Parts for Detroit Diesel 8V71

The Detroit 8V71 is a classic, hearty engine, designed to be tough and work for long periods of time with proper maintenance. When it breaks, we know just how hard it can be to find replacement parts. We are here to help. We carry some of the most extensive lines of premium replacement parts for Detroit Diesel Engines. We are proud to have serviced many satisfied customers over the years, and know that if you try us, you will be satisfied with our parts and our outstanding customer service. We offer fast order processing, with parts shipping from our warehouse within one business day. Plus we offer a variety of shipping options, meaning that you can elect for overnight shipping to get your parts quickly, or choose ground transportation if you please. Either way, it means you are getting a part delivered to you when you want it, for a price that is within your budget. If you need any further assistance, just let us know and we would be happy to help. We employ a full staff of Diesel Experts, who will be happy to help you locate a part, determine your engine type or anything else you might need. Call us today and you will see why Diesel Pro is the best way to buy parts online.

For the Detroit 8V71, the serial number will have an 8VA in the beginning. An example of what the serial number would look like for this engine series is 8VA-234567.

The model number, on the other hand, will be an eight digit number separated by a dash. For the natural or non-turbo engines, the model number would be 7 0 8 x – x 2 x x. For the turbo engines, the model number like 7 0 8 x – x 3 x x.

The first three digits will always be 708 for this engine. The fourth digit will signify the application, such as 2 for marine use, 3 for industrial use and so on. The fifth digit refers to the engine arrangement. Some engines have the starter opposite of the oil cooler, where others will have these two on the same side. Likewise, the rotation of the engine can vary from engine to engine. The sixth digit indicated whether the engine has a two valve head (1) a four valve head (2) or a turbocharger (3). The last two further indicate the specific model.

The Detroit 8V71 engine has been used in many applications, including GMC vehicles, Chamberlain Tractors, heavy equipment, Semi-Trucks and many more. This engine may also be called the following. To clarify, all of the parts here will work with the following:

8V-71 or 8V 71
GM 8V71

Specs and Normal Values

This engine has a displacement of 567.5 cubic inches.

At 1200 RPM, the following are the normal values:

Oil pressure: 40-55 PSI
Air box pressure: 1.1 Inches Mercury
Fuel Pressure at Cylinder Head: 40-60 PSI

At 2100 RPM, the following are normal values:

Oil pressure: 50-70 PSI
Air box pressure: 5.5 Inches Mercury
Fuel Pressure at Cylinder Head: 40-60 PSI

The Coolant temperature should be between 160 and 185 degrees F and the lubricating oil temperature should be between 200 and 235 for any speed between 1200 and 2100 RPM.

Changing the Fuel Pump

Here we offer some maintenance tips for the 8V71 Detroit Diesel. Please note that these are meant to be a general guide only, and that more intensive repairs should always be performed by an experienced Diesel Mechanic. Please be sure to note the location of any part before removal, to make reattachment quicker and easier, and to make sure the engine will continue to function as it should.

The fuel pump is very important to the operation of the engine. The pump keeps the air out of the system, and is driven by the blower motor, and will always rotate to the left for the 8V71.

To begin, look at the two tubes running into the pump, which should be towards the rear of the engine, where it is driven by the right-hand blower rotor. There you will see the pump, underneath the governor housing, which is attached to the pump by three bolts and copper seals. The shaft for the fuel pump is driven by a coupling disc attached to the blower.

The pump cover will have two dowels in place to keep the cover in the proper position, and does not need a gasket. When this is removed, you will see two gears, one being the driven gear (attached to the driven shaft) and the drive gear (attached to the drive shaft.) The drive gear will have a small steel ball located near the shaft. On the bottom of the pump body will be two holes, which you can attach a hose to in order to capture any leakage. You will also see a spring loaded valve, which is designed to relieve any excess pressure in case the filter is clogged. This should happen at around 70 PSI pressure.

To service the 8V71's fuel pump, follow these steps:

Step One: Disconnect all of the tubes that may contain fuel, including the inlet, outlet, and drain tube.

Step Two: Remove the three bolts and remove from the governor housing. This is a good time to check the coupling fork, an example of which can be seen here: 8V71 Coupling Fork

Step Three: Remove the eight bolts on the cover of the pump, and remove it. Be sure to protect the face of the pump cover and body from any damage.

Step Four: Remove the drive shaft, drive gear and the retaining ball from the rest of the pump body. Then press the shaft enough to remove the retaining ball.

Step Five: Press the shaft away from the gear, making sure not to press the squared end of the shaft through the gear.

Step Six: The driven gear and its shaft can now be removed. However, these pieces should remain together after removing from the rest of the pump.

Step Seven: Hold hand on relief valve plug, to reduce the tension on the spring. The valve spring, pin and the valve can then be removed.

