HomeEnginesJohn Deere 6068T

John Deere 6068T Engine

The John Deere 6068T is a 5.4 L 6-cylinder water cooled engine rated at 1800 rpm, producing up to 112 kW. It powers generator sets from John Deere, including the 6068TF120, ML100JDNKD and ML85JDNKD.

Also known as: JOHN DEERE 6068T

5.4 L
Displacement
6
Cylinders
1800 rpm
Rated speed
112 kW
Gross power

Engine specifications

Displacement5.4 L
Cylinders6
Aspirationwater cooled
Rated speed1800 rpm
Gross power112 kW

Generator sets powered by this engine

3
John Deere 6068TF120John Deere ML100JDNKDJohn Deere ML85JDNKD

How to read your John Deere engine serial & model number →

Service intervals

24
ItemActionHoursMonthsNotes
Engine Oil and Oil FilterChange250 hr6 moFirst service — First change before 100 hours maximum of break-in operation
Engine oil and filterChange100 hrFirst service — First service: change at maximum 100 hours of break-in operation
BatteryCheck250 hr6 moService battery
BatteryOther250 hr6 moService battery
Engine MountsCheck250 hr6 mo
Fire ExtinguisherOther250 hr250 Hour/6 Month; also inspect once a month
Fire extinguisherCheck250 hr6 moStandard industrial engines; at least once a month
Manual Belt Tensioner and Belt WearCheck250 hr6 mo
Air Intake Hoses, Connections, & SystemCheck500 hr12 mo
Automatic Belt Tensioner and Belt WearCheck500 hr12 mo
Coolant solution analysis - add SCAs as requiredTest500 hr12 moTest every 500 hours or 12 months
Cooling SystemCheck500 hr12 mo
Cooling SystemTest500 hr12 moPressure test cooling system
Crankcase Vent TubeClean500 hr12 moClean more often in dusty conditions
Engine Electrical Ground ConnectionCheck500 hr12 mo
Engine speedsCheck500 hr12 mo
Fuel Filter ElementReplace500 hr12 moBleed fuel system
Single or dual fuel filter elementsReplace500 hr12 mo
Cooling SystemOther2000 hr24 moFlush; with COOL-GARD extend to 3000 hours/36 months, or 5000 hours/60 months if tested annually and SCAs replenished
Cooling systemDrain2000 hr24 moFlush/refill; with COOL-GARD extend to 3000 hours or 36 months; to 5000 hours or 60 months if tested annually and SCAs replenished
Crankshaft vibration damper (6.8 L engines)Check2000 hr24 moReplace every 4500 hours or 60 months, whichever occurs first
Engine valve clearanceAdjust2000 hr24 moCheck and adjust
ThermostatsTest2000 hr24 mo
Variable speed (droop) (generator sets)Adjust2000 hr24 moGenerator (standby) applications

