Starting a warm engine, after it was recently secured and if no unusual conditions are suspected, consists of (1) aligning the systems that may have been secured (such as circulating water), (2) disconnecting the engine from the load, and (3) cranking the engine up to starting speed. Carefully observe the lubricating oil pressure. The temperature of coolant may exceed normal operating temperatures for a minute or so until the heat accumulated in the secured engine is removed.

After Overhaul or a Long Period of Idleness

You should make additional checks and inspections when the engine you are starting has been idle for a long period of time or has been recently overhauled. You should perform the following checks:

1. Inspect the parts of the engine system that have been worked on to ensure that the work is complete, that the covers have been replaced, and that it is safe to operate any valves or equipment that have been tagged out of service. (All DANGER tags must be removed.)

2. Check all pipe connections to see whether the connections are tight and whether the systems have been properly connected.

3. Fill the freshwater cooling system with treated water if it has been drained. Be sure coolant is flowing through all parts and components of the system. Vent the system.

4. Make a thorough check of the lubricating system. Check the sump level and fill the sump if necessary. If a separate oil pump is installed, pre-lube the engine. You can consider the system to be pre-lubed when a slight pressure registers on the engine oil pressure gauge. Then make a visual check, with inspection plates removed, to see whether oil is present at all points of the system and in each main bearing. Examine pipes and fittings for leaks. If lubricators are installed, be sure they are filled.

5. Inspect the air receiver, the filter, and the discharge passages of the blower for cleanliness, and remove any oil accumulations.

6. If the engine has a hydraulic governor, inspect the governor oil level. If an overspeed trip is installed, be sure it is in proper operating condition and position.

7. Examine all moving parts of the engine to see that they are clear for running. Check the valve assemblies, including the intake, exhaust, and air-starting valves, and the fuel control linkage for freedom of movement.

8. Inspect the fuel service tank for the presence of water and sediment. Fill the tank with clean fuel if necessary. Start the auxiliary fuel pump (if one is installed) and see whether the fuel pressure gauges are registering properly. Examine the fuel piping and fittings for leaks, especially the fittings and lines inside the engine. Thoroughly vent all air from the fuel system, using the vent cocks. Be sure that the fuel strainers have been cleaned and that new filter elements have been installed.

9. If the engine has an air-starting system, open the lines on the system and blow them out. Reconnect the lines and pressurize the starting-air banks (flasks).

10. Make a final check to ensure that all parts are in place, then open all scavenging-air header and exhaust header manifold drains.

11. Now start the engine, using the procedures for a routinely secured engine.