Skip to main content

SERIES 638 ENGINE RUN-IN INSTRUCTIONS

Following a complete overhaul or any major repair that uses replacement piston rings, pistons, or bearings, for example, the engine should be run-in on a dynamometer prior to release for service. ‪

The dynamometer is a device for applying specific loads to an engine to determine if the engine will perform to published specifications and to permit a physical inspection for leaks of any kind. It is an excellent method for detecting improper tune-up, misfiring injectors, low compression and other malfunctions, and may save an engine from damage at a later date. ‪

The operating temperature within the engine affects the operating clearances between the various moving parts of the engine and determines to a degree how the parts will wear. ‪

NOTICE:
‪

Thermostats are required to control the coolant flow and to help maintain a constant engine temperature. Therefore, be sure that they are in place and fully operative or the engine may overheat during the run-in. Furthermore, a deaeration line must be installed in the uppermost portion of the engine to prevent any overheating problems during run-in. ‪

The rate of water circulation through the engine on a dynamometer should be sufficient to avoid having the engine outlet water temperature more than 5.6 C (10 F) higher than the water inlet temperature. A 5.6 C (10 F) rise across an engine is recommended; however, an 8.3 C (15 F) temperature rise maximum is permitted. ‪

The Basic Engine

A basic engine includes only those components actually necessary to run the engine. The addition of any engine-driven accessories will result in a brake horsepower figure less than specifications. The fan and battery-charging alternator typify accessories not considered on the basic engine. ‪

Since the ECU requires a source of electrical power to operate, ECU and all sensors should be connected and operating properly. In addition, a fully-charged battery must be connected to the system. Refer to OEM guidelines. ‪

In situations where other than basic engine equipment is used during the test, a proper record of this fact should be made on the Engine Test Report. The effects of additional equipment on engine performance should then be considered when evaluating test results. ‪

Dynamometer Test and Run-In Procedure

The function of the dynamometer is to absorb and measure the engine output. Its basic components are a frame, provisions for engine mounting, the absorption unit, a heat exchanger, and a torque loading and measuring device. ‪

For accurate dynamometer readings during a Turbotronic 638 engine run-in, the chassis dynamometer room must be properly ventilated. See Figure 25315 . ‪

California Proposition 65 Warning

The exhaust products of an internal combustion engine are toxic. They may cause injury or death if inhaled. All engine installations, especially those within enclosed spaces, should be equipped with an exhaust discharge pipe so that exhaust gases are delivered into the outside air. An enclosed space must be adequately vented. Some means of providing fresh air into an enclosed space must be ensured. ‪

The engine is connected through a universal coupling to the absorption unit. The load on the engine may be varied from zero to maximum by decreasing or increasing the resistance in the unit. The amount of power absorbed in a water brake type dynamometer, as an example, is governed by the volume of fluid within the working system. The fluid offers resistance to a rotating motion. By controlling the volume of water in the absorption unit, the load may be increased or decreased as required. ‪

The power absorbed is generally measured in torque (lb ft) on a suitable scale. This value for a given engine speed will show the brake horsepower developed in the engine by the following formula. See Figure 21483 . ‪

Formulas for Power Developed in the Engine

Some dynamometers indicate direct brake horsepower readings. Therefore, the use of the formula is not required when using these units. ‪

During the actual operation, all data taken should be recorded immediately on an Engine Test Report. See Figure 27780 . ‪

Turbotronic 638 Engine Test Report

Instrumentation

Certain instrumentation is necessary so that data required to complete the Engine Test Report may be obtained. The following list contains the minimum amount of instruments and the proper location of the fittings on the engine so that the readings represent a true evaluation of engine conditions. ‪

  • Oil pressure gage
  • Water temperature gage
  • Adaptor for connecting a pressure gage or water manometer
  • Fuel pressure gage

In some cases, gages reading in pounds per square inch are used for determining pressures while standard characteristics are given in inches of mercury or inches of water. It is extremely important that the scale of such a gage be of low range and finely divided if accuracy is desired. This is especially true of a gage reading in lb/in. 2 , the reading of which is to be converted to inches of water. The following conversion factors may be helpful. ‪

Gage reading = (lb/in. 2 ) x 27.7 inches of water ‪

Gage reading = (lb/in. 2 ) x 2.04 inches of mercury ‪

NOTICE:
‪

Before starting the run-in or starting the engine for any reason following an overhaul, it is of extreme importance to observe the instructions; see Preparation for a First Time Start.'' Refer to section . Failure to follow instructions could result in engine damage. ‪

Run-in Procedure

Use the following procedure for preparation of engine run-in. See Figure 27780 part A. ‪

  1. Fill and prime the lubrication system as outlined under Lubrication System, Preparation for a First Time Start.'' Refer to section .
  2. Prime the fuel system as outlined under Fuel System, Preparation for a First Time Start.'' Refer to section .
  3. Be sure that the turbocharger has been prelubricated by adding oil to the turbocharger oil inlet or by pressurizing the lubrication system.
  4. Check to be sure all test stand water valves, fuel valves, etc. are open.
  5. Inspect the exhaust system, checking that it is properly connected to the engine.

