Installing the Radiator and Filling With ELC

The radiator on this truck's large and heavy enough that it's easiest to install with two people. Seth and Trevor again came to the rescue. I'm helping them guide it in, while Robin provides moral support (my mom took this picture).

Seth and I bolting the radiator to the support, while Trevor searches for a tool. Robin's still being Robin.

This picture would either make a good advertisement for Mercedes-Benz or for Caterpillar. Yes, that's a 5 gallon bucket of the infamous Caterpillar Extended-Life Coolant. Some people argue against using ELC, but the only valid justification against using ELC with a Navistar IDI engine that I've found is that it can eat old oil cooler O-rings. Since I replaced the O-rings in the oil cooler, I figured that this would be a perfect time to change the cooling system over. By assisting me so much with re-assembling everything, Trevor wound up almost doing as much as Seth, who rebuilt my heads as well as the turbo. The Benz makes for an excellent parts-runner, so my 300D deserves a picture and a brief comment. :)

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Main Page

Introduction to the project

Before the project begins

Removing external parts and accessories

Removing cylinder heads

Heads, gaskets, and the block after head removal

Removing timing gear cover and camshaft

Cleaning the piston tops

Cleaning the ins and outs of the engine

Final engine block cleaning with compresed air

Oil cooler disassembled

Parts ready for painting

Final painting preparation

Parts after painting

Installing BajaGringo drains

Installing the camshaft

Re-installing the camshaft

Assembling and testing the oil cooler

First steps of modifications for the turbocharger

Comparing the stock head bolts to ARP studs (lengthy!)

Installing the cylinder heads

Installing the head studs

Installing the valvetrain

Installing the intake manifold and injector pump

Assembling and installing the turbocharger

Last touches on engine assembly

Installing radiator

The Finished Project