DDC-SVC-MAN-0040 Epa07

DDC-SVC-MAN-0040
EPA07 MBE 900

Operator’s Manual
13400 Outer Drive, West, Detroit, Michigan 48239-4001

Telephone: 313-592-5000
www.detroitdiesel.com
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Detroit Diesel Corporation

is registered to ISO 9001:2001. Copyright © Detroit Diesel Corporation.
All rights reserved. Detroit Diesel Corporation is a Daimler company.
Printed in U.S.A.
MBE 900 ENGINE 2007 OPERATOR'S MANUAL
To the Operator personnel to provide prompt

preventive maintenance and skilled
This guide contains instructions on engine repairs.
the safe operation and preventive
The information and specifications
maintenance of your Detroit Diesel
in this publication are based on the
MBE 900 engine. Maintenance
information in effect at the time of
instructions cover routine engine
approval for printing. Contact an
services such as lube oil and filter
authorized Detroit Diesel service
changes in enough detail to permit
outlet for information on the latest
self-servicing if desired.
revision. The right is reserved to
The operator should become familiar make changes at any time without
with the contents of this guide before obligation.
operating the engine or carrying out
The MBE 900 engine is built in
maintenance procedures.
accordance with sound technological
Power-driven equipment is only principles and based on state-of-the-art
as safe as the person operating the technology.
controls. You are urged, as the
Despite this the engine may constitute
operator of this diesel engine, to keep
a risk of damage to property or injury
fingers and clothing away from the
to persons if it is not used for its
revolving belts, drive shafts, etc. on
intended purpose
engine installation.
The engine should not be modified or
Throughout this guide CAUTIONS
converted in an incorrect manner or
regarding personal safety and
the safety instructions included in this
NOTICES regarding engine
manual disregarded.
performance or service life will
appear. To avoid personal injury and
ensure long engine service life, always
heed these instructions.
Whenever possible, it will benefit you
to rely on an authorized Detroit Diesel
service outlet for all your service
needs from maintenance to major
parts replacement. Authorized service
outlets worldwide stock factory
original parts and have the specialized
equipment and experienced, trained
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) i

DDC-SVC-MAN-0040 Copyright © 2009 DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION
NOTICE: are registered trademarks of Detroit
Diesel Corporation. Delco Remy® is
Coolant must be inhibited with the a registered trademark of Delco Remy
recommended SCAs (supplemental America, Inc. Bosch® is a registered
coolant additives) listed in the trademark of Robert Bosch Company
How To section of this engine N.A. Fuel Pro®, and Mega Filter®
operators guide. In addition, the are registered trademarks of Davco
engine can be equipped with a Manufacturing, L.L.C.Nexiq™ is a
coolant filter/inhibitor system as an trademark of Nexiq Technologies,
installed option or as an after-sale Inc. PowerBand® is a registered
item. Failure to check and trademark of Gates Rubber Company.
maintain SCA levels at required Tectyl® is a registered trademark of
concentrations will result in Daubert Chemical Company, Inc.
severe damage (corrosion) to Biobor® is a registered trademark of
the engine cooling system and United States Borax and Chemical
related components. Corporation. DuPont® is a registered
trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours
and Company, Inc. All other
trademarks used are the property of
WARRANTY their respective owners.
The applicable engine warranty is
contained in the booklet “Warranty
Information for MBE 900 Engines,”
available from authorized Detroit
Diesel service outlets.
Keep this Operators Guide with

the engine installation at all
times. It contains important
operating, maintenance, and safety
instructions.
Trademark Information
DDC®, Detroit Diesel®, DDEC®,
Optimized Idle®, Diagnostic Link®,
reliabilt®, POWER Trac®, POWER
COOL®, and POWER GUARD®
ii All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................. 1
NON-GENUINE AND REBUILT COMPONENT QUALITY ALERT .. 1
PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS ..................................................... 2
ENGINE CONVERSIONS AND MODIFICATIONS .......................... 2
CAUTION SUMMARY .......................................................................... 3

ENGINE OPERATION ..................................................................... 3
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE ....................................................... 4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ................................................................... 6
COOLING SYSTEM ......................................................................... 7
AIR INTAKE SYSTEM ...................................................................... 7
FUEL SYSTEM ................................................................................ 8
STARTING AIDS .............................................................................. 8
COMPRESSED AIR ......................................................................... 10
LUBRICATING OIL AND FILTERS .................................................. 10
AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM ........................................................ 10
ENGINE IDENTIFICATION .................................................................. 12

ENGINE COMPONENTS ................................................................. 12
ENGINE MODEL AND SERIAL NUMBER DESIGNATION ............. 17
CERTIFICATION LABELS ............................................................... 18
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR STARTING THE ENGINE .......... 19

FIRST TIME START PREPARATION .............................................. 19
SYSTEM CHECKS .......................................................................... 19
COOLING SYSTEM CHECKS .................................................... 19
LUBRICATION SYSTEM CHECKS ............................................. 20
CHECKING THE OIL LEVEL .................................................. 20
EXTENDED STORAGE .......................................................... 22
FUEL SYSTEM CHECKS ............................................................ 22
ADDING FUEL ........................................................................ 24
PRIMING THE FUEL SYSTEM ............................................... 24
OTHER CHECKS ........................................................................ 24
STARTING THE ENGINE-FOR THE FIRST TIME ...................... 26
ELECTRIC STARTER ............................................................. 27
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
RUNNING THE ENGINE ................................................................. 27

OIL PRESSURE .......................................................................... 28
WARM-UP ................................................................................... 28
INSPECTION ............................................................................... 28
TRANSMISSION ..................................................................... 28
FLUID LEAKS ......................................................................... 28
CRANKCASE .......................................................................... 28
TURBOCHARGER .................................................................. 28
AVOID UNNECESSARY IDLING ................................................. 29
STOPPING THE ENGINE ................................................................ 29
EMERGENCY JUMP STARTING .................................................... 29
ROUTINE ENGINE START .............................................................. 30
STARTING THE ENGINE-ROUTINE ........................................... 31
CHECKING THE COOLANT LEVEL (COLD CHECK) ................ 33
CHECKING THE COOLANT LEVEL (HOT CHECK) .................. 33
MONITORING ENGINE OPERATION ............................................. 33
BATTERY CHARGE .................................................................... 34
OIL PRESSURE .......................................................................... 34
EXCESSIVE IDLING ................................................................... 34
CHANGING THE IDLE SPEED ....................................................... 34
SHUTTING DOWN THE ENGINE ................................................... 35
SHUTTING DOWN AFTER HIGH LOAD OPERATION ............... 35
EMERGENCY RUNNING MODE .................................................... 35
STOP ENGINE OVERRIDE OPTION .............................................. 36
COLD WEATHER OPERATION ...................................................... 36
WINTER FRONTS ....................................................................... 37
DDEC VI SYSTEM ............................................................................... 38
MOTOR CONTROL MODULE ......................................................... 38
COMMON POWERTRAIN CONTROLLER ..................................... 39
DDEC FEATURES ........................................................................... 40
CRUISE CONTROL ..................................................................... 40
DATA RECORDING CAPABILITY ............................................... 42
ENGINE BRAKES ....................................................................... 42
ENGINE PROTECTION .............................................................. 43
CALIFORNIA ENGINE IDLE LIMITING ....................................... 43
IDLE SHUTDOWN TIMER .......................................................... 44
DDEC VI OPERATION ..................................................................... 44
STOP ENGINE OVERRIDE SWITCH ......................................... 45
iv All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

IMMEDIATE SPEED REDUCTION ............................................. 46

RED STOP LAMP ........................................................................ 46
DIAGNOSTIC TOOL .................................................................... 46
FLASHING MALFUNCTION CODES ...................................... 46
DDEC VI ENGINE DRIVING TIPS ....................................................... 49

ACCELERATING THE VEHICLE ..................................................... 49
CRUISE CONTROL ......................................................................... 49
ENGINE BRAKES AND CRUISE CONTROL .................................. 51
SHIFTING ........................................................................................ 51
IDLING ............................................................................................. 52
ENGINE BRAKE SYSTEM .................................................................. 53

EXHAUST BRAKE/CONSTANT-THROTTLE VALVES,
OPTIONAL ....................................................................................... 53
ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEMS ................................................... 54
DRIVING ON FLAT, DRY PAVEMENT ............................................. 54
DESCENDING A LONG, STEEP GRADE ....................................... 54
DRIVING ON WET OR SLIPPERY PAVEMENT .............................. 56
ENGINE SYSTEMS ............................................................................. 57

FUEL SYSTEM ................................................................................ 57
LUBRICATION SYSTEM ................................................................. 57
AIR SYSTEM ................................................................................... 57
COOLING SYSTEM ......................................................................... 57
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ................................................................... 58
EXHAUST SYSTEM ........................................................................ 58
EXHAUST GAS RECIRCULATION SYSTEM .................................. 58
AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM ............................................................ 59

OPERATING REQUIREMENTS ...................................................... 60
MAINTENANCE ............................................................................... 60
PARKED REGENERATION PROCEDURE ..................................... 61
HAZARDOUS APPLICATIONS ................................................... 62
DPF STATIONARY REGEN ONLY = 0-DISABLED ................ 63
DPF STATIONARY REGEN ONLY = 1-ENABLED ................. 63
SERVICE RECORD ......................................................................... 63
SERVICE RECORD ......................................................................... 63
DRIVER ACTIONS ............................................................................... 64
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) v

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INSTRUMENT PANEL LAMPS ........................................................... 66
MAINTENANCE ................................................................................... 69
SCHEDULED INTERVALS .............................................................. 69
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE TYPES ......................................... 69
SEVERE SERVICE ................................................................. 69
SHORT-HAUL ......................................................................... 69
LONG-HAUL ........................................................................... 70
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS ................................................. 70
SCHEDULE USE ............................................................................. 70
MAINTENANCE TABLES ................................................................ 71
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE INTERVALS .................................. 76
ITEM 1 – LUBRICATING OIL/ FILTER ........................................ 76
ITEM 2 – COOLING SYSTEM FLUSH AND FILL ....................... 78
ITEM 3 – VALVE LASH CHECKING AND ADJUSTMENT .......... 79
ITEM 4 – DRIVE BELTS .............................................................. 79
ITEM 5 – FUEL / WATER SEPARATOR ...................................... 80
ITEM 6 – FUEL FILTERS ............................................................ 80
ITEM 7– AIR SYSTEM ................................................................ 80
ITEM 8– EXHAUST SYSTEM ..................................................... 81
ITEM 9– AIR COMPRESSOR ..................................................... 81
ITEM 10 – AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM (ATS) ........................ 81
ITEM 11 – VIBRATION DAMPER ................................................ 82
ITEM 12 – FEPTO TORSIONAL DAMPER CHECKING ............. 82
REQUIRED MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS ................................... 82
ENGINE INSPECTING ................................................................ 82
COOLANT CONCENTRATION CHECKING .................................... 82
COOLANT FLUSHING AND CHANGING ........................................ 84
COOLING SYSTEM INSPECTING .................................................. 86
SMART REMOTE ACTUATOR LUBRICATION ............................... 86
HOW-TO SECTION .............................................................................. 90

HOW TO SELECT LUBRICATING OIL ............................................ 90
LUBRICANT REQUIREMENTS .................................................. 90
COLD WEATHER STARTING ..................................................... 90
SYNTHETIC OILS ....................................................................... 91
THE USE OF SUPPLEMENTAL ADDITIVES .............................. 92
WHEN TO CHANGE OIL ............................................................. 92
DISPOSING OF WASTE OIL ...................................................... 92
vi All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

HOW TO REPLACE THE LUBE OIL AND FILTERS ....................... 93

OIL CENTRIFUGE ........................................................................... 95
HOW TO SELECT DIESEL FUEL ................................................... 96
QUALITY ..................................................................................... 96
FUEL CONTAMINATION ............................................................. 97
BIODIESEL ............................................................................. 97
PROHIBITED ADDITIVES ........................................................... 97
USED LUBRICATING OIL ....................................................... 98
FUEL ADDITIVES WITH SULFUR OR SULFATED ASH ........ 98
GASOLINE .............................................................................. 98
HOW TO REPLACE THE FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR
FILTERS ........................................................................................... 98
PRIMARY FUEL FILTER ............................................................. 98
SECONDARY FUEL FILTER ....................................................... 100
DRAINING THE FUEL FILTER/WATER SEPARATOR ............... 101
ENGINE OUT OF FUEL — HOW TO RESTART ............................. 101
HOW TO CLEAN THE ENGINE ...................................................... 101
HIGH-PRESSURE CLEANING EQUIPMENT ............................. 102
HOW TO CLEAN THE COOLING SYSTEM .................................... 102
DEGREASING ............................................................................. 103
HOW TO SELECT COOLANT ......................................................... 104
DEFINITIONS .............................................................................. 104
APPROVED COOLANTS ............................................................ 104
EG & WATER PLUS SCA INHIBITOR OR PG & WATER PLUS
SCA INHIBITOR ...................................................................... 105
MIXING EG OR PG ANTIFREEZE AND WATER ................... 106
RECYCLED ANTIFREEZE ..................................................... 107
EG/WATER + OAT INHIBITOR OR PG/WATER + OAT
INHIBITOR .............................................................................. 107
WATER ONLY + SCA OR WATER ONLY + OAT INHIBITOR . 108
WATER REQUIREMENTS ...................................................... 110
COOLANTS NOT RECOMMENDED .......................................... 110
ALL ANTIFREEZES AND COOLANTS CONTAINING
PHOSPHATE ........................................................................... 110
AUTOMOTIVE TYPE COOLANTS .......................................... 110
METHYL ALCOHOL-BASED ANTIFREEZE ........................... 110
GLYCOL-BASED COOLANTS FORMULATED FOR HVAC ... 111
ADDITIVES NOT RECOMMENDED ........................................... 111
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) vii

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SOLUBLE OILS ....................................................................... 111

CHROMATE ............................................................................ 111
COOLANT INHIBITOR TEST INTERVALS ................................. 111
SUPPLEMENTAL COOLANT ADDITIVES FOR FULLY
FORMULATED COOLANT ...................................................... 112
MAINTENANCE INTERVALS .................................................. 112
SCA TEST PROCEDURES ......................................................... 114
NEED RELEASE COOLANT FILTERS (NON-OAT SYSTEMS) . 115
DROPOUT ................................................................................... 116
COOLANT EXTENDER INHIBITOR ADDITIVE FOR “OAT”
COOLANT ................................................................................... 116
OAT COOLANT DRAIN INTERVAL ........................................ 117
CHRONIC COOLANT SYSTEM PROBLEMS ............................. 117
DETROIT DIESEL COOLING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
PRODUCTS ................................................................................. 117
POWER COOL SCAS ............................................................. 117
POWER COOL COOLANT FILTER ELEMENTS .................... 117
POWER COOL CLEANERS ................................................... 117
SUMMARY OF COOLANT RECOMMENDATIONS .................... 118
COOLANT LIFE OF GLYCOL COOLANT ............................... 119
COOLANT LIFE OF OAT COOLANT ...................................... 119
COOLANT LIFE OF OTHER COOLANTS .............................. 119
COOLANT FLUSHING AND CHANGING ................................... 120
COOLING SYSTEM INSPECTING ............................................. 121
TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................... 122
ENGINE STORAGE ............................................................................. 135

PREPARING ENGINE FOR STORAGE .......................................... 135
TEMPORARY STORAGE (30 DAYS OR LESS) ......................... 135
EXTENDED STORAGE (MORE THAN 30 DAYS) ...................... 136
PROCEDURE FOR RESTORING TO SERVICE AN ENGINE
THAT HAS BEEN IN EXTENDED STORAGE ............................. 139
CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE ................................................................. 141

ROAD SERVICE IN THE U.S. OR CANADA ................................... 143
WORKING WITH DETROIT DIESEL SERVICE OUTLETS ............ 144
STEP ONE ................................................................................... 144
STEP TWO .................................................................................. 144
viii All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

STEP THREE .............................................................................. 145
SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................ 146

FUEL AND LUBRICATING OIL FILTERS ........................................ 146
OIL PAN CAPACITY .................................................................... 146
POWER COOL ENGINE PRODUCTS ............................................ 146
POWER COOL FULLY FORMULATED IEG COOLANT ............. 146
POWER COOL 2000 AND 3000 SUPPLEMENTAL COOLANT
ADDITIVE .................................................................................... 147
POWER COOL 3000 SUPPLEMENTAL ADDITIVE COOLANT
FILTERS ...................................................................................... 148
POWER COOL SUPPLEMENTAL ADDITIVE NEED RELEASE
COOLANT FILTERS .................................................................... 148
POWER COOL PLUS EXTENDED LIFE OAT COOLANT .......... 149
POWER COOL PLUS EXTENDER FOR USE WITH POWER
COOL PLUS OAT COOLANT ...................................................... 149
POWER COOL COOLING SYSTEM CLEANERS ...................... 149
POWER TRAC COOLANT TESTING AND ANALYSIS
PRODUCTS ................................................................................. 150
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) ix

TABLE OF CONTENTS
x All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

INTRODUCTION
This guide is intended for use by the for determining the suitability of
operator of an MBE 900 diesel engine components to maintain emissions
used in the following applications: compliance during the engine's useful
emission life.
□ On-Highway Vehicles
Detroit Diesel cautions that the
□ Fire Truck or Crash/Rescue
indiscriminate rebuilding of precision
Vehicles
components, without the benefit of
specifications, specialized equipment,
Non-Genuine and Rebuilt and knowledge of the electronic
Component Quality Alert operating system, will jeopardize
performance or lead to more serious
Electronic engine controls have
problems, and can take the engine
been instrumental in aiding engine
outside of compliance with U.S. EPA
manufacturers in meeting the stringent
or CARB emissions standards.
emission requirements of the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency There are other components in
(U.S. EPA) and the California Air an engine, such as turbocharger,
Resources Board (CARB) and camshaft, piston, etc., which
also in meeting the ever-increasing are specifically designed and
performance demands of the customer. manufactured to exacting standards
for emissions compliance. It is
Maintenance procedures must
important that these components, if
be followed in order to continue
replaced, modified or substituted, can
satisfactory performance and
be verified to ensure that the engine
durability and to ensure coverage of
remains in compliance with emissions
the engine under the manufacturer's
standards. The use of inadequately
warranty. Many of these maintenance
engineered, manufactured or tested
procedures also ensure that the
components in repair or rebuild of
engine continues to comply with
the engine may be in violation of the
applicable emissions standards.
federal Clean Air Act and applicable
Proper maintenance procedures, using
U.S. EPA or CARB regulations.
specific components engineered to
comply with emissions regulations,
may be performed by an authorized
Detroit Diesel distributor or dealer,
an independent outlet or the operator
or owner. The owner is responsible
All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) 1

INTRODUCTION
Furthermore, modern engines exhibit

operating parameters which require
the use of proper fluids, such as
fuel, coolant and lubricating oil, to
maintain long engine life. The use of
fluids that do not meet Detroit Diesel
Corporation specifications may result
in early wear out or engine failure.
Personnel Requirements
Work on the engine should be carried
out only by skilled technicians who
have been instructed in the specific
skills necessary for the type of work
being performed.
Engine Conversions and

Modifications
The function and safety of the engine
could be affected if unauthorized
modifications are made. Detroit
Diesel will not accept responsibility
for any resulting damage.
Tampering with the fuel injection
system and engine electronics could
also affect the engine's power output or
exhaust emission levels. Compliance
with the manufacturer's settings
and with statutory environmental
protection regulations cannot then be
guaranteed.
2 All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

CAUTION SUMMARY
The following cautions must be

observed by the operator of the
vehicle or equipment in which this HOT EXHAUST
engine is installed and/or by those
During parked regeneration the
performing basic engine preventive
exhaust gases will be extremely
maintenance. Failure to read and heed
HOT and could cause a fire
these cautions and exercise reasonable
if directed at combustible
care for personal safety and the
materials. The vehicle must be
safety of others when operating the
parked outside.
vehicle/equipment or performing basic
engine preventive maintenance may
result in personal injury and engine
and/or vehicle/equipment damage.
Engine Operation
PERSONAL INJURY
Observe the following cautions when
operating the engine. Diesel engine exhaust and some
of its constituents are known to
the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, and other
reproductive harm.
FIRE
□ Always start and operate an
To avoid injury from fire, keep all engine in a well ventilated
potential ignition sources away area.
from diesel fuel, including open
flames, sparks, and electrical □ If operating an engine in
resistance heating elements. Do an enclosed area, vent the
not smoke when refueling. exhaust to the outside.
□ Do not modify or tamper

with the exhaust system or
emission control system.

CAUTION SUMMARY
Preventive Maintenance
performing preventative maintenance. PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury when working
near or on an operating engine
equipped with an hydraulic
clutch fan, remove loose items
HOT OIL
of clothing and jewelry. Tie back
To avoid injury from hot oil, do or contain long hair that could
not operate the engine with the be caught in any moving part
rocker cover(s) removed. causing injury. The hydraulic fan
may start without warning.
PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury from slipping and HOT COOLANT
falling, immediately clean up any To avoid scalding from the
spilled liquids. expulsion of hot coolant, never
remove the cooling system
pressure cap while the engine is
at operating temperature. Wear
adequate protective clothing
(face shield, rubber gloves,
apron, and boots). Remove the
USED ENGINE OIL cap slowly to relieve pressure.
To avoid injury to skin from
contact with the contaminants in
used engine oil, wear protective
gloves and apron.

PERSONAL INJURY FIRE

To avoid injury from the To avoid injury from combustion
projection of tools or other of heated lubricating-oil vapors,
objects that may fall on or behind stop the engine immediately if an
the vibration damper of an oil leak is detected.
engine, always check and remove
these items before starting the
engine.
FIRE
To avoid injury from fire, do not
smoke or allow open flames when
PERSONAL INJURY
working on an operating engine.
To avoid injury from contact
with rotating parts when an
engine is operating with the air
inlet piping removed, install an
air inlet screen shield over the
turbocharger air inlet. The shield
FIRE
prevents contact with rotating
parts. To avoid injury from fire from a
buildup of volatile vapors, keep
the engine area well ventilated
during operation.
PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury when using
caustic cleaning agents, follow
the chemical manufacturers
usage, disposal, and safety
instructions.

CAUTION SUMMARY
Electrical System
jump starting an engine, charging a Battery Explosion and Acid Burn
battery, or working with the vehicle To avoid injury from battery
electrical system. explosion or contact with battery
acid, work in a well ventilated
area, wear protective clothing,
and avoid sparks or flames near
the battery. If you come in contact
PERSONAL INJURY
with battery acid:
To avoid injury from accidental
engine startup while servicing □ Flush your skin with water.
the engine, disconnect/disable □ Apply baking soda or lime to
the starting system. help neutralize the acid.
□ Flush your eyes with water.
□ Get medical attention

immediately.
Electrical Shock
To avoid injury from electrical
shock, use care when connecting
battery cables. The magnetic ELECTRICAL SHOCK
switch studs are at battery
voltage. To avoid injury from electrical
shock, do not touch battery
terminals, alternator terminals, or
wiring cables while the engine is
operating.

Cooling System Air Intake System

Observe the following cautions when Observe the following cautions when
servicing the cooling system. working on the air intake system.
HOT COOLANT PERSONAL INJURY

To avoid scalding from the To avoid injury from hot surfaces,
expulsion of hot coolant, never wear protective gloves, or allow
remove the cooling system engine to cool before removing
pressure cap while the engine is any component.
cap slowly to relieve pressure.
PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury from contact
with rotating parts when an
engine is operating with the air
inlet piping removed, install an
PERSONAL INJURY
air inlet screen shield over the
To avoid injury from slipping and turbocharger air inlet. The shield
falling, immediately clean up any prevents contact with rotating
spilled liquids. parts.