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Service specifications

60
TypeItemValueUnitCondition
ClearanceAir Cleaner Neck to Engine Intake—Overlap38 mm (1.5 in)mm
ClearanceExhaust Valve Clearance For Adjusting (Rocker Arm-to-Valve Tip)0.46 mm (0.018 in.)mmengine COLD
ClearanceExhaust Valve Clearance For Checking (Rocker Arm-to-Valve Tip)0.41—0.48 mm (0.016—0.019 in.)mmengine COLD
ClearanceIntake Valve Clearance For Adjusting (Rocker Arm-to-Valve Tip)0.36 mm (0.014 in.)mmengine COLD
ClearanceIntake Valve Clearance For Checking (Rocker Arm-to-Valve Tip)0.31—0.38 mm (0.012—0.015 in.)mmengine COLD
ClearanceVibration Damper—Maximum Radial Runout1.50 mm (0.060 in.)mmengine at operating temperature
ClearanceVibration damper maximum radial runout1.50mmengine at operating temperature
OtherAir cleaner neck to engine intake overlap38mm
OtherAuxiliary gear drive, continuous operation at 2500 rpm30kWcontinuous
OtherAuxiliary gear drive, intermittent operation at 2500 rpm37kWintermittent
OtherCoolant capacity, 4.5 L engine8.5L
OtherCoolant capacity, 6.8 L engine11.3L
OtherFiring order, 4-cylinder1-3-4-2
OtherFiring order, 6-cylinder1-5-3-6-2-4
OtherGovernor regulation (generator)5%
OtherGovernor regulation (industrial)7—10%
OtherMax crank pressure0.5kPa
OtherNew belt tension470—650Nmanual belt tensioner, new belt
OtherUsed belt tension400—580Nmanual belt tensioner, used belt
Pressure8-Rib Poly-Vee Belt—Bosch and New Magneton Alternator New Belt Tension535—715N (120—160 lb-force)new belt
PressureAir intake restriction (maximum)6.25 kPa (0.06 bar) (1.0 psi) (25 in. H2O)kPa
PressureEngine Oil Pressure at Full Load Rated Speed345 ± 103 kPa (3.45 ± 1.03 bar) (50 ± 15 psi)kPanormal operating temperature of 115°C (240°F) sump
PressureEngine oil pressure at full load rated speed345 ± 103kPaat full load rated speed, normal operating temperature 115°C (240°F) sump
PressureMinimum Oil Pressure at 850 rpm105 kPa (1.05 bar) (15 psi)kPaat 850 rpm
PressureMinimum Oil Pressure at Rated Speed275 (2.75 bar) (40 psi)kPa
PressureMinimum oil pressure at 850 rpm105kPaat 850 rpm
PressureMinimum oil pressure at rated speed275kPaat rated speed
PressureNew Belt—Tension535—715N (120—160 lb-force)new belt
PressureOld Magneton Alternator New Belt (Option Code 3101) Tension470—650N (105—145 lb-force)new belt
PressureRadiator Cap Holding Pressure (Not Opening For 10 Seconds)70 kPa (0.7 bar) (10 psi) minimumkPahold 10 seconds
PressureRadiator cap holding pressure (not opening for 10 seconds)70kPaminimum, 10 seconds
SpeedSlow Idle Speed (factory)850rpm
SpeedSlow idle speed850rpmfactory
TemperatureAutomatic engine shutdown coolant temperature115°Cif equipped with safety controls
TemperatureCoolant Temperature Range82°–94°C (180°–202°F)°C
TemperatureCoolant temperature range82–94°Cnormal operating range
TemperatureCoolant temperature to reduce load112°Creduce load if exceeded
TemperatureRadiator shutters fully open coolant temperature93°C
TemperatureThermostat 71°C (160°F) Full Open (Nominal)84°C (182°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 71°C (160°F) Initial Opening (Range)69—72°C (156—162°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 71°C rating - full open (nominal)84°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 71°C rating - initial opening range69—72°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 77°C (170°F) Full Open (Nominal)89°C (192°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 77°C (170°F) Initial Opening (Range)74—78°C (166—172°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 77°C rating - full open (nominal)89°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 77°C rating - initial opening range74—78°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 82°C (180°F) Full Open (Nominal)94°C (202°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 82°C (180°F) Initial Opening (Range)80—84°C (175—182°F)°C
TemperatureThermostat 82°C rating - full open (nominal)94°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 82°C rating - initial opening range80—84°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 89°C rating - full open (nominal)101°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 89°C rating - initial opening range86—90°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 90°C rating - full open (nominal)103°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 90°C rating - initial opening range89—93°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 92°C rating - full open (nominal)105°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 92°C rating - initial opening range89—93°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 96°C rating - full open (nominal)100°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 96°C rating - initial opening range94—97°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 99°C rating - full open (nominal)111°Cthermostat test
TemperatureThermostat 99°C rating - initial opening range96—100°Cthermostat test

