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Detroit Diesel — Engine Gear Train Installation and Timing

Repair & overhaul

From a Detroit Diesel service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.

Before you start

  • J-47487 should come off the gear with ease; if not, gears are not timed.

Procedure

  1. Coat inside of gears, bushings and gear train with clean oil.
  2. Install the crankshaft gear on the crankshaft.
  3. Rotate crankshaft to TDC No. 1; install and lock Crankshaft TDC Locating Tool (J-48630).
  4. Install spindle and idler gear No. 5 (Shoulder Bolt J-47486); torque two bolts to 60-65 N·m.
  5. Install spindle and Installation Cantilever tool (J-47487) onto idler gear No. 3; snug bolts.
  6. Check gear lash between idler gear No. 3 and No. 5 (0.079 - 0.305 mm).
  7. Torque idler gear No. 3 to 60-65 N·m.
  8. Install spindle/gear plate and idler gear No. 2; torque to 100 N·m.
  9. Install thrust washers, spindle and idler gear No. 1; torque to 100 N·m.
  10. On DD15, install thrust washer, spindle and idler gear No. 4; torque to 100 N·m.
  11. Remove tool J-47487; verify idler gears flush with crankshaft gear.
  12. Install camshaft housing, lubricate journals, install camshafts; align gear marks with timing tool.
  13. Install seven camshaft caps and the thirty bolts; torque M10 bolts to 20 N·m then 50-55 N·m, M8 bolts to 30 N·m.
  14. Remove timing tools; install closing cover with two bolts torqued to 30 N·m.

Tools required

  • J-48630 Crankshaft TDC Locating Tool Amazon
  • J-47486 Shoulder Bolt Amazon
  • J-47487 Installation Cantilever tool Amazon
  • W470589054000 / W470589104000 / W470589034000 Camshaft Timing Tool

Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.

Specs & values

  • Idler gear No. 5 bolts: 60-65 N·m (44-48 lb·ft)
  • Idler gear No. 3 final torque: 60-65 N·m (44-48 lb·ft)
  • Idler gear No. 1, No. 2, No. 4: 100 N·m (73 lb·ft)
  • Gear lash idler No. 3 to No. 5: 0.079 - 0.305 mm

Source: Detroit Diesel service manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.

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