Inspection of the Engine Compartment
- Check the ground underneath the engine for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.
- Inspect the air intake system for leaks or damage.
- Push the reset button on the air intake restriction indicator located on the air cleaner,
if equipped.
Notice: Failure to maintain a sealed air intake system could allow the entry of dirt and contaminants into the engine. This could adversely affect engine performance and result in engine damage.
- Check the engine air intake duct from the air cleaner to the engine intake. Make sure
the duct components are secure and airtight.
Note: The air intake restriction indicator may be located on the air intake or the dash.
- Check the vacuator (spitter) valve(s) for damage, and make sure the lips of the valve are pliable and free of debris.
- Push the reset button on the air intake restriction indicator located on the air cleaner,
if equipped.
- Check the engine oil level.
- Check the oil level with the vehicle parked on a level surface. See the engine manufacturer's
guidelines for engine shutdown time requirements prior to checking the oil level.
Notice: Operating the engine with the oil level below the minimum fill (or "add") mark or above the maximum fill (or "full") mark could result in engine damage.
- If the oil level is at or below the minimum fill (or "add") mark on the dipstick,
add enough oil to maintain the level between the minimum and maximum fill marks. See
the engine operation manual for recommended lubricants.
Important: Use only approved engine lube oil. For lists of engine oils approved for Detroit Diesel engines, refer to the Engine Operator Manual, accessible on Lubricants, Fuels & Coolants on the DTNA Portal. For third party engines, please refer to the engine manual.
- Check the oil level with the vehicle parked on a level surface. See the engine manufacturer's
guidelines for engine shutdown time requirements prior to checking the oil level.
- Check the power steering reservoir fluid level.
The power steering fluid level should be between the MIN COLD mark and the middle mark just above it. See Fig. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. If needed, fill the reservoir with automatic transmission fluid that meets Dexron III or TES-389 specifications.
- Check the engine coolant level in the radiator surge tank. See Fig.Coolant Surge Tank.
Notice: Low coolant could result in engine overheating, which could cause engine damage.
Important: The surge tank must be cool to check the coolant level.
- If the coolant is low, fill the surge tank to the MAX line with a 50/50 mixture of
water and the type of antifreeze currently installed in your vehicle.
Notice: Coolant must be filled to the COLD MAX line of the surge tank. Low coolant could result in engine overheating, which could cause engine damage.
- If the surge tank was empty, start the engine after refilling and check the level again when the engine is at operating temperature.
- If the coolant is low, fill the surge tank to the MAX line with a 50/50 mixture of
water and the type of antifreeze currently installed in your vehicle.
- Inspect visible engine wiring for damage or looseness. Check for loose wiring, chafed insulation, and damaged or loose hold-down clamps.
- Inspect visible frame rails for missing bolts, shiny areas, or rust streaks.