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Recommended fluids

FluidGradeStandardAmbientCapacityNotes
CoolantEthylene glycol base coolantASTM D6210Freeze protection: 40%=-24°C (-12°F); 50%=-37°C (-34°F); 60%=-52°C (-62°F)
CoolantJohn Deere COOL-GARD II / COOL-GARD II PG pre-mixASTM D6210Or concentrate in 40—60% mixture with quality water. Do not use less than 40% or greater than 60% concentrate.
CoolantJohn Deere COOL-GARD Prediluted Coolant (preferred); John Deere COOL-GARD Coolant Concentrate 40-60% mixture with quality waterASTM D5345 (prediluted) / ASTM D4985 (concentrate)50% ethylene glycol provides freeze protection to -37°C (-34°F); 40% to -24°C (-12°F); 60% to -52°C (-62°F). Do not exceed 60%.
Engine oilJohn Deere PLUS-50 (preferred); John Deere TORQ-GARD SUPREME (also recommended)API CI-4 / CH-4 / CG-4 / CF-4; ACEA E5 / E4 / E3 / E2Multi-viscosity diesel engine oils preferred. If fuel sulfur >0.5% (5000 ppm), reduce service interval by 50%. During first 100 hours of new/overhauled engine use John Deere ENGINE BREAK-IN OIL or API CD/CC or ACEA E1.
Engine oilSAE 10W-30 (if John Deere Break-In oil not available)API CE, CD, CC; ACEA E2 or E1Break-in oil; change oil and filter at maximum 100 hours. Do not use Plus-50 II or CJ-4/CI-4/CH-4 etc. for initial break-in.
Engine oilSAE 15W-40, SAE 10W-40, SAE 10W-30, SAE 5W-30, SAE 0W-40, SAE 30, SAE 40John Deere Plus-50 II (preferred), Plus-50, Torq-Gard; API CJ-4, CI-4 PLUS, CI-4, CH-4, CG-4, CF-4; ACEA E9, E7, E6, E5, E4, E3, E2Use oil viscosity based on expected air temperature range between oil changes. Reduce service interval by 50% if API CG-4, API CF-4 or ACEA E2 oils used.
FuelDiesel fuel per EN 590 or ASTM D975EN 590 / ASTM D975Cetane number 40 minimum, greater than 47 preferred below -20°C (-4°F) or above 1675 m (5500 ft). Max sulfur 10000 mg/kg (10000 ppm).
FuelGrade No. 1-D fuel usable below 5°C (40°F); Grade No. 2-D otherwiseEN 590 or ASTM D975Cetane number 45 minimum (>50 preferred). Lubricity min load 3100 grams (ASTM D6078) or max scar diameter 0.45 mm (ASTM D6079). Sulfur <0.05% (500 ppm) preferred; DO NOT use sulfur >1.0%. Bio-diesel per ASTM PS121 or DIN 51606, up to 5% blend.
FuelWinter grade fuel (No. 1-D in North America)below 0°CUse when temperatures fall below 0°C (32°F)
GreaseJohn Deere SD POLYUREA GREASE (preferred); HD MOLY GREASE, HD LITHIUM COMPLEX GREASE, HD WATER RESISTANT GREASE, GREASE-GARD (also recommended)NLGI Performance Classification GC-LBSome grease thickener types are not compatible; consult supplier before mixing.
OtherJohn Deere COOLANT CONDITIONER / Liquid Coolant Conditioner (supplemental coolant additive)Replenish between drain intervals every 12 months or as determined by coolant testing; premix 3% when precharging. DO NOT add SCA when drained and refilled with COOL-GARD.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Procedures

12
Adjusting Variable Speed (Droop) on Generator Set Engines (Stanadyne Mechanical Injection Pumps Only) adjustment
  1. Warm engine to normal operating temperature.
  2. When necessary, disconnect throttle linkage or cable.
  3. Adjust slow idle and adjust fast idle speed when necessary.
  4. Run engine at fast idle, then apply load until reaching rated speed.
  5. Check power. Adjust with the screw if needed.
  6. Remove load from engine.
  7. Again check and adjust fast idle if the droop screw has been turned.
  8. Repeat procedure until both the engine power and the fast idle speed are correct.
  9. Reinstall throttle linkage if previously removed.
Check and Adjust Valve Clearance adjustment

⚠ Valve clearance MUST BE checked and adjusted with engine COLD.

