Starting the Engine

Starting the Engine - Gen 5 DD15 Ops - #7628

Check as follows:

Before starting the engine, carefully read all operating instructions in this manual and do all the recommended pre-trip inspections and daily maintenance.

Check the coolant level; see Checking the Cooling System.

Check the lubricating oil level; see How to Check the Lubricating Oil Level.

Check fuel levels and drain contaminants from the fuel coalescer; see How to Drain the Fuel Coalescer.

  1. Place the transmission in neutral, and set the parking brake.
  2. Turn on the ignition (key ON, engine OFF).
  3. Wait for the engine warning indicators on the instrument panel to go out.

    4. Warning: PERSONAL INJURY

    Diesel engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.

    • Always start and operate an engine in a well ventilated area.
    • If operating an engine in an enclosed area, vent the exhaust to the outside.
    • Do not modify or tamper with the exhaust system or emission control system.

    Warning: PERSONAL INJURY

    To avoid injury before starting and running the engine, ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, parking brake is set, and the wheels are blocked.

    Warning: ENGINE EXHAUST

    To avoid injury from inhaling engine exhaust, always operate the engine in a well-ventilated area. Engine exhaust is toxic.

  4. Rotate the ignition to start the engine. To prevent serious starter motor damage, release the ignition switch immediately after the engine has started.
  5. If the engine does not start after 20 seconds, stop. Try again after waiting for 60 seconds.
  6. Monitor the oil pressure gauge immediately after starting the engine. See Checking the Oil Pressure for more information.
  7. Do not place the engine under full load until it reaches operating temperature.
  8. Check the engine for leaks. If any leaks are found, shut down the engine immediately and have the leaks repaired by an authorized Detroit™ service outlet.
    • Check all hoses, hose clamps, and pipe unions on the engine for tightness.
    • Check the oil feed and return lines at the turbocharger for leaks.
    • Check for coolant, fuel, or lubricating oil leaks.
  9. Shut down the engine.
  10. Check the lubricating oil level; see How to Check the Lubricating Oil Level.
  11. Inspect the cooling system; see Inspection of the Cooling System.
Note:
EA5,EB6
Parent topic: Engine Start and Routine Operation
Document Number: 0000009708
Manual Publication Date: 2025-08-26
Topic Publication Date: 2026-02-05