Parts for Detroit Diesel 371 Non-Turbo - (2 Valve Head Type) - Cylinder Kit Section

Parts for Detroit Diesel 3-71 Non-Turbo – (2-Valve Head Type) – Cylinder Kit Section

The Detroit Diesel 3-71 engine has stood the test of time as one of the most durable and widely used engines in the iconic 71-series two-stroke family. Its compact design, smooth operation, and long-lasting performance made it a trusted power source for marine, industrial, and military applications. At Diesel Pro Power, we understand that keeping these engines running efficiently requires quality replacement parts that meet original Detroit Diesel standards. That’s why we offer complete cylinder kits, liners, ring sets, seals, filters, and installation tools—all designed specifically for the Detroit Diesel 3-71 Non-Turbo (2-Valve Head Type) engine.

Our goal is to provide a single, reliable source where professionals and engine rebuilders can find everything they need for a proper in-frame or full overhaul. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive overview of the components, their functions, and how each contributes to restoring your 3-71 to peak operating condition.

Detroit Diesel 3-71 Cylinder Kits

A cylinder kit is at the heart of every Detroit Diesel rebuild. Each kit typically includes the piston, piston rings, cylinder liner, and wrist pin retainers, designed to work together as a complete piston-and-liner assembly. The Detroit Diesel Standard Cylinder Kit for Series 71 engines ensures factory-fit tolerances and proper compression levels.

When rebuilding a 3-71 engine, replacing worn or scored liners is crucial to restoring cylinder integrity and maintaining optimal combustion efficiency. The precision-machined liners are manufactured from high-grade steel, ensuring proper heat transfer and oil control throughout the engine’s operating range.

Detroit Diesel’s original 71-series engines were built with both one-piece and two-piece piston configurations, depending on the model and application. Each configuration affects compression ratios and heat distribution. Diesel Pro Power offers compatible kits for both piston types, guaranteeing a perfect match for your 3-71.

Cylinder Liners for Series 71 Engines

The cylinder liner—often called a “sleeve”—is one of the most critical components in maintaining compression and cooling balance within each cylinder. Over time, liners may wear unevenly due to carbon buildup or corrosion, resulting in reduced compression and increased oil consumption.

Diesel Pro Power supplies standard and oversized liners for the Detroit Diesel 3-71 engine. The standard liner is precision-ground to OEM specifications for a factory fit. For engines that have been remachined or where the block has worn beyond standard size, oversized liners are available in .010, .020, and .030 dimensions to restore original clearances.

Each liner includes features that ensure long-term performance:

• Precision honed interior surface for optimal oil retention and piston ring seating.

• Hardened top flange to resist deformation under combustion pressure.

• Corrosion-resistant finish to ensure durability in marine and industrial environments.

Liner Inserts and Shims

To achieve correct liner protrusion and maintain compression sealing, liner inserts and shims are used beneath the liner flange. Diesel Pro offers both standard and oversize liner inserts, as well as shims in .002” and .003” thicknesses for precise adjustments.

These components play a key role in the longevity of your rebuild. Improper liner height can cause head gasket leaks or uneven combustion, which over time lead to serious engine damage. Using the proper inserts ensures that your cylinder liner sits perfectly flush within the block, creating a stable surface for the cylinder head.

Piston Rings and Ring Sets

The Detroit Diesel 3-71 piston ring set forms the crucial seal between the piston and the liner wall, preventing blow-by and maintaining optimal compression. The set includes compression rings and oil control rings, each engineered to withstand the high pressures and two-stroke operating environment of Detroit’s 71-series engines.

Over time, piston rings lose tension or develop wear patterns that compromise sealing ability. Replacing them during every overhaul prevents power loss and oil contamination. Diesel Pro’s ring sets are made to OEM hardness and finish standards, ensuring smooth break-in and consistent performance.

For rebuilders, Diesel Pro also provides the Detroit Diesel piston ring compressor tool, an essential piece of equipment that simplifies piston installation without damaging the rings or liner bore.

Piston Pin Retainers

Small but vital, piston pin retainers secure the piston wrist pin in place, preventing lateral movement that could score the liner wall or damage the connecting rod. Each piston requires two retainers, and Diesel Pro offers replacements manufactured to OEM tension and material specifications to ensure a precise fit.

Crankshaft Seals and Sleeves

The front and rear crankshaft seals prevent oil leakage at the ends of the crankshaft, maintaining proper lubrication while protecting the engine from contamination. Diesel Pro offers a complete selection of standard and oversize crankshaft seals for the 3-71 and other 71-series engines.

• Front seals are designed for universal rotation (right- or left-hand engines).

• Rear seals are available in both single-lip and double-lip designs for added protection.

• Oversize seals and sleeve inserts are also available for engines with wear at the sealing surface.

Correct installation of these seals helps maintain oil pressure and prevent leaks that could lead to bearing failure.

