13.1
DETROIT DIESEL 53
E N G I N E OPERATlNG INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION FOR STARTING ENGINE
Lubrication System
FIRST TIME
The lubricating oil film on the rotating parts and
bearings of a new or overhauled engine. or one which
Before starting an engine for the first time, carefully
has been in storage, may be insufficient for proper
read and follow the instructions in Sections 13 and 14
lubrication when the engine is started for the first
of this manual. Attempting to run the engine before
time.
studying these instructions may result in serious
damage to the engine.
It is recommended that the engine lubricating system
be charged with a pressure prelubricator, set to supply
NOTE: When preparing to start a new or
a minimum of 25 psi oil pressure, to ensure an
overhauled engine or an engine which has been
immediate flow of oil to all bearings at the initial
in storage, perform all of the operations listed
engine start-up. The oil supply line should be attached
below. Before a routine start (at each shift), see
to the engine so that oil under pressure is supplied to
Daily Operations in the Lubrication and
the main oil gallery.
Preventive Maintenance Chart, Section 15.1.
With the oil pan dry, use the prelubricator to prime
the engine with sufficient oil to reach all bearing
surfaces. Use heavy-duty lubricating oil as specified
Cooling System
under Lubricating Oil Specifications in Section 13.3.
Then remove the dipstick, wipe it with a clean cloth,
Install all of the drain cocks or plugs in the cooling
insert and remove it again to check the oil level in the
system (drain cocks are removed for shipping).
oil pan. Add sufficient oil, if necessary, to bring it to
the full mark on the dipstick. Do not overfill.
If a pressure prelubricator is not available, fill the
crankcase to the proper level with heavy-duty
lubricating oil as specified under Lubricating Oil
Specifications in Section 13.3. Then pre-lubricate the
upper engine parts by removing the, valve rocker
cover(s) and pouring lubricating oil, of the same grade
Remove the filler cap and fill the cooling system. with
and viscosity as used in the crankcase, over the rocker
clean, soft water or a protective solution consisting of
arms.
high boiling point type antifreeze, if the engine will be
exposed to freezing temperatures (refer to Engine
Coolant in Section 13.3). Keep the liquid level about
two inches below the filler neck to allow for fluid
expansion.
Use a quality rust inhibitor if only water is used in the
cooling system.
Air Cleaner
If the engine is equipped with oil bath air cleaners, fill
the air cleaner oil cups to the proper level with clean
engine oil. Do not overfill.
Transmission
Fill the transmission case
converter supply tank to the proper level with the
lubricant specified under Lubrication and Preventive
Maintenance in Section 15.1.
March, 1973
SEC. 13.1 Page 1
