I finished the rebuild on my excavator engine! Will it start? (Hitachi EX120-2/4BD1T)

Find me on Instagram:
/ pacific.northwest.hill...
Price sheet for this project:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/...
Here are the previous videos from this project: • I bought a broken exca...
0:00 intro
0:37 sensors
6:11 priming oil system
12:38 priming fuel system
18:49 cooling system
22:13 first start
28:14 initial break-in run
35:55 what went wrong
40:42 costs
#excavator #hitachi #isuzu

[@rodjava]

I'm 64 years old, but I still want to grow up and be like you! Great job with the engine build.

[@colin8532]

Best comment ever!

[@MrPossumeyes]

Always aspire!

[@gordonagent7037]

Learning till the day you die, awesome attitude sir

[@garfield1517]

I am 70 and agree.

[@delliebodetko9246]

LOL I understand I’m just now turning 16 and I still have a 74F 100 finish

[@bobferranti5222]

Matt, I'm a retired A.S.E master tech and I have to say that I couldn't have done a better job rebuilding that engine. The work you performed was almost surgical in nature and you paid attention to every detail. I hope you are very proud of the outcome and I hope the engine performs well into the future for you.

[@jim8027]

Matt, The fact that you took the time to go thru that engine CORRECTLY and have ADS do the pump is why it popped off on the first try. GOOD JOD!! It sounds really good. Gonna give you years of service.

[@johnjohannemann1220]

Hillbilly or not a good job deserves recognition

[@silasmarner7586]

I know Matt a bit and I assure you Hillbilly is a foil or antonym of his understanding and ability. It's just for funzies.

[@markfowler2066]

I am a retired engine builder and it doesn't get much better than this. Pay attention, take notes, and don't give in to impatience, usually an expensive learning curve.

[@additudeobx]

HOT DAMN ... she caught in 2 strokes and purrred.... Great Job Matt!!

[@PaulBarwick]

Charlie is such an optimist. She is just so sure that you want to take a break and play fetch whenever she feels like it. :)

[@RonaldMayDMD-nt3fd]

If you had seen a few of the earlier videos where Charlie was embarrassing Matt by licking HIS GENITALS! He has no gender dysphoria 👍😃

[@larrybolhuis1049]

After a rebuild I'd say anti-climatic is a GOOD thing!! Well done!

[@ShadowOppsRC]

Means a job done right!

[@scotts6955]

Can never have enough clips of Charlie in your videos.

[@deanwoodward8026]

The channel is really about Charlie trying to get him to play with her.

[@BMFT-bw1uq]

Great job Matt! She sounds so smooth and the fact it started on the first crank speaks volumes to your ability and skill. Way to go!

[@GrandsonofKong]

And now Glow Plugs either! At least I don't think they were wired up.

[@paulhammond7489]

Anticlimactic or not, it big win in my eyes. Hydraulics used to be a mystery to me, but with your guidance I reckon it's making a lot more sense, so I hope the pump is next or soon after :)

[@carlaustin7398]

Great job. You deserve more credit than you gave yourself for the instant start. Area Diesel was certainly a factor but your attention to detail is what made it a successful first start. I'm looking forward to the next video. Thanks for sharing.

[@WACRE44]

Charlie loves her stick throwing routine, you can tell she’s having fun!

[@thebigchuckster]

Don't neglect the Datto too long. I've had a 84' Celica sitting half done for so long that I've forgotten were I was up to with wiring and hoses are already going stiff. But way cool to have the rebuild fire up on the 1st crank!!

[@brucejessie]

Your meticulous attention to detail is second to none. Great job as always. Really enjoy your vids. And thanks for the bonus footage of Charlie. She's a beautiful dog and obviously loves being around you. 🙂

[@miker1448]

I know a lot of your viewers are as skilled as you in engine rebuilds; but, you're separated from the crowd because you can produce, direct, edit and publish videos encompassing the whole process. Thoroughly enjoy your videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@leeroyweb1]

Ha Matt, I think you should clean all the grease off the machine, spray it inside put the new harness in then the engine, that way you can clear the shop as you put it all back together. Engine sounded good.

[@kstricl]

A quick video getting the Z started would be good, just so YOU can enjoy it. I assume it's mostly going to be a full service and cleaning the fuel system to get it going. I would definitely go through that pump, or at least flush it thoroughly with fresh fluid - that's a LOT of work to redo if something happens once it is put back together.

