DDC's 8V71T, Low Heat Rejection Engine Developed for the U.S. Army Self Propelled Howitzers and Support Vehicles

This paper was written to document the results of a development program conducted by Detroit Diesel Corporation in cooperation with U.S. Army. The purpose of this program, was to apply “state-of-the-art” low heat rejection (LHR) technology and cold starting improvements to the 8V-71T engine used in the Self-Propelled Howitzer and Ammunition support vehicles. The principal focus of this report covers the diesel engine air system, Low Heat Rejection cylinder head developments, and the resultant synergism impacting reduced cooling system burden, improved engine performance, reliability, durability, fuel economy, and smoke signature. Concurrent development of a glow plug system is integrated to this development with dramatic resultant impact on engine startability and tactical vehicle performance.