Whether you just purchased a new boat or are refurbishing or rebuilding an older one, it’s crucial to understand the proper procedures of how to break in a diesel engine. While manufacturers and professional technicians can precision-build the parts and components of an engine system, the breaking in process is vital for allowing cylinders and ring surfaces to seat and seal in place for a perfect fit.
By incrementally introducing heat and friction that comes with use, the engine parts begin to wear against each other and conform in shape to provide a tight seal that’s essential for achieving optimal, lasting performance.
Do you have to break in a diesel engine? The short answer is that it would be shortsighted and careless not to. Taking appropriate steps to prepare your equipment for heavy-duty use reduces the chance of leaking fuel and pressurized gas, to help you realize increased fuel economy, power and efficiency.
How to Break In a Diesel Engine
Breaking in new or rebuilt diesel engines is a relatively simple process.
While the steps in most cases are consistent, there may be variations in procedures depending on your make and model. Always consult the factory recommended specifications found in your boat’s operating manual.
The ideal method for breaking in a diesel engine is by running it on a dynamometer in a controlled environment. However, it is easily accomplished if you lack access to that equipment.
Following initial startup and oil pressure and leak checks, begin by lightly operating the engine for a few hours or for 100 to 150 miles while avoiding prolonged idle times. You’re looking to create a small amount of initial heat, so keep your engine in the highest possible gear and run it at no more than 75% to 80% of the power rating.
Continue to ramp up the RPMs and load on the engine progressively, not going full tilt, but increasing the demand on the engine until you’ve reached 15 hours or 1,000 miles.
Here are some helpful tips on how to break in a diesel engine:
– Try not to idle: While you want to go easy on the engine, extended idling can make it work harder than when in motion.
– Put towing on hold: Wait until the engine has been “breaking in” for at least 500 miles or roughly 15 hours to keep the system from getting too hot.
– Go the distance: You have to break in a diesel engine to ensure it’s able to deliver peak performance over an extended service life. Wait until you’ve completed the entire process before pushing it to maximum operating capacity.
Quality Replacement Parts From Hubei July
If you’re breaking in a new diesel engine or working on repairs or a complete rebuild, Diesel Pro Power is a single source for all the parts you need. We carry Detriot Diesel and Cummins engine parts, Twin Disc and Allison transmission parts and more.
From our easy-to-navigate website that helps you find the products you’re looking for in a matter of moments to our exceptional customer service and 24-hour worldwide shipping, there’s no better place to buy diesel engine parts online.
Contact us for additional information on breaking in a new or rebuilt diesel engine, or give us a call to request assistance placing your order.