[@2tana22]

I haven’t done much this morning except watch your video of getting the engine going and boy do I feel accomplished thanks for all your effort and time sharing what you’ve done with this engine,,,very inspiring

[@brianhayes7618]

Sounds great congratulations on a successful first rebuild on a diesel engine

[@ClintsHobbiesDIY]

I liked the oil primer Matt. That was a cool startup.

[@staconcrete2140]

Great rebuild job

[@AurelianoRivera]

hey Matt, I'm quite sure you were the only one person in the world surprised that it worked on the first try!!! Excellent job!!!

[@Mad.Man.Marine]

As far as the pan gasket goes. You could make yourself a bolt bridge for it out of some 1/4” steel plate. It’s basically a long washed that goes all the way around the bolt pattern. A lot of older motors have it that have tin oil pans. Sometimes no mater what you do those tin pans will still leak. Nice work man. Really nice work!!!

[@donwilson6617]

I worked in the logging business In Winchester and Roseburg Oregon with Savage and Ramey log Loaders as the Hydraulics boss...any good pump is worth a good look and rebuild...We always used "Commercial Shearing pumps" and Funk drive plates...You have done a excellent Job to be proud of...I know personally how much work is required and the effort you put out...

[@donwilson6617]

Outstanding effort...If all fails you could start a business building engine run stands :)

[@budlistar5312]

The look of surprise on your face was priceless. You doubted yourself but we all knew it would run right away. Good job.

[@brianhayes7618]

Looking forward to the install and operation of the machine. You have some digging to do? Yes rebuild it.

[@marvinmarlin9655]

Well Matt, you got exactly what you deserved. You did everything, well most things, that a pro would have done and it turned out really well. I must say that the surprised look on your face when it started first time was golden. You have a little gem there, just got to finish the rest of the excavator off now.

[@xsniperprox1]

Its one of those things where if you've done everything right it'll look like you've done nothing at all. always gotta hand it to mechanics that can fully disassemble an engine and put it back together better then new.

[@r0311]

Yeah, finally done! Get the Z out of the garage as little intermediate project ;-)

[@jeffh5664]

Hi Matt. I've been waiting for the start on this engine. I can't wait to hear it run.

[@stovebolt448]

Outstanding Matt, another work of art,very well done! Folks we have a runner! I would try and tackle the hydro pump after you get the Z running, that small block Chevy needs to stretch it's legs and Matt needs a fun run.🙃 Have you trued to find a decent used fuel tank?

[@PacificNorthwestHillbilly]

The original one was smashed, the replacement I have is less smashed. They are both rusty though

[@stovebolt448]

@@PacificNorthwestHillbilly well that kind of narrows down your choices......to none of the above.😁

[@Spitter-ud8jd]

How am I supposed to read Chenglish when all I speak is Spanglish.🍻

[@jb_makesgames2264]

Congrats Matt on a job well done - don't sell your self short - you attention to detail an methodical pace are a joy to watch - I look forward to your next video.

[@Thedudeabides803]

I was wondering when we’d see you post again. 👍

[@donovangregg5]

Well done fella!!!

[@wallacemassey1371]

Amazing job mat be proud ,uk

[@cluckhead1913]

Taking out those blackberry bushes would be a good job for the D4.

[@GarnettM]

Matt I bet a marine guage would be in Farenheit the ones I've changed always 120 to start 220 end ,Sounds Awesome good working system what a relief I bet right.

[@bobkelly2447]

Congradulations ! that is a mile-stone for the excavator !

[@aviatordave1]

Great Job Matt! It was really gratifying just *watching* that engine immediately start on the first try. I can imagine how good that must have felt for you! Keep going with the excavator rebuild! I’m hooked! I want to see that thing running. You’re a lot closer than you are farther from the end. Of course, whatever you decide to work on, I’ll follow. It’s just enjoyable no matter what you do. Your whole approach to mechanics is enjoyable to watch.

[@duncanvowles7100]

Hi Matt, great to see that all the hard work paid off with a near perfect initial run. Great channel

[@Michael_CS615]

No problem startup! Area Diesel certainly did their part but all of YOUR care and attention to detail counts to the end result.

[@kirk467]

Charlie is a pretty girl, good to see you Matt! Looks like you have everything under control brother, nice set up Matt! One thing is you always do everything right my friend! I really enjoy watching your channel, I’m sure everything will be a success Matt! She sounds great brother, I had no doubt my friend! You’re the MAN!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👌🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@teddythomas281]

She sounds great Matt. Great job. Now the rest of the mumbo jumbo starts lol with all those hoses.