⚠ To prevent accidental starting, always disconnect NEGATIVE (—) battery terminal.

Tools: JDE83 or JD81-1 Flywheel Turning Tool, JDG1571 or JDE81-4 Timing Pin, Feeler gauge, JDG966 Crankshaft Front/Rear Rotation Adapter

  1. Disconnect NEGATIVE (–) battery terminal. Remove rocker arm cover and crankcase ventilator tube.
  2. Remove plugs from timing/rotation hole and timing pin hole.
  3. Rotate flywheel in running direction until No. 1 cylinder is at TDC compression stroke.
  4. Insert timing pin in flywheel to lock engine.
  5. Check valve clearance to cold specifications.
  6. Loosen jam nut on rocker arm adjusting screw; turn screw until feeler gauge slips with slight drag.
  7. Hold adjusting screw and tighten jam nut to specification; recheck clearance.
  8. Replace rocker arm cover and crankcase ventilator tube.
Manual Belt Tensioner Adjustment adjustment

⚠ Do not pry against alternator rear frame.

Tools: JDG1341 Belt Tension Gauge

  1. Install JDG1341 Belt Tension Gauge on belt halfway between pulleys.
  2. Loosen cap screws (B) and (C).
  3. Slide alternator or tensioner bracket in slot to remove all excess slack.
  4. Stretch belt by prying outward on alternator front frame or tensioner bracket.
  5. Tighten cap screws (B) and (C).
  6. Run engine for ten minutes and immediately re-check belt tension per used belt specification.
  7. Reset belt tension as necessary.
Manual Belt Tensioner Adjustment Using Belt Tension Tool (Alternate Method For Engines Without Auxiliary Drive) adjustment

Tools: JDG1520 Belt Tension Tool, Torque wrench

  1. Loosen upper and lower alternator bracket cap screws. Keep lower cap screw snug enough to prevent excessive play.
  2. Insert JDG1520 Belt Tension Tool behind belt and over alternator mounting screw.
  3. Place torque wrench on belt tensioning tool at 90° to tool. Pivot alternator until desired torque is achieved.
  4. While holding tension with torque wrench, scribe a reference mark on alternator in line with notch on upper alternator bracket.
  5. Continue to hold tension and tighten upper alternator bracket cap screw.
  6. Check position of reference mark to see if alternator moved while tightening.
  7. Remove belt tension tool and tighten lower alternator bracket cap screw.
Pressure Testing Cooling System diagnostic

⚠ Explosive release of fluids from pressurized cooling system can cause serious burns. Only remove filler cap when cool enough to touch with bare hands.

Tools: D05104ST Tester

  1. Test radiator cap: remove radiator cap and attach to D05104ST Tester.
  2. Pressurize cap to specification. Gauge should hold pressure for 10 seconds within normal range.
  3. If gauge does not hold pressure, replace radiator cap.
  4. Remove the cap from gauge, turn it 180°, and retest cap.
  5. Test cooling system: allow engine to cool, remove radiator cap, fill radiator with coolant to normal operating level.
  6. Connect gauge and adapter to radiator filler neck and pressurize cooling system to radiator cap specification.
  7. With pressure applied, check all cooling system hose connections, radiator, and overall engine for leaks.
  8. If leakage is detected, correct and pressure test again.
Testing Thermostats Opening Temperature diagnostic

⚠ DO NOT allow thermostat or thermometer to rest against the side or bottom of container when heating water.

Tools: Thermometer, Container

  1. Remove thermostat(s); visually inspect for corrosion or damage.
  2. Suspend thermostat and a thermometer in a container of water.
  3. Stir water as it heats; observe opening action and compare with specification.
  4. Remove thermostat and observe closing action as it cools.
  5. Replace any defective thermostat; on dual thermostat engine replace both.
Bleeding the Fuel System maintenance

⚠ DO NOT pressurize fuel tank to push fuel through system.

⚠ NEVER loosen screw securing pump head on Lucas rotary pumps.

