Key points to remember when rebuilding a diesel engine:
1. Keep it clean! Machining components makes a mess, make sure to have any machined components thoroughly cleaned and inspected.
2. Make sure that all oil holes and passages are cleaned of any debris with a brush and solvent.
3. Make sure to use lube the camshaft with assembly oil and that it spins ok upon installation.
4. When installing the main bearings make sure to wipe down the main bores and the backsides of the bearing shells
5. Make sure to use lint free rags when wiping components down
6. Always make sure to torque the main caps to proper torque value. (click here for general diesel engine torque tables)
7. When installing timing components make sure to line up timing marks properly. Usually any timing gear will have a dot or line that must be properly lined up.
8. You should use a bolt boot or a piece of rubber tube to put over the connecting rod bolt to prevent accidental damage to the crankshaft. Any nick or ding on the crankshaft will damage the bearing and put metal debris into the engine and may prevent you from turning the engine over during assembly.
9. When installing the cylinder heads check the gaskets for a "top" and / or "front" markings or simply align the gasket with the cylinder head oil holes.
10. Check your head-bolts to make sure they are not one time use bolts (torque-to-yield) and make sure all of the threads are clean.
