DETROIT DIESEL
STORAGE
PREPARING ENGINE FOR STORAGE
completely from any exposed part before applying a rust
When an engine is to be stored or removed from
preventive compound. Therefore, it is recommended
operation for a period of time, special precautions
that the engine be processed for storage as soon as
should be taken to protect the interior and exterior of the
possible after removal from operation.
engine, transmission and other parts from rust
accumulation and corrosion.
The parts requiring
The engine should be stored (in a building which is dry
attention and the recommended preparations are given
and can be heated during the winter months. Moisture
below.
absorbing chemicals are available commercially for use
when excessive dampness prevails in the storage area.
It will be necessary to remove all rust or corrosion
TEMPORARY STORAGE (30 days or less)
5. If freezing weather is expected during the
To protect an engine for a temporary period of time,
storage period, add a high boiling point type antifreeze
proceed as follows:
solution in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations. Drain the raw water system and
1. Drain the engine crankcase.
leave the drain cocks open.
2. Fill the crankcase to the proper level with the
6. Clean the entire exterior of the engine (except
recommended viscosity and grade of oil.
the electrical system) with fuel oil and dry it with air.
3. Fill the fuel tank with the recommended grade of
7. Seal all of the engine openings. The material
fuel oil. Operate the engine for two minutes at 1200
used for this purpose must be waterproof, vapor proof
rpm and no load.
and possess sufficient physical strength to resist
puncture and damage from the expansion of entrapped
air.
after this run.
An engine prepared in this manner can be returned to
4. Check the air cleaner and service it, if
service in a short time by removing the seals at the
necessary, as outlined under Air System.
engine openings, checking the engine coolant, fuel oil,
lubricating oil, transmission, and priming the raw water
pump, if used.
EXTENDED STORAGE (30 days or more)
When an engine is to be removed from operation for an
6. Circulate the coolant through the entire system
extended period of time, prepare it as follows:
by operating the engine/until normal operating
temperature is reached (160F. to 1850F.) 7. Stop the
engine.
1. Drain and thoroughly flush the cooling system
with clean, soft water.
8. Remove the drain plug and completely drain the
engine crankcase. Reinstall and tighten the drain plug.
2. Refill the cooling system with clean, soft water.
Install new lubricating oil filter elements and gaskets.
3. Add a rust inhibitor to the cooling system (refer
9. Fill the crankcase to the proper level with a
to Corrosion Inhibitor under Cooling System).
30weight preservative lubricating oil MIL-L-21260,
4. Remove, check and recondition the injectors, if
Grade 2 (P10), or equivalent.
necessary, to make sure they will be ready to operate
when the engine is restored to service.
10. Drain the engine fuel tank.
11. Refill the fuel tank with enough rust preventive
5. Reinstall the injectors in the engine, time them,
fuel oil such as American Oil Diesel Run-In Fuel (LF
and adjust the valve clearance.
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