Detroit Diesel 6-71 Non-Turbo (2-Valve Head Type) – Engine Overhaul Kit Catalog

The Detroit Diesel 6-71 engine is one of the most legendary powerplants in heavy-duty and marine applications. Introduced as part of the Series 71 line in the late 1930s, the 6-71 quickly became a workhorse for industrial equipment, ships, buses, generators, and more. Known for its durability, simplicity, and ease of rebuilding, this engine remains in service decades after production, thanks to readily available overhaul kits and parts.

This catalog is dedicated to the Detroit Diesel 6-71 Non-Turbo with 2-Valve Head configuration. Below you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of overhaul kits, gasket sets, liners, seals, filters, and supporting components—all designed to extend the life of your 6-71 engine.

Complete Overhaul Kits for Detroit Diesel 6-71

Rebuild Kit for 6-71 2-Valve Non-Turbo Engines

A complete overhaul kit is the cornerstone of any engine rebuild. For the Detroit Diesel 6-71 non-turbo 2-valve engine, the rebuild kit provides everything necessary to restore compression, performance, and reliability.

Included components typically cover:

• Pistons (1-piece piston design for natural aspiration)

• Cylinder liners

• Piston rings

• Wrist pins and retainers

• Main bearings

• Connecting rod bearings

• Camshaft bushings

• Full gasket set for top and bottom end

These kits are tailored specifically for 2-valve engines, ensuring correct fit and compatibility. Investing in a complete overhaul kit minimizes downtime and guarantees that every internal wear component is refreshed at once.

Gasket Kits and Sealing Components

Overhaul Gasket Kits – Low Block Style

For older 6-71 low block engines, a complete overhaul gasket kit is required. This kit provides every gasket and seal needed when performing a full rebuild. Coverage includes head gaskets, intake and exhaust gaskets, oil pan gaskets, front and rear seals, and all other sealing elements.

Inspection Cover Gaskets

The 6-71 features inspection covers on the block, which allow access to critical internals. Proper sealing is essential to prevent oil leaks and maintain pressure balance. Replacement gaskets are available individually for easy service.

Crankshaft Seals

Both front and rear crankshaft seals are available in standard and oversize versions. These seals prevent oil leakage around the rotating crankshaft, ensuring clean operation. Options include:

• Front seals for universal rotation engines

• Rear seals in single or double lip designs

• Oversize seals and sleeves for engines that have had wear on sealing surfaces

Maintaining proper seals is vital in preventing oil contamination and ensuring the engine maintains correct oil pressure.

Cylinder Liners, Inserts, and Shims

Standard and Oversize Liner Inserts

Cylinder liner inserts provide the correct seating surface for liners inside the engine block. Both standard and oversize versions are available depending on block wear.

Liner Shims

Shims are available in multiple thicknesses (.002 and .003) to fine-tune liner height during rebuilds. Proper liner protrusion is critical for head gasket sealing and long-term durability.

Together, inserts and shims ensure the liners sit precisely, maintaining compression and combustion efficiency.

Tools for Overhaul and Maintenance

Rebuilding a 6-71 requires specialized tools to make the process efficient and accurate.

Cylinder Liner Puller

The cylinder liner puller allows safe and efficient removal of liners from the block without damaging seating surfaces.

Piston Ring Compressor

This tool compresses piston rings to allow smooth installation into liners. Proper use prevents ring damage and ensures correct seating.

Piston Ring Assembly Tool

Essential for assembling rings onto pistons without distortion, this tool is compatible with both Detroit Diesel and Cummins engines.

Tune-Up Kits

Comprehensive tune-up kits provide a complete set of adjustments and gauges for Series 71 engines, helping mechanics set valves, injectors, and timing correctly.

Having the right tools minimizes mistakes and ensures rebuilds meet factory specifications.

Filtration Systems – Fuel and Oil

Fuel Filters

The 6-71 requires both primary and secondary fuel filtration to protect injectors from contaminants. Options include:

• Spin-on filters for quick replacement

• Cartridge filters for traditional housings

Oil Filters

Oil filtration is equally important for protecting bearings and lubricated surfaces. Options include:

• Spin-on oil filters for convenience

• Cartridge oil filters for classic housings

Filter Wrenches

Specialized wrenches for both fuel and oil filters make service easier, ensuring tight seals without damage during removal or installation.

Cooling and Temperature Control

Thermostats

Thermostats regulate engine temperature by controlling coolant flow. For the 6-71, thermostats are typically set at 173°F, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating.

Block Heaters

Block heaters preheat coolant for easier cold-weather starts, extending battery life and reducing engine wear.

Radiator Cleaner

Cooling system cleaners help remove scale and deposits, restoring efficient heat transfer.

Temperature Switches

Temperature switches activate alarms or shutdowns at preset thresholds, protecting the engine from thermal damage.

Filters, Fluids, and Accessories

Primary and Secondary Filters

Both cartridge and spin-on types are available, ensuring compatibility with older and updated systems.

Paint and Primer

Authentic Detroit Green paint and primers are offered to restore engines to their original factory appearance while providing corrosion resistance.

Gauges

Mechanical and electric gauges (12V and 24V) are available to monitor oil pressure, coolant temperature, and other key metrics. Gauges with alarm features provide additional safety by alerting operators to potential failures.

Why Choose Diesel Pro Power for Detroit Diesel 6-71 Overhaul Kits

When selecting overhaul kits and supporting components for the Detroit Diesel 6-71, the supplier matters. The right partner ensures not only that you receive the correct parts, but also that your engine returns to service faster, with lasting reliability. Diesel Pro Power has earned its reputation as the leading source for Detroit Diesel parts by focusing on the needs of operators who depend on their equipment every day.

Global Reach: We provide fast shipping to over 180 countries, meaning whether your vessel, generator, or industrial machine is in a major port city or a remote location, you can count on timely delivery. This eliminates costly downtime and keeps your operations running on schedule.

Proven Experience: More than 40,000 satisfied customers worldwide trust Diesel Pro Power. From small repair shops to large shipping fleets, our customers return because they know we supply quality parts that meet or exceed OEM standards. Our reputation is built on decades of reliable service.

Comprehensive Coverage: We offer every part required for a complete 6-71 rebuild in one place. From pistons, liners, and bearings to gasket sets, filters, and seals, you can source everything without the need to shop across multiple suppliers. This not only saves time but also ensures that all parts are compatible with your exact engine configuration.

Expert Guidance: Our technical support team is trained to help identify the correct kits for specific models, including 2-valve configurations, low block designs, and other variations unique to the Detroit Diesel 6-71. This reduces the risk of ordering incorrect parts and gives you confidence that your overhaul will go smoothly.

Marine & Industrial Focus: Unlike general automotive suppliers, Diesel Pro Power specializes in heavy-duty and continuous-use engines. We understand the demands of marine propulsion systems, industrial generators, and construction equipment where the 6-71 is commonly used. Our focus means you get solutions tailored to long-duty cycles and harsh environments.

Customer-Centered Service: Beyond supplying parts, Diesel Pro Power is committed to creating a seamless experience—from easy online ordering to detailed product descriptions and responsive customer support. We are here to ensure that you not only get the right kit but also the confidence that comes from working with a trusted partner.

Applications of the Detroit Diesel 6-71 Non-Turbo

The 6-71 non-turbo 2-valve engine has been used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Marine vessels such as tugboats, fishing boats, and workboats

• Construction equipment including cranes and excavators

• Generators and industrial pumps

• Heavy-duty trucks and buses (in earlier decades)

Its versatility and rugged design have made it one of the most iconic engines in diesel history.