Caterpillar Inc. truck engines are certified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in order to comply with exhaust emission standards and gaseous emission standards that are prescribed by Federal laws at the time of manufacture.
Efficiency of the emission control and the engine performance depends on adherence to proper operation and maintenance recommendations and use of recommended fuels and lubricating oils. According to recommendations, major adjustments and repairs should be made by your authorized Caterpillar dealer.
Various chemical fuel additives which claim to reduce visible smoke are available commercially. Although additives have been used to solve some isolated smoke problems in the field, additives are not recommended for general use. The engines should be certified without smoke depressants according to federal smoke regulations.
Take corrective steps immediately after worn parts which may affect emission levels are discovered in order to ensure the proper operation of the emission control systems. The use of genuine Caterpillar parts is recommended. Suppliers of non-Caterpillar parts must ensure the owner that the use of such parts will not adversely affect emission levels.
Regular maintenance intervals with a special emphasis on the following items are necessary in order to keep exhaust emissions within acceptable limits for the useful life of the engine. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Severe Service Application - Check" topic (Maintenance Section). If the engine is operating under severe conditions, adjust the maintenance schedule accordingly. See your authorized Caterpillar dealer in order to help analyze your specific application, operating environment and maintenance schedule adjustments.
The following information is an explanation of maintenance items for emission related components. See the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Maintenance Interval Schedule" (Maintenance Section) for the specific interval for the following items.
UNIT INJECTORS - Unit injectors are subject to tip wear as a result of fuel contamination. This damage can cause the following conditions: an increase in fuel consumption, black smoke, misfire and rough running engine. The unit injector should be inspected, tested and replaced, if necessary. Unit injectors can be tested by an authorized Caterpillar truck engine dealer.
TURBOCHARGER - Check for any unusual sound or vibration in the turbocharger. Inspect the inlet piping and connections and inspect the exhaust piping and connections. Check the condition of the bearing. Perform the maintenance that is described in the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Maintenance Interval Schedule" (Maintenance Section).
AIR/FUEL RATIO CONTROL - This component is a device that is designed to control the black smoke emission of an engine during the engine's operation when low inlet manifold pressure exists.
Slow engine response and low power may indicate a need for adjustment or repair. Your Caterpillar dealer is equipped with the necessary tools, personnel and procedures in order to perform this service.
The owner is encouraged to keep adequate maintenance records. However, the absence of such records will not invalidate the warranty. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Maintenance Log" (Reference Materials Section).
The vehicle owner may perform routine maintenance, repairs and other work that is outside of the warranty. The work may be done at any repair facility. Such work does not need to be performed at a designated station that is determined by the warranty in order for the warranty to remain in force.
Customer Assistance (Emission Control Systems Warranty)
Caterpillar Inc. intends to ensure that the Emission Control Systems warranty is properly administered. If you do not receive adequate warranty service under the Emission Control Systems Warranty, call or write to the following address:
Caterpillar Inc.Manager, Truck Engine Business
P.O. Box 0600 Mossville, IL 61552
Phone 309-578-6288
Authorized dealers are recommended for major maintenance and for repair work. Authorized dealers are staffed with trained personnel and proper tools. Authorized dealers are aware of the latest maintenance methods and procedures. If owners or other persons desire to perform the work, a Service Manual should be purchased and current service information should be obtained from a Caterpillar dealer.
Refer to the TEPS Directory for information regarding an authorized dealer or call the following toll free number:
1-800-447-4986