Usage:
Proper operation and maintenance are key factors in obtaining the maximum life and economy of a truck engine. Follow the directions in this guide for troublefree, economical truck engine operation.
After the engine starts, allow it to idle 3 to 5 minutes, or until the water temperature has begun to rise.
Select the lowest gear for a smooth, easy start without slipping the clutch. Rapid engine acceleration causes high fuel consumption and heavy exhaust smoke, with no increase in vehicle performance. For the best performance, do not skip gears when loaded.
Shift early in the RPM rise. When the engine speed approaches 80% of rated RPM, shift into the next highest gear.
Continue to upshift until cruising speed is reached. For the best fuel economy, use the highest gear that will pull the load. The governor will maintain a constant speed without accelerator pedal correction.
On upgrades, begin downshifting when the engine RPM starts to approach peak torque speed. Downshift until a gear is reached which the engine will pull the load. For best performance, downshift when the engine RPM falls to 80% of rated RPM.
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On a downgrade, do not coast or put the transmission in neutral. Select the correct gear to keep the engine speed below high idle. A simple rule to follow is to select the same gear that would be used to go up the grade. Do not allow the engine speed to exceed high idle. |
Cold Weather Operation
If the engine is in good mechanical condition, and the precautions necessary for cold weather operation are taken, ordinary cold weather will not cause difficulty in starting, or loss of efficiency.
If the engine fails to start, and smoke is coming from the exhaust, turn the switch to the heat position for a longer period. If no smoke is coming from the exhaust, prime the fuel system.
LUBRICANTS: When it becomes necessary to start the engine in temperatures below 32°F, engine lubricants of lower viscosity should be used.
COOLANT: When the temperature is below freezing, use sufficient antifreeze solution in the cooling system to prevent freezing.
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT: During cold weather, give more attention to the condition of the battery. Test it frequently to assure sufficient power for starting. All switches and connections in the electrical system should be inspected, and kept in good condition, to prevent losses through improper contacts.
FUEL: Cloud point is the temperature at which wax crystals become visible, which is generally above the pour point of the fuel. To keep the fuel filter elements from plugging with wax crystals, the cloud point should be no higher than the lowest atmospheric temperature at which the engine must start.
Altitude Operation
Turbocharger speed is determined by the fuel rack setting; the high idle speed and the altitude at which the engine is operated. The rack and high idle speed settings have been established to permit the engine to be operated at the altitude marked on the information plate.
If the engine is operated above the specified altitude, turbocharger damage can result.
The governor housing and turbocharger are sealed for your protection. Changes to the fuel rack setting, or high idle speed, should be made only by an authorized Caterpillar engine dealer.