Overhaul Gasket Sets

Every full rebuild or in-frame overhaul should include replacing all engine gaskets and seals. The Detroit Diesel 3-71 Low Block (Old Style) Overhaul Gasket Kit contains everything needed for a complete engine reseal—from cylinder head gaskets and oil seals to water jacket and exhaust gaskets.

These gaskets are made from heat-resistant materials that withstand the unique thermal cycles of Detroit’s two-stroke design. Using a complete kit ensures that every joint in the engine is sealed against leaks, maximizing compression and performance.

Engine Tools for Installation and Maintenance

Proper assembly of a Detroit Diesel 3-71 engine requires specialized tools. Diesel Pro Power offers a range of service tools specifically designed for Series 71 engines:

• Cylinder Liner Puller: Allows safe removal of liners without damaging the block.

• Tune-Up Kit: A comprehensive collection of gauges and tools for precise timing and adjustment of injectors and governors.

• Piston Ring Compressor: Simplifies piston installation while protecting rings from breakage.

• Piston Ring Assembly Tool: A must-have for aligning and installing new piston rings.

By using these purpose-built tools, you can ensure professional-grade rebuild results every time.

Fuel Filtration Components

Reliable fuel filtration is critical to protecting injectors and maintaining combustion efficiency. Diesel Pro Power supplies both primary and secondary fuel filters for the Detroit Diesel 3-71.

• Primary Spin-On Filters remove large contaminants and water before fuel enters the injection system.

• Secondary Cartridge Filters perform fine filtration, ensuring only clean diesel reaches the injectors.

We also offer fuel filter removal wrenches for both spin-on and cartridge types, making service faster and safer.

Oil Filters

Proper lubrication is essential for any two-stroke engine, and maintaining oil purity is key. Diesel Pro offers spin-on and cartridge-type oil filters designed for high efficiency and flow. These filters capture harmful debris that can circulate through the oil system, protecting bearings, pistons, and gears.

Pairing these filters with Diesel Pro’s oil filter wrenches ensures quick removal and installation without damage to the filter housing.

Cooling System Components

Maintaining correct engine temperature prevents premature wear and improves fuel efficiency. Diesel Pro Power offers several components that support the 3-71’s cooling system:

• Thermostats (173°F) ensure accurate engine temperature regulation.

• Block Heaters (750W and 1500W options) make cold-weather starting easier by pre-heating coolant.

• Radiator Cleaner helps remove scale and deposits to improve heat exchange efficiency.

For marine or stationary setups, proper coolant maintenance can dramatically extend the lifespan of liners and head gaskets.

Engine Sealing & Painting Supplies

A professionally rebuilt Detroit Diesel engine not only runs like new but looks the part. Diesel Pro provides Detroit Green paint and primer coatings designed for heat resistance and long-term corrosion protection. These coatings are formulated for use on cast iron, aluminum, and steel surfaces found throughout Series 71 engines.

Painting your rebuilt 3-71 engine helps preserve metal surfaces and maintains the engine’s iconic Detroit appearance.

Electrical & Mechanical Gauges

For ongoing monitoring, Diesel Pro Power offers a full range of mechanical and electric gauges compatible with the 3-71. Available in 12-volt and 24-volt configurations, they provide accurate readings for oil pressure, coolant temperature, RPM, and other critical parameters. Reliable instrumentation is key to ensuring your engine continues performing safely and efficiently after overhaul.

Supporting Components & Related Resources

At Diesel Pro Power, every product we sell is backed by our reputation for quality and service. We proudly serve more than 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide who trust us for fast shipping, competitive pricing, and unmatched expertise in Detroit Diesel parts.

We encourage professional rebuilders, fleet operators, and enthusiasts to explore additional resources that can simplify maintenance and extend the life of your 3-71 engine:

• Proper liner installation and protrusion setup guides

• Fuel system bleeding and calibration tips

• Cooling system best practices for 71-series engines

• Storage and long-term preservation recommendations

(Placeholder: Links to additional Diesel Pro blog articles and technical resources will be included here.)

Why Choose Diesel Pro Power for Detroit Diesel 3-71 Cylinder Kits

Diesel Pro Power is the world’s largest independent online distributor specializing in Detroit Diesel parts. When you purchase your Detroit Diesel 3-71 Cylinder Kit from us, you benefit from:

• OEM-quality manufacturing: All components meet or exceed Detroit Diesel specifications.

• Comprehensive selection: Everything from liners and rings to tools and filters in one place.

• Fast global delivery: Most items ship same-day from our fully stocked warehouse.

• Expert technical support: Our team understands these engines down to the smallest bolt.

• Proven reliability: Over four decades of experience serving marine, industrial, and fleet professionals.

By choosing Diesel Pro Power, you’re not only buying replacement parts—you’re investing in performance, reliability, and long-term value for your Detroit Diesel 3-71 engine.