the pump
lubricant specified under Lubrication and Preventive
impeller.
Maintenance.
Lubrication System
Fuel System
The lubricating oil film on the rotating parts and bearings
Fill the fuel tank with the fuel specified under Diesel
of a new or overhauled engine, or one which has been
Fuel Oil Specifications.
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