The computer program for the prediction of the volumetric efficiency of 4-cycle single cylinder diesel engine was developed using the characteristic method which considers the effects of friction, heat transfer and specific heat. The results of calculation by this program are as follows; 1. The back flowing was arised at the beginning and the closing stage of inlet valve, and the back flowing mass and velocity decrease as the engine speed increases. 2. The volumetric efficiency varies with the engine speed and the length of inlet manifold. There was an optimum length of inlet manifold for each specified engine speed. 3. The pressure fluctuation and friction effect in the inlet manifold became very important factors for the determination of the volumetric efficiency.