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Usage and notes of Cummins diesel engine when operation

March 10, 2014

Running Instructions for New Cummins Diesel Engine

During the first running period of 1,500–2,500 km or 30–50 hours, the following rules must be followed:

1.1 Initial Running Rules

Run the engine at mid-speed before starting to avoid running under high-load at high speed.
The Cummins engine should not run at idling speed or full load for more than 5 minutes.
Shift gears at the right moment to allow smooth engine operation.
Regularly monitor oil temperature, oil pressure, and water temperature gauges.
Frequently check lubricating oil and coolant levels.
Limit engine loading to less than 70% of the vehicle’s rated capacity.
No oil or filter changes are needed immediately after the engine starts.
Special running-in oil is not required during this period.
After reaching 1,500–2,500 km or 20–50 hours, free maintenance and inspection can be provided at Dongfeng Cummins Engine Co., Ltd or authorized service stations.

1.2 Starting the Cummins Engine

Check coolant and lubricating oil levels daily before starting, and drain water from the oil-water separator.
Limit starting time to 30 seconds. If unsuccessful, retry after about 2 minutes.
Monitor oil pressure within 15 seconds after starting.
If the temperature is below 0℃, run the engine at low or mid-speed for 5 minutes to warm up before full operation.

1.3 Warming Up and Idle Speed

Gradually increase speed during startup to prevent full-load operation.
Do not run the engine at idling speed for more than 10 minutes.

Note: Prolonged idling may cause a temperature drop in the combustion chamber, affecting piston rings and valves.

1.4 Stopping the Engine

Run the engine at idling speed for 3–5 minutes before stopping. This allows the lubricant and coolant to absorb heat from the combustor, bearings, and friction pairs, especially important for turbocharged and intercooled engines.

1.5 Operational Notices

Investigate immediately if coolant temperature is below 60℃ or above 100℃ to prevent engine damage.
Do not run the engine if oil pressure is below standard levels.
Do not run at full load for more than 30 seconds at maximum torque speed.

Additional Notes:

Idling speed: 750–800 r/min
Engine speed should not exceed 3,600 r/min under any circumstances. Use transmission shifting and brakes to prevent overspeed.
Regularly monitor engine performance, sound, and other changes. Stop for inspection if abnormalities occur.

Common signs to watch:

Difficulty starting or violent vibrations
Sudden water temperature changes
Loss of power
Abnormal smoke color: blue, dark, or white
Abnormal noise
Oil pressure drop
Fuel, lubricating oil, or coolant leakage
Increased fuel consumption or high crankcase pressure

1.6 Proper Way to Fill Coolant

Fill coolant smoothly to avoid trapped air, which may cause high engine temperatures during operation.
Inspect the engine periodically while filling coolant.
Open vent valves if using water-cooling in the intercooler when filling coolant.

Notes:

Replace rust-proof and freeze-proof liquid every two years.
Check the concentration before winter.
Clean the cooling system before using rust-proof and freeze-proof liquid in old vehicles.
Do not replace rust-proof and freeze-proof liquid with water.
When temperature is below 0℃, inspect concentration every 20,000 km.