CAUTION SUMMARY
Fuel System
fueling the vehicle or working with FIRE
the fuel system. To avoid injury from fire caused
by heated diesel-fuel vapors:
□ Keep those people who are not

directly involved in servicing
PERSONAL INJURY away from the engine.
To avoid injury from fuel spills, □ Stop the engine immediately if

do not overfill the fuel tank. a fuel leak is detected.
□ Do not smoke or allow open

flames when working on an
operating engine.
□ Wear adequate protective

clothing (face shield,
FIRE insulated gloves and apron,
To avoid injury from fire, contain etc.).
and eliminate leaks of flammable □ To prevent a buildup of
fluids as they occur. Failure to potentially volatile vapors,
eliminate leaks could result in keep the engine area well
fire. ventilated during operation.
Starting Aids
using starting aids.
FIRE
To avoid injury from fire, keep all
potential ignition sources away
from diesel fuel, including open
flames, sparks, and electrical
resistance heating elements. Do
not smoke when refueling.

FLAMES, EXPLOSION AND FLAMES, EXPLOSION AND

TOXICITY TOXICITY
To avoid injury from flames, To avoid injury from flames,
explosion, and toxicants when explosion, and toxicants when
using ether, the following using ether, the following
precautions must be taken: precautions must be taken:
□ Always wear goggles when □ Do not smoke when servicing

testing. ether system.
□ If fluid enters the eyes or if □ Work in well ventilated area.

fumes irritate the eyes, wash
□ Do not work near open flames,
eyes with large quantities of
pilot flames (gas or oil
clean water for 15 minutes.
heaters), or sparks.
A physician, preferably an
eye specialist, should be □ Do not weld or carry an open
contacted. flame near the ether system if
you smell ether or otherwise
□ Contents of cylinder are under
suspect a leak.
pressure. Store cylinders
in a cool dry area. Do not
incinerate, puncture or
attempt to remove cores from
cylinders.

CAUTION SUMMARY
Compressed Air
using compressed air. FIRE
To avoid injury from fire, do not
smoke or allow open flames when
working on an operating engine.
EYE INJURY
To avoid injury from flying debris
when using compressed air, wear
adequate eye protection (face
shield or safety goggles) and do
not exceed 276 kPa (40 psi) air FIRE
pressure.
To avoid injury from fire from a
buildup of volatile vapors, keep
Lubricating Oil and Filters the engine area well ventilated
during operation.
replacing the engine lubricating oil
and filters.
Aftertreatment System
servicing the Aftertreatment System
PERSONAL INJURY (ATS). Be advised that these two labels
are attached to the Aftertreatment
To avoid injury from slipping and
Device (ATD).
falling, immediately clean up any
spilled liquids.
FIRE
To avoid injury from combustion
of heated lubricating-oil vapors,
stop the engine immediately if an
oil leak is detected.

Figure 1 Hot Surfaces External and Internal Caution
Figure 2 Heavy Aftertreatment Device Caution

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION
The MBE 900 engine has a

certification label, engine model and
serial number for identification.
Engine Components
The 2007 on-highway MBE 900
engine is equipped with an Exhaust
Gas Recirculation (EGR) system to
reduce engine exhaust gas emissions
in accordance with EPA regulations.
See Figure 3 for a right front view
of the MBE 900 EGR engine, single
turbocharger model, and Figure 4
for a left rear view. See Figure 5 for
a right front view of the MBE 900
EGR engine, dual-stage turbocharger
model, and Figure 6 for left side front
view.

1. EGR Cooler 8. Water Pump

2. EGR Exhaust Elbow 9. Fan Pulley
3. Rear Lifting Bracket 10. Crankshaft Vibration Damper
4. Air Intake Throttle 11. Belt Tensioner Assembly
5. EGR Valve 12. Oil Filter

6. EGR Delivery Pipe 13. Turbocharger (Single-Stage)
7. Front Lifting Bracket 14. Exhaust Brake
Figure 3 Right Front View of the MBE 900 Engine (Single-Stage

Turbocharger)

1. Oil Pan 8. Air Compressor

2. Thermostat Housing 9. 31-Pin Connector
3. Oil Fill Cap 10. Motor Control Module (MCM)
4. Cylinder Head Cover 11. 120-Pin Connector
5. EGR Mixer Housing 12. Fuel Filter/Water Separator
6. Electrostatic Oil Separator 13. Oil Dipstick
7. Flywheel Housing
Figure 4 Left Rear View of the MBE 900 Engine (Single Turbocharger)

1. Oil Supply Line to Turbo 8. Grid Heater

2. Cylinder Block 9. Air Intake Manifold
3. Dual Turbo Oil Return to Block 10. EGR Delivery Pipe
4. Dual-Stage Turbocharger 11. EGR Cooler Coolant Return Tube
5. Wastegate Actuator 12. EGR Cooler Supply Tube
6. Exhaust Elbow 13. Oil Supply Line to 2nd Turbo
7. EGR Cooler
Figure 5 Right Front View of the MBE 900 Engine (Dual-Stage

Turbocharger)

1. Drain Line for Water Separator 11. Electrostatic Oil Separator

2. Doser Block Assembly 12. Dosing Fuel Line
3. Rocker Arm Frame 13. Wire Harness
4. Fuel Injector (under cover) 14. Oil Centrifuge (except 350 BHP
Motorcoach models)
5. Breather Hose 15. 31–Pin Connector
6. Cylinder Head Cover 16. 21–Pin Connector
7. EGR Valve 17. Motor Control Module (MCM)
8. Air Intake Mixer Housing 18. Fuel Heat Exchanger
9. Air Intake Manifold 19. 120–Pin Connector

10. Air Intake Throttle 20. Dipstick Location
Figure 6 Left Side View of the MBE 900 Engine (Dual-Stage Turbocharger)

Engine Model And Serial

Number Designation
The engine identification numbers are
lasered in large font onto an enlarged
labeling surface on the rear right
crankcase. See Figure 7.
Figure 8 Engine Identification

Number
The last six numbers are the serial

numbers (310187 in Figure 8).
NOTE:
In addition to the fourteen digit number
Figure 7 Location of Engine
etched on the crankcase, there is a
Identification Number
ten digit number used for warranty and
service that is found on the MCM label.
See Figure 8 for an example of the The ten digit number is derived from
numbers as they appear on the engine. the fourteen digit number (see Figure
9).
Figure 9 Engine Serial Number

Certification Labels label for the 2007, 6-cylinder, EGR

model.
The MBE 900 engine complies with
all United States Environmental
NOTE:
Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) and
The horsepower rating on the emission
California Air Resources Board
label is for the highest engine rating
(CARB) emission standards. An
and not necessarily the rating of your
emission label is attached to the
engine.
cylinder head cover, as required by
law. See Figure 10 for the emission
Figure 10 Engine Emission Label — EPA07

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR STARTING THE

ENGINE
Following are instructions for starting oil, vibrates, misfires, makes unusual
the engine. noises, or shows an unusual loss of
power, turn the engine off as soon
First Time Start as possible and determine the cause.
Frequently, engine damage may be
Preparation
avoided by a quick response to early
When preparing to start a new or indications of problems.
newly overhauled engine which has
If you are starting the engine in
been in storage, perform all of the
cold weather, refer to "How to
operations listed below. Also refer
Select Coolant" in the “HOW-TO
to the ENGINE STORAGE section
SECTION” section of this guide.
of this guide. Failure to follow these
instructions may result in serious
engine damage. System Checks
Be sure you are familiar with all of Perform the following system checks
the instruments, gauges and controls before starting for the first time.
which are needed to operate the
engine. Cooling System Checks
Note especially the location and Check the cooling system as follows:
function of the following:
1. Make sure all drain cocks in
□ Oil Pressure Gauge the cooling system are installed
□ Coolant Temperature Gauge (drain cocks are often removed
for shipping) and are closed
□ Low Oil Pressure/High Coolant tightly.
Temperature Warning Light
2. Remove the radiator pressure
□ Water In Fuel Warning Light control cap and fill with genuine
□ Tachometer Detroit Diesel POWER COOL®
antifreeze or an equivalent quality
□ Air Restriction Indicator ethylene glycol or propylene
When starting the engine, and while glycol-base antifreeze solution
driving, watch for any signs of engine in the required concentration.
problems. If the engine overheats, In extremely hot environments,
uses excessive fuel or lubricating properly inhibited water may

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR STARTING THE ENGINE
be used in the summer. Keep the engine startup, the engine lubrication
coolant level at the bottom of the system should be charged with a
filler neck to allow for expansion commercially available pressure
of the coolant. For more detailed pre-lubricator. If this is impractical,
recommendations, refer to How rocker covers should be removed and
to Select Coolant in the HOW-TO clean lubricating oil should be poured
SECTION of this guide. over the rocker arms. The oil should
be the same weight and viscosity
3. Entrapped air must be purged
as that used in the crankcase. After
after filling the cooling system.
pre-lubricating, add additional oil to
To do this, allow the engine to
bring the level to the proper mark on
warm up with the pressure cap
the dipstick.
removed. With the transmission
in neutral, increase engine speed For lubricant recommendation,
above 1,000 rpm and add coolant refer to the How to Select Lubricating
to the radiator as required. Oil section in this guide.
4. Check to make sure the front
of the radiator and air-to-air Checking the Oil Level — Check
charge cooler (if equipped) are the oil level as follows:
unblocked and free of debris. 1. Remove the dipstick from the
guide tube. Note the dipstick has
Lubrication System Checks a positive locking device such
as a lever or twist-lock design
The lubricating oil film on the rotating
that must be disengaged before
parts and bearings of a new or newly
pulling the dipstick out of the
overhauled engine, or one which has
guide tube.
been in storage for six months or
more, may be insufficient when the 2. Use a shop rag to wipe off the end
engine is started for the first time. of the dipstick.
3. Wait 15 seconds to allow any
NOTICE: crankcase pressure to dissipate
Insufficient lubrication at startup can through the guide tube and let the
cause serious damage to engine oil level settle in the oil pan.
components. 4. Reinstall the dipstick and make
sure it is fully inserted into the
guide tube.
To insure an immediate flow of
oil to all bearing surfaces at initial 5.

Figure 11 Oil Dipstick

Remove the dipstick and read
the oil level see Figure 11.
The figure shows a comparison
between the bends on the dipstick
and a crosshatch pattern on a
conventional dipstick. Note the
exact area noted on the bends.
For example, the “maximum” oil
level will be at the BOTTOM of
that bend. For the “minimum” oil 6.
level, it is noted at the TOP of the
Figure 12 Oil Fill Cap
bend.
If the oil level is below the
“minimum” bend, add oil to
bring it up the “maximum” level.
see Figure 11. Do NOT fill
beyond the maximum fill level on
the dipstick, since overfilling may
result in high oil consumption and
possible severe engine damage.
If necessary, add additional oil

through oil fill cap located on the condensation and helps keep fuel
top of the engine. See Figure 12 cool, which is important to engine
performance. Full tanks also reduce
the chance for microbe (black slime)
growth. For fuel recommendations,
PERSONAL INJURY refer to the How to Select Diesel Fuel
section in this guide. Make sure the
To avoid injury from slipping and fuel shutoff valve (if used) is open.
falling, immediately clean up any
spilled liquids.
NOTICE:
Prolonged use of the starting motor
and engine fuel pump to prime the
Extended Storage — An engine
fuel system can result in damage to
in storage for an extended period
the starter, fuel pump and injectors.
of time (over winter, for example)
may accumulate water in the oil
pan through normal condensation of
This may cause erratic engine
moisture (always present in the air)
operation due to the amount of air
on the cold, internal surfaces of the
in the lines and filters from the fuel
engine.
supply tank to the cylinder head
NOTICE:
Failure to eliminate water-diluted
lubricating oil may lead to serious
engine damage at startup.
Lube oil diluted by water cannot

provide adequate bearing protection
at engine startup. For this reason,
Detroit Diesel recommends replacing
the engine lubricating oil and filters
after extended storage.
Fuel System Checks

Fill the tanks with the recommended
fuel. Keeping tanks full reduces water

NOTICE:
Under no circumstances should
a starting aid such as ether be
used to run the engine until the
fuel system is primed. Injector
damage will result if this method
is used.
If an external starting aid is used, the

heat generated by the external fuel
source will cause the injector tips to
be damaged when the fuel cools them.
The injector plunger and bushing
can be scored from running without
lubrication.
NOTICE:
Engines equipped with starting
devices dependent on compressed
air or gas reservoirs should always
be primed before initial startup.
Otherwise, reserve pressure can
be exhausted and injectors may be
damaged from lack of lubrication
and cooling.
To insure prompt starting and even

running, the fuel system must be
primed if air has entered the fuel
system. Priming can be performed by
using the priming pump on the fuel
filter or by connecting a manual or
electric priming pump to the fuel filter
housing.

Authorized Detroit Diesel service Priming the Fuel System —

outlets are properly equipped and have Prime the fuel system as follows:
the trained technicians to perform this
1. If equipped with a hand pump
service.
on the fuel filter or fuel/water
Priming is not normally required if separator, work the hand pump
the filter elements are filled with clean until resistance is felt.
fuel when installed and the lines are
2. Crank the engine for 30 seconds
not drained of fuel. If priming is
at a time, but no longer. Before
required refer to section Priming the
cranking the engine again, wait
Fuel System
at least two minutes. The engine
If the engine is equipped with a should start within four 30-second
fuel/water separator, drain off any attempts.
water that has accumulated. Water
in fuel can seriously affect engine Other Checks
performance and may cause engine
damage. Detroit Diesel recommends Make sure the transmission is filled
installation of a fuel/water separator to the proper level with the fluid
wherever water contamination is a recommended by the manufacturer.
concern. Do not overfill.
Adding Fuel — Note the following

when adding fuel:
□ Add winter or summer grade fuel
according to the season of the
year.
□ Work in the cleanest conditions
possible.
□ Prevent water from entering the
fuel tank.
For further information refer to
“Diesel Fuels” in the HOW-TO
SECTION of this guide.

Lubricant or
Manufacturer
Part Number
Battery Explosion and Acid Burn No. 71032; No.
Shell Oil, Co.
To avoid injury from battery 71306
explosion or contact with battery Texaco, Inc. No. 955
Quaker State No. NYK-77
Table 1 Approved Electrical
Lubricants
with battery acid:
□ Flush your skin with water.
□ Apply baking soda or lime to

help neutralize the acid.

immediately.
Make sure cable connections to

the storage batteries are clean and
tight. Check the hydrometer “eye” of
maintenance-free batteries for charge. Figure 13 Maintenance-Free
See Figure 13. Battery “Eye”
If lead-acid or low-maintenance
batteries are used, make sure battery Check the turbocharger for signs of
electrolyte level is normal. oil or exhaust leaks. Leaks should be
corrected before starting the engine.
Use only batteries that have been Check engine mounting bolts for
correctly filled and serviced. To tightness. Bolts should be retightened,
provide corrosion protection, apply if necessary.
dielectric grease liberally to the
terminal pads. Approved suppliers are
listed in Table 1.

Starting the Engine-For The To start an MBE 900 engine, make

First Time sure the transmission is in neutral and
turn the ignition key on.
Before starting the engine the first
time, perform the operations listed in
the System Checks section.
NOTICE: ENGINE EXHAUST

The turbocharger may be seriously To avoid injury from inhaling
damaged if the engine is cranked engine exhaust, always operate
with the air shutdown in the closed the engine in a well-ventilated
position. area. Engine exhaust is toxic.
The engine may require the use of a

cold weather starting aid if the ambient
temperature is below 40°F (4°C).
PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury when working
FLAMES, EXPLOSION AND
near or on an operating engine,
TOXICITY
remove loose items of clothing
To avoid injury from flames, and jewelry. Tie back or contain
explosion, and toxicants when long hair that could be caught in
using ether, the following any moving part causing injury.
precautions must be taken:
□ Do not smoke when servicing

You will notice that both the Amber
ether system.
Warning Lamp (AWL)/Check Engine
□ Work in well ventilated area. and the Red Stop Lamp (RSL)/Stop
Engine will come on. This is the
□ Do not work near open flames,
result of the Detroit Diesel Electronic
pilot flames (gas or oil
Control (DDEC®) computer
heaters), or sparks.
diagnosing the system to ensure
□ Do not weld or carry an open everything is functional, including the
flame near the ether system if light bulbs for the warning lights. If
you smell ether or otherwise everything is OK, both lights will go
suspect a leak. out in approximately five seconds.

Start the engine after the lights go 3. If the engine doesn't start after
out. If starting a vehicle, start the 30 seconds, stop. Try again after
engine with foot off the foot pedal. waiting two minutes. The engine
should start within four 30-second
attempts.
NOTICE:
If the warning lights stay on, or
do not come on momentarily after NOTICE:
turning on the ignition, contact Do not rev the engine if the oil
the Detroit Diesel Customer pressure gauge indicates no
Support Center at 313–592–5800. oil pressure. To avoid engine
Operating the engine under these damage, shut down the engine
circumstances may result in engine if no oil pressure appears within
damage. approximately ten seconds. Check
to determine the cause of the
problem.
Electric Starter — Start an engine

equipped with an electric starting 4. Monitor the oil pressure gauge
motor as follows: immediately after starting the
engine.
NOTICE:
NOTE:
To prevent serious starting motor Do not place the engine under full load
damage, do not press the starter until it reaches operating temperature.
switch again after the engine has
started. Running the Engine
While the engine is operating, monitor
Important: At outside temperatures the battery charge indicator light,
below –25°C (–13°F), a coolant the oil pressure and avoid excessive
preheater is recommended. idling.
1. Chock the tires, place the
transmission in neutral, and set
the parking brake.
2. With foot OFF the foot pedal,
turn on the ignition switch and
start the engine

Oil Pressure Transmission — While the

engine is idling, check the automatic
Observe the oil pressure gage
transmission (if equipped) for proper
immediately after starting the engine.
oil level and add oil as required.
A good indicator that all moving parts
are getting lubrication is when the
oil pressure gage registers pressure Fluid Leaks — Look for coolant,
(7 psi or 50 kPa at idle speed). If fuel or lubricating oil leaks. If any
no pressure is indicated within 10 are found, shut down the engine
to 15 seconds, stop the engine and immediately and have the leaks
check the lubrication system. The repaired after the engine has cooled.
pressure should not drop below 36 psi
or 250 kPa at 1800 rpm, and normal Crankcase — If the engine oil
operating pressure should be higher. If was replaced, stop the engine after
oil pressure does not fall within these normal operating temperature has
guidelines, it should be checked with been reached. Allow the oil to drain
a manual gage. back into the crankcase for about
twenty minutes, then check the oil
level. If necessary, add oil to bring
the level to the proper mark on the
dipstick. Use only the heavy-duty oils
HOT OIL recommended. Refer to the How to
To avoid injury from hot oil, do Select Lubricating Oil in this guide.
not operate the engine with the
rocker cover(s) removed. Turbocharger — Make a visual
inspection of the turbocharger for
oil leaks, exhaust leaks, excessive
Warm-up noise or vibration. Stop the engine
Run the engine at part throttle for immediately if a leak or unusual noise
about five minutes to allow it to warm or vibration is noted. Do not restart
up before applying a load. the engine until the cause of the
concern has been investigated and
corrected. Authorized Detroit Diesel
Inspection
service outlets are properly equipped
While the engine is idling, inspect the to perform this service.
transmission, check for fluid leaks,
check the crankcase and turbocharger.

Avoid Unnecessary Idling for four or five minutes. This

allows the engine to cool and
Whenever possible, avoid unnecessary
permits the turbocharger to slow
idling.
down. After four or five minutes,
During long engine idling periods shut down the engine.
with the transmission in neutral, the
engine coolant temperature may fall Emergency Jump Starting
below the normal operating range.
The incomplete combustion of fuel The DDEC VI system operates on 12
in a cold engine will cause crankcase volts DC. If a DDEC VI engine with
oil dilution, formation of lacquer or an electric starting motor requires
gummy deposits on the valves, pistons, emergency jump starting, do not
and rings, and rapid accumulation of exceed 16 volts DC.
sludge in the engine. When prolonged
idling is necessary, maintain at least
850 rpm spring/summer and 1200 rpm
fall/winter.
BATTERY EXPLOSION
To avoid injury from battery
Stopping the Engine
explosion when jump starting the
Stop an engine under normal operating engine, do not attach the cable
conditions as follows: end to the negative terminal of
the disabled battery.
1. Reduce engine speed to idle and
put all shift levers in the neutral
position.
NOTICE:
Stopping a turbocharged engine
immediately after high-speed
operation without allowing a
sufficient cool-down period may
cause damage to the turbocharger,
as it will continue to turn without an
oil supply to the bearings.
2. Allow the engine to run between

idle and 1000 rpm with no load

NOTICE: Before attempting to jump start the

engine, make sure the jumper cables
Jump starting with voltages greater are connected properly (positive to
than those indicated or reversing positive, negative to negative ground)
battery polarity may damage the and in the proper sequence (negative
Motor Control Module (MCM). to negative ground last).
NOTICE:
Battery Explosion and Acid Burn
Failure to connect jumper cables
To avoid injury from battery
in the proper sequence can result
explosion or contact with battery
in alternator and/or equipment
damage.
with battery acid:
□ Flush your skin with water.
□ Apply baking soda or lime to

help neutralize the acid.

immediately.
Routine Engine Start

Following are the procedures for a
routine, everyday start.

NOTE:
As a safety function, the electronic
ENGINE EXHAUST engine control system may be wired to
start the engine only if the transmission
To avoid injury from inhaling is in neutral. This is vehicle application
engine exhaust, always operate specific.
the engine in a well-ventilated
area. Engine exhaust is toxic.
NOTICE:
Never attempt to start the MBE
900 engine using ether or any
other starting fluid. Serious engine
damage could result.
PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury when working 1. Turn on the ignition switch.
near or on an operating engine,
remove loose items of clothing 2. With the accelerator pedal in the
and jewelry. Tie back or contain idle position, start the engine.
long hair that could be caught in 3. Check the engine for leaks.
any moving part causing injury.
[a] Check all hoses, hose clamps,
and pipe unions on the engine
Starting the Engine-Routine for tightness. Shut down the
engine and tighten them if
Before a routine start, refer to the necessary.
MAINTENANCE section and see the
daily checks for your engine. [b] Check the oil feed and return
lines at the turbocharger for
Important: Before starting the engine, tightness. Shut down the
do all the recommended pretrip engine and tighten them if
inspections and daily maintenance. necessary.
Check the engine oil and fuel levels,
and drain contaminants from the 4. Shut down the engine.
fuel/water separator (optional). 5. Remove the dipstick from the
guide tube. Note the dipstick has
NOTE: a positive locking device such
If you drain the fuel/water separator as a lever or twist-lock design
completely, you may have to prime the that must be disengaged before
fuel system.

pulling the dipstick out of the through the guide tube and let the
guide tube. oil level settle in the oil pan.
6. Use a shop rag to wipe off the end 8. Reinstall the dipstick and make
of the dipstick. sure it is fully inserted into the
guide tube.
7. Wait 15 seconds to allow any
crankcase pressure to dissipate 9.

9. Remove the dipstick and
read the oil level dipstick .
See Figure 14. The figure shows
a comparison between the bends
on the dipstick and a crosshatch
pattern on a conventional
dipstick. Note the exact area
noted on the bends. For example,
the “maximum” oil level will be
at the BOTTOM of that bend. 10.
For the “minimum” oil level, it is
Figure 15 Oil Fill Cap
noted at the TOP of the bend.
If the oil level is below the
“minimum” bend, add oil to bring
it up the “maximum” level . Do

NOT fill beyond the maximum

fill level on the dipstick, since
overfilling may result in high oil HOT COOLANT
consumption and possible severe
engine damage. If necessary, add To avoid scalding from the
additional oil through oil fill cap expulsion of hot coolant, never
located on the top of the engine remove the cooling system
see Figure 15. pressure cap while the engine is
Checking the Coolant Level
(Cold Check)
Check the coolant level as follows: cap slowly to relieve pressure.
1. Ensure that all coolant plugs in
the bottom of the radiator and on
2. Then, with the coolant
the radiator outlet pipe are secure
temperature above 50°C (122°F),
and tight.
recheck the coolant level.
2. Check the coolant level. The
3. Add more coolant if necessary.
cooling system is correctly filled
Open the heater valves (if
when the coolant is between the
equipped) before adding coolant.
maximum and minimum marks
on the surge tank. 4. Do not close the heater valves
until the engine has been run
NOTE: briefly and the coolant level
For more information, refer to the again checked and corrected as
”MAINTENANCE” section. necessary.
Checking the Coolant Level (Hot Monitoring Engine

Check) Operation
Check coolant level as follows: While the engine is operating, monitor
1. Allow the engine to run for the battery charge indicator light,
approximately five minutes at a the oil pressure and avoid excessive
moderate speed. idling.