Tools: Open-end wrenches

  1. Loosen the air bleed vent screws two full turns by hand on fuel filter base.
  2. Operate supply pump primer lever until fuel flow is free from air bubbles.
  3. Tighten bleed plug securely; continue operating hand primer until pumping action is not felt.
  4. Push hand primer inward toward engine as far as it will go.
  5. Start engine and check for leaks.
  6. If engine will not start, bleed at fuel injection pump or injection nozzles.
Changing Engine Oil and Replacing Filter maintenance

⚠ Use filter meeting John Deere performance specifications. DO NOT overtighten filter element.

Tools: Filter wrench

  1. Run engine approximately 5 minutes to warm up oil. Shut engine off.
  2. Remove oil pan drain plug and drain crankcase oil while warm.
  3. Turn filter element counterclockwise with a filter wrench to remove and discard.
  4. Remove oil filter packing and clean filter mounting pad.
  5. Oil new packing and install new filter element; hand tighten per values on element.
  6. Install oil pan drain plug with O-ring or copper washer; tighten to specification.
  7. Fill engine crankcase with correct John Deere engine oil.
  8. Crank engine 30 seconds without starting; run and check for leaks.
Checking Belt Tensioner Spring Tension and Belt Wear (Automatic Tensioner) maintenance

⚠ Threads on belt tensioner roller cap screw are LEFT-HAND threads.

Tools: Breaker bar and socket, Torque wrench

  1. Release tension on belt using a breaker bar and socket on tension arm. Remove belt from pulleys.
  2. Release tension on tension arm and remove breaker bar.
  3. Put a mark on swing arm of tensioner.
  4. Measure 21 mm (0.83 in.) from the mark and put a mark on tensioner mounting base.
  5. Install torque wrench so that it is aligned with center of pulley and tensioner.
  6. Rotate the swing arm with the torque wrench until marks are aligned.
  7. Record torque wrench measurement and compare with specification. Replace tensioner assembly as required.
Daily Prestarting Checks maintenance

⚠ Only remove filler cap when engine is cold or cool enough to touch.

⚠ DO NOT add makeup oil until oil level is BELOW the add mark.

  1. Check engine oil level on dipstick; add as required.
  2. Check coolant level when engine is cold; level at bottom of filler neck.
  3. Check single or dual fuel filters for water or debris; drain as needed.
  4. Squeeze air cleaner dust unloader valve; check restriction indicator.
  5. Inspect engine compartment for leaks, worn belts, loose connections and trash.
Flushing Cooling System maintenance

⚠ Do not run engine longer than 10 minutes while flushing. Doing so may cause engine to overheat.

  1. Pressure test entire cooling system and pressure cap if not previously done.
  2. Slowly open engine cooling system filler cap or radiator cap to relieve pressure.
  3. Open engine block drain valve on left side of engine. Drain all coolant from engine block.
  4. Open radiator drain valve. Drain all coolant from radiator.
  5. Remove thermostats. Install cover (without thermostats) using old gasket; tighten cap screws to 47 N·m (35 lb-ft).
  6. Close all drain valves after coolant has drained.
  7. Fill cooling system with clean water. Run engine about 10 minutes to stir up rust or sediment.
  8. Stop engine, pull off lower radiator hose and remove radiator cap. Immediately drain water.
  9. Close drain valves, reinstall radiator cap and hose. Fill with clean water and a heavy duty cooling system cleaner such as Fleetguard RESTORE and RESTORE PLUS.
  10. After cleaning, drain cleaner and fill with water to flush. Run engine about 10 minutes, then drain.
  11. Close all drain valves. Reinstall radiator hose and tighten clamps. Install thermostats using a new gasket.
  12. Add coolant to radiator until coolant touches bottom of filler neck. Install radiator cap.
  13. Run engine until it reaches operating temperature.
  14. After running engine, check coolant level and entire cooling system for leaks.
Flushing and Refilling Cooling System maintenance

⚠ Do not run engine longer than 10 minutes during cleaning.

⚠ Air must be expelled from cooling system when system is refilled.

