Regarding the starting clutch and pinion on the D2-J Series, when the machine is either at rest or if the diesel engine is running and the starting engine is off, is it proper to have the starting clutch pinion disengaged?

Thanks in advance,
Jim Legge

It is usually easier to start the pony motor if the pinion is disengaged from the flywheel, and since the diesel has to kick out the pinion latches when it starts up, the pinion is normally disengaged except when actually turning the main engine before it starts.

As for the pinion clutch, I think it can be left engaged or disengaged without making a difference. The only reason I can think of is to disengage it to prevent the clutch sticking over time, but the housing is oil filled so sticking of an engaged clutch would be a rare thing.