DETROIT DIESEL 53
13.1
ENGINE OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
PREPARATION FOR STARTING ENGINE FIRST TIME
Before starting an engine for the first time, carefully read and follow the instructions in Sections 13 and 14 of this manual.
Attempting to run the engine before studying these instructions may result in serious damage to the engine.
NOTE: When preparing to start a new or overhauled engine or an engine which has been in storage, perform all of the
operations listed below. Before a routine start (at each shift), see Daily Operations in the Lubrication and Preventive
Maintenance Chart, Section 15. 1.
Cooling System
Install all of the drain cocks or plugs in the cooling system (drain cocks are removed for shipping).
Remove the filler cap and fill the cooling-system with clean, soft water or a protective solution consisting of 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.
Lubrication System
The lubricating oil film on the rotating parts and bearings of a new or overhauled engine, or one which has been in
storage, may be insufficient for proper lubrication when the engine is started for the first time.
It is recommended that the engine lubricating system be charged with a pressure prelubricator, set to supply a minimum
of 25 psi oil pressure, to ensure an immediate flow of oil to all bearings at the initial engine start-up. The oil supply line
should be attached to the engine so that oil under pressure is supplied to the main oil gallery.
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 under Lubricating Oil Specifications in Section 13.3. Then remove the dipstick, wipe it
with a clean cloth, insert and remove it again to check the oil level in the 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 and viscosity as used in the crankcase, over the
rocker arms.
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 torque 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