Battery Charge 3. Charge or replace the batteries as

needed.
The battery charge indicator light
(see Figure 16) must go out once the 4. If necessary, visit the nearest
engine starts. authorized dealer to have the
alternator voltage and output
checked. Do a load test on the
batteries.
Oil Pressure
When the engine has reached its
normal operating temperature, the
engine oil pressure must not drop
below the following values:
Figure 16 Battery Charge Indicator

□ 36 psi (250 kPa) at rated speed
Light □ 7 psi (50 kPa) at idling speed
If oil pressure drops below these
If the indicator light comes on values, stop the engine and determine
while the engine is running, do the the cause.
following:
Excessive Idling
Never allow the engine to idle for
more than 30 minutes. Excessive
FIRE idling can cause oil to leak from the
To avoid injury from fire, keep all turbocharger.
potential ignition sources away
from diesel fuel, including open Changing the Idle Speed
flames, sparks, and electrical
The rpm range of the MBE 900
resistance heating elements. Do
engine is 600 rpm to 850 rpm if the
not smoke when refueling.
parameters in the CPC are set to the
default range.
1. Shut down the engine. Change the idling speed as follows:
2. Check the poly-V belt for 1. Turn the cruise control switch to
tightness. the OFF position.

2. To increase the idle speed, push Shutting Down After High Load
the "Resume" switch until the idle Operation
is fast enough.
3. To decrease the idle speed, push NOTICE:
the "Decel" switch until the idle After hard operation, if the engine
is slow enough. has been running at full output or the
coolant temperature has been high,
Shutting Down the Engine allow the engine to idle for one to
two minutes without load. Shutting
If the engine has been running at full down the engine without idling may
output or the coolant temperature has cause damage to the turbocharger.
been high, allow the engine to idle
for one to two minutes without load.
Then turn off the ignition key switch. Turn off the ignition switch and shut
down the engine.
If any the following occur, shut down
the engine immediately.
Emergency Running Mode
□ The oil pressure swings back and
forth or falls sharply. The engine is equipped with the
electronic engine control system,
□ Engine power and rpm fall, even which monitors the engine as it is
though the accelerator pedal running.
remains steady.
As soon as a fault is detected, it is
□ The exhaust pipe gives off heavy evaluated and one of the following
smoke. measures is initiated.
□ The coolant and/or oil temperature
climb abnormally. NOTICE:
□ Abnormal sounds suddenly occur To prevent possible serious engine
in the engine or turbocharger. damage, have any faults corrected
without delay by an authorized
dealer.
□ In conjunction with any dash

board or instrument panel display,
the code for the electronic unit
reporting the fault can be read
immediately on the display.

□ Complete fault codes are

transmitted and can be read
using DDDL 7.0 or latest version.
□ If the fault is serious enough to
impair normal operation, the
electronic engine system switches
over to limp home mode. The
limp home speed is dependent
on MCM parameters and could Figure 17 Typical SEO Switch and
be idle speed or 1000 rpm. This Warning Lamps
allows you to move the vehicle to
a service location. NOTE:
The operator has the responsibility to
For fault codes and their meanings, take action to avoid engine damage.
see the DDEC VI MBE 900
Troubleshooting Guide (6SE580). Cold Weather Operation
Special precautions must be taken
Stop Engine Override during cold weather. To protect your
Option engine, special cold weather handling
The Stop Engine Override Option is is required for fuel, engine oil, coolant,
used for a momentary override. The and batteries. For detailed information
MCM will record the number of times on the grid heater and optional fuel
the override is activated after a fault filter heater, refer to the MBE 900
occurs. Service Manual (6SE9007).
Momentary Override – A Stop The engine will not require starting

Engine Override (SEO) switch is used aids down to –15°C (5°F). Between
to override the shutdown sequence –15°C (5°F) and –25°C (–13°F) a
(see Figure 17). This override resets grid heater is required. Temperatures
the 60 second (30 seconds for oil below –25°C (–13°F) will require a
pressure) shutdown timer, restoring grid heater, block heater, and oil pan
power to the level when the RSL (Stop heater. An optional fuel heater is
Engine) was illuminated. The switch available.
must be recycled after five seconds to
obtain a subsequent override.

Winter Fronts
A winter front may be used to improve
cab heating while idling. At least 25%
of the grill opening should remain
open in sectioned stripes that run
perpendicular to the charge air cooler
tube flow direction. This assures even
cooling across each tube and reduces
header to tube stress and possible
failure. Winter fronts should only be
used when the ambient temperature
remains below –12.2° C (10° F).

DDEC VI SYSTEM
DDEC VI SYSTEM
The engine is equipped with a fully Motor Control Module

electronic control system, which
The MCM (see Figure 18) is located
regulates the fuel injection quantity
on the left-hand side of the engine.
and timing using solenoid valves,
allowing extremely low-emission The MCM processes the data received
operation. Besides the engine and from the CPC, for example the
its related sensors, the system is position of the accelerator pedal,
composed of the following: engine brake, etc.
□ The Motor Control Module
(MCM)
□ The Common Powertrain
Controller (CPC) located under
the right-hand dash panel
The two control units are connected by
a proprietary datalink through which
all necessary data and information can
be exchanged.
The CPC then broadcasts all
information on the J1587 and J1939 Figure 18 MCM
datalinks, where it can be read by the
diagnostic tool.
These data are evaluated together
The engine control system monitors with the data from the sensors on
both the engine and the datalink. the engine, such as coolant and
When a malfunction or other problem fuel temperature and oil and charge
is detected, the system selects an pressure.
appropriate response; for example,
the emergency running mode may be
activated.
The Accelerator Pedal Assembly
(AP) eliminates the need for any
throttle linkage.

The data is then compared to the

characteristic maps or lines stored in
the MCM. From these data, quantity
and timing of injection are calculated
and the unit pumps are actuated
accordingly through the solenoid
valves.
NOTE:
To obtain a replacement MCM, all
the data given on the MCM label are
required.
The MCM data label has the 10 digit

engine serial number.
Common Powertrain Figure 19 CPC

Controller
The CPC receives data from the
The CPC communicates with any
following sources:
other MCM unit installed on the
vehicle over the J1939 data link. □ The operator (accelerator pedal
See Figure 19. position, engine brake switch)
Data for specific applications is stored □ Other electronic control units
in the CPC. These include idle speed, (for example, the anti-lock brake
maximum running speed, and speed system)
limitation.
□ The MCM (oil pressure and
coolant temperature)
From these data, instructions are
computed for controlling the engine
and transmitted to the CPC via the
proprietary datalink.
The CPC controls various systems,
for example, communications with
the datalink, the engine brake, and the
constant-throttle valves.

DDEC VI SYSTEM
DDEC Features
DDEC offers a variety of features
and options designed to warn the
operator of an engine malfunction.
Options can range from warning panel
lights to automatic reduction in engine
power followed by automatic engine
shutdown.
DDEC has the ability to perform
diagnostics for self-checks and
continuous monitoring of other Figure 20 Typical Cruise Control
system components. Switches
Depending on the application,

DDEC can monitor oil temperature, Cruise Control may also be
coolant temperature, oil pressure, fuel programmed to permit fast idle
pressure, coolant level and remote using the Cruise Control switches.
sensors (if used). DDEC connects With the engine at normal idle,
to the AWL (Check Engine) and the transmission in neutral and service
RSL (Stop Engine) to provide a visual brakes on, depress the SPD CNTL
warning of a system malfunction. Switch, and use the RSM/ACC
Switch.. The engine rpm should
increase to a pre-defined speed. The
Cruise Control
engine rpm can be raised or lowered
Cruise Control is available with any from this point using the SET/CST
DDEC engine. Cruise Control will and RSM/ACC switches.
operate in either Engine or Vehicle
Cruise Control will maintain the set
Speed Mode and maintain a targeted
speed under normal road and load
speed (MPH or RPM) by increasing or
conditions.
decreasing fueling. The targeted speed
can be selected and adjusted with
dash-mounted switches. See Figure
20.

set vehicle speed. The vehicle speed

must be above Min. Cruise Set Speed
and below Max. Cruise Set Speed. It
LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL is recommended that Max Cruise Set
To avoid injury from the loss of Speed be set to the default to allow
vehicle control, do not use cruise proper operation of other features
control under these conditions: such as Fuel Economy Incentive and
PasSmart. The Vehicle Speed Limit
□ When it is not possible to should be used to limit vehicle throttle
keep the vehicle at a constant speed.
speed (on winding roads, in
heavy traffic, in traffic that When the SPD CNTL is in the ON
varies in speed, etc.). position, Cruise Control is engaged by
momentarily contacting the SET/CST
□ On slippery roads Switch. As a check after each engine
(wet pavement, ice-or start, DDEC looks for a one time
snow-covered roads, loose activation of the clutch (if equipped)
gravel, etc.). and service brake before DDEC
allows Cruise Control to be enabled.
The MCM must also recognize that
the Cruise Enable Switch has changed.
NOTICE: If the Cruise Enable Switch is off, it
When descending a hill with needs to be turned on. If the Cruise
Cruise Control OFF, do not allow Enable Switch is on, it must be turned
the engine to exceed 2500 rpm off then on for cruise to operate.
under any conditions. Failure to
Holding the switch in the SET/CST
observe this precaution can result
position allows the vehicle to slow to a
in overspeeding and serious engine
lower speed. Toggling the switch will
damage.
result in a one mile-per-hour (1.6 kph)
decrease in vehicle speed. If Cruise
It cannot limit vehicle speeds on Control has been disabled, toggling
down grades if available engine the RSM/ACC Switch restores the
braking effort is exceeded, nor can it vehicle to the previously set cruise
maintain speed on upgrades if power speed.
requirements exceed engine power
capability.
Engine speed and power are varied
under Cruise Control to maintain the

DDEC VI SYSTEM
Cruise Control can be overridden at

any time with the throttle pedal if
the vehicle is operating at less than
the programmed Max Road Speed. LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL
Additionally, using either the brake or To avoid injury from loss of
the clutch will disable Cruise Control. vehicle control, do not activate
the Engine Brake system under
Data Recording Capability the following conditions:
The DDEC VI contains the ability to □ On wet or slippery pavement,

extract detailed data on the engine’s unless the vehicle is equipped
use and performance using DDEC with ABS (anti-lock braking
Reports software. This data, known system) and you have had
as DDEC Data, is stored in the CPC prior experience driving
and contains information on engine under these conditions.
performance (such as fuel economy,
□ When driving without a trailer
idle time, time in top gear) and critical
(bobtailing) or pulling an
incidents (such as detailed diagnostic
empty trailer.
data records and hard braking events).
DDEC Data can be downloaded using □ If the tractor drive wheels
DDEC Reports software to produce begin to lock or there is
reports. fishtail motion after the
Engine Brake is activated,
DDEC Reports software is part of
deactivate the brake system
the Detroit Diesel Diagnostic Link®
immediately if this occurs.
7.0 (DDDL 7.0) software package.
DDDL 7.0 requires at least a Pentium
II computer with at least 256 MB of The engine brakes will only operate
RAM. when the Accelerator Pedal is fully
released. Disengaging the clutch
Engine Brakes will prevent the engine brakes from
Engine brakes are enabled by a operating.
dash-mounted On/Off switch with a
separate intensity switch to select low,
medium or high braking power.

Engine brakes will supply braking

power even when in Cruise Control.
The MCM will control the amount PERSONAL INJURY
of engine braking with respect to
the Cruise Control set speed. The To avoid injury from engine
maximum amount of braking (low, shutdown in an unsafe situation,
medium, high) is selected with the ensure the operator knows how
dash switches. to override the stop engine
condition on a DDEC-equipped
unit.
Engine Protection
The DDEC engine protection
system monitors all engine sensors
and electronic components, and NOTICE:
recognizes system malfunctions. If
Engines equipped with the
a critical fault is detected, the AWL
power-down/shutdown option have
(Check Engine) and RSL (Stop
a system override button or switch
Engine) illuminate. The malfunction
to allow engine operation for a
codes are logged into the MCM's
short period of time. Using the
memory.
override button so the engine does
The standard parameters which are not shutdown in 30 seconds but
monitored for engine protection operates for an extended period
are: low coolant level, high coolant may result in engine damage.
temperature, low oil pressure, and
high oil temperature.
California Engine Idle Limiting
This system features a 30-second,
stepped-power shutdown sequence In order to meet the California Engine
or an immediate speed reduction Idle Limiting Standard, an engine
without shutdown in the event a major idle shutdown feature has been built
engine malfunction occurs, such as into the DDEC VI Engine Control
low oil pressure, high oil or coolant Strategy. When the California Engine
temperature, or low coolant level. Idle Limiting feature is enabled, the
engine will generally shut down after
five minutes of continuous idling
when the transmission is in neutral
or park and the parking brake is set
or after fifteen minutes when the
transmission is in neutral or park and

DDEC VI SYSTEM
the parking brake is not set. Activating eliminating excessive idling and
or momentarily changing the position allowing a turbocharger cool-down
of the service brake pedal, the clutch period. To activate the shutdown, the
pedal, Stop Engine Override, the transmission must be in neutral with
accelerator pedal, or park brake status the vehicle parking brakes set and the
during the final 30 seconds before engine in idle or fast-idle mode.
a shutdown would otherwise occur
will prevent the engine from shutting DDEC VI Operation
down and will reset the shutdown
timer. After an automatic shutdown, NOTE:
the engine may be restarted and This engine is equipped with DDEC
operated normally. The automatic software. This software generally
shutdown feature is generally disabled assures optimal engine performance.
on engines certified by the US EPA for The installation of software upgrades
use outside California but is required may cause minor changes in features
to be enabled for all California and engine performance.
certified engines with the exception
of engines used in specific vehicle Since the DDEC system is electronic,
types which the state of California a battery is required to operate the
has determined to be exempt from computer. The system operates at
the idle shutdown requirement. 12 volts DC. However, in the event
These include buses, school buses, of a power supply malfunction, the
recreational vehicles, medium duty system will continue to operate at
vehicles, military tactical vehicles, reduced voltage. When this occurs,
and authorized emergency vehicles the AWL (Check Engine) will come
as they are defined by the state of on. See Figure 21.
California. Owners of these vehicle
types that wish to have the shutdown
feature disabled should consult with
California authorities to determine
if their vehicles qualify for the
exemption.
Idle Shutdown Timer

This feature is an optional 1 –
100 minute idle shutdown system. Figure 21 Warning Lamps and
Its purpose is to conserve fuel by SEO Switch

The engine will only operate at Stop Engine Override Switch

reduced rpm until the battery voltage
This feature allows the operator to
reaches a point where the MCM will
override the automatic stop engine
no longer function and the engine
sequence.
shuts down.
This is done by pressing the Stop
Should the AWL (Check Engine)
Engine Override Switch every 15 to 20
come on for any reason, the vehicle
seconds to prevent engine shutdown
can still be operated and the driver can
from occurring.
proceed to the required destination.
This condition should be reported
NOTE:
to an authorized Detroit Diesel
The Stop Engine Override Switch and
distributor or dealer.
the Diagnostic Request Switch are the
same.
NOTICE:
NOTE:
When the RSL (Stop Engine) comes
Holding down the Stop Engine
on, the computer has detected a
Override Switch will not prevent the
major malfunction in the engine that
engine shutdown sequence. You
requires immediate attention. It is
must continue to reset the automatic
the operator's responsibility to
shutdown system by pressing the Stop
shut down the engine to avoid
Engine Override Switch at intervals of
serious damage.
approximately 15 to 20 seconds.
It takes 30 seconds from the time the

The engine can be configured to
automatic shutdown sequence begins
give a warning only, to ramp down
until engine shutdown. Therefore,
(reduce power) or to shut down.
the operator must press the override
Ramp down will reduce engine rpm
switch just prior to engine shutdown
to a pre-determined speed, but will
and continue to do so until the vehicle
not shut down the engine. With
can be brought to a stop in a safe
the 30-second shutdown option, the
location.
engine will begin a 30-second, stepped
power-down sequence until it shuts
down completely.
A “Stop Engine Override” can be
procured in case the vehicle is to
operate in a critical location.

DDEC VI SYSTEM
Immediate Speed Reduction Pentium II computer with at least 256

MB of RAM.
The immediate speed reduction option
will bring engine rpm back to a Once the malfunction has been
predetermined speed, but will not shut corrected, the DDEC system will
down the engine. return the engine to normal operation.
The engine should not be restarted The temperature of air in the intake
after it has been shut down by the system is increased with the addition
engine protection system, unless of an EGR. DDEC is programmed
the problem has been located and to reduce fueling (power) for a
corrected. short time to reduce air and coolant
temperatures when necessary. DDEC
Red Stop Lamp will store an information code that
this event occurred, but no corrective
The conditions that will cause the RSL action is required as this action
(Stop Engine) to come on are: is designed to maintain operation
□ High coolant temperature without a noticeable affect on vehicle
performance.
□ Loss of coolant
□ High oil temperature Flashing Malfunction Codes —
All malfunction codes are four digits.
□ Low oil pressure
The malfunction code recorded in the
□ Auxiliary shutdown computer memory will remain until it
is erased by a technician.
Whenever the AWL (Check Engine)
or the RSL (Stop Engine) come on, The flashing malfunction code can
the DDEC computer will determine also be obtained by the operator.
where the problem is and will then To support flashing codes, a Stop
store this information in its memory. Engine Override/Diagnostic Request
Switch must be configured and the
If the malfunction is intermittent, the
AWL (Check Engine) and RSL (Stop
lights will come on and go off as the
Engine) must be hard-wired. The CPC
computer senses the changing engine
cannot flash these lamps if they are
condition.
not hard-wired.
Diagnostic Tool The flashing code feature may be

activated by satisfying one of the
The diagnostic tool for DDEC VI is following conditions:
DDDL 7.0. which requires at least a

□ Engine speed is <100 rpm and □ Vehicle speed is <3 mph and Park
the SEO switch is put in the ON Brake is activated and the SEO
position. switch is put in the ON position.
□ Idle Governor is activated and The flashing code feature is
the SEO switch is put in the ON deactivated to the OFF position or
position. the listed conditions are no longer
satisfied.See Figure 22 .
Figure 22 RSL (Stop Engine) Flashing Code Example
Only one light will be flashing codes followed by all the inactive codes will
at any time. All codes will be flashed repeat until the conditions for code
twice. The inter-digit pause is 1.5 flashing are no longer satisfied.
seconds. The pause between codes
If there are no active or inactive faults
is 3.5 seconds. The same 3.5 second
the number 3 is flashed once followed
pause occurs as the switch is made
by an inter-code gap of 3 seconds.
from RSL (Stop Engine) to AWL
(Check Engine). To Read Codes: Press and hold the
SEO/Diagnostic Request Switch.
When code flashing is initiated,
Active codes will be flashed on the
the active codes will be flashed on
RSL (Stop Engine) first, followed by
the RSL (Stop Engine). Then the
inactive codes being flashed on the
inactive codes will be flashed on the
AWL (Check Engine).
AWL (Check Engine). When all the
inactive codes have been flashed, the
process of flashing all the active codes

DDEC VI SYSTEM
The codes will continue to flash

and repeat as long as the Diagnostic
Request Switch is held in the ON
position. Both CPC and MCM faults
are included.
Active Codes – The active codes will
be flashed on the RSL (Stop Engine)
in the order of most recent to least
recent occurrence based on engine
hours.
Inactive Codes – The inactive codes
will be flashed on the AWL (Check
Engine) in the order of most recent
to least recent occurrence based on
engine hours.

DDEC VI ENGINE DRIVING TIPS
Driving with an electronically Cruise Control

controlled engine feels different from
For added driver convenience and
driving with a mechanically governed
comfort, DDEC VI also features a
engine.
Cruise Control option that works just
like the system in your car. It can
Accelerating the Vehicle be operated in any gear above 1000
Engine response versus pedal rpm or road speed faster than 32
movement may feel different from kph (20 mph), up to the rated engine
the mechanical-governed engine you speed. And it can be programmed to
were driving. The Accelerator Pedal hold your road speed at or below the
(AP) was designed to communicate maximum vehicle speed. The switch
“percentage” foot pedal travel to to energize Cruise Control is usually
the engine's Motor Control Module mounted on the instrument panel.
(MCM). The engine will respond See Figure 23.
accordingly to the driver's demand.
Another throttle or governor
characteristic you may need time to
get used to is the DDEC Limiting
Speed Governor. This allows the
driver to command total engine
response between idle and rated speed,
such as accelerating at half throttle
– an advantage when driving under
slippery conditions.
If you require wide-open throttle
engine response, either accelerating or Figure 23 Typical Cruise Control
just plain pulling hard, the throttle AP Switches
will have to be held to the floor. To
obtain 100% fueling at any speed, the
AP will have to be maintained at the
fully pressed position.

Turn the switch ON to energize the speed in one mile-per-hour (1.6

system. Remember as a check after kilometer-per-hour) increments, press
each engine start, the MCM looks for the RSM/ACL Switch. To reduce road
a one time activation of the clutch (if speed, press and hold the SET/CST
equipped) and service brake before Switch until the lower speed is
the MCM allows Cruise Control to be reached.
enabled.
Cruise Control is deactivated by
DDEC VI must also see or recognize slightly pressing the service brakes,
that the Cruise Enable Switch has clutch pedal, or trailer brake. The
changed. If the Cruise Enable Switch On/Off Switch will also deactivate
is OFF it needs to be turned ON. If the Cruise Control.
Cruise Enable Switch is left in the ON
Cruise Control will maintain vehicle
position at key OFF, the switch must
speed even on up grades, unless power
be cycled OFF then ON for DDEC
requirements demand a downshift.
VI to see a status change to allow
And, of course, Cruise Control does
Cruise Control activation. The status
not limit your speed on down grades.
of DDEC VI inputs to activate Cruise
Most likely, Cruise Control will feel
Control at key ON is listed in Table
stronger than driving with the foot
2 below.
pedal because of the instantaneous
Once Cruise Control is enabled and wide-open throttle response.
and you reach your road speed, That's why Cruise Control use is not
press the Set Switch to activate suggested during slippery driving
Cruise Control. The cruise light conditions.
will come on. To increase road
Status of Input
Status of Input at
Input Before Cruise
Key ON
Control Activates
Service Brake Switch ON OFF

Clutch Release Switch
ON OFF
(Manual Trans only)
Cruise Control Enable
OFF ON
Switch
Table 2 Input Status to Activate Cruise Control

Use Cruise Control after down shifting cruise set speed. If your speed
on a hill to pull the hill. Hitting the continues to increase, the MCM will
RSM/ACL Switch (not the Set Switch) increase the engine retarders' braking
will keep the truck accelerating in the power progressively. When the
lower gears up to the rated engine vehicle returns to the set cruise speed,
speed. the engine retarders will turn off until
you need them.
Cruise Control will disengage below
1000 rpm or 32 kph (20 mph) road For safety reasons, don't use Cruise
speed. When using Cruise Control, Control when it is not possible to keep
if you want to pull the engine below the vehicle at constant speed due to:
1000 rpm, remember to hold the
□ Winding roads
throttle pedal to the floor to keep the
engine pulling at wide-open throttle. □ Heavy traffic
Realistically, the engine will pull to
□ Slippery pavement
about 1050 rpm.
□ Descending grades that call for
Remember: The electronic data
engine brake assistance.
programmed into the DDEC VI
system will not allow you to hurt or For an explanation of the engine brake
overfuel the engine at low or “lug” retarder system and recommendations
engine speeds. There is enough oil for proper operation, refer to ENGINE
pressure to withstand hard pulls at low BRAKE SYSTEM.
engine speeds.
Shifting
Engine Brakes and Cruise
Depending on your transmission
Control model, the gear split may vary from
If your engine is equipped with both 500 to 300 rpm. The electronic
Cruise Control and engine brake governor provides almost no overrun
retarders, the engine retarders can capability; and, if the transmission
operate automatically while you is downshifted too early, you will
are in Cruise Control. If the Cruise experience a temporary loss of pulling
Control/Engine Brake function is power until the engine speed falls
turned ON in the MCM programming, below rated speed.
the engine retarders will come on
“low” when your set road speed
increases a few miles-per-hour
(kilometers per hour) above your

In general, when using a 7 or 9-speed Idling

transmission, you should always
The common belief that idling a diesel
downshift between 1250 and 1300
engine causes no engine damage is
rpm. This is true even on steep grades
wrong. Idling produces sulfuric acid,
with heavy loads. When using an 18-,
which breaks down the oil and eats
15- or 13-speed transmission, you
into bearings, rings, valve stems and
will need to downshift at an rpm that
engine surfaces. If you must idle
allows “less than rated” rpm before
the engine for cab heat or cooling,
throttle application in the next gear
the high idle function of the Cruise
down. You may want to limit engine
Control switches should be used. An
speed to 1900 rpm in all gears.
idle speed of 1100 rpm should be
Low rpm operation should feel greatly enough to provide cab heat in above
enhanced due to the characteristics 0° C (32° F) ambients.
of the variable nozzle turbocharger.
Engine response should be almost
instantaneous below peak torque
engine speeds. This should encourage
progressive shifting especially during
slow vehicle speed operation.
One difference you may notice with
the EGR equipped engine is under
hood noise. The gear train has been
redesigned for quieter operation,
and the EGR gas flow may be
noticeable to the tuned attentive ear.
The turbocharger operates at higher
boost pressure forcing EGR gas flow
through the EGR plumbing. In some
situations the driver may believe
he/she has experienced a charge air
cooler system leak. Even connecting
trailer light and air hoses, the driver
may hear a different tone (exhaust and
under hood with the engine idling.) If
equipped with a turbo boost gage, the
driver may occasionally note intake
manifold pressure exceeds 35 psi.

