Detroit engines have a performance-related reputation, and that’s why many people prefer to use them. However, any older engine model has a risk of running backward, and if this happens more often and for longer, you risk serious damages. With this problem experienced by many engine models, many people have wondered whether it’s also common with Detroit diesel, and if so, what are the remedies?
A Detroit diesel can run backward. When this happens, the intake becomes the exhaust, and the exhaust becomes the intake. There’s no oil pressure when this happens, and it doesn’t run like this for long. However, this problem is only experienced in the old 2 stroke engines.
That’s not all, as you still need to know what causes the engine to run backward, whether Detroit Diesels are good, and if a 4 stroke Diesel can run backward, which you will learn if you read on.
Is it Possible for Detroit Diesel to Run Backwards?
Knowing that Detroit Diesel engines are some of the best-made ones, you may be wondering if truckers can experience issues like lesser-quality engines tend to.
Engines, especially the 2 stroke, have a habit of running backward, either by design or accidentally, and Detroit Diesel engines are no exception to this.
When this happens, a lot goes on, including the changing roles of the intake and exhaust. Let’s take a look at some signs your engine is running backwards below.
How to Tell If Your Engine Is Running Backwards
Now that you know that your Detroit Diesel engine can sometimes run backward, you may want to know some signs that it is.
Here’s what you’ll see when your engine is running backwards:
- The engine will make some funny noises when running backward. Though, this can be said for multiple other issues in trucks.
- There will be smoke coming from the air intake valve instead of the exhaust. Many people confuse this with a blown head gasket. However, the smoke associated with the engine running backward is darker and thicker than that of a blown head gasket.
- There’s no oil pressure during this time, and the gears work in reverse. The engine cannot run in this state for long, and it usually stops after a maximum of one hour.
Even so, only 2 stroke engines are susceptible to this problem, with newer and electric models unable to do the same.
What Causes the Engine to Run Backwards?
As we have seen, an engine can run backwards but only for a short time.
While this problem is rare, you need to know things that might contribute to your engine running backwards, and they include:
- Lack of lubrication
- No air filter intake
- Damage to air intake component
Now, let’s take a look at what you should do in this situation.
What to Do When Your Engine Runs Backwards
Since your engine running backward is a big issue, you may want to find out how to handle the situation should it ever occur.
Here’s a little more information on what to do in each of these situations, so you can know what to be on the lookout for:
- Lack of proper lubrication: An engine needs to be well-oiled to run perfectly, and it’s more likely to run backwards if there’s not enough lubrication.
- No air filter intake: An engine requires a constant air supply to aid in combustion and cooling it down. A shortage of this is more likely to cause the engine to run backwards.
- Damage to the air intake component: When an engine runs backward, you’ll notice a reverse role in the air filter and exhaust pipe. A damaged air intake component could cause the engine to run backward, and until you solve the issue, you’re more likely to experience the problem more often.
Proper maintenance of the engine can help to reduce this problem and, if possible, get rid of it permanently. Also, you should consider upgrading to a more stable and modern engine that doesn’t experience running backward problems.
Is Detroit Diesel Good?
Detroit Diesel is one of the most reliable engines ever assembled, and this is conclusive, given that it was rated by Diesel World Mag as one of the best engines in existence. The most renowned is the 858 ci 14.0L, released in 2001 and viewed by many as the company’s lifesaver. It has an impeccable lifespan of 750,000 miles, making it one of the most reliable engines ever.
At its prime, the engine can produce 515 horsepower at 1,800 rpm and 1,650 pounds per foot at 1,200 rpm.
Can a 4 Stroke Diesel Run Backwards?
It’s not possible for a 4 stroke diesel to run backward, as doing so would expel the fuel instead of sucking in.
The engine goes through these steps to get it started:
- The air filter sucks in the air that goes through the fuel injector or the carburetor
- Here the air and fuel is mixed and goes through the open valve and into the cylinder
- The piston then compresses the fuel/air mixture to create a spark
Attempting to reverse the engine would only result in expelled fuel and no ignition.
Outro
A Detroit Diesel can run backwards, provided it’s the 2 stroke model. A thick black smoke comes from the air filter component, with the engine making funny noises. However, the backward running is not permanent and can only run for an hour. The problem could be caused by improper lubrication, a damaged air filter component, or when there’s insufficient air intake.