[@teddythomas281]

She looks sano

[@teddythomas281]

That would be a great little jeep motor

[@joeromanak8797]

Well, you did it. She sounds good to me. The startup was quick and easy. I would attribute that, at least in part, to the thorough job you did of priming the fuel system. We’ll be anxious to see it dig a hole so keep moving forward with next steps and get her assembled. Best wishes for the remainder of the job. 🥸👍👀✅

[@garyfeltus9801]

Sounds good Matt. An I deal temp for a diesel is 200° but that's very hard to maintain that . Great job .

[@1971VoiceoftheMummy]

Nice Work! Great to see. This should get me motivated in rebuilding a couple of mopar 2.7s. Just need the time.

[@cember01]

The cab. I usually prefer the mechanical stuff, but I'm looking forward to seeing you clean up that roached out cab. Maybe because it's so dirty and beat up.

[@GolfingDon]

Matt, It was awesome to see her fire up. Spring is here! Well done. Looking forward to the rest of the rebuild.

[@milt7348]

Stay safe and we'll see you next time.

[@RuedigerEtzold]

Nice work, the engine sounds very good. 👍

[@phillipdean9879]

Hi Matt! Was I surprised that motor fired right up and run sweet? NO! Your work is awesome, your attention to detail is amazing! Great move getting Area Diesel Service to overhaul the pump. A diesels nothing without a good pump and injectors. With your attention that machines gonna be a ripper! Whatever you decide for your next video….im watching! 🇦🇺🍺🍺

[@thomasschleis2545]

Almost inspirational, but my wrenching days are over. That's why I watch you!

[@Dysiode]

That engine PURRS holy cow! As far what's next, honestly the Datsun sounds like a fun side project! Hopefully no complete engine rebuild needed!

[@thomasschleis2545]

Sure sounds nice - great work to get it there.

[@johneken2056]

Good job PNH. I have a Chinese two cylinder diesel with a forward/reverse gearbox meant for marine use. It's been in my basement since the '80s. It turns over but hasn't run since then. You give me hope...maybe I'll drag it out and....?

[@kahutochishisumi9056]

The most beautiful engine rebuild ever. 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏. Massive RESPECT, from Nagaland, India.

[@canadianpopeye8066]

We're back how sweet it is.

[@HorsleyLandy88]

That is now better than new, excellent work. Very thorough rebuild, looking forward to the rest of the refurbishment.

[@JohnMoore-xt3hz]

OMG ! It started first time and I guess no leftover parts! Well done.

[@ruperts23]

Omg! Pacific Northwest Hillbilly and CEE released their latest videos on the same day!!!

[@SuperMAZ007]

Fantastic job with the engine. The cost on finishing the engine is kind of what I would expect from a project like this.Not even cutting the labor costs cause that can ramp up the price by a lot. I think you should do the hydraulic motor and fuel tank cause these can become a issue. Maybe install back the some components cause the hydraulic lines and hoses will be a challenge of it's own. Doing something completely else for a change is also welcome in my book.

[@user-vv4wk2gh3b]

Wow! I don't think any diesel engine could have been rebuilt any better! You are definitely a professional at this! For regular oil use, I'd use Travellers from tractor supply. Really good oil at a really good price.

[@Ariel-om5fh]

That was worth the wait. Hydraulic pump, keep focused and get it all done.

[@michelgrenier1878]

Very good rebuild , But keep in mind , Heavy equipment is like airplanes and horses , It eats money !

[@docokd7oco443]

You will need to bracket that oil sensor pipe nipple. Vibration will break it off if you don't

[@PacificNorthwestHillbilly]

it is just temporary for the run stand, but you are right it would break eventually!

[@billyhaddock5540]

Congrats on finally getting ur motor to run great. lv this build.

[@allsysgo1]

Stuck in Boston!? Maybe a meet and greet at a local bar some evening this week would be cool!

[@billbergquist4722]

Wow!! Nice job on the engine. Sounds and runs better than new.

[@LuisRodriguez-sc1oq]

🇺🇲🇵🇷🇲🇽😎 Excellence series so far.. Get the machine complete and digging before you start a new project. Or the car, which is an old project. Charlie is so patient with you. She's a gem.... 😅

[@Steve765]

Good job Matt, I'd carry on with the excavator project and get it done.

[@ericperreault5911]

Good job! I am excited to see the engine done.

[@donaldwright6613]

Excellent job Matt.