ENGINE BRAKE SYSTEM
Certain MBE 900 vehicle engines The two systems operate

are equipped with engine brakes, independently of each other and
commonly referred to as retarders. in combination.
Before operating the vehicle, you
Exhaust back pressure is used by the
must familiarize yourself with the
exhaust brake to increase braking
retarder system to obtain optimum
performance. The constant-throttle
benefit from it. Engine brake control
valves use the air that escapes through
systems may vary slightly, depending
them on the compression stroke to
on the engine brake configuration and
provide braking force.
cab design. However, basic operator
controls are similar for all models. The constant-throttles valves are
small valves which are built into the
Exhaust cylinder head and positioned opposite
the exhaust valve. When open, a link
Brake/Constant-Throttle
is created between the combustion
Valves, Optional
chamber and the exhaust port.
To increase braking performance,
When the engine brake is switched
the engine can be equipped with an
on, the constant-throttle valves are put
exhaust brake on the turbocharger
under pressure, which in turn opens
in conjunction with constant-throttle
the valves.
valves in the cylinder head. See Figure
24. The constant-throttle valves are
activated by engine oil pressure.
The engine brake is activated by the
CPC and can be activated only at
engine speeds up to 2600 rpm.
Below 900 rpm, the engine brake
is always turned off to prevent the
engine from stalling. Also, the engine
brake is automatically turned off when
the accelerator pedal is pressed.
NOTE:
Figure 24 Constant — Throttle When in emergency running mode
Activation (constant rpm), the engine brake can

ENGINE BRAKE SYSTEM
be activated only when the engine is 2. If you find you are still using the
in overrun. When constant rpm has service brakes, move the switch
been attained, the engine brake is to a higher position until you do
automatically turned off. not need to use the service brakes
to slow the vehicle down.
Anti-Lock Braking 3. If you are carrying a heavier load
Systems and road traction is good, move
Vehicles equipped with Anti-lock the progressive braking switch to
Braking Systems (ABS) have the the “High” position.
ability to turn the engine brake 4. Check your progressive braking
retarder OFF if a wheel-slip condition switch often for proper position,
is detected. The engine brake will since road conditions can change
automatically turn itself ON once quickly. Never skip a step when
the wheel slip is no longer detected. operating the progressive braking
The DDEC system will deactivate switch. Always go from OFF
the engine brake system when the to LOW, and then to a higher
engine speed falls below 1000 rpm position.
or when the vehicle slows down to
a pre-set speed, depending on MCM
programming. This prevents stalling Descending a Long, Steep
the engine. Engine brakes can also Grade
be used with vehicle Cruise Control An explanation of “control speed”
TURNED ON. may be helpful in understanding how
to use the engine brake system while
Driving on Flat, Dry descending a grade. Control Speed
Pavement is the constant speed at which the
forces pushing the vehicle forward on
Use the following guidelines when a grade are equal to the forces holding
driving on flat, dry pavement: it back, without using the vehicle
1. If driving on flat, dry, open service brakes. In other words, this
stretches with a light load and is the speed the vehicle will maintain
greater slowing power is not without using the service brakes or
required, place the progressive fueling.
braking switch in the LOW
position.

PERSONAL INJURY
BRAKE FADE
Failure to keep the vehicle within
To avoid injury, do not over
safe control speed limits while
apply the vehicle service brakes
descending a grade may result
when descending a long, steep
in loss of vehicle control, which
grade. Excessive use of the
could cause personal injury.
vehicle brakes will cause them
to heat up, reducing their
stopping ability. This condition,
referred to as “brake fade”, may
result in loss of braking, which NOTICE:
could lead to personal injury or Failure to keep the vehicle within
vehicle/property damage or both. safe control speed limits while
descending a grade may result in
vehicle or property damage or both.
Use the following guidelines when
descending a long, steep grade:
3. Do not exceed the safe control
1. Before beginning the descent,
speed of your vehicle. Example:
determine if your engine brake
You could descend a 6% grade,
system is operating properly by
under control only at 16 kph (10
lifting your foot briefly off the
mph) without an engine brake, but
throttle. You should feel the
at 40 kph (25 mph) with an engine
system activate.
brake. You could not descend
2. Ensure the progressive braking that same hill at 80 kph (50 mph)
switch is in the appropriate power and still expect to remain under
position. control. Get to know how much
slowing power your engine brake
can provide. So get to know
your engine brake system before
climbing hills and do not exceed
a safe control speed.
4. Check your progressive braking
switch often for proper position,
since road conditions can change
quickly. Never skip a step when

ENGINE BRAKE SYSTEM
operating the progressive braking NOTE:

switch. Always go from OFF On single trailers or combinations,
to LOW and then to a higher a light air application of the trailer
position when on slippery roads. brakes may be desirable to help
keep the trailer stretched out. Follow
Driving on Wet or Slippery the manufacturer's recommended
operating procedure when using your
Pavement
trailer brakes.
Do not attempt to use the engine brake
system on wet or slippery roads until On wet or slippery pavement, start
you have some experience with it on with the master switch in the OFF
dry pavement. position and use the gear you would
normally use under these conditions.
If the vehicle is maintaining traction,
place the selective braking switch in
the LOW position and turn ON the
LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL
engine brake system. If the drive
To avoid injury from loss of wheels are maintaining traction and
vehicle control, do not activate you desire greater slowing power,
the Engine Brake system under move the braking switch to the next
the following conditions: highest position.
□ On wet or slippery pavement, However, if the tractor drive wheels
unless the vehicle is equipped begin to lock or there is a fishtail
with ABS (anti-lock braking motion, turn the engine brake system
system) and you have had OFF immediately and do not activate
prior experience driving it until road conditions improve.
under these conditions.
Check your progressive braking
□ When driving without a trailer switch often for proper position, since
(bobtailing) or pulling an road conditions can change quickly.
empty trailer. Never skip a step when operating the
progressive braking system. Always
□ If the tractor drive wheels
go from OFF to LOW and then to a
begin to lock or there is
higher position.
fishtail motion after the
Engine Brake is activated,
deactivate the brake system
immediately if this occurs.

ENGINE SYSTEMS
The engine systems are the following: Air System

The outside air drawn into the
Fuel System engine passes through the air filter
The fuel system consists of Motor and is pulled into the turbocharger
Control Module (MCM), fuel and compressed. It then moves to
injectors, Electronic Unit Pumps the air-to-air charge cooler (heat
(EUP), fuel pump, a fuel heat exchanger) and is cooled. Next it
exchanger, a multi-functional flows to the intake manifold and into
fuel filter containing primary and the cylinders, where it mixes with
secondary filtration with a fuel atomized fuel from the injectors.
priming valve and a water separator, For optimum protection of the
and the necessary connecting fuel engine from dust and other airborne
lines. contaminants, service the dry type
The gear-type fuel pump is bolted to air cleaners used when the maximum
the front of the cylinder block. The allowable air restriction has been
pump is driven from the forward end reached, or annually, whichever
of the camshaft. occurs first.
Lubrication System Cooling System

The lubricating oil system consists The water pump is mounted on the
of an oil pump, pressure regulator, front of the cylinder block and is belt
pressure relief valve, oil filters, oil driven by the crankshaft pulley. This
filter adaptor, oil cooler, oil level system has a centrifugal type water
dipstick, oil pan and ventilation. pump to circulate coolant within
the engine. Two full-blocking type
There is a force-feed lubricating oil thermostats located in a housing
circuit supplied by a rotary oil pump. attached to the front of the cylinder
This pump is in the front cover and block.
is drive by a gear on the front of the
crankshaft.
The oil cooler is located on the right
side front of the cylinder block near
the oil filter.

ENGINE SYSTEMS
Electrical System The MBE 900 engines for on-highway

EPA 2007 regulation applications use
The electrical system consists of
a cooled EGR system along with an
a starting motor, starting switch,
Aftertreatment System to meet the
battery-charging alternator, storage
emission standards.
batteries, and the necessary wiring.
On the 260 – 350 horsepower engines,
Exhaust System the EGR is fed by all six cylinders.
The low horsepower engines use an
Exhaust gases exit the cylinders asymmetric turbocharger with two
through exhaust ports and the exhaust entries, and the EGR is fed from the
manifold. These exhaust gases expand first three cylinders, taken from a small
through the exhaust turbine and drive entry. The exhaust with a maximum
the turbocharger compressor impeller. exhaust gas temperature of 730°C
The gases are then released through the (1346°F) is cooled to a maximum of
exhaust pipes and the aftertreatment 150°C (302°F) in the EGR cooler.
device to the atmosphere. The cooled exhaust gases then pass
through the EGR valve and added to
Exhaust Gas Recirculation the mixer housing. The addition of
System cooled exhaust gases back into the
combustion airflow reduces the peak
The purpose of the Exhaust Gas cylinder combustion temperature.
Recirculation System (EGR) is to Less oxides of nitrogen (NOx)
reduce engine exhaust gas emissions are produced at lower combustion
in accordance with EPA regulations. temperatures.
The EGR system has been optimized
to dramatically cut NOx formation
by routing a measured amount of
exhaust flow to the cylinders to lower
combustion temperatures. Lower
temperatures result in lower NOx
levels without the negative effects of
retarding engine timing. The EGR
valve has been moved to the top of the
engine for improved serviceability.
The EGR system consists of an EGR
cooler, EGR valve, and an EGR mixer.

AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM
In order to meet current emissions key to successful regeneration is high

regulations, the traditional muffler has exhaust temperature for an extended
been replaced by a new Aftertreatment period of time. Without adequate
Device (ATD). This device consists of temperatures for regeneration, the
a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and filter will continue to trap particulates
a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). and eventually plug. In order to avoid
Together these two components burn plugging, Detroit Diesel has designed
off collected particulate matter in a an actively regenerated Aftertreatment
process called “regeneration.” The System (ATS). See Figure 25.
Figure 25 Aftertreatment System Schematic

Operating Requirements Engine) or RSL (Stop Engine) are

indications of a system problem.
Oxidation of the particulate matter
Should this occur, refer to the
is the key to filter performance.
Aftertreatment System Technician's
This requires that the catalyzing
Guide (7SE63), or contact the Detroit
agent (platinum coated passages) are
Diesel Customer Support Center at
providing optimum enhancement to
313–592–5800.
the oxidation process. The following
requirements must be met, otherwise Illumination of the Diesel Particulate
ATD warranty may be compromised: Filter (DPF) lamp indicates that a
parked regeneration is required.
NOTICE: There is a need to periodically remove
Do not use kerosene or fuel blended accumulated ash, derived from engine
with used lube oil. lube oil, from the filter. This ash
does not oxidize in the filter during
the regeneration process and must
□ Use Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel be removed through a cleaning
(ULSD) fuel with (15 ppm sulfur procedure. All Detroit Diesel ATD
content maximum), based on equipped engines will illuminate a
ASTM D2622 test procedure dashboard warning lamp indicating the
need for ash cleaning. For information
□ Lube oil must have a sulfated ash
on this cleaning procedure, refer to the
level less than 1.0 wt %; currently
Aftertreatment System Technician's
referred to as CJ-4 oil.
Guide (7SE63), or contact the Detroit
Diesel Customer Support Center at
NOTICE: 313–592–5800.
Not following the operating

requirements may result in damage
to the ATD or accelerated ash
plugging of the diesel particulate
filter.
Maintenance
A high amount of black smoke
emitting from the vehicle or
illumination of an AWL (Check

Parked Regeneration NOTE:

Procedure The procedure will take up to
40 minutes (depends on engine type
Regeneration of the ATS is
and the amount of soot accumulated
fundamental for the oxidation of
in the filter).
soot. This process happens during
the normal operation cycle of the
vehicle; it can occur both passively
and actively. Regardless of this,
the operator will see no difference
in vehicle performance or vehicle
control. If the ATS is not capable
of completing an over-the-road
regeneration due to duty cycle
constraints or other restrictions, a
parked regeneration may need to
occur.
The driver will be notified of the
need for a DPF regeneration by
illumination of the DPF Regeneration
Lamp. Refer to section DRIVER
ACTIONS .
NOTE:
If the DDEC VI electronics have not
requested the initiation of a parked
regeneration (the DPF Regeneration
Lamp is not illuminated), the Regen
request switch is disabled.
NOTE:
The driver MUST stay with the vehicle
throughout the regeneration process.
NOTE:
Not all vehicles may be equipped
with a Regen request switch due to
application or user specification.

To initiate a parked regeneration, The regeneration is completed when

perform the following: the engine returns to low idle and the
DPF Lamp remains off. The High
1. Keep engine at slow idle (cannot
Exhaust System Temperature (HEST)
be in PTO mode).
Lamp will remain on but the vehicle
2. Transmission is in neutral with can be driven.
parking brake ON.
If the Parked Regeneration exits and
3. Cycle the parking brake from the DPF Lamp remains on, repeat the
OFF to ON. procedure. If the second try also fails,
contact the Detroit Diesel Customer
NOTE: Support Center at (313) 592-5800.
Air tank pressure must be high enough
for the parking brake switch to hold in NOTE:
the OFF position. A Parked Regeneration will stop if the
key is turned to the OFF position, the
4. Press and release clutch pedal (if vehicle is put into gear, or the parking
equipped with clutch pedal). brake is released.
5. Cycle transmission to DRIVE

Hazardous Applications
and back to NEUTRAL (if not
equipped with clutch pedal). The MCM should be configured to
not allow automatically triggered
6. Hold DPF Switch in the ON
over-the-road regenerations (DPF
position for five seconds and
Manual Regen Only Enable =
then release (engine speed will
Enabled).
increase and DPF Lamp will go
out).
NOTE:
This is for hazardous applications only.
There are two CPC options:

□ DPF Stationary Regen Only =
0-Disabled
□ DPF Stationary Regen Only =
1-Enabled
The regeneration will take up to 40

minutes.

DPF Stationary Regen Only = warranty considerations. The record

0-Disabled — This option allows must include information such as:
the DPF Regen Switch to request
□ Date of cleaning or replacement
a parked regeneration if the parked
regeneration entry conditions are met. □ Vehicle mileage at the time of
This option also allows MCM-initiated cleaning or replacement
over-the-road regenerations to occur.
□ Particulate filter part number and
serial number
DPF Stationary Regen Only =
1-Enabled — This option only
allows a parked regeneration to
occur by using the DPF Regeneration
Switch. The MCM will be unable
to initiate an active over-the-road
regeneration when this option is
enabled.
Service Record
It is mandatory that customers or
distributors maintain a proper record
of the particulate filter servicing and
cleaning. This record is an agent to
warranty considerations. The record
must include information such as:
□ Date of cleaning or replacement
□ Vehicle mileage at the time of
cleaning or replacement
□ Particulate filter part number and
serial number
Service Record
It is mandatory that customers or
distributors maintain a proper record
of the particulate filter servicing and
cleaning. This record is an agent to

DRIVER ACTIONS
DRIVER ACTIONS
Indicator
Name Description Driver Action
Lamp
SOLID: Exhaust is at
high temperature and
High Exhaust vehicle is at low speed
System or parked. No change in driving
Temperature FLASHING: A Parked style is required.
(HEST) Lamp Regeneration is in
process and the system
is not up to temperature.
Indicates a failure of Vehicle can be
an Emission Control driven to end of
Malfunction
Device. The MIL may the shift. If the MIL
Indicator
illuminate at the same remains on after
Lamp (MIL)
time as the Check three drive cycles,
Engine Lamp. call for service.
SOLID: Indicates that
Perform a Parked
a Regeneration may be
Regeneration OR
needed.
DPF bring vehicle to
Regeneration highway speeds
FLASHING: Indicates
Lamp to allow for
that a Regeneration is
an Automatic
required as soon as
Regeneration.
possible.
DPF A Parked
Regeneration Regeneration must
Indicates that a Parked
Lamp FLASHING be performed.
Regeneration MUST be
+ + performed.
Check
Engine Lamp ENGINE DERATE

Indicator
Name Description Driver Action
Lamp
DPF
Regeneration FLASHING A Parked
Lamp + Regeneration must
+ Indicates that a Parked
be performed.
Check Regeneration MUST be
Engine Lamp performed.
+
ENGINE DERATE
Red Stop +
Lamp (RSL)
Table 3 Driver Actions

INSTRUMENT PANEL LAMPS

Lamp Indicator Description Results
Vehicle can be
Amber
Indicates a fault with the driven to end
Warning Lamp
engine controls. of shift. Call for
(AWL)
service.
Indicates a major engine Move the vehicle
fault that may result in to the nearest
Red Stop engine damage safe location and
Lamp (RSL) Engine derate and/or shutdown the
shutdown sequence will engine. Call for
be initiated. service
Solid yellow indicates a Lamp Solid
parked regeneration is - parked
required. regeneration
DPF Blinking yellow, derate, required.
Regeneration and/or shutdown are Lamp Flashing
Lamp possible as soot load - parked
continues to increase. regeneration
Lamp will shut of during required
regeneration. immediately.
This is an information
indicator. Indicates
exhaust temperature is
High Exhaust
above a preset limit and
System Vehicle can be
the unit is operating at
Temperature driven.
low vehicle speed. Lamp
(HEST) Lamp
flashes once every ten
seconds during a parked
regen. Lamp is yellow.
Yellow lamp Indicates a
failure of an Emission Vehicle may be
Malfunction
Control device. May driven to end of
Indicator Lamp
illuminate at the same the shift. Call for
(MIL)
time as the Amber service
Warning Lamp
Table 4 Instrument Panel Lamps

Water in Fuel (WIF) Lamp is

listed in Table 5.
Lamp Indicator Description Results

Water in Fuel Indicates the fuel Light stays lit
(WIF) Lamp filter has a high indicating water
Flashes for 5 level of water and must be drained
seconds at the must be drained. from filter.
start of every
ignition cycle (a
bulb check).
Table 5 Water in Fuel Instrument Panel Lamp

The activation conditions are

listed in Table 6.
Lamp Lamp Solid Lamp Flashing

□ Diagnostic Request Switch
is used to activate the AWL
□ At the start of every ignition
to flash inactive codes.
cycle (a bulb check).
□ Last 90 seconds before idle
□ When an electronic system
shutdown if programmed
fault occurs (problem
for override.
should be diagnosed as
□ Idle shutdown or the
soon as possible).
Optimized Idle shutdown
occurs.
□ At the start of every ignition □ When Engine Protection
cycle (a bulb check). Shutdown occurs.
□ A potential engine □ Diagnostic Request Switch
damaging fault is is used to activate the RSL
detected. to flash active codes.
□ Parked regeneration is When a parked regeneration

is required immediately (If
required.
the lamp flashing is ignored,
□ At the start of every ignition derate and/or shutdown could
cycle (a bulb check). occur.
□ Vehicle speed is less than Flashes every 10 seconds
5 mph and the DPF outlet during a parked regen
temperature is greater
than 525°C (977°F).
□ For any emission related Never flashes
fault (light out when the
fault is inactive)
Table 6 Lamp Activation Conditions

MAINTENANCE
When performed on a regular basis, changed and the lubrication system

changing the engine oil and filters is must be primed before the engine can
the least costly way of obtaining safe be brought into service. See MBE 900
and reliable vehicle operation. Added Service Manual (6SE9007).
benefits and savings occur when you
check that the valves, fuel injectors, Maintenance Schedule Types
and oil and cooling circuits are in good
working order during oil changes. There are three types of maintenance
schedule:
The maintenance section of this
manual explains when you should □ (Severe Service)
change your oil and what to look for □ (Short Haul)
when checking for wear or damage.
□ (Long Haul)
For additional information, please
contact your regional office. To determine which schedule to use,
find the distance traveled by the
vehicle in a year, regardless of vehicle
Scheduled Intervals type.
All service intervals and maintenance
operations are based on the parts and Severe Service — Applies to
accessories expressly approved for vehicles that annually travel up to
your engine. 6000 miles (10,000 kilometers) or
The scope and frequency of that operate under severe conditions.
maintenance work are determined Examples of Severe Service usage
by the engine's operating conditions: include: operation on extremely poor
severe duty, short haul, long haul. roads or where there is heavy dust
accumulation; constant exposure
Evidence of regular maintenance is to extreme hot, cold, salt-air, or
essential if a warranty claim has to be other extreme climates; frequent
submitted. short-distance travel; construction-site
If optional equipment is installed, be operation; city operation (fire truck,
sure to comply with the maintenance garbage truck); or farm operation.
requirements for these extra items.
Short-Haul — Applies to vehicles
Important: If the engine is stored for
that annually travel up to 60,000 miles
more than 18 months, the oil must be
(100,000 kilometers) and operate

MAINTENANCE
under normal conditions. Examples □ Maintenance Interval Table, Long

of Short-Haul usage are: operation Haul (listed in Table 10)
primarily in cities and densely
populated areas; local transport with Schedule Use
infrequent freeway travel; or high
percentage of stop-and-go travel. Before placing your new vehicle
in service, determine the correct
maintenance intervals that apply to
Long-Haul — Long Haul
your intended use of the vehicle.
(over-the-road transport) is for
Refer to section Maintenance Tables
vehicles that annually travel more than
to determine the distance interval at
60,000 miles (100,000 kilometers),
which each maintenance operation
with minimal city or stop-and-go
must be performed to comply with
operation. Examples of Long-Haul
your vehicle's schedule.
usage are: regional delivery that
is mostly freeway miles; interstate When the vehicle reaches the actual
transport; or any road operation with distance given for an interval,
high annual mileage. refer to section Maintenance Tables.
When maintenance is required
Maintenance Intervals — The for hours of engine operation
three maintenance interval tables show refer to section Maintenance Tables.”
which maintenance operation must Listed in Table 7 provides an engine
be performed at the actual distances hours conversion for applications
(in miles or kilometers) for each that may require service intervals
maintenance operation. The schedule based on hours and not mileage. The
of actual distances is based on the intervals are based on a collaboration
intervals given in the Maintenance of field and fleet data. For a more
Tables accurate analyst of when fluids should
The three maintenance interval tables be changed, such as engine oil, refer
are:referred to in section Maintenance to publication Engine Requirements
Tables – Lubricating Oil, Fuel and Filters,
(7SE270), available from authorized
□ Maintenance Interval Table, Detroit Diesel distributors.
Severe Service ( listed in Table 8)
Complete each maintenance operation
□ Maintenance Interval Table, Short at the required interval.
Haul (listed in Table 9)

