DETROIT DIESEL
SECTION 9
STORAGE
PREPARING ENGINE FOR STORAGE
completely from any exposed part before applying a
When an engine is to be stored or removed from
rust preventive compound. Therefore, it is recommen-
operation for a period of time, special precautions
ded that the engine be processed for storage as soon as
should be taken to protect the interior and exterior of
possible after removal from operation.
the 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
and can be heated during the winter months. Moisture
given below.
absorbing chemicals are available commercially for
use when excessive dampness prevails in the storage
It will be necessary to remove all rust or corrosion
area.
TEMPORARY STORAGE (30 days or less)
5. If freezing weather is expected during the storage
To protect an engine for a temporary period of time,
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 the
recommended viscosity and grade of oil.
electrical system) with fuel oil and dry it with air.
7. Seal all of the engine openings. The material used
3. Fill the fuel tank with the recommended grade of
for this purpose must be waterproof, vaporproof and
fuel oil. Operate the engine for two minutes at 1200
possess sufficient physical strength to resist puncture
rpm and no load.
and damage from the expansion of entrapped air.
NOTE: Do not drain the fuel system or the
An engine prepared in this manner can be returned to
crankcase after this run.
service in a short time by removing the seals at the
engine openings, checking the engine coolant, fuel oil,
lubricating oil, transmission, and priming the raw
4. Check the air cleaner and service it, if necessary, as
outlined under Air System.
water pump, if used.
EXTENDED STORAGE (30 days or more)
6. Circulate the coolant through the entire system by
When an engine is to be removed from operation for
operating the engine until normal operating tempera-
an extended -period of time, prepare it as follows:
ture is reached (160-185 For 71-85C).
1. Drain and thoroughly flush the cooling system with
7. Stop the engine.
clean, soft water.
8. Remove the drain plug and completely drain the
2. Refill the cooling system with clean, soft water.
engine crankcase. Reinstall and tighten the drain plug.
Install new lubricating oil filter elements and gaskets.
3. Add a rust inhibitor to the cooling system (refer to
Corrosion Inhibitor under Cooling System).
9. Fill, the crankcase to the proper level with a 30-
weight 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, and
fuel oil such as American Oil Diesel Run-In Fuel (LF
adjust the valve clearance.
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