DETROIT DIESEL 53
5.7
WATER FILTER AND CONDITIONER
The engine cooling system water filter and conditioner
(Fig. 1) is a compact by-pass type unit with a
replaceable element.
A correctly installed and properly maintained water
filter and conditioner provides a cleaner engine
cooling system. greater heat dissipation. increased
engine efficiency through improved heat conductivity.
and contributes to longer life of engine parts.
The filter provides mechanical filtration by means of a
closely packed element through which the water
passes. Any impurities such as sand and rust particles
suspended in the cooling system will be removed by
the straining action of the element. The removal of
these impurities will contribute to longer water pump
life and proper operation of the thermostat.
The filter also serves IO condition the coolant by
softening the water to minimize scale deposits.
maintain an acid-free condition and act as a rust
preventive.
Corrosion inhibitors are placed in the element and
Fig. 1 Water Filter and Conditioner
dissolve into the water, forming a protective rust-proof
film on all of the metal surfaces of the cooling system
Make-up water up to approximately 40% of the total
(refer to Section 13.3). The other components of the
capacity of the cooling system may safely be added
element perform the function of cleaning and
before a filter element change is required.
preparing the cooling passages while the corrosion
inhibitors protect them.
Filter Installation
If a water filter and conditioner is to be installed on an
engine which has been in service, drain and flush the
cooling system prior to installation of the filter.
Filter Maintenance
Replace the chemically activated element periodically
and buff the lower corrosion resistor plate on the
If it is necessary for any reason to drain the cooling
former filter each time (discard the plate if excessive
system before an element change. the treated water
should be saved and re-used. If the treated water is
metal loss or pitting is evident) to ensure effective
protection of the cooling system.
discarded, a news filter element must he installed since
the protective agents in the used filter will have been
If the water filter is installed on an engine which has
partially consumed in treating the discarded water.
previously been in service. it may be necessary to
change the filter element two or three times at
intervals of 6,000 miles or less to clean up
accumulations of scale and rust in the cooling system.
Service
It is advisable to drain and flush the system during
Whenever the water filter is removed and reinstalled.
these initial change intervals.
the filter must have metal-to-metal contact (grounded).
either directly with the mounting surface or through
Change the filter element periodically as outlined in
the mounting bolts
Section 15.1
July, 1970 SEC. 5.7 Page 1