Maintenance Tables
Procedure Severe Short- Long-Haul

(hrs) Haul/(School (hrs)
Bus) (hrs)
Engine Oil and Filter 350 500 or 6 months
Fuel Filter 700 1000
Valve Lash Adjustment 1400 2500
Table 7 Maintenance Intervals by Engine Hours
Miles (X 1000) 6 12 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 75
Km (X 1000) 10 19 29 38 50 57 68 77 87 100 106 120
Item Procedure
1. Lubricating Oil/Filter
R R R R R R R R R R R
& Oil Centrifuge*
2. Cooling System Intervals are based on type of coolant used
as listed in Table 18 in the “How to Select
Coolant” section of this guide
3. Valve Lash Checking
Adjust every 24,000 mi. (38,000 Km)
& Adjustment†
4. Drive Belts I I I I I I I I I I I R
5. Fuel/Water
R R R
Separator
6. Fuel Filters/Pre-
R R R
Filters‡
7. Air System I I I I I I I I I I I
8. Exhaust System I I I I I I I I I I I
9 Air Compressor I I I I I I I I I I I
10. Aftertreatment Inspect same as exhaust system interval, ash
Device removal at 150,000 Miles (240,000 Km)

MAINTENANCE
11. Vibration Damper Replace at major overhaul or earlier if

dented or leaking.
12. FEPTO I I I I I I I I I I I I
13 Smart Remote Every oil change or 12 months lubricate
Actuator Linkage with anti-seize/high temperature grease.
to Exhaust Flap Refer to Preventive Maintenance Intervals
section for instructions
* Change lubricating oil/filter per above schedule or every 350 hours.
† Adjust valve lash per above schedule or every 1400 hours.
‡ Change fuel filter per above schedule or every 700 hours.
All items are described in “Preventive Maintenance Intervals"
I – Inspect, service, test, correct or replace as necessary.
R – Replace.
Table 8 Maintenance Intervals (Severe Service)

Miles (X 1000) 15 30 45 60 75 90 105 120 135 150 165 180

Km (X 1000) 25 50 75 100 125 150 169 193 217 241 266 290
Item Procedure
1. Lubricating
Oil/Filter & Oil R R R R R R R R R R R R
Centrifuge
2. Cooling System Intervals are based on type of coolant used
as listed in Table 18 in the “How to Select
Coolant” section of this guide
3. Valve Lash
Checking and Adjust every 75,000 mi. (125,000 Km)
Adjustment
4. Drive Belts I I I I R I I I I R I I
5. Fuel/Water
R R R R R R
Separator
6. Fuel Filters/Pre-
R R R R R R
Filters
7. Air System I I I I I I I I I I I I
8. Exhaust System I I I I I I I I I I I I
9. Air Compressor I I I I I I I I I I I I
10. Aftertreatment Inspect same as exhaust system interval, ash
Device removal at 150,000 Miles (240,000 Km)
11. Vibration Damper Replace at major overhaul or earlier if dented or
leaking.
12. FEPTO I I I I I
13 Smart Remote Every oil change or 12 months lubricate
Actuator Linkage with anti-seize/high temperature grease.
to Exhaust Flap Refer to Preventive Maintenance Intervals
section for instructions
All items are described in “Preventive Maintenance Intervals”
R – Replace.
Table 9 Maintenance Intervals (Short Haul)

MAINTENANCE
Miles (X 1000) 20 40 60 75 80 100 120 140 150 160 180 200 220 225
Km (X 1000) 32 64 97 121 129 161 193 225 241 257 290 322 354 362
Item Procedure
1. Lubricating
Oil/Filter
R R R R R R R R R R R
& Oil
Centrifuge
2. Cooling Intervals are based on type of coolant used as listed in Table
System 18 in the “How to Select Coolant” section of this guide
3. Valve Lash
Check and Adjust every 80,000 Mi. (129,000 Km)
Adjustment
4. Drive Belts I I I R I I I I R I I I I R
5. Fuel/Water
Follow manufacturer's recommendations.
Separator
6. Fuel Filters R R R
7. Air System I I I I I I I I I I I
8. Exhaust
I I I I I I I I I I I
System
9. Air
I I I I I I I I I I I
Compressor
10.Aftertreat- Inspect same as exhaust system interval, ash removal
ment Device at 150,000 Miles (240,000 Km)
11.Vibration Inspect at oil changes. Replace at major overhaul or earlier if
Damper dented or leaking.

12.FEPTO I I I I
13 Smart
Remote Every oil change or 12 months lubricate with anti-seize/high
Actuator temperature grease. Refer to Preventive Maintenance
Linkage to Intervals section for instructions
Exhaust Flap
All items are described in “Preventive Maintenance Intervals”
R – Replace.
Table 10 Maintenance Intervals (Long Haul)

MAINTENANCE
Preventive Maintenance it is fully inserted into the guide

Intervals tube. Remove the dipstick and read
the oil level dipstick. See Figure
This section describes the items listed
26. The figure shows a comparison
in the maintenance interval tables.
between the bends on the dipstick and
As the operator of a vehicle, routine a crosshatch pattern on a conventional
“Daily” inspections of the engine and dipstick. Note the exact area noted
chassis should be performed. This on the bends. For example, the
will provide the best opportunity to “maximum” oil level will be at the
identify major concerns or concerns BOTTOM of that bend. For the
that would stretch a longer time span “minimum” oil level, it is noted at the
like slow coolant loss. TOP of the bend. If the oil level is
below the “minimum” bend, add oil
For new or stored engines,
to bring it up the “maximum” level.
Refer to section OPERATING
Do NOT fill beyond the maximum fill
INSTRUCTIONS FOR STARTING
level on the dipstick, since overfilling
THE ENGINE in this guide.
may result in high oil consumption
and possible severe engine damage.
Item 1 – Lubricating Oil/ Filter
Lubricating Oil: – Check the oil
level daily with the engine stopped.
If the engine has just been stopped
and is warm, wait approximately 20
minutes to allow the oil to drain back
into the oil pan before checking. Add
the proper grade of oil to maintain the
correct level on the dipstick. . Remove
the dipstick from the guide tube. Note
the dipstick has a positive locking
device such as a lever or twist-lock
design that must be disengaged before
pulling the dipstick out of the guide
tube. Use a shop rag to wipe off the
end of the dipstick. Wait 15 seconds
to allow any crankcase pressure to
dissipate through the guide tube and
let the oil level settle in the oil pan.
Reinstall the dipstick and make sure

NOTICE: Before adding lubricating oil,

refer to the How to Select Lubricating
When adding lubricating oil, do not Oil section in this guide.
overfill. Overfilling may result in
high oil consumption and possible Lubricating Oil Filter: – The oil
severe engine damage. filter is a cartridge style element and
is located on the front right side of the
engine. See Figure 27. If followed
All diesel engines are designed to use correctly, an oil filter change can be
some oil, so the periodic addition of performed quickly with minimal oil
oil is normal. cleanup.
NOTICE:
If the oil level is constantly above
normal and excess oil has not been
added to the crankcase, consult
with an authorized Detroit Diesel
service outlet for the cause. Fuel or
coolant dilution of lubricating oil can
result in serious engine damage.

MAINTENANCE
Item 2 – Cooling System Flush

and Fill
Coolant Flush and Fill – Proper
maintenance of the cooling system is
vital to its performance and longevity.
The cooling system must, on a
constant basis, deal with cavitation,
temperature / pressure swings, and
continuous threats on the additive
package. Once the additives have
been depleted from the coolant, it
will only be a matter of time until the
engine components suffer.Refer to the
How to Select Coolant section in this
guide.
Figure 27 Lubricating Oil filter Cooling System Inspection – Inspect

the cooling system as follows:
PERSONAL INJURY
HOT COOLANT
To avoid injury from slipping and
falling, immediately clean up any To avoid scalding from the
spilled liquids. expulsion of hot coolant, never
Make a visual check of all lubricating at operating temperature. Wear
oil lines for wear and/or chafing. If adequate protective clothing
any indication of wear is evident, (face shield, rubber gloves,
replace the oil lines and correct the apron, and boots). Remove the
cause. cap slowly to relieve pressure.
Check for oil leaks after starting the

engine. 1. Inspect the radiator, condenser,
coolant pump, engine oil cooler,
freeze plugs, and heat exchanger
for damage and leaks.

2. Check all cooling system pipes impose extra loads on the crankshaft,
and hoses for damage and leaks; fan and/or alternator bearings,
ensure they are positioned to shortening both belt and bearing life.
avoid chafing, and are securely Excessively overtightened belts can
fastened. result in crankshaft breakage. A loose
belt will slip and generate excessive
3. Check the outside of the radiator
heat that may cause damage to the belt
and condenser for blockage.
and accessory drive components.
Check fins for damage; straighten
them if necessary.
Item 3 – Valve Lash Checking

and Adjustment PERSONAL INJURY
Valve lash checking and adjustment To avoid injury from rotating belts
should be performed per the and fans, do not remove and
maintenance intervals prescribed discard safety guards.
under the proper service category
for the engine, Refer to section
Scheduled Intervals in this guide. Belt Replacement – Drive belts (V
All three service categories (Severe, and poly-V) should be replaced every
Short Haul, and Long Haul) require 2,000 hours or 100,000 miles (160,000
a “first time” valve lash adjustment km).
at a shorter interval. After the After an extended time in service,
initial adjustment, all others are minor rib cracks may appear, usually
based on the same mileage intervals. one or two cracks per inch is
Refer to section Maintenance Tables in considered normal. See Figure 28
this guide. Proper valve lash clearance A concern occurs when the belt ribs
allows the engine to produce the best exhibit severe multiple cracking or
possible performance with the lowest “chunking”. At this point, the belt
emissions. Valve lash adjustments should be replaced.
should be performed by an authorized
Detroit Diesel maintenance or repair
facility.
Item 4 – Drive Belts

Belts should be neither too tight nor
too loose. Belts that are too tight

MAINTENANCE
Item 6 – Fuel Filters

The final filter is housed within the
fuel filter module. The filter element
filters particles down 4 micron and is
snapped into the cap.
Item 7– Air System

Air Cleaner – The air cleaner
Figure 28 Minor Rib Cracking element should be inspected per the
maintenance intervals or more often
if the engine is operated under severe
Auto Tensioner – Auto tensioners dust conditions.
are usually maintenance free for the
life of the engine. However, routine Replace the element, if necessary.
inspections should be performed. Check the gaskets for deterioration
Uneven belt wear can indicate a loose, and replace, if necessary. If the dry
wore out, or bad bearing on the auto type air cleaner is equipped with an
tensioner. A build up of dirt or grime aspirator, check for aspirator damage
around the front bearing surface of the or clogging. Clean, repair or replace,
wheel can indicate a future bearing as necessary.
failure due to inadequate lubrication.
Item 5 – Fuel / Water Separator

Incorporated into the fuel filter
module is a fuel/water separator. The
separator removes emulsified water as
well as droplets and is located in the
lower compartment of the fuel filter
module. An optional water in fuel
sensor will indicate when the trapped
water needs to be drained. If the water
in fuel sensor is not available, periodic
draining of the trapped water should
be performed.

NOTICE: inspected for leaks. The exhaust pipe

rain cap should be checked for proper
Do not allow the air inlet restriction to operation, if so equipped. With the
exceed 5.5 kPa (22 in. H2O) under introduction of an Aftertreatment
any engine operating conditions. system, the sealing of the exhaust
A clogged air cleaner element will system is critical and should be
cause excessive intake restriction inspected regularly.
and reduced air supply to the
engine resulting in increased fuel
Item 9– Air Compressor
consumption, inefficient engine
operation and reduced engine life. The air compressor incorporates
three of the major systems of a diesel
engine (air, lubrication, and coolant).
Inspect the entire air system for leaks Proper inspection of air compressor
daily. Look especially for torn air inlet would include inspecting for air, oil,
piping or boots and loose or damaged and coolant leaks. Due to inadequate
clamps. Have worn or damaged parts internal sealing air compressors,
repaired or replaced, as required. when failed, can produce excessive
Retighten loose connections. crankcase pressure or allow an engine
Air Cleaner Replacement – Dry to ingest oil.
type air cleaner elements should be
replaced after one year of service or Item 10 – Aftertreatment System
when the maximum allowable air (ATS)
intake restriction has been reached, There is a need to periodically remove
whichever comes first. accumulated ash, derived from engine
Air-to-Air Charge Cooler – lube oil, from the filter. This ash
Periodically inspect the air-to-air does not oxidize in the filter during
charge cooler for buildup of dirt, mud, the regeneration process and must
etc. and wash off using a mild soap be removed through a cleaning
solution. Check the charge cooler, procedure. All Detroit Diesel ATD
ductwork, and flexible connections for equipped engines will illuminate a
leaks and have repaired or replaced, dashboard warning lamp indicating
as required. the need for ash cleaning.
Item 8– Exhaust System

The exhaust manifold retaining bolts
and other connections should be

MAINTENANCE
Item 11 – Vibration Damper Item 12 – FEPTO Torsional

Damper Checking
The viscous vibration damper should
be inspected periodically and replaced
if dented or leaking. See Figure 29. Required Maintenance
Operations
The following sections describe the
required maintenance operations .
Engine Inspecting
Inspect the engine as follows:
1. Visually check the engine for
signs of leakage. A slight
dampness at the sealing points is
no cause for alarm.
NOTE:
More severe leaks, combined with a
continual loss of oil, must be corrected
without delay.
1. Vibration Damper 2. Visually inspect all lines and

hoses. Listen for any sound of
Figure 29 Viscous Vibration
leaking. Make sure all pipes and
Damper
hoses are undamaged, correctly
positioned to avoid chafing, and
Heat from normal engine operation properly secured.
may, over a period of time, cause the
fluid within the damper to break down Coolant Concentration
and lose its dampening properties. Checking
For this reason the viscous vibration
damper must be replaced at time Check coolant concentration as
of normal major engine overhaul, follows:
regardless of apparent condition.

2. Before adding coolant,

use a suitable tester to
HOT COOLANT check the concentration of
corrosion-inhibiting antifreeze. If
To avoid scalding from the the concentration is lower than
expulsion of hot coolant, never 50% by volume, drain coolant/add
remove the cooling system antifreeze until the concentration
pressure cap while the engine is is correct. The coolant mixing
at operating temperature. Wear ratio is listed in Table 11.
(face shield, rubber gloves, NOTE:
apron, and boots). Remove the Concentrations of more than 55% by
cap slowly to relieve pressure. volume should not be used, as this is
the level which affords the maximum
antifreeze protection, down to –45°C
1. Open the cap on the surge tank
(–49°F). Higher concentrations
slowly, to allow excess pressure
adversely affect heat dissipation.
to escape. Set the cap aside.
NOTE:
Check and correct the coolant level
only when the coolant temperature is
below 50°C (122°F).
Corrosion-Inhibiting
Antifreeze
Water Percentage Antifreeze
Protection Down
by Volume Percentage by
to °C (°F)
Volume
–37 (–347) 50 50
–45 (–49) 45 Maximum 55
Table 11 Coolant Mixing Ratio
NOTICE: NOTE:
When topping off, use only a
If the concentration of antifreeze is pre-prepared coolant mixture
too low, there is a risk of corrosion containing a 50% concentration
or cavitation in the cooling system.

MAINTENANCE
by volume of corrosion-inhibiting Choose one that is large

antifreeze. enough to hold the expected
quantity of coolant.
3. Check the coolant level and add
more coolant if necessary. NOTE:
Make sure the coolant can flow
4. Close and tighten the cap on the
unobstructed into the receptacle.
surge tank.
[b] Open the coolant drain plug
Coolant Flushing and on the bottom of the radiator.
Changing
4. Flush the radiator.
NOTICE:
HOT COOLANT When flushing the radiator, do not
To avoid scalding from the apply more than 140 kPa (20 psi) air
expulsion of hot coolant, never pressure. Excessive pressure can
remove the cooling system damage the radiator or heater core.
adequate protective clothing [a] Attach a flushing gun nozzle
(face shield, rubber gloves, to the radiator outlet.
apron, and boots). Remove the [b] Run water in until the radiator
cap slowly to relieve pressure. is full.
Flush and change the coolant as

follows:
1. Open the cap on the surge tank
slowly, to allow excess pressure
to escape. Set the cap aside.
2. Open the water regulating valve
for the heating system.
3. Drain the coolant from the engine.
[a] Place a receptacle underneath
the coolant drain plug.

5. Drain the radiator, and flush the

radiator until clean water flows
EYE INJURY from the radiator. Remove the
flushing gun.
when using compressed air, wear 6. When the coolant has drained,
adequate eye protection (face install the coolant drain plug on
shield or safety goggles) and do the radiator.
not exceed 276 kPa (40 psi) air 7. Add coolant in the specified
pressure. concentration until the maximum
mark on the surge tank is reached.
[c] Apply no more than Coolant system capacity is
140 kPa (20 psi) air pressure listed in Table 12.
intermittently to help dislodge
sediment buildup in the core.
Description Value: L (qt.)

Engine Coolant Capacity (all vehicles) L (Qt.)
Engine capacity 12 (12.7)
Business Class Coolant System Capacity L (Qt.)
Total capacity 23.6 (25)
Antifreeze quantity at 50% 11.8 (12.5)
Antifreeze quantity at 55% 13.1 (13.8)
Table 12 Coolant System Capacity
8. Start the engine and run it for

about one minute at varying
speeds to release air pockets in
the cooling system. Make sure
the heater valve is still open.
Check the coolant level and add
more coolant if necessary.
9. Shut down the engine.
10. Add coolant if necessary.

MAINTENANCE
Cooling System Inspecting 3. Check the outside of the radiator

and condenser for blockage by
dirt or debris. Make sure the fins
are not damaged, and straighten
them if necessary.
HOT COOLANT
To avoid scalding from the Smart Remote Actuator
expulsion of hot coolant, never Lubrication
pressure cap while the engine is Lubricate as follows:
at operating temperature. Wear 1. Make sure vehicle ignition is
adequate protective clothing OFF. Remove retaining clip and
(face shield, rubber gloves, carefully remove the linkage from
apron, and boots). Remove the the exhaust flap lever arm and the
cap slowly to relieve pressure. SRA. See Figure 30.
NOTE:
Before doing this inspection, make
sure to do either maintenance
operation, "Coolant Concentration
Checking," or maintenance operation,
"Coolant Flushing and Changing."
Inspect the cooling system as follows:

1. Inspect the radiator, the
condenser, the water pump,
the engine oil cooler, the freeze
plugs, and the heat exchanger for
damage and leaks.
2. Check all pipes and hoses in the
cooling system for damage and
leaks. Make sure all pipes and
hoses are properly positioned to
avoid chafing, and are securely
fastened. Figure 30 Actuator Linkage

2. Using an emery cloth, carefully Figure 31 Smart Remote Actuator

clean any rust from the ball studs Lever Adjustment
on the exhaust flap lever arm and
on the SRA lever.
6. Remove rod from SRA ball joint.
3. Apply the anti-seize lubricant
7. Adjust the ball joint socket on the
inside of both ball sockets of the
actuator end of the linkage rod by
linkage and on the ball studs on
extending it three complete turns.
the exhaust flap lever arm and
See Figure 32.
SRA lever.
4. With the flap on open position,
install the linkage to the exhaust
flap lever arm.
5. At the SRA, loosen the adjustment
nut and make sure the ball joint
socket fits on the actuator lever.
See Figure 31.
Figure 32 Adjusting The Ball Joint

Socket
8. Reinstall the ball joint socket onto

the SRA lever and align the flats
of the ball joint sockets with the

MAINTENANCE
actuator and exhaust flap lever

arms. See Figure 33.
NOTE:
Verify flats on ball joint socket are
parallel with the exhaust flap lever.
1. Ball Sockets
Figure 34 Parallel Ball Sockets
10. Check for adequate clearance

between the linkage rod and the
bracket. See Figure 35.
Figure 33 Reinstall The Ball Joint
Socket
9. Tighten the locknut against the

ball joint socket to 12.5 N·m (9
lb·ft), being careful not to damage
the linkage or the SRA lever.
Install the retaining clip at both
ends. See Figure 34

Figure 35 Check For Adequate

Clearance
11. Turn vehicle ignition ON, wait for

the dashboard gauges to sweep,
and start the engine. Confirm
proper operation.

HOW-TO SECTION
HOW-TO SECTION
This section covers Detroit Diesel's

recommendations on how to select
lubricating oil, diesel fuel, and coolant
and includes basic engine maintenance
procedures which can be performed
by the operator.
NOTICE:
The manufacturer's warranty Figure 36 API Lubricant Symbol
applicable to MBE 900 engines
provides in part that the provisions NOTICE:
of such warranty shall not apply
to any engine unit that has been Lubricating oil must have a sulfated
subject to misuse, negligence or ash level less than 1.0 wt %;
accident. Accordingly, malfunctions currently referred to as CJ-4 oil
attributable to neglect or failure to
follow the manufacturer's fuel or
lubricating recommendations may Lubricant Requirements
not be within the coverage of the API CJ-4 oils must be used in
warranty. engines meeting January 2007,
and later build, exhaust emission
regulations.
How to Select Lubricating
Oil
Cold Weather Starting
The selection of the proper lubricating
oil is important to achieve the long At ambient temperatures below
and trouble-free service which Detroit –20°C (–4°F) when sufficient starter
Diesel engines are designed to speed cannot be achieved with SAE
provide. The proper lubricating oil for 15W-40 oils, the use of 5W-XX oils
model year 2007 MBE 900 engines and 10W-XX oils (XX =30 or 40) is
is selected based on SAE viscosity allowed to improve starting.
grade and API (American Petroleum
Institute) service designation.
Only oils licensed to display the API
symbol should be used. See Figure 36.

NOTICE:
Monograde oils should not be used

in MBE 900 engines, regardless
of API service classification.
Monograde oils gel at lower ambient
temperatures, reducing lubricant
flow, and they do not provide
adequate lubricity at higher engine
operating temperatures. These Figure 37 Engine Oil Temperature
factors can result in severe engine Ranges
damage.
Synthetic Oils
The oils must be API CJ-4 Synthetic oils may be used in Detroit
that have demonstrated field Diesel engines, provided they are API
performance in Detroit Diesel engines. licensed and meet the performance
These oils must possess a High and chemical requirements of
Temperature/High Shear (HT/HS) non-synthetic oils outlined in this
viscosity of 3.7 minimum. For further publication. Synthetic oils offer
information, refer to publication improved low-temperature flow
Engine Requirements – Lubricating properties and high-temperature
Oil, Fuel and Filters, 7SE270, oxidation resistance. However,
available from authorized Detroit they are generally more costly than
Diesel distributors. non-synthetic oils.
Select the SAE class (viscosity) on the Product information about synthetic
basis of the average air temperature oils should be reviewed carefully.
for the season see Figure 37 Performance additive systems often
respond differently in synthetic oils.
NOTE:
The use of synthetic oils does not
permit extension of recommended oil
drain intervals.

HOW-TO SECTION
The Use of Supplemental Refer to section Maintenance Tables.

Additives for the maximum intervals at which
the engine may operate before the oil
Lubricants meeting the Detroit
and filters must be changed.
Diesel specifications outlined in this
publication already contain a balanced Oil analysis may be used to determine
additive treatment. Supplemental whether this interval should be
additives are generally not necessary shortened, but it should not be used to
and can even be harmful. These lengthen the interval.
additives may be marketed as either
The use of fuels with sulfur content
oil treatments or engine treatments and
above 0.05 mass percent will require a
are discouraged from use in Detroit
shortening of drain intervals and/or the
Diesel engines.
use of a higher TBN oil. For detailed
Engine damage resulting from the information refer to publication
use of such materials is not covered Engine Requirements – Lubricating
by your Detroit Diesel Corporation Oil, Fuel and Filters (7SE270),
warranty. Detroit Diesel will not available from authorized Detroit
provide statements beyond this Diesel distributors.
publication relative to their use.
Disposing of Waste Oil
When to Change Oil
Dispose of used lubricating oil
The length of time an engine may and filters in an environmentally
operate before an oil change depends responsible manner, according
upon the lubricant and fuel used, to federal (EPA) and/or state
engine oil consumption, and the recommendations. The disposal of
operating cycle. waste oil may be best addressed by the
engine oil supplier, who may accept
responsibility for proper disposal of
this material as part of the business of
providing lubricant.
USED ENGINE OIL
To avoid injury to skin from
contact with the contaminants in
used engine oil, wear protective
gloves and apron.

