Inspection of the Engine Compartment

4900 dm 23.02.004
  1. Check the ground underneath the engine for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.
  2. Inspect the air intake system for leaks or damage.

      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.

    1. Push the reset button on the air intake restriction indicator located on the air cleaner, if equipped.
    2. Check the engine air intake duct from the air cleaner to the engine intake. Make sure the duct components are secure and airtight.
    3. Check the vacuator (spitter) valve(s) for damage, and make sure the lips of the valve(s) are pliable and free of debris.
  3. Check the engine 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.

    1. 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.

      2. Important:  Vehicles domiciled in the U.S. or Canada require the use of CJ-4 engine oil with less than 1% sulfated ash. Failure to use CJ-4 oil may void the warranty on emission aftertreatment components.

    2. 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.
  4. 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.. If needed, fill the reservoir with automatic transmission fluid that meets Dexron III or TES-389 specifications.

    1. Filler Cap

    Fig. 1,  Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (configuration may vary)

    5. Important: The surge tank must be cool to check the coolant level.

    Notice: Low coolant could result in engine overheating, which could cause engine damage.

  5. Check the engine coolant level in the radiator surge tank.

    • Steel Surge Tank : Ensure coolant is visible in the sight glass. See Fig.. If coolant is not visible, add a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze to the surge tank until coolant is visible in the sight glass. Start the engine after refilling and check the sight glass again when the engine is at operating temperature.

    1. Surge Tank

    2. Filler Cap

    Fig. 2, Steel Surge Tank

    • Translucent Surge Tank : If the coolant is low, fill the surge tank to the FULL line with a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze. See Fig.. Start the engine after refilling and check the level again when the engine is at operating temperature.

    1. Filler Cap

    2. Sight Glass

    3. Low Coolant Sensor

    Fig. 3,  Plastic Surge Tank

      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.

    1. 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.
    2. If the surge tank was empty, start the engine after refilling and check the level again when the engine is at operating temperature.
  6. Inspect visible engine wiring for damage or looseness. See Fig.. Check for loose wiring, chafed insulation, and damaged or loose hold-down clamps.

    1. Powertrain PDM (PTPDM)

    2. Powernet Distribution Box (PNDB)

    Fig. 4, Visible Engine Wiring

  7. Inspect visible frame rails for missing bolts, shiny areas, or rust streaks.
Note:
Parent topic: Daily Pretrip Inspection and Maintenance
Document Number: 0000121702
Manual Publication Date: 2024-06-10
Topic Publication Date: 2024-12-28