Have you ever put much thought into what’s controlling your engine? It may run on diesel, but it’s probably controlled by electronics. Unless you’re running a much older engine, of course.
When shopping for parts for your diesel engine, you want to make sure you’re getting the right ones the first time. One thing that can help ensure you get the right fit is your engine serial number.
Do you have a Series 60 engine from Detroit? For the most part, it probably runs great for you. This electronically controlled engine has a favorable history, shared between all three versions, and despite having been out of production for years now, it remains a popular choice for many operators.
If you’ve heard of Detroit Diesel, odds are you’ve heard of their Series 60 line of engines. It includes three different engines, a 11.1L, a 12.7L, and a 14L.
The Legendary Series 60 14L: North America’s Most Popular Heavy-Duty Engine
The Detroit Diesel Series 60 14L stands as one of the most successful and widely recognized heavy-duty diesel engines in North American trucking history. Since its introduction, this electronically-controlled powerplant has earned the distinction of being the most popular heavy-duty diesel engine in North America since 1992, and was ranked as the second-best diesel engine ever by Diesel Power Magazine. With its 14-liter displacement and robust construction, the Series 60 has powered millions of commercial vehicles across diverse applications, from long-haul trucking to vocational work.
The Series 60’s enduring popularity stems from its combination of reliable performance, electronic engine management, and proven durability under demanding operating conditions. Despite being out of production for years, these engines continue to serve fleets and owner-operators worldwide, a testament to their exceptional engineering and longevity. The electronic control systems introduced advanced fuel management and diagnostic capabilities that were revolutionary for their time.
Common Service Issues and Critical Components
While the Series 60 14L enjoys an excellent reputation, like any engine, it has specific maintenance requirements and known issues that require attention. Cold start problems can affect engines in cooler climates, often requiring replacement of Synchronous Reference Sensors (SRS) and Timing Reference Sensors (TRS) to maintain proper starting performance. Pre-2002 engines may experience wrist pin defects that can lead to catastrophic failure if not addressed promptly.
Essential Maintenance Areas
The cooling system requires careful monitoring to prevent overheating issues common to heavy-duty diesel applications. EGR system components, particularly EGR coolers in later models, frequently need attention to prevent exhaust leaks and maintain emissions compliance. Bearing problems, especially in older models with low oil pressure at idle, require quality replacement engine bearings and proper lubrication system maintenance.
Quality Series 60 14L Parts and Expert Support
At Highway and Heavy Parts, we understand the unique requirements of the Series 60 14L and stock comprehensive parts solutions for these legendary engines. From critical sensors and electronic components to cylinder heads and complete engine rebuild kits, we provide the quality parts needed to keep your Series 60 running reliably. Our technical expertise helps identify the correct components for your specific model year and application requirements.
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