Diesel Engine Break In after Rebuild

MIDLAND, Mich. - May 2, 2013 - PRLog -- We often get calls about the break in procedure of a newly rebuilt engine. Proper break in is critical and sometimes overlooked. Even though you may have used one of our outstanding overhaul kits and your mechanic did a great job installing the parts, if the engine is not broke in correctly the rings may not seat. This will lead to oil consumption and power loss.    

 Piston rings are designed to apply a small amount of outward force, but they rely heavily on the combustion pressure to force them down against the bottom of the ring land and outward into the cylinder wall. Without these forces the rings will not seat or seal properly. Oil control rings will regulate the amount of oil film left on the cylinder wall to lubricate the compression and piston. In turn these rings also remove some of the oil film resulting in proper oil control.  

  Running your truck on a dynamometer is the best way to ensure proper load and temperature is maintained, however more often than not a dynamometer is not an option. In that case idle time should be limited to less than 10 minutes for checking for leaks and proper oil pressure. High RPM light load operation must be avoided during the run in procedure. Operate the truck pulling the heaviest available trailer allowed for the first 100-150 miles. Operate the truck in the highest available gear within the operating RPM range at or near full throttle and 75%-80% of rated speed.          

Procedures vary from rebuilder to rebuilder and you may already have a proven process for engine break in. The one thing that seems to be a common theme is to keep the initial startup, oil pressure and leak checks to the shortest amount of time possible. Then immediately loading the engine will be vital to its health and longevity. Delaying the loading process can result in oil consumption. We hope this will help you make sure your engine runs to the best of its ability.

  If you have any questions or are in the market for diesel engine parts, Please call us today. 855-447-7278