Step Eight: If you need to replace the seals it can be done here. Clamp the pump to a vise-grip, and screw threaded end of the tool into the seal closest to the bolting flange. Tap the end to remove the seal, making sure to replace the seal as it was before removal.

Step Nine: Check for any scoring along the gear teeth, the drive and drive shafts. Check the faces of the pump body to make sure it is smooth and not warped. The relief valve as well should be free of any visible damage.

Step Ten: To reassemble, lubricate the lips of the seal with vegetable shortening, and replace any seals in the direction of which it was removed.

Step Eleven: Lubricate and replace valve. Install the fuel pump drive gear over the drive shaft (not the squared end.) Press the gear past the ball detent (slot for the ball.) Then place the ball in the detent and press the gear back until it comes in contact with the ball.

Step Twelve: Lube the pump shaft and insert the square end into the pump body, through the oil seals. Place the driven shaft and gear assembly back in the pump body.

Step Thirteen: Apply sealant on the pump cover, then place the cover back on the body. Reattach the eight bolts and finish assembly. Rotate the pump shaft to make sure everything moves freely.

See 8V71 Natural (Non-Turbo) Engine Parts for Sale

See 8V71 Turbo Engine Parts for Sale

Detroit Diesel 8V71 Engine Specifications & Applications

Overview of the Detroit Diesel 8V71 Engine

The Detroit Diesel 8V71 is a legendary two-stroke diesel engine recognized for its durability, rebuildability, and raw mechanical power. Developed in the mid-20th century and part of the 71 Series, the 8V71 consists of eight cylinders in a V configuration, each displacing 71 cubic inches for a total of 568 cubic inches (9.3 liters).

Available in both naturally aspirated (8V71N) and turbocharged (8V71T or 8V71TA) variants, this engine remains in widespread use across marine vessels, power generation systems, and heavy industrial equipment. The two-stroke design delivers exceptional low-end torque and throttle response, and its mechanical simplicity makes it ideal for users operating in remote or rugged environments.

Diesel Pro Power supports the 8V71 platform with full aftermarket coverage—including in-frame rebuild kits, turbo systems, blower parts, fuel components, and marine accessories.

Technical Specifications: Detroit Diesel 8V71 Engine (Turbo & Non-Turbo)

Specification	Value
Engine Type	90° V8, 2-Stroke Diesel
Total Displacement	568 cu in (9.3 Liters)
Bore x Stroke	4.25 in x 5.00 in (108mm x 127mm)
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated or Turbocharged
Blower	Roots-Type Blower Standard
Fuel System	Mechanical Unit Injection
Compression Ratio	~17:1 (varies by variant)
Horsepower Range (8V71N)	270 – 318 HP
Horsepower Range (8V71T/TA)	350 – 450+ HP
Torque Output	Up to 1,150 lb-ft
Cooling System	Liquid-Cooled
Lubrication System	Gear-Driven, Full-Flow
Governor	Mechanical

8V71 Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged Versions

8V71 Naturally Aspirated (8V71N)

The naturally aspirated version uses a Roots-type blower for scavenging but no turbocharger. It delivers strong low-end torque and simplified maintenance.

Benefits:

Fewer components to maintain
Lower operating temperatures
Ideal for remote applications with limited service access
Easier in-frame rebuilds

8V71 Turbocharged (8V71T / 8V71TA)

Turbocharged variants add a turbocharger (T) and in some cases, an aftercooler (TA), to increase airflow and combustion efficiency. These engines provide significantly more horsepower without increasing displacement.

Benefits:

Higher horsepower and torque output
Improved performance under sustained load
Reduced smoke and better throttle response
More efficient power curve for marine and industrial applications

Applications of the Detroit Diesel 8V71 Engine

The 8V71 was designed with modularity and longevity in mind, and continues to operate in mission-critical systems across land and sea. Its mechanical nature and easy rebuildability make it a top choice for long-term operators.

Marine Applications

The Detroit 8V71 remains a marine favorite due to its compact footprint, low-RPM torque, and ability to run reliably under high load.

Common Marine Uses:

Trawlers and fishing vessels
Tugboats and pushboats
Pilot boats and ferries
Fireboats and dredging platforms
Auxiliary marine generators

Marine-Specific Benefits:

Compact V8 layout fits tight engine rooms
Keel cooling and heat exchanger-compatible
Blower-equipped for constant power delivery
Easily rebuilt without engine removal

Diesel Pro Power supports marine 8V71 engines with:

Raw water pumps and impellers
Marine exhaust manifolds, elbows, and risers
Heat exchangers and oil coolers
Marine-grade blower and turbocharger parts

Industrial & Stationary Applications

Off-highway operators favor the 8V71 for its continuous-duty reliability, especially in environments where electronic control systems are impractical.