How to Replace the Lube

Oil and Filters
Filters are an integral part of the
fuel system. Proper filter selection
and maintenance are important to
satisfactory engine operation and
service life.
Filters should be used to maintain
a clean system, not to clean up a
contaminated system.
Figure 38 SAE Oil Viscosity
Classes
To insure the engine is protected

FIRE and the oil stays clean until the next
To avoid injury from fire, keep oil change, use only oils of API
open flames, sparks, electrical classification CJ-4.
resistance heating elements, or
Only the 260 – 350 horsepower
other potential ignition sources
models (except motorcoach) have an
away when draining lubrication
oil centrifuge along with an oil filter.
oil. Do not smoke when draining
lubricating oil.
NOTICE:
Both the primary lube oil filter (front
NOTE:
of engine) and the oil centrifuge
Select the SAE class (viscosity) on the
cartridge (side of engine) must be
basis of the average air temperature
replaced at each oil drain interval.
for the season. See Figure 38. View
the temperature ranges for the various
SAE classes as guidelines which can
Change the oil filter as follows:
be exceeded for only a short time.

HOW-TO SECTION
1. Chock the tires, place the edge of the filter element to the
transmission in neutral, and set side. See Figure 40.
the parking brake.
NOTE:
Change the engine oil only when the
engine is at an operating temperature
of approximately 82°C (180°F).
2. Using a 36-mm socket, unscrew

the oil filter cap and allow
the oil to drain out of the
housingSee Figure 39.
Figure 40 Cap with Oil Filter

Element
5. Inspect the inside of the filter

housing to ensure there is no
debris.
6. Replace the O-ring on the cap.
See Figure 40.
7. Install the new filter into the cap.
Make sure the filter element is
Figure 39 Oil Filter Cap
securely in place.
8. Screw the cap onto the oil filter
3. Place a suitable receptacle
housing. Tighten the cap 25 N·m
beneath the oil drain plug on the
(18 lb·ft).
underside of the oil pan. Carefully
unscrew the oil drain plug on the 9. Install the oil drain plug, using a
oil pan and allow the oil to drain new O-ring. Tighten the plug 65
out. Discard the O-ring on the oil N·m (48 lb·ft).
drain plug.
10. Add new engine oil through the
4. Remove both the filter cap and oil fill hole on the cylinder head
the filter element. To release the cover.(see Figure 41).
filter element, twist the lower

12. Start the engine with the

accelerator pedal in the idle
position. Monitor the oil pressure
gauge.
13. Check the filter and oil drain plug
for signs of leakage.
14. Stop the engine.
15. Check the oil level again after
approximately five minutes.
Figure 41 Oil Fill If necessary, add oil up to the
maximum fill level on the oil
dipstick. Do not overfill.
PERSONAL INJURY Oil Centrifuge

To avoid injury from slipping and Only the 260 – 350 horsepower
falling, immediately clean up any models (except motorcoach) have an
spilled liquids. oil centrifuge.
NOTE: NOTICE:
Engine oil fill capacity with a standard
Both the primary lube oil filter (front
oil pan is 29.0 L (30.6 qts) including
of engine) and the oil centrifuge
the oil filter.
cartridge (side of engine) must be
replaced at each oil drain interval.
11. Fill until the maximum fill level
on the oil dipstick has been
reached. Do not overfill.
Change the oil centrifuge cartridge as
follows:
NOTICE:
1. Remove centrifuge cover and
Keep the engine running at idling
seal ring. Discard seal ring.
speed until an oil pressure reading is
See Figure 42.
obtained. If no oil pressure is shown
after approximately 10 seconds, 2. Remove the dirty spinner
stop the engine and determine the cartridge and replace it with a
cause. Failure to do so could result clean one. See Figure 42.
in engine damage.

HOW-TO SECTION
3. Replace the centrifuge cover and

new seal ring. Tighten the cover
to 40 N·m (30 lb·ft).
Figure 43
Quality
Fuel quality is an important factor
in obtaining satisfactory engine
performance, long engine life, and
acceptable exhaust emission levels.
In general, fuels meeting the
properties of ASTM designation
D 975 (grades 1-D and 2-D) have
provided satisfactory performance.
The fuels used must be clean,
1. Centrifuge 3. Seal Ring
completely distilled, stable, and
Cover non-corrosive. For more information
regarding the significance of these
2. Spinner 4. Oil properties and selection of the proper
Cartridge Centrifuge fuel, refer to publication, Engine
Housing
Requirements – Lubricating Oil, Fuel
and Filters (7SE270), available from
Figure 42 Oil Centrifuge
authorized Detroit Diesel distributors.
How to Select Diesel Fuel

Detroit Diesel engines in 2007
are designed to operate ONLY on
Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) fuel.
See Figure 43.

NOTICE: These products should be

accompanied by performance
Use only Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel data supporting their merit. It is
(ULSD) fuel with (15 ppm sulfur not the policy of Detroit Diesel
content maximum), based on ASTM Corporation to test, evaluate, approve
D2622 test procedure. Using fuel or endorse such products.
other than ULSD will damage the
Aftertreatment Device.
Biodiesel — Biodiesel fuels meeting
ASTM D 6751 specification, prior
Fuel Contamination to blending can be mixed up to 5%
maximum by volume in petroleum
Generally, fuel contamination diesel fuel. Detroit Diesel highly
occurs as the result of improper fuel recommends biodiesel fuels made
handling. The most common types from soybean or rapeseed oil through
of contamination are water, dirt, and the proper transesterification reaction
microbial growth (“black slime”). process. Other feedstock source of
The formation of varnishes and biodiesel fuels such as animal fat or
gums resulting from poor stability or cooking oils are not recommended by
extended storage (“stale fuel”) also Detroit Diesel. The resulting mixture
affects fuel quality. The best treatment must meet ASTM D 975 specification.
for contamination is prevention by More information is available in the
maintaining a clean storage system Detroit Diesel publication Lubricating
and choosing a reputable fuel supplier. Oil, Fuel, and Filters (7SE270).
Supplemental additives are not Failures attributed to the use of
recommended due to potential biodiesel fuel will not be covered
injector system or engine damage. by Detroit Diesel product warranty.
Our experience has been that such Also, any engine performance
additives increase operating costs problem related to the use of biodiesel
without providing benefit. fuel would not be recognized
The use of supplemental fuel additives nor considered Detroit Diesel's
does not necessarily void the engine responsibility.
warranty. However, repair expenses
which result from fuel system or Prohibited Additives
engine component malfunctions or The following fuel additives are not
damage attributed to their use will allowed and MUST NOT be mixed
not be covered. with diesel fuel:

HOW-TO SECTION
Used Lubricating Oil — Do not use

fuel blended with used lubricating oil.
Detroit Diesel specifically prohibits FIRE
the use of used lubricating oil in diesel
fuel. To avoid increased risk of a fuel
fire, do not mix gasoline and
diesel fuel.
NOTICE:
Burning used lubricating oil in
fuel cannot be tolerated as it will Tanks which contain a mixture of
cause the diesel particulate filter to gasoline and diesel fuel should be
prematurely plug with ash. drained and cleaned as soon as
possible.
Detroit Diesel Corporation will not be
Used lubricating oil contains responsible for any detrimental effects
combustion acids and particulate it determines resulted from adding
materials which can severely erode drained lubricating oil or gasoline to
fuel injector components, resulting in the diesel fuel.
loss of power and increased exhaust
emissions. In addition, the use of
drained lubricating oil will increase How to Replace the Fuel
maintenance requirements due to filter Filter/Water Separator
plugging and combustion deposits. Filters
Filters are an integral part of the
Fuel Additives with Sulfur fuel system. Proper filter selection
or Sulfated Ash — Do not and maintenance are important to
use non-approved fuel additives satisfactory engine operation and
containing sulfur or sulfated ash. service life. Filters should be used to
maintain a clean system, not to clean
Gasoline — The addition of up a contaminated system.
gasoline to diesel fuel will create a
serious fire hazard. The presence Primary Fuel Filter
of gasoline in diesel fuel will reduce
Perform the following to remove the
fuel cetane number and increase
primary fuel filter:
combustion temperatures.

1. Water-In-Fuel Sensor (Optional) 9. Fuel Prefilter Insert

2. Water Collection Bowl 10. Water Drain valve
3. Main Fuel Filter Return Inlet 11. Main Fuel Filter Inlet
4. Fuel Prefilter with Water Separator 12. Constant Vent in Main Fuel Filter
5. Main Fuel Filter Return Outlet 13. Main Fuel Filter
6. Outlet of Fuel Prefilter 14. Main Fuel Filter Outlet

7. Filling Valve 15. Main Fuel Filter Inlet
8. Inlet for Fuel Prefilter A = Unfiltered Fuel
B = Prefiltered Fuel D = Fuel Injector Leak Fuel
C = Cleaned Fuel E = Fuel Return Line to Fuel Tank
Figure 44 Fuel Filter/Water Separator

HOW-TO SECTION
1. Turn off the vehicle. 10. Connect the electrical connector

plug to the fuel pre-heater
2. Place the fuel drain hose in a
element. Install the ground lead
collection container and open the
for the fuel pre-heater to the fuel
drain lever. Once the fuel stops
filter/water separator housing.
draining from the line, close the
drain lever. 11. Connect the WIF sensor harness
connector to the fuel filter/water
3. Disconnect the connector plug
separator housing.
to the fuel pre-heater element.
Remove the ground lead for the 12. Ensure fuel drain lever is in closed
fuel pre-heater from the fuel position (counterclockwise).
filter/water separator housing.
13. Prime the fuel system using
4. Disconnect the harness the hand primer on the fuel
water-in-fuel (WIF) sensor filter/water separator.
connector from the fuel
filter/water separator housing. Secondary Fuel Filter
See Figure 44.
Perform the following to remove the
5. Remove the water collection bowl secondary fuel filter:
from the filter housing using a 36
mm wrench/socket and remove 1. Turn off the vehicle.
bowl and seal ring. Discard seal 2. Remove the cover from the
ring. See Figure 44. filter housing using a 36 mm
6. Remove the primary filter element wrench/socket and remove the
from the filter housing and discard cover and seal ring. Discard seal
the element. See Figure 44. ring.
7. Install the new primary fuel filter, 3. Remove the element from the
ensuring that the element is firmly cover and discard.
seated against the filter housing. 4. Insert a new element into the
8. Install a new seal ring on the fuel cover and lubricate the element
filter/water separator bowl and seal (in the bottom end).
lubricate with clean engine oil. 5. Install cover and element
See Figure 44. assembly into the housing and
9. Thread the bowl into the housing tighten the cover to 25 N·m (221
and tighten bowl to 13.5 N·m lb·in.).
(120 lb·in.).

6. Prime the fuel system using authorized repair facility prime

the hand primer on the fuel the fuel system.
filter/water separator. Pump until
3. Crank the engine for 30 seconds
resistance is felt.
at a time, but no longer. Before
cranking the engine again, wait
Draining the Fuel Filter/Water at least two minutes. The engine
Separator should start within four 30 second
The fuel filter/water separator has a attempts.
built in water in fuel sensor signaling 4. If the engine fails to start, ensure
when the separator requires draining. the vehicle has adequate fuel and
The sensor will turn on a dash light. the fuel system is not leaking
Do the following to drain the water externally.
from the fuel filter/water separator: 5. If problem persists, call an
1. Place the end of the fuel authorized repair facility.
filter/water separator drain hose
into a suitable container NOTICE:
2. Open the water drain and drain The starting motor and fuel pump
filter until only clear fuel is should never be used to prime the
viewed. fuel filters. Prolonged used of the
starting motor and fuel pump to
Engine Out of Fuel — How prime the fuel system can result in
to Restart damage to the starter, fuel pump
and injectors and cause erratic
When an engine has run out of fuel, running of the engine due to the
there is a definite procedure to follow amount of air in the fuel lines and
when restarting it. filters.
1. If the engine is equipped with a
hand priming pump located on
the fuel filter module, operate the How to Clean the Engine
priming pump for two to three Important: Observe all environmental
minutes or until resistance is felt. protection regulations.
2. If the engine is equipped with
only a priming port located on
the fuel filter module, have an

HOW-TO SECTION
High-Pressure Cleaning How to Clean the Cooling

Equipment System
Information on suitable cleaning Important: Collect the used coolant,
and protective products is available cleaning solutions, and washing
from any authorized dealer. Note the liquids and dispose of them in an
equipment manufacturer's operating environmentally responsible manner.
instructions.
Clean as follows:
NOTICE:
NOTICE:
To prevent damage to engine
Clean at moderate pressures only;
components during the cleaning
otherwise the fins of the radiator
process, keep the water moving
grille could be damaged.
at all times. Never direct water
onto electrical components, plug
connectors, seals or flexible hoses.
1. First remove debris (dust, insects,
etc.) from the fins of the radiator
grille.
To avoid injury, wear a face shield EYE INJURY

or goggles. To avoid injury from flying debris
adequate eye protection (face
Comply with the minimum working shield or safety goggles) and do
distance between the high-pressure not exceed 276 kPa (40 psi) air
nozzle and the surface being cleaned: pressure.
□ Approximately 700 mm (28 in.)
for circular pattern jets
2. Remove the debris by blowing
□ Approximately 300 mm (12 in.) them through with compressed air
for 25-degree flat jets and dirt or spraying them out with water.
cutters Work from the rear of the radiator
(in the opposite direction of the
normal cooling air flow).

3. Drain the coolant when

the engine is cold. For
detailed procedures, see the HOT COOLANT
vehicle/chassis maintenance
manual. For types of coolant, To avoid scalding from the
refer to the “How to Select expulsion of hot coolant, never
Coolant” section in this guide. remove the cooling system
4. If the HVAC unit is connected at operating temperature. Wear
to the cooling system, open the adequate protective clothing
regulating valves all the way. (face shield, rubber gloves,
Degreasing cap slowly to relieve pressure.
Degrease as follows:
1. Fill the cooling system with a 5% 3. Drain all the cleaning solution.
solution (1.6 ounces per quart of
4. Flush the cleaning solution from
water—50 grams per liter) of a
the cooling system.
mildly alkaline cleaning agent,
such as sodium carbonate. [a] Immediately after draining
the cleaning solution, flush
2. Run the engine at moderate speed
the system with clean water.
until the thermostat starts to open,
at an operating temperature of [b] Once the clean water has
approximately 80°C (176°F). drained, fill the system again
Then run it for about five minutes with clean water.
longer. Shut down the engine and
[c] Run the engine. Allow
allow it to cool to approximately
the engine to warm up to
50°C (112°F).
approximately 80°C (176°F),
and then run it about five
minutes longer.
[d] Drain the hot water.
5. Fill the cooling system with new
coolant. For detailed procedures,
see the vehicle/chassis
maintenance manual. For
types of coolant, “Refer to the

HOW-TO SECTION
How to Select Coolant” section Initial–Fill Coolant — The coolant

in this guide. that is used in a new or rebuilt engine,
or any time the cooling system is
How to Select Coolant emptied and then refilled with coolant.
This section covers selection of OAT — Organic Acid Technology.

the required coolant for MBE 900 An inhibitor system based on
engines. organic acid inhibitors, instead of
traditional North American inhibitor
formulations.
Definitions
SCA — Supplemental Coolant
To help ensure complete
Additive. SCAs are used in a
understanding of the information, the
preventive maintenance program to
definitions of the following terms are
prevent corrosion, cavitation, and the
provided:
formation of deposits.
Antifreeze — Ethylene glycol
or propylene glycol containing a Approved Coolants
corrosion inhibitor package and which
meets an appropriate heavy-duty The approved and preferred
specification (i.e., TMC RP-329 coolants for MBE 900 engines
“Type A” for ethylene glycol or are listed in Table 13.
TMC RP-330 “Type A” for propylene Once installed, these coolants
glycol). should be maintained according
Coolant — The fluid mixture to the procedures discussed under
circulating in the engine cooling Maintenance in this section.
system, typically a mixture of 50%
water and 50% antifreeze.
Drop–Out — Precipitated sludge or
deposit formation on cooling system
components.
Fully Formulated Antifreeze —
Contains all the necessary inhibitors
to protect a diesel engine, and does
not, therefore, require a pre-charge of
SCA before its first use.

NOTICE:
Required specifications for water,
ethylene glycol, propylene glycol,
inhibitor packages and inhibitor
concentration are included in
this section. To avoid possible
engine damage from inadequate
or over concentrated coolant,
this information should be read
thoroughly before the coolant is
replaced.
Coolant Fill Option Product

Ethylene Glycol & Water + Corrosion
DDC Power Cool
Inhibitors 1
Commercial Equivalent of DDC Power Fully Formulated TMC RP-329 Type A
Cool Antifreeze & Water
Propylene Glycol & Water + Corrosion
DDC Power Cool Plus
Inhibitors 1
Ethylene Glycol & Water + OAT
DDC Power Cool Plus
Inhibitors
Water Only + Corrosion Inhibitors 2 Water + DDC Power Cool 3000
2
Water Only + OAT Inhibitors Water + DDC Power Cool Plus 6000
1
Preferred Coolant
2
Water-only coolant systems offer no freeze protection and should not
be used where ambient temperatures can fall to 0°.C (32° F).
Table 13 Initial Fill Coolant Options
EG & Water Plus SCA Inhibitor or a concentrated antifreeze or as a

PG & Water Plus SCA Inhibitor — pre-mixed antifreeze. The pre-mixed
These products are available as fully antifreeze is ready for use, while the
formulated, phosphate-free, extended concentrated coolant must be mixed
service interval (ESI) coolants. with water prior to use.
They are commercially available
from Detroit Diesel (recommended)
and other manufacturers as either

HOW-TO SECTION
Detroit Diesel Power Cool engine (50% antifreeze, 50% water) is

coolant (part number 23512138) is recommended.
the preferred ethylene glycol (EG)
An antifreeze concentration over
coolant. If other commercial brands of
67% (67% antifreeze, 33% water) is
ethylene glycol are used, they must be
not recommended due to poor heat
equivalent to the Power Cool. Detroit
transfer, reduced freeze protection
Diesel does not market a propylene
(IEG only), and possible silicate
glycol (PG) coolant. If a propylene
dropout. An antifreeze concentration
glycol coolant is used, it must also
below 33% (33% antifreeze, 67%
meet the following requirements:
water) offers too little freeze and/or
□ Fully formulated ethylene corrosion protection and is not
glycol-based, low silicate recommended.
antifreeze or coolant must
meet TMC RP-329 “Type A”
requirements.
□ Fully formulated propylene
glycol-based antifreeze or coolant
must meet TMC RP-330 “Type
A” requirements.
Fully formulated antifreeze does not
require a dosage of SCA prior to
initial use.
Mixing EG or PG Antifreeze
and Water — If a concentrated
ethylene glycol (EG) or propylene
glycol (PG) antifreeze is purchased,
mix the antifreeze with water
meeting the required quality
standardslisted in Table 16 and fill the
cooling system.
If a pre-diluted, fully formulated
coolant is purchased, fill the
cooling system. For best overall
performance, a coolant consisting
of 50% concentration of antifreeze

Always verify that the freeze point Coolant Test Strip. If chemical
and nitrite concentration of the analysis is used, elements in the
antifreeze/water mixture are correct coolant must fall within the limits
by using a POWER Trac® 3–Way listed in Table 14.
Fully Formulated Glycol Coolant Concentration Limits

Boron 125 – 500 PPM
Nitrite 900 – 3200 PPM
Nitrate 200 – 1000 PPM
Silicon 50 – 250 PPM
Phosphorous 0 PPM
pH 8.0 – 11.0
Table 14 Fully Formulated Glycol Coolant Limits with TMC RP-329,

TMC RP-330 Chemistry Type A (50/50 Coolant/Water
Mixture)
Recycled Antifreeze — Antifreeze useful life of the engine. OAT

or coolant recycled by reverse coolants, maintained as detailed in
osmosis, distillation, and ion the Maintenance section of this
exchange, properly re-inhibited guide, may be operated up to 4 years,
to meet TMC RP-329 Type A or 600,000 miles (960,000 km), or
TMC RP-330 Type A requirements, 10,000 operating hours, whichever
has been demonstrated to provide comes first. Refer to Coolant Inhibitor
service equivalent to virgin antifreeze. Test Intervals in this guide. The
Recycled antifreeze or coolants of cooling system should either be
these types are preferred. Other equipped with a blank coolant filter,
recycled coolants, especially coolants or the coolant filter and piping may be
recycled through filtration processes, omitted from the system.
are not recommended.
OAT fully formulated antifreezes
are available as concentrated and
EG/Water + OAT Inhibitor or pre-mixed. Concentrated antifreezes
PG/Water + OAT Inhibitor — should be mixed 50% (50% antifreeze,
Ethylene glycol and propylene 50% water).
glycol are also available with a OAT
corrosion package. These coolants
require less maintenance over the

HOW-TO SECTION
OAT coolants should not be mixed Cool 3000) can also be used to
with conventional coolants. If they protect the engine. Power Cool 3000
are mixed, no damage will result, but concentration limits are listed in Table
the long-life advantages of the OAT 15.
coolant will be lost. In this event, the
coolant should be maintained as a fully NOTE:
formulated Inhibited Ethylene Glycol Do not use Power Trac 3–Way Test
(IEG) coolant, not as an Organic Acid Strips to test OAT coolant.
Technology (OAT) coolant.
POWER COOL® 3000 SCA inhibitors
Detroit Diesel markets a OAT-
should be mixed at 5% by volume
inhibited ethylene glycol coolant,
with water. This is 1 quart per 5
DDC Power Cool Plus, which
gallons of water. These additions
contains all the required additives.
can be made by adding liquid SCAs
If a non-DDC OAT antifreeze is
available in a variety of sizes. Coolant
used, it must conform to TMC 338
filters are also available for different
specification. Do not add extender to
cooling system capacities. These
new OAT antifreeze or coolant.
filters release the proper amount of
SCA at initial fill.
Water Only + SCA or Water
Only + OAT Inhibitor — In
warm climates a coolant based
on water with corrosion inhibitors
is approved for use. Water-only
systems need to be treated with the
proper dosage of corrosion inhibitors.
Detroit Diesel-approved SCAs or
OAT corrosion inhibitors must be
added to the water to provide required
corrosion and cavitation erosion
protection. OAT inhibitors such as
Power Cool Plus 6000 are available
for water-only systems. Inhibitor
should be mixed at 7.5% – 10% by
volume with water. For a list of Power
Cool products,refer to section POWER
COOL ENGINE PRODUCTS in this
guide. Traditional SCA (Power

Power Cool 3000 Coolant Concentration Limits

Boron 125 – 500 PPM
Nitrite 900 – 3200 PPM
Nitrate 200 – 1000 PPM
Silicon 50 – 250 PPM
Phosphorous 0 PPM
pH 8.0 – 11.0
Table 15 Power Cool 3000 Concentration Limits (5% Power Cool

3000/ 95% Water)

HOW-TO SECTION
Water Requirements — All Antifreezes And Coolants

Distilled, reverse osmosis-purified, or Containing Phosphate — These
de-ionized water which eliminates the coolants are not recommended. Drop
adverse effects of minerals in tap water out, overheating and water pump seal
is preferred. High levels of dissolved failures can result from the use of
chlorides, sulfates, magnesium, and coolant or inhibitor packages based on
calcium in some tap water causes scale phosphate.
deposits and/or corrosion resulting
in water pump failures and poor heat Automotive Type Coolants —
transfer, leading to overheating. If tap These coolants generally contain high
water is used, the mineral content in levels of phosphate and silicate, offer
the water must be below the maximum no liner pitting protection, and are
allowable limits listed in Table 16. not suitable for use in Detroit Diesel
engines.
NOTICE:
Methyl Alcohol-Based
Do not add additional SCA to
Antifreeze — This must not be
new, fully formulated antifreeze or
used because of its effect on the
coolant. This can result in dropout
non-metallic components of the
and/or the formation of deposits.
cooling system and its low boiling
point.
Coolants Not Recommended
The following coolants are not
recommended for use in Detroit Diesel
engines.
Maximum Allowable
Parts per Million Grains per Gallon
Chlorides 40 2.5
Sulfates 100 5.8
Total Dissolved Solids 340 20
Total Hardness –
170 10
Magnesium and Calcium
Table 16 Satisfactory Water Limits – Make-Up Water Only

Glycol-based Coolants oil additives may result in engine

Formulated For HVAC — overheating and/or failure.
These coolants formulated for
Heating/Ventilation/Air Conditioning Chromate — Chromate additives are
(HVAC) should not be used. These not approved for use in Detroit Diesel
coolants generally contain high levels engine cooling systems. Chromate
of phosphates, which can deposit additives can form chromium
on hot internal engine surfaces and hydroxide, commonly called “green
reduce heat transfer. slime.” This, in turn, can result in
engine damage due to poor heat
Additives Not Recommended transfer. Cooling systems operated
with chromium-inhibited coolant must
The following additives are not
be chemically cleaned with Power
recommended for use in MBE 900
Cool dry chemical cooling system
engines.
cleaner/conditionerrefer to section
POWER COOL Cooling System
Soluble Oils — Soluble oil additives Cleaners (or equivalent sulfamic
are not approved for use in Detroit acid/sodium carbonate cleaner) and
Diesel engine cooling systems. A flushed.
small amount of oil adversely affects
heat transfer. For example, a 1.25%
Coolant Inhibitor Test Intervals
concentration of soluble oil increases
fire deck temperature 6%. A 2.50% The coolant inhibitor level should be
concentration increases fire deck checked at the intervals listed in Table
temperature 15%. The use of soluble 17.
Service Application Inhibitor Test Interval

Long Haul — Highway Trucks and Motor
Coaches — operates more than 60,000 20,000 Miles (32,000 Km)
miles (100,00 km) per year
Short Haul — City Transit — operates up
15,000 miles (25,000 Km)
to 60,000 miles (100,000 km) per year.
Severe Service — Fire Truck or
Crash/Rescue Vehicle — operates up to 6,000 Miles (9,600 Km) 300 hours
6,000 miles (9,600 km) or under severe or 1 year, whichever comes first
conditions.
Table 17 Required Coolant Inhibitor Test Intervals

HOW-TO SECTION
□ Water softening to deter formation

of mineral deposits.
HOT COOLANT □ Cavitation protection to protect
To avoid scalding from the wet sleeve cylinder liners.
expulsion of hot coolant, never
remove the cooling system Maintenance Intervals — Check
pressure cap while the engine is the nitrite concentration at the regular
at operating temperature. Wear intervals listed in Table 18 with a
adequate protective clothing Power Trac 3–Way Test Strip.
If topping off is needed, add coolant

which is identical to the initial fill
coolant.
Supplemental Coolant Additives

for Fully Formulated Coolant —
The concentrations of some inhibitors
will gradually deplete during normal
engine operation. SCAs replenish
the protection for cooling system
components. The coolant must
be maintained with the proper
concentration of SCA. Detroit Diesel
Power Cool maintenance SCAs are
recommended.
The proper application of SCA will
provide:
□ pH control.
□ Restored inhibitor levels to prevent
corrosion.

