Evaluating Used Engine Suppliers for Heavy Equipment

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Surplus Engine Dealers
In the heavy equipment industry, sourcing replacement engines—especially for older machines like the Grove 36 carry deck crane powered by a Detroit 3-53—is often a challenge. OEM support dwindles over time, and rebuilding worn-out blocks can be costly and time-consuming. This has led to the growth of surplus and take-out engine suppliers, who offer used, running engines pulled from decommissioned equipment or surplus inventories. Companies like Adelman's have built reputations by offering these engines at competitive prices, often accompanied by basic run-test verification.
Adelman’s Approach to Used Engine Sales
Adelman’s, based in Ohio, is one of the more visible players in this space. Their inventory includes a wide range of diesel engines from Detroit, Cummins, CAT, and others. The company specializes in selling used running engines, meaning units that have been tested for startup and idle but not necessarily rebuilt or warrantied for long-term use.
Key features of their operation include:

• Warehouse access: Local buyers can inspect engines in person and sometimes choose from multiple units.
  
• Run testing: Engines are typically started and run before sale, though full diagnostics may not be provided.
  
• Surplus pricing: Costs are significantly lower than rebuilt or remanufactured units, often 30–50% less.
  

One buyer reported walking through Adelman’s warehouse and selecting a Detroit 3-53 based on sound and visual condition. The engine performed well in a Grove crane for over two years before requiring minor injector service.
Risks and Considerations When Buying Used Engines
While surplus engines offer cost savings, they come with caveats:

• No warranty: Most suppliers sell engines “as-is,” with no guarantee beyond startup.
  
• Unknown history: Engines may have come from wrecked, flooded, or high-hour machines.
  
• Compatibility issues: Mounting points, bell housings, and accessory configurations may differ from the original application.
  
• Shipping costs: Freight for large engines can exceed $500 depending on distance and weight.
  

To mitigate these risks:

• Request startup videos or live tests if visiting in person isn’t possible.
  
• Verify serial numbers and model codes to ensure compatibility.
  
• Inspect oil condition, exhaust color, and idle stability during testing.
  
• Ask about return policies, even if limited.
  

Alternative Suppliers and Regional Options
In addition to Adelman’s, other suppliers offer similar services:

• Hagerman in Hermiston, Oregon: Known for used Detroit and Cummins engines, often sourced from agricultural and logging equipment.
  
• Diesel Parts & Service in Florida: Offers rebuilt options with limited warranties.
  
• Local salvage yards: May have take-out engines from scrapped machinery, though testing is less common.
  

Operators in the Shenandoah Valley and Pacific Northwest often rely on regional suppliers to avoid long-distance freight and gain access to familiar inventory.
Detroit 3-53 Engine Legacy and Rebuild Viability
The Detroit Diesel 3-53 is a two-stroke, three-cylinder engine widely used in cranes, loaders, and military vehicles from the 1950s through the 1980s. Known for its distinctive sound and high-revving nature, the 3-53 remains popular among restorers and small contractors.
Rebuild kits are still available, including:

• Pistons and liners
  
• Gaskets and seals
  
• Injectors and governors
  

However, rebuilding requires specialized knowledge of two-stroke diesel systems, and many shops now focus on four-stroke platforms. For this reason, sourcing a good used engine may be more practical than a full rebuild.
Conclusion
Used engine suppliers like Adelman’s offer a valuable resource for keeping older equipment running without the high cost of OEM replacements. While buyers must navigate risks related to history and warranty, careful inspection and supplier reputation can lead to successful outcomes. For machines like the Grove 36 crane with a Detroit 3-53, surplus engines remain a viable lifeline—especially when paired with local expertise and a bit of mechanical intuition.