Return to DD13

We returned to our DD13 and removed the rocker shafts. Unfortunately due to us starting late in the semester and having other things also taking up our time, we have decided that rebuilding the DD13 will have to wait for another time.

So we printed out the relevant reassembly service information from Detroit Diesel's Power Service Literature and began reassembling what we took off. Procedure, torque specs, specialty tools, diagrams, and other considerations are outlined in the service literature. And so reassembly could begin.

Removing the rocker shafts.

Injectors being installed in their bores. No, we did not forget the bolt for the hold-down clamp!

Injectors and rocker shafts installed and ready to be torqued.

Detroit Diesel Power Service Literature recommends 36-41 ft-lbs of torque with an additional 90 degrees on the rocker shaft bolts. Here is our torque wrench with the angle ready to go.

My reflection:

The semester is almost over, and although we did not get to finish our rebuild on the DD13, I found that I have learned a great deal about the fuel systems used in heavy truck applications.

I have learned how these systems are designed to operate, and how individual components function. I have learned the differences in these systems as they vary by manufacturer and by model, and the changes made in fuel systems as EPA standards get more stringent.

I have learned how much these systems depend on electronic and electrical circuitry to operate. And finally I have learned some of the procedures used to diagnose and service these systems.

This is not the end by far, even though the semester may be almost over, we have barely scratched the surface of what we can learn as mechanics and technicians. Learning and education will follow us out in the field and will be an every day process wherever we end up working.