[@goodness-mercy]

Beautiful job!!!!! Sounds awesome!!!!!!

[@rodneymacfarlane1707]

THANKS MATT YOU MUST FEEL VERY SATISFIED IN THIS REBUILD /I HOPE YOU CARRY ON WITH THIS PROJECT TILL ITS COMPLET/ THEN MOVE ONTO CAR PROJECT. CHEERS AND BEST WISHES TO YOU AND YOUR OFSIDER CHARLY.

[@ohmegroin]

So HERE is where the starship enterprise was born. You just changed the polarity in the engine room and away she went! 😀

[@alanm3438]

Thanks for the update video. I know that it took a lot of time and money to get this far. I know that there is a lot of work left to do. Hang in there. One day you will have it done.

[@derekloughlin4468]

Great job Matt engine sound awesome. Love the channel

[@KarateSensei71]

I love all your content Matt, I love seeing your dog enjoy time with Dad even more.

[@prodkey]

We of your fan base in Spokane salutes you sir! Well done

[@johnviney7919]

Good to hear the engine fire up and run so well, Matt!

[@art1muz13]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1492">24:52</a>, THAT LOOK, priceless! THANK YOU FOR SHARING!

[@GOAT_GOATERSON]

Yess, I would love to see you working on the hydraulic pump instead of the car, I like your excavator videos, I don't like cars so I probably wouldn't watch a video on that

[@tombauer7330]

Awesome achievement Matt! I couldn't believe it popped off like that but then I think of who overhauled it and am not surprised.

[@Continental1997]

Great work Matt!!

[@JohnChuprun]

Now you have an engine! Dont have to worry about that sucker for a long while

[@bobfeber1099]

I would glue the magnet in place regardless of how strong it is it'll just help hold it there over the years with the vibration and the banging

[@smokeybailey3080]

I know that gave you great satisfaction to hear it running

[@delliebodetko9246]

I started watching your videos when you was doing your dozer but yes, it’s always nerve-racking when you fire up a new engine, gas or diesel but congratulations man keep up the good work God bless!

[@Mike--WA7QZR]

Unlike a DC generator, you have to have the battery connected for the alternator to function correctly. The alternator has electromagnets that need to be energized before it will charge.

[@RobertFay]

*- How do you check to know what the hydraulic pump does need to be rebuild?* *- Since the pump is accessable for any needed maintance {O-rings, seals, barrings, etc.} or a rebuild, why not do it?* *- How much resale value does a Hydraulic Pump Rebuild add on top of the Motor Rebuild?* *- The returned value for your time is significant, I would think.* *- The return value you get for good content makes the time spent even more worthwhile.* *~ ~ ~ ~ ~* *- How hard is it to put in a new wiring harness...how expensive?* *- How hard/expensive is it to degrease and wash everything off and refurbish the whole cab?* *- Is a repaint worth it along the way to finished?* *- In twenty years I doubt it will have many hours on it and will still be almost new in value.*

[@cember01]

re difficulty installing wiring harness, he commented, to my surprise, that it wasn't all that difficult. I don't recall if he mentioned it in a video or response to a comment. It was several months back.

[@hudsonvalleyrailandriverandair]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="1527">25:27</a> congratulations young man 👨 👏 🙌 💙 ❤️ 💪 👨 👏

[@shortribslongbow5312]

Outstanding work! Kudos :o)

[@rowycoracing]

It runs great! Congratulations on reaching this milestone.

[@tveduk8r]

Matt, I love to follow your projects. I’m impressed by your dedication to detail. I’ve been working on equipment for over 50 years and I can’t believe how far you’ll go to get it “spot-on”. Most guys say “close is good enough” and it often is, but you don’t stop until it’s all on spec. I’d buy a machine you’ve reconditioned in a heart-beat! Please keep the content coming.

[@rayz5508]

A proximity sensor might be better as it only needs a metal target not a magnet, but the spacing may be more critical..

[@finjonz]

Pump rebuild would be good to see. In my line of work we only replace the pumps and send them away to be checked/rebuild so it would be nice to see a rebuild. Great work on the engine rebuild she purrs like a kitten.

[@iaam117]

If I could and you would, I would have you rebuild any engine I needed rebuilt. You are definitely a premium engine builder. You go the extra mile. It is very enjoyable to watch you work. Rebuild the pump. You have come this far. Your projects are built to last and therefore, have high value. Do you mind saying what you do for a living. I can't begin to guess.