Fuel System Checks

Make sure the fuel shutoff valve (if used) is open. Fill the tanks with the recommended fuel. Keeping tanks full reduces water condensation and helps keep fuel cool, which is important to engine performance. Full tanks also reduce the chance for microbe (black slime) growth. For fuel recommendations, Refer to section "How to Select Diesel Fuel".

If the shutoff valve is even partially closed, it may cause erratic engine operation due to an inadequate supply of fuel to the fuel pump.

If an external starting aid is used, such as a starting fluid, the heat generated by the external fuel source will cause the injector tips to be damaged when the fuel cools them. The injector piston and bushing can be scored from running without lubrication.

To ensure prompt starting and even running, the fuel system must be primed if air has entered the fuel system. Priming is done by operating the manual hand priming pump located on the frame-mounted fuel filter or connecting an external priming pump to the priming port on the fuel filter module. Authorized Detroit™ service outlets are properly equipped for this type of service.

Priming is required if the fuel system has been serviced.

Drain off any water that has accumulated. Water in fuel can seriously affect engine performance and may cause engine damage.