Priming the Fuel System Using the Hand Primer Pump

Priming the Fuel System Using the Hand Primer Pump GHG17 #6526
Use the following procedure to prime the fuel system:

    Notice: Prolonged use of the starting motor to prime the fuel system can result in damage to the starter.

    Note: If a vehicle is on uneven ground, and is low on fuel, more fuel may be required.
  1. Fill the fuel tank with the recommended grade of fuel. If only partial filling is possible, add a minimum of 10% of the total tank volume of fuel to the tank. For example, a 150-gallon tank would require a minimum of 15 gallons of fuel.
  2. Operate the frame-mounted or engine-mounted hand primer for 45 strokes or until firm.
  3. Turn on the ignition switch
  4. Wait for the engine system indicator lights on the instrument panel to go out.

    5. 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.

  5. With the accelerator pedal in the idle position, start the engine.
  6. Crank engine for 20 seconds.
    7. Note: The starting cycle can be repeated up to three times.
  7. If engine does not start, allow for a 60-second cool down and repeat previous step.
  8. Monitor the oil pressure gauge or indicator lamp. Keep the engine running at an idling speed until a stable oil pressure reading of 345 kPa (50 psi) or more is maintained for one minute.
  9. Check for leaks.
  10. Allow the engine to reach operating temperature of 60° C (140° F).

    11. Notice: Increasing engine speed above idle before oil pressure has stabilized may cause severe engine damage.

  11. Increase engine speed to 1500 rpm for ONE (1) minute.
  12. Reduce engine speed and run at idle for ONE (1) additional minute.
  13. Shut down the engine.
  14. Check for leaks.
  15. If engine still fails to start, contact an authorized Detroit™ repair facility.
Note:
Parent topic: Engine Out of Fuel – How to Restart
Document Number: 0000042630
Manual Publication Date: 2024-01-05
Topic Publication Date: 2023-05-27