Detroit Diesel — Restoring an Engine to Service from Extended Storage
Maintenance
From a Detroit Diesel service manual — check it applies to your exact model before use.
Before you start
- Before subjecting the engine to a load or high speed, it is advisable to check the engine tune-up
Procedure
- Remove the covers and tape from all openings of the engine, fuel tank and electrical equipment including the exhaust outlet.
- Wash the exterior of the engine with fuel oil to remove the rust preventive.
- Remove the rust preventive from the flywheel.
- Remove the paper strips from between the pulleys and the belts.
- Drain the preservative oil from the crankcase; refill to the proper level using a pressure prelubricator with the recommended grade of oil.
- Fill the fuel tank with the specified fuel.
- Close all drain cocks and fill the cooling system with clean soft water and a rust inhibitor; add antifreeze if exposed to freezing temperatures.
- Install and connect the battery.
- Service the air cleaner.
- Check the marine gear and refill to the proper level with the correct grade of oil.
- Remove the covers from the turbocharger air inlet and turbine outlet connections and prelubricate.
- Start the engine (the small amount of rust preventive remaining in the fuel system will cause a smoky exhaust for a few minutes).
Tools required
- pressure prelubricator Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
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.