Coolant Interval 1 Action

Test nitrite concentration
20,000 Miles (32,000 km)
Antifreeze / Water + with test strip. Add SCA or
or 3 Months*
SCA Inhibitor (DDC dilute coolant as needed.
Power Cool) 300,000 Miles Drain and clean system.
(480,000 km) Refill with new coolant.
Ethylene Glycol Test nitrite concentration
20,000 Miles (32,000 km)
/ Water + SCA with test strip. Add SCA or
or 3 Months*
Inhibitor dilute coolant as needed.
or
Propylene Glycol 300,000 Miles Drain and clean system.
/ Water + SCA (480,000 km) Refill with new coolant.
Inhibitor
Ethylene Glycol Test at 1 Year. —
/ Water + OAT 300,000 Miles Add Power Cool Plus
Inhibitor (480,000 km) or 2 Years* Extender
or
Propylene Glycol 600,000 Miles Drain and clean system.
/ Water + OAT (960,000 km) Replace with new coolant.
Inhibitor
Test nitrite concentration
20,000 Miles (32,000 km)
with test strip. Add SCA or
Water Only + SCA or 3 Months*
dilute coolant as needed.
Inhibitor
300,000 Miles Drain and clean system.
(480,000 km) Replace with new coolant.
300,000 Miles Add Power Cool Plus
Water Only + OAT (480,000 km) or 2 Years* Extender
Coolant 600,000 Miles Clean and drain. Replace
(960,000 km) with new coolant.
1
Maintenance interval based on application. Drain interval dependent
on proper maintenance.
Table 18 Coolant Maintenance Intervals
Nitrite levels must be within the

ranges listed in Table 14.

HOW-TO SECTION
NOTICE: NOTE:
In non-OAT systems, nitrite
Failure to properly maintain coolant concentration of 5000 PPM or
with SCA can result in damage higher on an MBE 900 engine
to the cooling system and its suggests problematic additive
related components. Conversely, over-concentration. This condition
over-concentration of SCA inhibitor must be corrected by immediate
can result in poor heat transfer, draining and flushing of the cooling
leading to engine damage. system. Refill the system with new fully
Always maintain concentrations at formulated or pre-charged coolant.
recommended levels. Do not use Check the nitrite concentration level at
traditional SCAs with OAT coolant. the next maintenance interval with a
Power Trac 3–Way Test Strip.
Additional SCA must be added to the SCA Test Procedures

coolant when it becomes depleted, as
indicated by a nitrite concentration Detroit Diesel Power Trac 3–Way
of 900 PPM or less. If the nitrite Coolant Test Strips should be
concentration is greater than 900 used to measure nitrite and glycol
PPM, do not add additional SCA. If concentrations. Part numbers
the nitrite concentration is above 3200 are in refer to section POWER
PPM, the system is over-inhibited and COOL ENGINE PRODUCTS.
should be partially drained and filled Cavitation/corrosion is indicated
with a 50/50 mix of water and EG or on the strip by the level of nitrite
PG. concentration. Freeze/boil over
protection is determined by glycol
In this case the EG or PG should concentration.
contain no inhibitors and should
conform to ASTM D4985. This
will dilute the over-concentrated
inhibitors.

Discard unused strips if they have

turned light pink or tan.
HOT COOLANT A factory coolant analysis program
To avoid scalding from the is available through authorized
expulsion of hot coolant, never Detroit Diesel service outlets. Part
remove the cooling system numbers are inrefer to section POWER
pressure cap while the engine is COOL ENGINE PRODUCTS and
at operating temperature. Wear refer to section POWER TRAC
adequate protective clothing Coolant Testing And Analysis
(face shield, rubber gloves, Products in the Specifications section.
apron, and boots). Remove the To verify coolant acceptability, submit
cap slowly to relieve pressure. a sample for coolant analysis every
two (2) years, 300,000 miles (480,000
km), or 10,000 operating hours,
For best results make the test while whichever comes first.
the coolant is between 50° – 140° F
(10.0° – 60° C). Wait at least 60, but Need Release Coolant Filters
not longer than 75, seconds before (Non-OAT Systems)
reading the nitrite level. Use the test
Spin-on coolant filters are available for
strips as follows:
Detroit Diesel engines. Membranes
1. Dip the strip into coolant for in the filters release SCAs before
one second. Remove and shake the coolant approaches a corrosive
briskly to eliminate excess fluid. condition, protecting the engine from
corrosion. The elements release the
2. Immediately compare the pad end
SCA charge as needed, as opposed to
(% glycol) to the color chart on
the maintenance SCA elements, which
the container.
instantaneously release the SCA
3. Sixty seconds (one minute) after charge. Coolant filter elements should
dipping, compare the nitrite pad be replaced after one (1) year, 120,000
to the color chart. miles (192,000 km) or 2,000 operating
hours, whichever comes first.
4. Color change of the additive
indicator (middle pad) indicates
the presence of inhibitor that is
not approved by Detroit Diesel.
Promptly replace and tighten the test
strip container cap after each use.

HOW-TO SECTION
Dropout Coolant Extender Inhibitor

Additive for “OAT” Coolant
Excessive amounts of some inhibitors
in the coolant can cause a gel or The inhibitors in OAT coolant must
crystalline deposit that reduces heat also be maintained, but less often
transfer and coolant flow. The deposit, than traditional SCA-type coolants.
called “dropout,” takes the color of A portable test is available to test the
the coolant when wet, but appears as a levels of OAT inhibitors in coolant.
white or gray powder when dry. It can Where this is not used, fleet testing
pick up solid particles in the coolant has determined that a OAT coolant
and become gritty, causing excessive extender package should be added to
wear of water pump seals and other the coolant at 300,000 miles (480,000
cooling system components. km), two (2) years, or 5,000 hours,
whichever comes first. The proper
maintenance dosages for all OAT
coolants are listed in Table 18 ,
reflecting 0.6% by volume extender.
PERSONAL INJURY
This dosage should be added to the
To avoid injury when using water-only and the glycol systems at
caustic cleaning agents, follow the same interval.
the chemical manufacturers
The proper application of extender to
usage, disposal, and safety
OAT coolant will provide:
instructions.
□ pH Control
The wet gel can be removed by using □ Restored inhibitor levels to prevent
a non-acid (alkali) type heavy-duty corrosion
cleaner, such as Detroit Diesel Power □ Cavitation protection to protect
Cool On-Line Cleaner (sodium wet sleeve cylinder liners
nitrite/sodium tetraborate). Part
numbers are refer to section POWER NOTE:
COOL ENGINE PRODUCTS. Do not use traditional SCAs in
OAT coolant, and do not use
NOTE: OAT extender in traditional coolant.
If the gel is allowed to dry, it is
necessary to disassemble the
engine and clean it with a caustic
solution or physically clean individual
components.

OAT Coolant Drain Interval — Power Cool SCAs — Power Cool

A properly maintained OAT-inhibited SCAs are water-soluble chemical
coolant will last 600,000 miles compounds. These products are
(960,000 km), four (4) years, or available in coolant filter elements,
10,000 operating hours, whichever liquid packages, and in fully
comes first. At this time the coolant formulated Power Cool antifreeze.
should be drained, and the cooling
system should be thoroughly cleaned, NOTE:
flushed, and filled with new, properly Power Cool 3000 liquid SCA is more
inhibited OAT coolant. compatible with hard water than
Power Cool 2000 SCA.
Chronic Coolant System
Problems Power Cool Coolant Filter
Elements — Power Cool coolant
The most commonly seen coolant
filter elements (spin-on canisters) are
system problems result from
available in various sizes suitable for
maintenance and formulation factors
cooling systems of varying capacities.
such as:
Selection of the proper element size
□ Hard water is vital when pre-charging non-fully
formulated coolant at initial fill and
□ Dilution of the coolant by the
at maintenance intervals. A fully
addition of untreated water
formulated antifreeze must not
□ Over dosage or under dosage of have SCA added at initial fill. Do
corrosion inhibitors not use SCA-containing filters
with OAT antifreeze or coolant.
□ Improper corrosion inhibitor (most
The need for maintenance elements
often phosphated)
is determined by the results of the
□ Mixing SCAs nitrite concentration test performed
at each cooling system interval. Do
□ Improper testing
not automatically install maintenance
elements at maintenance intervals,
Detroit Diesel Cooling System unless the nitrite concentration falls
Maintenance Products below 900 parts per million.
The following products are available
to do maintenance on the cooling Power Cool Cleaners — Power
system. Cool Liquid On-Line Cleaner is used
for light deposits. Power Cool Dry

HOW-TO SECTION
Chemical Cleaner/Conditioner is used user is urged to refer to the full

for heavy deposits or scale. text of this section to determine
the proper dosage. Mixing
Summary of Coolant of different manufacturers'
Recommendations technologies (brands) could cause
cooling system problems.
4. Maintain the inhibitor at the
prescribed concentration. Test
the nitrite concentration by using
HOT COOLANT
a titration kit or Detroit Diesel
To avoid scalding from the Power Trac 3-Way Coolant Test
expulsion of hot coolant, never Strips. Add SCA only if the nitrite
remove the cooling system concentration is below 900 PPM.
pressure cap while the engine is Do not use SCA in OAT coolant,
at operating temperature. Wear and do not use Power Trac 3-Way
adequate protective clothing Coolant Test Strips to test OAT
(face shield, rubber gloves, coolant.
cap slowly to relieve pressure. NOTE:
If the nitrite concentration exceeds
3200 PPM, the coolant must be
1. Always maintain the engine drained and replaced with new
coolant to meet Detroit Diesel coolant. A thorough cleaning of the
specifications. cooling system may be required.
2. Only use water that meets the
specifications listed in Table 16. 5. Do not use another manufacturer's
Distilled, de-mineralized (reverse test kit to measure the SCA
osmosis) or de-ionized water is concentration of Detroit Diesel
preferred. maintenance products.
3. The proper dosage of inhibitors 6. Pre-mix coolant makeup solutions

must be included in the coolant to the proper concentration before
at initial fill for all Detroit Diesel adding to the cooling system.
engines. This dosage is usually 7. Do not mix OAT and other
included in the fully formulated coolants in the same engine.
antifreeze used, or it may need to
be added if water alone or if less 8. Do not use automotive coolants.
than 50% antifreeze is used. The

9. Where antifreeze/boil over addition of SCA as needed, indicated

protection is required, use only by the strip test. To verify coolant
antifreeze that meets TMC acceptability, submit a sample for
RP-329 “Type A” EG or coolant analysis every 300,000 miles
TMC RP-330 “Type A” PG (480,000 km), three (3) years, or
specifications. Always maintain 5,000 operating hours, whichever
coolant at the proper level. comes first. Submit the sample in
a DDC Power Trac Coolant Test
10. Do not use the following in
Bottle. Required part numbers are
Detroit Diesel engine cooling
in refer to section POWER COOL
systems:
ENGINE PRODUCTS.
□ Soluble oil
□ High silicate, automotive-type Coolant Life of OAT Coolant — A
antifreeze properly maintained OAT coolant may
be operated 600,000 miles (960,000
□ Chromate SCAs km), four (4) years, or until overhaul,
□ Methoxy propanol-base whichever comes first. At this time the
coolant system must be completely drained,
thoroughly cleaned, and refilled. OAT
□ Methyl alcohol-base coolant Coolants require the addition of an
□ Sealer additives or coolant extender at 300,000 miles (480,000
containing sealer additives. km), two (2) years, or 5,000 hours,
whichever comes first. Use 1 pint
□ HVAC coolant of extender for every 20 gallons of
□ Phosphated coolants coolant.
Coolant life of Glycol Coolant — Coolant Life of Other Coolants —

A properly maintained cooling Other properly maintained coolants
system, filled with phosphate-free may be operated up to 250,000 miles
coolant consisting of a 50/50 mix of (480,000 km), two (2) years, or 4,000
antifreeze and water per TMC RP-329 operating hours, whichever comes
“Type A” EG or TMC RP-330 first. At this time the system must
“Type A” PG specifications can be be completely drained, thoroughly
operated to the limits recommended. cleaned, and refilled.
The proper maintenance involves
periodic evaluation using Power Trac
3-Way Coolant Test Strips and the

HOW-TO SECTION
Coolant Flushing and Changing

NOTICE:
Drain and flush the cooling system as
follows: Do not apply more than 140 kPa (20
psi) air pressure for a radiator flush;
more pressure could damage the
radiator or heater core.
HOT COOLANT
To avoid scalding from the 4. Start radiator flushing by
expulsion of hot coolant, never attaching a flushing gun nozzle to
remove the cooling system the radiator outlet and run water
pressure cap while the engine is in until the radiator is full.
EYE INJURY
1. Open the cap on the surge tank adequate eye protection (face
slowly, to allow excess pressure shield or safety goggles) and do
to escape. Set the cap aside. not exceed 276 kPa (40 psi) air
pressure.
2. Open the water regulating valve
for the heating system.
3. Place a large receptacle 5. Apply no more than 140 kPa (20
underneath the coolant drain psi) air pressure intermittently to
plug and open the coolant drain help dislodge sediment buildup in
plug on the bottom of the radiator. the core.
6. Drain the radiator, and flush the
NOTE: radiator until clean water flows
Make sure the coolant can flow from the radiator. Remove the
unobstructed into the receptacle. flushing gun.
7. When the coolant has drained,
install the coolant drain plug on
the radiator.

8. Add coolant in the specified 1. Inspect the radiator, condenser,

concentration until the maximum water pump, engine oil cooler,
mark on the surge tank is reached. freeze plugs, and heat exchanger
for damage and leaks.
9. Start the engine and run it for
about one minute at varying 2. Check all cooling system pipes
speeds to release air pockets in and hoses for damage and leaks;
the cooling system. Ensure the ensure they are positioned to
heater valve is still open. Check avoid chafing, and are securely
the coolant level and add more fastened.
coolant if necessary.
3. Check the outside of the radiator
10. Shut down the engine, close and and condenser for blockage.
tighten the cap on the surge tank. Check fins for damage; straighten
them if necessary.
Cooling System Inspecting
NOTE:
Before doing this inspection, do either
"Coolant Concentration Checking," or
"Coolant Flushing and Changing."
Inspect the cooling system as follows:
HOT COOLANT
To avoid scalding from the
expulsion of hot coolant, never

TROUBLESHOOTING
TROUBLESHOOTING
In addition to operating the engine Nexiq DDR or DDDL 7.0 version or

carefully and maintaining it properly, later.
make sure to correct any malfunction
For fault codes and their meanings,
promptly.
see the service/workshop manual.
When the electronic engine control
The tables that follow are designed
system detects a fault, it broadcasts
to identify the causes of common
a message on the datalink. The
problems, suggest further checks and
dash display will show the code
appropriate remedies. When dealer
"Motor Control Module (MCM) 128,"
service is necessary, it is mentioned
indicating there is an engine fault.
in the table.
Important: To read the complete
fault code, bring the vehicle to an NOTE:
authorized repair facility. Complete Remember to follow all cautions when
fault codes can be read using the troubleshooting the engine.
Problem - The Engine Will Not Crank

Cause Remedy
Test the batteries. Replace them, if
The batteries are damaged or weak.
needed.
The ignition switch is damaged. Replace the ignition switch.
The battery cables are damaged
Replace the battery cables.
and/or corroded.
Have an authorized repair facility
The starter is damaged and/or worn.
replace the starter.
The clutch or transmission is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
damaged. repair facility for service.
There is internal damage to the Bring the vehicle to an authorized
engine. repair facility for service.

Problem—The Engine Turns Over Slowly

Cause Remedy
needed.
The ignition switch is damaged. Replace the ignition switch.
The battery cables are damaged
Replace the battery cables.
and/or corroded
The starter is damaged and/or worn.
replace the starter.
The engine oil does not meet the Change the engine oil, using the
correct specifications. correct type of oil.
The transmission fluid does not meet Change the transmission fluid, using
the correct specifications. the correct type of fluid.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Engine Cranks, But Won't Start

Cause Remedy
needed.
Bring the vehicle to an authorized
The cranking speed is not set correctly.
repair facility for service.
No intake air preheater is installed,
Install an intake air preheater.
and it is too cold to start without one.
The intake air preheater is Check the intake air preheater, and
malfunctioning. replace it, if necessary.
Push both sensors into their holes as
The camshaft position sensor (CMP)
far as they will go. If this does not
and/or the crank angle position sensor
solve the problem, Bring the vehicle to
are out of adjustment.
an authorized repair facility for service.
The camshaft position sensor (CMP)
are damaged.
Check the fuel lines for leaks. Prime
the fuel system and start the engine
There is air in the fuel system.
according to the instructions in the
“How to Replace Fuel Filter”.
The air filter is clogged. Clean or replace the air filter.
The fuel filter is clogged. Replace the filter element.
The exhaust brake valve is Have an authorized repair facility
malfunctioning. check the operation of the valve.
The valves are not adjusted properly. Check the valve lash.
There are other problems in the fuel Bring the vehicle to an authorized
system. repair facility for service.
Check for leaks, add coolant to correct
Coolant level is too low.
level.

Problem—The Engine Starts Only After Cranking for a Long Time

Cause Remedy
Add fuel and bleed the fuel system, if
The fuel tank is low or empty.
necessary.
Check the fuel lines for leaks and
There are leaks in the fuel lines.
repair them, if necessary.
Clean and bleed the system. Have
The fuel line, the fuel prefilter, or the
the fuel lines and filters checked by an
screen in the fuel tank is blocked.
authorized dealer.
The camshaft position (CMP) sensor
and/or the crankshaft position (CKP)
sensor are out of adjustment.
and/or the crankshaft position (CKP)
sensor are damaged.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Engine Starts, But Dies

Cause Remedy
Add fuel and bleed the fuel system, if
The fuel tank is low or empty.
necessary.
Clean and bleed the system. Have
The fuel line, the fuel prefilter, or the
the fuel lines and filters checked by an
screen in the fuel tank is blocked.
authorized dealer.
are out of adjustment.
are damaged.
The constant-throttle valves are Bring the vehicle to an authorized
malfunctioning. repair facility for service.
Problem—The Engine Fan Doesn't Work

Cause Remedy
The fan hub is damaged. Replace the fan hub.
The fan wiring is damaged. Repair the fan wiring.
The parameter settings in the MCM or Have an authorized repair facility
CPC are incorrect. reprogram the control unit.

Problem—The Engine Fan Is Constantly On

Cause Remedy
Check the operation of the fan override
The fan override switch is on.
switch.
The fan hub is damaged. Replace the fan hub
The parameter settings in the MCM or Have an authorized repair facility
CPC are incorrect. reprogram the control unit.
Problem—Fuel Consumption Is Too High

Cause Remedy
The tires are not properly inflated. Check all tires for correct pressure.
Check the air restriction indicator.
The air filter and/or intake air system
Clean the intake air system and
is clogged.
replace the air filter if necessary.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Engine Performs Poorly, Does Not

Develop Full Power
Cause Remedy
is clogged.
There are other problems with the fuel Bring the vehicle to an authorized
The valves are not adjusted properly Check the valve lash.
The coolant temperature sensor is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
damaged or reading incorrectly. repair facility for service.
The fuel temperature sensor is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
The engine oil temperature sensor is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
The charge-air temperature sensor is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
There are problems with the MCM or Bring the vehicle to an authorized
CPC. repair facility for service.

Problem—The Engine Is in Emergency Running Mode

(constant speed 1,300 rpm)
Cause Remedy
The MCM or CPC or sensor(s),
solenoids and other electronic parts
are damaged.
Problem—The Coolant Temperature Is Above Normal

Cause Remedy
Check for coolant leaks, and repair as
The coolant level is too low.
needed.
The poly-V belt is loose. Tighten or replace the poly-V belt.
The coolant temperature gauge and/or Bring the vehicle to an authorized
sensor is not reading correctly. repair facility for service.
Clean the radiator. Repair or replace
The radiator is damaged or dirty.
the radiator as necessary.
The water pump is damaged.
replace the water pump.
The thermostat is not operating Have an authorized repair facility
properly. replace the thermostat.
repair facility and have the fan hub
checked.
The fan is not operating properly. Bring the vehicle to an authorized
repair facility and have the parameter
settings reprogrammed in the MCM
or CPC.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Coolant Temperature Is Below Normal

Cause Remedy
The coolant temperature gauge and/or Bring the vehicle to an authorized
sensor is not reading correctly. repair facility for service.
The thermostat is not operating Have an authorized repair facility
properly. replace the thermostat.
repair facility and have the fan hub
checked.
The fan is not operating properly. Bring the vehicle to an authorized
repair facility and have the parameter
settings reprogrammed in the MCM
or CPC.
Problem—The Cooling System Is Losing Coolant

Cause Remedy
There is an external coolant leak. Repair the leaking component.
The radiator cap is leaking. Replace the radiator cap.
The air compressor head is damaged.
replace the air compressor.
The cylinder head gasket is leaking.
replace the head gasket.
Top tank is leaking.
repair facility.
EGR system has an internal leak.
repair facility.

