6/13/24, 1:35 PM Diesel Repair

Detroit Diesel - Engine - 2019 - DD15 - Combustion Gas in Coolant

Combustion Gas in Coolant

Note: Overfilling the coolant reservoir will cause the surge tank to push coolant out, this is sometimes
misdiagnosed as combustion gas in coolant. If an engine is pushing coolant out of the surge tank, the
coolant loss diagnostics should be completed first. During normal engine operation the coolant level will
expand and contract between the two level lines depending on temperature. The min/low and max/full
marks on the coolant surge tank represent the acceptable operating range of the coolant level. No coolant
needs to be added if the coolant level is at the number two line.

Step 1. Verify the contamination in the coolant is combustion gas and not oil. Both can darken the coolant
appearance and misdiagnosis can be possible. Is the coolant contamination exhaust gas?

Yes. Go to step 2.
No. Perform troubleshooting for oil in coolant as necessary.

Step 2. Pressure test the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) cooler. Is the EGR cooler leaking?

Yes. Replace the EGR cooler as necessary.

No. Go to step 3.

Step 3. Bypass the coolant supply and return lines to the air compressor and test if pressure is building in
the cooling system. Is pressure still building in the cooling system?

Yes. Go to step 4.
No. Replace the air compressor as necessary.

Step 4. Connect a diagnostic service tool and perform the relative cylinder compression test. Did the test
identify a suspect cylinder?

Yes. Go to step 5.
No. Overfilling the coolant reservoir and oil in the coolant are commonly misdiagnosed as
combustion gas in the coolant. Perform the correct troubleshooting or return the vehicle to service
and monitor the system.

Step 5. Remove the cylinder head and inspect the head gasket. Is there any damage to the cylinder head
gasket?

Yes. Replace the cylinder head gasket as necessary.

No. Go to step 6.

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6/13/24, 1:35 PM Diesel Repair

Step 6. Check the cylinder head for cracks or damaged valves. Is there any damage present?

Yes. Replace the cylinder head as necessary.

No. Pressure test the block to check the upper cylinder liner O-rings and replace any that are leaking.

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