Use the following procedures for engine run-in: ‪

  1. Start the engine with minimum dynamometer resistance.

    NOTICE:
    ‪

    The Turbotronic 638 engine should be operated at idle for at least one minute after starting to assure oil supply and pressure to the turbocharger bearings. Inadequate lubrication will result in bearing damage. ‪

  2. Set the engine throttle at idle speed; idle for 30 seconds. Record oil pressure and water temperature values on the Engine Test Report; see Figure 27780 , Part B. Check all connections to be sure there are no leaks.
  3. The Engine Test Report sample, see Figure 27780 , establishes the sequence of events and specifications for the test and run-in. Also, refer to section for ``Operating Conditions'' , which presents the engine operating characteristics. These characteristics will be a guide for tracing faulty operation or lack of power. After checking the engine performance at idle speed and being certain the engine and dynamometer are operating properly, increase the engine speed to half speed and apply the load indicated on the Warm-Up - 5 minutes; see Figure 27780 , Part C. Complete leak information.
  4. Run the engine at this speed and load for five minutes to allow sufficient time for the coolant temperature to reach the normal operating range. Record length start and stop times, speed, brake horsepower, coolant temperature and lubricating oil pressure on the Engine Test Report; see Figure 27780 , Part D.
  5. Run the engine at each speed and rating for the length of time indicated in the Engine Run-In Schedule. During this time, engine performance will improve as new parts begin to seat in.
  6. Visually check the engine for fuel oil, lubricating oil and water leaks.
    1. If the engine is leaking, repair as necessary. Then proceed to step
    2. If the engine is not leaking, proceed to step
  7. Upon completion of the run-in and inspection, remove the load from the dynamometer and reduce the engine speed gradually to idle and then stop the engine.
  8. Record all data requested; see Figure 27780 , Part E.

    Note: Allow the engine to idle at least three minutes in order for the turbocharger to cool and reduce speed before shutdown.

After all of the tests have been made and the Engine Test Report is completed, see Figure 27780 , Part D. The engine is ready for final test, see Figure 27780 , Part E. This portion of the test and run-in procedure will assure the engine owner that his engine has been rebuilt to deliver factory-rated performance at the same maximum speed and load which will be experienced in the installation. ‪

If the engine has been shut down for one hour or longer, it will be necessary to have a warm-up period of five minutes at the same speed and load used for warm-up. If piston rings or bearings have been replaced as a result of problems during the warm-up, the entire run-in must be repeated as though the test and run-in procedure were started anew. ‪

All readings observed during the final run-in should fall within the range specified in the Operating Conditions'' and should be taken at full load unless otherwise specified. Following is a brief discussion of each condition to be observed. Refer to section , ‪

  • The engine water temperature should be taken during the last portion of the run-in at full load. It should be recorded and should be within the specified range.
  • The lubricating oil pressure should be recorded in kPa or lb/in. 2 after being taken at engine speeds indicated in the Operating Conditions.'' Refer to section .
  • Check the crankcase pressure while the engine is operating at maximum run-in speed. Attach a manometer calibrated to read inches of water.

The following steps are necessary to complete the final Engine Repair Schedule. ‪

  1. Determine the maximum rated brake horsepower and the full-load speed to be used during the final run-in.
  2. Apply this load to the dynamometer.
  3. The engine should be run at this speed and load for five minutes.

    Note: While making the final run-in, the engine should develop the maximum rated brake horsepower indicated for the speed at which it is operating. If this brake horsepower is not reached, the cause should be determined and corrections made.

  4. All information, see Figure 27780 , Part E, should be recorded.
  5. After the prescribed time for the final run-in has elapsed, remove the load from the dynamometer and reduce the engine speed gradually to idle speed and then stop the engine.
  6. A final inspection must be made. This inspection will provide final assurance that the engine is in proper working order. During this inspection, the engine is also made ready for any brief delay in delivery or installation which may occur. This is accomplished by rustproofing the fuel system and adding a rust inhibitor to the cooling system.
  7. Change the lubricating oil filters.