  1. Pressure test entire cooling system and pressure cap.
  2. Slowly open filler cap to relieve pressure and allow coolant to drain faster.
  3. Open engine block drain valve; drain all coolant from engine block.
  4. Open radiator drain valve and drain all coolant from radiator.
  5. Remove thermostats; install cover using old gasket, tighten cap screws to 47 N·m (35 lb-ft).
  6. Close all drain valves after coolant has drained.
  7. Fill with clean water, run engine about 10 minutes, then drain system.
  8. Fill with clean water and heavy duty cleaner, drain, flush, install thermostats, add coolant.

Extracted from the manufacturer documentation linked to this model. Values are copied as printed; confirm against your unit's manual and serial number.

Aftermarket parts that fit this engine

55
RE543266 SinoCMP $179.00 RE523502 Amazon $210.00 eBay $213.99 FridayParts $187.69 AL114430 FridayParts $97.50 RE48786 Amazon eBay $44.95 FridayParts $105.00 AT112393 Amazon eBay $50.00 FridayParts $79.90 RE59277 FridayParts $139.59 RE505100 FridayParts $139.59 AR65507 Amazon eBay FridayParts $27.20 RE507758 FridayParts $1498.68 RE533505 FridayParts $146.88 RE534111 FridayParts $146.88 RE522542 FridayParts $94.27 SE501181 FridayParts $94.27 36713DR FridayParts $94.27 RE65912 FridayParts $32.99 RE55390 FridayParts $50.09 T46317 FridayParts $43.69 RE33885 FridayParts $43.69 P776696 FridayParts $56.50 6005024536 FridayParts $115.80 AR80653 Amazon eBay $86.29 FridayParts $108.97 AR80652 Amazon eBay $98.99 FridayParts $108.97 7700068425 FridayParts $326.56 616RZ FridayParts $326.56 RE515037 FridayParts $1498.68 RE521616 FridayParts $126.84 RE527039 FridayParts $310.20 RE55512 FridayParts $389.00 RE505102 FridayParts $1475.70 AT318160 Amazon eBay $52.25 KuduParts $107.00 F435201 KuduParts $107.00 F435511 KuduParts $107.00 RE43231 KuduParts $107.00 P566990 KuduParts $128.00 55200077 KuduParts $128.00 ST1154 KuduParts $128.00 74039 KuduParts $128.00 SH74039 KuduParts $128.00 7225312 KuduParts $128.00 861015 KuduParts $128.00 DER852V2C05 KuduParts $128.00 30TR850H6LLLA KuduParts $128.00 FP102789 KuduParts $128.00 4ZTA9 KuduParts $128.00 F061786 KuduParts $128.00 MP4727 KuduParts $128.00 H0850R006EB3V KuduParts $128.00 42212912 KuduParts $128.00 WHE20509 KuduParts $128.00 R102846 FridayParts $199.90 R91403 FridayParts $199.90 FP-XP-0012330 FP-XP-0001286 FP-XP-0000836 FP-XP-0000288

Parts listed by aftermarket suppliers as fitting this engine — leads compiled from supplier catalogs; verify the exact part for your serial number.

Also used in

12
  • John Deere 200LC — Excavator
  • John Deere 360DC — Skid Steer Loader
  • John Deere 360DG — Skid Steer Loader
  • John Deere 460DG — Skidder
  • John Deere 540G II — Skidder
  • John Deere 540G III — Skidder
  • John Deere 548G — Skidder
  • John Deere 548G II — Skid Steer Loader
  • John Deere 640D — Skid Steer Loader
  • John Deere 648D — Skidder
  • John Deere 790E LC — Excavator
  • John Deere 9400 — Combine

Other equipment known to use this engine, via filter-application cross-reference — useful for sourcing parts even when your exact machine isn't listed elsewhere on this page.

Common questions

What is the displacement of the John Deere 6068T?

The John Deere 6068T has a displacement of 5.4 liters with 6 cylinders.

Which generators use the John Deere 6068T engine?

The John Deere 6068T powers 3 generator set(s), including John Deere 6068TF120, John Deere ML100JDNKD, John Deere ML85JDNKD.