When to OverHaul?

Do a dyno check...it will tell you all the engines vital signs...oil pressure, blow-by, horsepower, etc.

Of course if you have an obvious problem like water in the oil, high oil consumption, etc. it's a precursor to a big repair job.

My CAT is now running after an in-frame due to a perforated liner... should be ready to go tomorrow.

 

I'd think in that situation, it would be replace not rebuild.

 

Well hold on a minute...Drove a '62 freightliner that had the engine blocked patched with fiberglass after it tossed a rod... my boss wasn't about to throw away a perfectly good 220 Cummins!!!!

 

An oil sample will tell you what is wearing in the engine. If its a cat send an oil sample to them. they will let you know if anything is out of order.

Keep in mind, just cause an oil sample tells you that you have excessive bearing wear it doesn't mean you need an overhaul. Just roll in another set of bearings and go.

 

There is no magic mileage for overhaul, too many variables. Certainly, excessive blowby is about the best indication of worn rings and liners, and the need for an overhaul. Low power, bad fuel mileage and the engine using a lot of oil in between services are good signs it is time to consider a rebuild. If your engine is approaching the age of an overhaul but still seems to run ok, keep running. Put your money away and save it for when the time comes. I would wait till the engine develops a problem like a failed headgasket, or liner leaking coolant into oil, or something like that.

 

We just did a bearing roll for a customer with million km on an ISX. Bearings were still in great shape. I can certain understand preventative maintenance and wanting to fix something before it breaks. But, on the other hand, there are some things that you are just wasting your money on.

 

like a wise old man said once (IF IT AINT BROKE DONT FIX IT) had a million 168000 on mine before i rebuilt it.

 

What would be considered 'excessive' oil consumtion? 1 gallon in 5K miles or 1 gallon in 2500 miles?