1995 International 4700 with DT466 Engine Restoration Overview

[MikePhua]

Machine and Engine Background
The 1995 International 4700 is a medium-duty conventional cab truck widely used in vocational applications such as hauling, utility, and construction support. It features the legendary DT466 inline 6-cylinder diesel engine, renowned for reliability, durability, and long service life. The DT466 displacement is 7.6 liters (466 cubic inches) with a cast iron block and wet sleeve cylinder design promoting easy rebuilding and longevity.
DT466 Engine Specifications

• Displacement: 7.6 liters (466 cu in)
  
• Configuration: Inline 6, wet sleeve cylinders
  
• Bore and Stroke: 4.59 in bore, 4.68 in stroke
  
• Horsepower: Up to 300 hp (varies by configuration)
  
• Torque: Up to 860 lb-ft at 1300 rpm
  
• Fuel Injection: Mechanical injection pumps in 1995; later models moved to electronic hydraulic unit injectors (HEUI)
  
• Compression Ratio: Approximately 16.4:1
  
• Known For: Longevity with B50 engine life around 550,000 miles, robust construction and moderate power output suitable for heavy duty tasks
  

Restoration Considerations

• The wet sleeve cylinder design allows the engine to be overhauled without removing it from the truck chassis, reducing downtime and cost. This design provides greater durability compared to dry sleeve systems.
  
• Restoring a DT466 engine involves inspecting piston rings, liners, bearings, and fuel injectors for wear or damage due to the engine's extensive service life in many trucks.
  
• Mechanical injection systems require adjustment and calibration for optimum fuel delivery and performance; upgrading to HEUI or electronic injection for additional efficiency may be considered but involves significant modification.
  

Common Issues and Maintenance Tips

• The DT466 engines are generally reliable, but the tightness of cylinder head bolts is a weak point; failing head bolts can lead to gasket leaks if power is significantly increased.
  
• Fuel system maintenance, including injector cleaning or replacement, helps retain performance.
  
• Regularly checking valve clearances and timing is essential for maintaining smooth power delivery.
  
• Cooling system upkeep is critical, as these engines generate substantial heat in heavy duty operations.
  

Terminology Explained

• Wet Sleeve Cylinder: A cylinder liner design allowing coolant contact with the sleeve exterior for better heat dissipation and easier replacement.
  
• Mechanical Injection Pump: Fuel delivery system relying on mechanical timing without electronic control.
  
• HEUI System: Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injector technology, offering precise, computer-controlled fuel injection.
  
• B50 Engine Life: The distance at which 50% of engines are still operational before major overhaul.
  
• Compression Ratio: Ratio of cylinder volume at bottom of stroke to volume at top of stroke, affecting engine efficiency.
  

User Experience
Many operators value DT466 for its bulletproof nature and ease of maintenance, with some trucks logging over 1 million miles with factory engines still in operation. Restoring a 1995 International 4700 with a DT466 engine can revive this potent combination for decades more use.
Conclusion
The 1995 International 4700 paired with the DT466 engine remains a classic reliable medium-duty truck setup. Restoration efforts focus on thorough engine inspection, addressing typical wear components, and proper fuel system tuning. With proper care, this combination delivers long-lasting, dependable service for heavy vocational applications.