Diesel help needed to score a 'new' 327

[Zeke's Garage]

I know this is a stretch for this forum, but I'll roll the dice..

My dad who is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer's, has parked in front of one his garages, a Case 580 D Construction King backhoe. It's been there for nearly 6 years and hasn't been touched. He was a heavy equipment mechanic for a living, but I was more interested in the cars, and never learned a thing about diesels. I have a decent understanding of hydraulics, and I can however operate it, so getting it started and running is my main hurdle.

Anyway, I need to get it started and moved because it's blocking in two crated 327s and other various parts, which I need for my truck, and some of my Mom's pool furniture. You can guess which is more important... even after 6 years.

Anyway, Can anyone give me some simple steps for starting up a diesel that has sat for a few years? I've got a general plan that includes:

1. Draining and replacing the fuel
2. Replacing the fuel filter(s) <- need to verify types and locations
3. Checking the hydraulic fluid <- Not sure where this is done yet though
4. Charging/replacing the battery, verifying electrical
5. Priming the fuel system <- is this necessary? Or will the pump do it just fine during cranking? I always heard goofy things about older diesels being run dry.

I appreciate any insight anyone may have. I'm headed over with a couple of charged batteries, Diesel, and a pile of keys I found in his shop. I'm sure one of them will be for the backhoe..


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Shawn