13.1 Operating Instructions
DETROIT DIESEL 53
If the unit is equipped with a fuel valve, it must be
opened.
Clutch
To ensure prompt starting, fill the fuel system between
the pump and the fuel return manifold with fuel. If the
Disengage the clutch, if the unit is so equipped.
engine has been out of service for a considerable length
off time, prime the filter between the fuel pump and the
STARTING
injectors. The filter may be primed by removing the
Before starting the engine for the first time, perform the
plug in the top of the filter cover and slowly filling the
operations listed under Preparation For Starting Engine
filter with fuel.
First rime.
Lubrication Fittings
Before a routine start, see Daily Operations in the
Lubrication and Preventive Maintenance Chart, Section
Fill all grease cups and lubricate at all fittings with an all
15.1.
purpose grease. Apply lubricating oil to the throttle
linkage and other moving parts and fill the hinged cap
If a manual or an automatic shut-down system is
oilers with a hand oiler.
incorporated in the unit, the control must be set in the
open position before starting the engine.
Drive Belts
The blower will be seriously damaged if operated with
the air shut-off valve in the closed position.
Adjust all drive belts as recommended under Lubrication
and Preventive Maintenance in Section 15.1.
Initial Engine Start (Electric)
Storage Battery
Start an engine equipped with an electric starting motor
as follows: Set the speed control lever at part throttle,
Check the battery. The top should be clean and dry, the
then bring it back to the desired no-load speed. In
terminals tight and protected with a coat of petroleum
addition, on mechanical governors, make sure the stop
jelly and the electrolyte must be at the proper level.
lever on the governor cover is in the run position. Then
press the starting motor switch firmly. If the engine fails
NOTE: When necessary, check the battery with a
to start within 30 seconds, release the starting switch
hydrometer; the reading should be 1.265 or
and allow the starting motor to cool a few minutes
higher. However, hydrometer readings should
before trying again. If the engine fails to start after four
always be corrected for the temperature of the
attempts, an inspection should be made to determine
electrolyte.
the cause.
CAUTION: To prevent serious damage to the
starter, if the engine does not start, do not press
the starting switch again while the starting
motor is running.
1972 General Motors Corp.
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