Problem—There Is Coolant in the Engine Oil

Cause Remedy
The cylinder head gasket is damaged.
replace the head gasket.
The oil/water heat exchanger is Have an authorized repair facility
leaking. replace the heat exchanger.
There is an internal coolant leak.
Problem—There Is Foam in the Engine Oil

Cause Remedy
The oil level is too low or too high. Correct the oil level.
The oil has not been changed within
Change the oil.
the recommended interval.
The oil is not of the recommended
Change the oil.
quality.
Problem—The Engine Oil Pressure Is Low

Cause Remedy
The oil pressure gauge and/or sensor Bring the vehicle to an authorized
is not reading correctly. repair facility for service.
There is fuel in the oil.
The oil filter is clogged. Replace the filter element.
The oil filter bypass valve is damaged. Replace the bypass valve.
The oil pump and/or relief valve is Have an authorized repair facility
damaged. replace the oil pump.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Engine Exhaust Is White

Cause Remedy
The fuel is of poor quality. Add fuel of the right quality.
The intake air preheater is Check the intake air preheater, and
malfunctioning. replace it, if necessary.
Problem—The Engine Exhaust Is Black

Cause Remedy
is clogged.
The intake air preheater is Check that the heater is not staying on
malfunctioning. all of the time.
There is damage to the fuel system:

the fuel pump, one or more fuel Bring the vehicle to an authorized
injectors, or one or more unit pumps repair facility for service.
are damaged.
The charge-air temperature sensor is Bring the vehicle to an authorized
damaged. repair facility for service.

Problem—The Engine Exhaust Is Blue

Cause Remedy
The engine oil level is too high Adjust the oil level, and then have the
(engine oil is reaching the combustion oil level checked by an authorized
chamber). dealer.
The turbocharger is leaking oil.
replace the turbocharger
The valve stem seals are loose or Have an authorized repair facility
damaged. replace the seals.
The piston rings are worn.
replace the piston rings.
Problem—Engine Brake Performance Is Poor

Cause Remedy
The engine brake control switch is
Replace the switch
damaged.
The exhaust brake is not operating Have an authorized repair facility
properly. check the operation of the valve.
The constant-throttle valves are Bring the vehicle to an authorized
malfunctioning. repair facility for service.
Components of the MCM and/or CPC Bring the vehicle to an authorized
are damaged. repair facility for service.
Problem—Cruise Control Is Not Working

Cause Remedy
One or more of the cruise control
Replace the damaged switch.
switches are damaged.
Components of the MCM and/or CPC Bring the vehicle to an authorized
are damaged or not working properly. repair facility for service.

TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem—The Battery Charge Indicator Light Does Not

Come On When the Engine Is Not Running
Cause Remedy
The bulb is damaged. Change the bulb.
The circuit is broken. Repair the break in the circuit.
Problem—The Battery Charge Indicator Light Comes

On When the Engine is Running
Cause Remedy
Check the belt tension; if necessary,
The poly-V belt is too loose. Have an authorized repair facility
replace the belt tensioner.
The belt tensioner is damaged.
replace the belt tensioner.
The poly-V belt is worn or damaged. Replace the belt.
The alternator is damaged (has a Have an authorized repair facility
damaged rectifier or voltage regulator). replace the alternator.

ENGINE STORAGE
When an engine is to be stored or 1. With the engine at ambient

removed from operation for a period temperature and cool to the touch,
of time, special precautions should drain engine crankcase oil into a
be taken to protect the interior and suitable container. Dispose of the
exterior of the engine, transmission oil in an environmentally friendly
and other parts from rust accumulation manner, according to state and/or
and corrosion. The parts requiring federal EPA recommendations.
attention and the recommended
2. Fill the crankcase to the proper
preparations are given below.
level with the recommended
viscosity and grade of oil.
Preparing Engine for
3. Fill the fuel tank with the
Storage
recommended grade of fuel oil.
It will be necessary to remove all Operate the engine for two (2)
rust or corrosion completely from minutes at 1200 rpm and no load.
any exposed part before applying rust Do not drain the fuel system or
preventive compound. Therefore, the crankcase after this run.
it is recommended that the engine
4. Check the air cleaner and service
be processed for storage as soon as
it, if necessary.
possible after removal from operation.
5. If freezing weather is expected
The engine should be stored in
during the storage period, check
a building that is dry and can be
the antifreeze/coolant for required
heated during the winter months.
freeze and inhibitor protection.
Moisture-absorbing chemicals are
Add antifreeze solution to the
available commercially for use when
cooling system in accordance with
excessive dampness prevails in the
Detroit Diesels recommendations.
storage area.
Refer to the How to Select
Coolant in this guide.
Temporary Storage (30 Days or
Less) NOTE:
To protect the engine for a temporary If an antifreeze solution is not required
period of time (30 days or less), follow during storage, flush the cooling
this procedure: system with a good soluble oil (3% –
5% by volume) rust inhibitor to prevent

ENGINE STORAGE
rusting of the outside diameter of the 1. Drain the cooling system and
cylinder liners. flush with clean, soft water. Refill
with clean, soft water and add
a rust inhibitor to the cooling
system.
EYE INJURY 2. Circulate the coolant by operating

the engine until normal operating
temperature is reached.
adequate eye protection (face 3. Stop the engine.
shield or safety goggles) and do
4. With the engine at ambient
not exceed 276 kPa (40 psi) air
temperature and cool to the touch,
pressure.
drain the engine crankcase oil
into a suitable container. Remove
the oil filters. Dispose of the oil
6. Clean the exterior of the engine
and filters in an environmentally
(except electrical parts) with fuel
friendly manner, according
oil and dry with compressed air.
to state and/or federal EPA
7. Seal all engine openings. The recommendations. Replace the
material used must be waterproof, drain plug and tighten to 65 N·m
vaporproof and possess sufficient (48 lb-ft) torque.
physical strength to resist
5. Install new lubricating oil
puncture and damage from the
filters. Fill the crankcase to
expansion of entrapped air.
the proper level with Tectyl®
An engine prepared in this manner can 930A preservative lubricating
be returned to service in a short time oil or an equivalent 30–weight
by removing the seals at the engine preservative lubricating oil
openings and by checking the engine meeting Mil-L-21260C, Grade 2
coolant, fuel oil, lubricating oil and Specification.
transmission oil levels.
6. Drain the fuel tank. Refill with
enough clean No. 1 diesel fuel
Extended Storage (More than 30 or pure kerosene to permit the
Days) engine to operate for about ten
To prepare an engine for extended (10) minutes. If draining the
storage (more than 30 days), follow fuel tank is not convenient, use
this procedure:

a separate, portable supply of plug both to retain the fuel in the

recommended fuel. engine.
10. Transmission: Follow the
NOTE:
manufacturer's recommendations
If engines are stored where
for prolonged storage.
condensation of water in the fuel
tank may be a problem, additives 11. Power Take-Off: If equipped,
containing methyl carbitol or butyl follow manufacturer's
cellusolve may be added to the fuel. recommendations for prolonged
Follow manufacturer's instructions storage.
for treatment. Where biological
contamination of fuel may be a NOTICE:
problem, add a biocide such as
Failure to properly seal off the
Biobor® JF (or equivalent) to the
turbocharger air inlet and exhaust
fuel. When using a biocide, follow
outlet openings before engine
the manufacturer's concentration
storage may permit air drafts to
recommendations and observe all
circulate through the turbocharger
cautions and warnings.
and rotate the turbine/compressor
shaft without an adequate flow of
7. Drain the fuel system and remove
lubricating oil to the center housing
the fuel filters. Dispose of used
bearings. This can result in severe
filters in an environmentally
bearing damage.
responsible manner, according
to state and/or federal EPA
recommendations. Fill the new 12. Turbocharger: Since
filters with No. 1 diesel fuel or turbocharger bearings are
pure kerosene and install on the pressure lubricated through the
engine. external oil line leading from
the oil filter adaptor while the
8. Operate the engine for five (5)
engine is operating, no further
minutes to circulate the clean fuel
attention is required. However,
throughout the engine. Be sure
the turbocharger air inlet and
the engine fuel system is full.
turbine exhaust outlet connection
9. Stop the engine and allow to should be sealed off with
cool. Then disconnect the fuel moisture-resistant tape.
return line and the inlet line at
13. Apply a non-friction rust
the primary filter and securely
preventive compound to all
exposed engine parts. If

ENGINE STORAGE
convenient, apply the rust 18. Seal all engine openings,

preventive compound to the including the exhaust outlet,
engine flywheel. If not, disengage with moisture-resistant tape. Use
the clutch mechanism to prevent cardboard, plywood or metal
the clutch disc from sticking to covers where practical.
the flywheel.
19. Clean and dry the exterior painted
surfaces of the engine and spray
NOTE:
with a suitable liquid automobile
Do not apply oil, grease or any
body wax, a synthetic resin
wax-base compound to the flywheel.
varnish, or a rust preventive
The cast iron will absorb these
compound.
substances, which can “sweat” out
during operation and cause the clutch 20. Protect the engine with a good
to slip. weather-resistant tarpaulin and
store it under cover, preferably
14. Drain the engine cooling system. in a dry building which can be
heated during the winter months.
15. Drain the preservative oil from
the engine crankcase. Reinstall Outdoor storage of the engine is not
and torque the oil drain plug to recommended. If units must be kept
65 N·m (48 lb-ft). out of doors, follow the preparation
and storage instructions already
16. Remove and clean the battery
given. Protect units with quality,
and battery cables with a baking
weather-resistant tarpaulins (or other
soda-water solution and rinse
suitable covers) arranged to provide
with fresh water. Do not allow
for air circulation.
the soda solution to enter the
battery. Add distilled water to
the electrolyte (if necessary) and
fully charge the battery. Store the
battery in a cool (never below 0°
C or 32° F) dry place. Keep the
battery fully charged and check
the level and specific gravity of
the electrolyte regularly.
17. Insert heavy paper strips between
the pulleys and drive belts to
prevent sticking.

NOTICE: 3. Wash the exterior of the engine

with fuel oil to remove the
Do not use plastic sheeting for rust preventive. Do not wash
outdoor storage. Plastic is fine electrical components.
for indoor storage. When used
outdoors, however, enough moisture 4. Remove the rust preventive from
can condense on the inside of the the flywheel. Flush any soluble
plastic to rust ferrous metal surfaces oil rust inhibitor (if used) in the
and pit aluminum surfaces. If a unit cooling system.
is stored outside for any extended 5. Remove the paper strips from
period of time, severe corrosion between the pulleys and drive
damage can result. belts.
6. Fill the crankcase to the proper
The stored engine should be inspected level with the required grade of
periodically. If there are any lubricating oil. Use a pressure
indications of rust or corrosion, lubricator to insure all bearings
corrective steps must be taken to and rocker shafts are lubricated.
prevent damage to the engine parts. 7. Fill the fuel tank with the required
Perform a complete inspection at the fuel.
end of one year and apply additional
treatment as required. 8. Close all drain cocks and fill the
engine cooling system with clean,
Procedure for Restoring to soft water and required inhibitors.
Service an Engine that Has Been If the engine is to be exposed
in Extended Storage to freezing temperatures, install
genuine Detroit Diesel Power
If an engine has been in extended Cool antifreeze or an equivalent
storage, prepare it for service as ethylene glycol-base or propylene
follows: glycol-base antifreeze solution
1. Remove the covers and tape from which provides required freeze,
all the openings of the engine, fuel boil over, and inhibitor protection.
tank and electrical equipment. Do “Refer to section How to Select
not overlook the exhaust outlet. Coolant” section in this guide.
2. Remove the plugs from the inlet 9. Install and connect the battery.
and outlet fuel lines and reconnect Make sure the average specific
the lines to their proper positions. gravity of the battery is 1.260

ENGINE STORAGE
or higher. Charge the battery, if NOTE:

necessary. The small amount of rust preventive
which remains in the fuel system
10. Service the air cleaner, if required.
will cause smoky exhaust for a few
11. Transmission: Follow the minutes.
manufacturer's recommendations
covering the return of the NOTE:
transmission to service. Before subjecting the engine to a load
or high speed, allow it to reach normal
12. Power Take-Off: If equipped,
operating temperature. Then check for
follow the manufacturer's
trouble codes.
recommendations covering the
return of the power take-off to
service.
13. Turbocharger: Remove the
covers from the turbocharger
air inlet and turbine outlet
connections. Reconnect
piping as required. Prelube
the turbocharger center
bearing housing. Refer to
Lubrication System Checks in the
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
FOR STARTING THE ENGINE
section of this guide.
ENGINE EXHAUST
To avoid injury from inhaling
engine exhaust, always operate
the engine in a well-ventilated
area. Engine exhaust is toxic.
14. After all preparations are

completed, start the engine.

CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
The satisfaction and good will of the organizations. See Figure 45 for
owners of Detroit Diesel engines are Detroit Diesel NAFTA On-Highway
of primary concern to Detroit Diesel service regions.
Corporation and its distributor/dealer
Figure 45 Detroit Diesel NAFTA On-Highway Service Regions

CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
NAFTA ON-HIGHWAY SERVICE REGIONS

DETROIT DIESEL REGIONAL DETROIT DIESEL REGIONAL
SALES OFFICES SERVICE OFFICES
NORTHEAST REGION
NORTH EASTERN REGION
Detroit Diesel
Detroit Diesel
Powder Miss Plaza, Suite 3A
13400 Outer Drive West
51 Gibralter Drive
Detroit, MI 48239-4001
Morris Plains, NJ 07950-1274
Telephone: 313-592-5420
Phone: 973-492-6555
Fax: 311-592-5887
Fax: 973-267-5922
NORTH CENTRAL & WESTERN
CENTRAL REGION REGIONS
Detroit Diesel Detroit Diesel
9255 Indian Creek Parkway, Suite 850 7700 Irvine Center, Suite 275
Overland Park, KS 66210 Irvine CA 92618
Phone: 678-570-2389 Phone: 949-753-7710
Fax: 949-753-7711
SOUTHERN REGION SOUTHERN REGION
Detroit Diesel Detroit Diesel
3325 Paddocks Parkway, Suite 230 3325 Paddocks Parkway, Suite 230
Suwanne, GA 30024 Suwanne, GA 30024
Phone: 678-341-6100 Phone: 678-341-6100
Fax: 678-341-6150 Fax: 678-341-6150
WESTERN REGION CANADA REGION
Detroit Diesel Detroit Diesel of Canada, Ltd.
7700 Irvine Center, Suite 275 150 Dufferin Ave., Suite 701
Irvine CA 92618 London ON N5A 5N6
Phone: 949-753-7710 Phone: 519-661-0149
Fax: 949-753-7711 Fax: 519-661-0171
MEXICO REGION
CANADA REGION Detroit Diesel Allison de Mexico, S.A.
Detroit Diesel of Canada, Ltd. Av. Santa Rosa 58
150 Dufferin Ave., Suite 701 Col. Ampliacion Norte
London ON N5A 5N6 San Juan Ixtacala, Tlanepantla
Phone: 519-661-0149 C.P. 54160, Edo de Mexico
Fax: 519-661-0171 Phone: 525-333-1802
Fax: 525-333-1870

Road Service in the U.S. or □ Vehicle owner/company name

Canada
If you require road service for any
reason in the U.S. or Canada, you may
call the 1–800–445–1980 customer
assistance phone number. An operator
will assist you in determining what
type of service is required. Not all
problems are engine related and not
all problems are covered by engine
or vehicle warranties. YOU MAY
BE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPAIR
EXPENSES.
Before calling Customer Assistance,
please do the following:
□ Check coolant level
□ Check fuel level
□ Check DDEC fuses
□ Check for fuel leaks
□ Make sure manual shutoff valve (if
installed) on the fuel filter adaptor,
fuel processor body or fuel supply
line is open.
□ Check the oil level on the dipstick.
□ Check diagnostic codes.
If you call, have the following
information available:
□ Engine serial number
□ Vehicle make and model
□ Odometer mileage (kilometers) or
hourmeter hours

CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
Working with Detroit Diesel concerns will be resolved at the

Service Outlets Distributor/Dealer level and therefore
encourages customers to follow the
As the owner of a Detroit Diesel
procedure outlined below:
product you have a complete network
of Detroit Diesel service outlets in the
U.S. and Canada, plus many outlets Step One
worldwide that are prepared to meet Customers should discuss the problem
your parts and service needs: with a member of management
□ Service by trained personnel from the authorized service outlet.
Frequently, complaints are the result
□ Sales teams to help determine your of a breakdown in communication
specific power requirements and can quickly be resolved by a
□ In many areas, emergency service member of management. If they have
24 hours a day already discussed the problem with
the Distributor or Dealer Sales or
□ Complete parts support including Service Manager, they should contact
reliabilt® remanufactured parts the General Manager.
□ Product information and literature
Step Two
We recognize however, that despite
the best intentions of everyone When it appears that the problem
concerned, misunderstandings may cannot readily be resolved at the
occur. Normally, any situation Distributor/Dealer level without
that arises in connection with the additional assistance, the Detroit
sale, operation, or service of your Diesel Customer Support Center
product will be handled by the (CSC) should be contacted at
authorized service outlet in your area 313–592–5800.
(in the U.S. and Canada check the
The information provided to the CSC
Yellow Pages or service locator at
will be forwarded to the appropriate
www.detroitdiesel.com for the Detroit
Regional Product Support Manager.
Diesel service outlet nearest you).
The customer will then be assisted
Detroit Diesel has established a be a member of the Regional Product
three-step procedure that customers Support Managers staff, depending on
should follow when experiencing the nature of his/her problem.
a problem with any Detroit Diesel
Product or Part. Detroit Diesel fully
realizes that ultimately the customer's

Prior to this contacting the CSC, the

customer should have the following
information available:
□ Name and location of authorized
service outlet
□ Type, make and vehicle
identification number of
equipment
□ Engine model and serial number
□ Engine delivery date and
accumulated miles/kilometers or
hours of operation
□ Nature of problem
□ Chronological summary of
engine's repair history
Step Three
If the customer is still not satisfied,
he/she should present the entire matter
in writing or by phone to:
Director of Technical Service or

Manager, Service Operations BX5
Detroit Diesel
13400 Outer Drive, West
Detroit, Michigan 48239–4001
Phone: 313–592–5000
Fax: 313–592–5888

SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS
This section lists the various POWER (313–592–5800) if you need this
COOL engine products. specific information.
Fuel and Lubricating Oil POWER COOL ENGINE

Filters PRODUCTS
Consult with a Detroit Diesel Maintenance of the cooling system
Distributor to obtain the proper fuel requires the chemical make-up of the
filters and lubricating oil filters. system to be balanced.
OIL PAN CAPACITY POWER COOL Fully Formulated

IEG Coolant
Engine oil capacity can vary,
depending on the oil pan used and The part numbers and sizes of
the engine application. Contact concentrated POWER COOL and
the Detroit Diesel Customer Center pre-blended 50:50 POWER COOL are
listed in Table 19
Coolant Type Part Number Description

23512138 1 Gallon Jug – 6 Per
Case
23512139 55 Gallon Drum
Concentrated
23529295 330 Gallon Tote
23512140 Bulk Delivery – 1,000
Gallon Min.
23528203 1 Gallon Jug – 6 Per
Case
Pre-Blended 50:50
23528544 330 Gallon Tote
23513503 Bulk Delivery – 1,000
Gallon Min.
Table 19 POWER COOL Fully Formulated IEG Coolant

POWER COOL 2000 and 3000

Supplemental Coolant Additive

23507858 Pint Bottle – 12 Per case
23507859 Half Gallon Jug – 6 Per
For Power Cool IEG Case
Coolant
23507860 5 Gallon Pail
Table 20 POWER COOL 2000 Supplemental Coolant Additive

23507854 Pint Bottle – 12 Per Case
23507855 Half Gallon Jug – 6 Per
For POWER COOL IEG Case
Coolant
23507856 5 Gallon Pail
Table 21 POWER COOL 3000 Supplemental Coolant Additive

SPECIFICATIONS
POWER COOL 3000

Supplemental Additive Coolant
Filters

4 Ounce (1 Pint
23507545
Equivalent)
8 Ounce (2 Pint
23508425
Equivalent)
12 Ounce (3 Pint
23508426
Equivalent)
For POWER COOL IEG
Coolant 16 Ounce (4 Pint
23507189
Equivalent)
32 Ounce (8 Pint
23508427
Equivalent)
53 Ounce (13 Pint
23508428
Equivalent)
Table 22 POWER COOL 3000 Supplemental Additive Coolant Filters
POWER COOL Supplemental

Additive Need Release Coolant
Filters

NF2091 For 0 – 8 Gallon Systems
For POWER COOL IEG
Coolant For 8 – 20 Gallon
23516489
Systems
Table 23 POWER COOL Supplemental Additive Need Release

Coolant Filters

POWER COOL Plus Extended

Life OAT Coolant
1 Gallon Jug – 6
23519397
Per Case
Concentrated 23519394 55 Gallon Drum
Bulk Delivery – 1,000
23519395
Gallon Min.
One Gallon Jug – 6
23519396
Per Case
Pre-Blended 50:50 23519398 55 Gallon Drum
Bulk Delivery – 1,000
23519399
Gallon Min.
Table 24 POWER COOL Plus Extended Life OAT Coolant
POWER COOL Plus Extender

For Use With POWER COOL
Plus OAT Coolant
Quart Bottle – 6 Per
For Power Cool Plus 23519400
Case
Table 25 POWER COOL Plus Extender for Use with POWER COOL
Plus OAT Coolant
POWER COOL Cooling System

Cleaners
On-Half Gallon Jug –
200164
6 Per Case
On-Line Cleaner 200105 5 Gallon Pail
Twin Pack 201549 Twin Pack – 2 Per Case
Table 26 POWER COOL Cooling System Cleaners

SPECIFICATIONS
POWER TRAC Coolant Testing

And Analysis Products
Application Part Number Description

Indicates Nitrite, 3-Way Coolant Test
Molybdate & Glycol 23519401 Strips
Levels (Single Foil Packs)
Levels (Bottle of 50)
Levels (Bottle of 10)
Complete IEG/IPG Coolant Analysis Bottle
23516921
Coolant Analysis (Carton of 6)
Laboratory Coolant
Organic Coolant
23523398 Analysis Bottle
Analysis
(Carton of 6)
Table 27 POWER TRAC Coolant Testing And Analysis Products


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DDC-SVC-MAN-0040

EPA07 MBE 900

13400 Outer Drive, West, Detroit, Michigan 48239-4001

Specifications are subject to change without notice. Detroit Diesel Corporation

To the Operator personnel to provide prompt

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) i

Keep this Operators Guide with

ii All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

CAUTION SUMMARY .......................................................................... 3

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION .................................................................. 12

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS FOR STARTING THE ENGINE .......... 19

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) iii

RUNNING THE ENGINE ................................................................. 27

iv All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

IMMEDIATE SPEED REDUCTION ............................................. 46

DDEC VI ENGINE DRIVING TIPS ....................................................... 49

ENGINE BRAKE SYSTEM .................................................................. 53

ENGINE SYSTEMS ............................................................................. 57

AFTERTREATMENT SYSTEM ............................................................ 59

DRIVER ACTIONS ............................................................................... 64

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) v

INSTRUMENT PANEL LAMPS ........................................................... 66

HOW-TO SECTION .............................................................................. 90

vi All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

HOW TO REPLACE THE LUBE OIL AND FILTERS ....................... 93

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) vii

SOLUBLE OILS ....................................................................... 111

TROUBLESHOOTING ......................................................................... 122

ENGINE STORAGE ............................................................................. 135

CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE ................................................................. 141

viii All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

STEP THREE .............................................................................. 145

SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................................ 146

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) ix

x All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) 1

Furthermore, modern engines exhibit

Engine Conversions and

2 All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

The following cautions must be

□ Do not modify or tamper

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) 3

4 All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

PERSONAL INJURY FIRE

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) 5

□ Flush your eyes with water.

□ Get medical attention

6 All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

Cooling System Air Intake System

HOT COOLANT PERSONAL INJURY

All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. ) 7

□ Keep those people who are not

To avoid injury from fuel spills, □ Stop the engine immediately if

□ Do not smoke or allow open

□ Wear adequate protective

8 All information subject to change without notice. (Rev. )

FLAMES, EXPLOSION AND FLAMES, EXPLOSION AND

□ Always wear goggles when □ Do not smoke when servicing

□ If fluid enters the eyes or if □ Work in well ventilated area.