Restarting overhauled Perkins 4108

[pcatterall]

The engine is on the bench, injectors are out and head is just back on with tappets adjusted etc.
Is it worth at this stage checking the oil distribution system is working by spinning the engine now ( without trying to start) and without the rocker cover on.
I have preoiled the cylinders and filled the sump.
My concern is that as the oil has well and truly drained out and some componants may be quite dry there will be some time for the oil to get around the system
and this may have adverse effects. Circulating the oil with no load seems worthwhile before fitting the injectors and other stuff?
Advice please!

 

[PaulRainbow]

I would turn it over where it is, short bursts (no more than 30 seconds), you don't want to cook the starter.

 

[RichardS]

Providing that you have properly oiled any dismantled components when you re-assembled them, I usually wait until the engine is installed and electrics etc are connected before turning the engine over on the starter but with the fuel off (or similar) so that it can't start. If you have an oil pressure gauge or light you should find that after 15 or so seconds of turning over the oil pressure is up to normal.

Richard

 

[ghostlymoron]

Exciting. Hope all goes well. From my limited experience of running engines in sheds, make sure the door's open for beating a hasty retreat.

 

[vyv_cox]

I doubt it is worth turning it over first. The pistons in the bores are the most susceptible components to initial wear. They are usually lubricated by squirts of oil from the big-end bearing housings on the conrods. I doubt that will happen when turning over on starter motor. Squirt some oil down the injector ports and start the engine, as Richard says assuming you have assembled with oil on each component.

 

[reeac]

I didn't the equivalent of what you are proposing (but MG petrol engine with plugs out) 35 years ago, spinning it until i got oil pressure indicated. Still running well with no subsequent work required.

 

[pcatterall]

I didn't the equivalent of what you are proposing (but MG petrol engine with plugs out) 35 years ago, spinning it until i got oil pressure indicated. Still running well with no subsequent work required.

My proposal is flawed anyway! I am advised that the injector pump must be primed before you should consider starting up as running it dry WILL cause damage! I guess that I could rig the pump to pump fuel into a container to keep the flow going though.

 

[QBhoy]

I would say it’s worth doing. De compress it by leaving injectors out and then turn it over. Should build up oil pressure