3408 TRUCK ENGINE Caterpillar

Starting the Engine

Usage:

Engines Equipped With Glow Plug Starting Aid

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Starting fluid is volatile and must be stored away from heat and direct sunlight. If an aerosol container is used, follow the instructions on the container.

1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL (and disengage the flywheel clutch, if so equipped).

2. Move throttle to low idle.

3. Turn the key switch to ON.

4. Turn the HEAT-START switch to HEAT or START, as indicated by the chart.

5. After the indicated heat time, move the switch to the START position, and if starting fluid is necessary, discharge the starting fluid capsule or spray starting fluid into the air cleaner inlet. (If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the starter switch and wait 2 minutes to allow the starter motor to cool before using it again.)

6. As soon as the engine starts, allow the engine to idle 3 to 5 minutes or until the water temperature gauge has begun to rise. In cold temperature, turn the HEAT-START switch to the HEAT position until the engine runs smoothly at low idle.

7. Do not apply load to the engine or increase engine speed until the oil pressure registers on the gauge. (Oil pressure should raise to normal within 15 seconds after the engine starts.)

8. Operate the engine at low load until all systems reach operating temperatures. Check all gauges during warm-up period.

Engines Not Equipped With Glow Plug Starting Aid

Caterpillar truck engines with direct injection (DI) are designed to start at temperatures above 10°F (-12°C) without using starting aids. If the temperature is below 10°F (-12°C), a starting aid may be necessary and/or crankcase oil may need to be heated. Jacket water heaters are often used to assist starting in cold temperatures.

1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL (and disengage the flywheel clutch, if so equipped).

2. Move the throttle to low idle.

3. Turn the starter switch to START. (If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the starter switch and wait 2 minutes to allow the starter motor to cool before using it again.)

4. As soon as the engine starts, allow the engine to idle for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the water temperature gauge has begun to rise.

5. Do not apply load to the engine or increase engine speed until the oil pressure gauge indicates normal. (Oil pressure should raise within 15 seconds after the engine starts.)

6. Operate the engine at low load until all systems reach operating temperatures. Check all gauges during the warm-up period.

Gauges

Gauges provide a "look" inside the engine. Be sure they are in good working order. You can determine what is "normal" operating range by observing the gauges over a period of time. The cause of any sudden or significant change in the readings should be determined and corrected.

Indicates the level of fuel in the tank. Electrically operated, it registers only when the key switch is ON.

Indicator should register in the NORMAL (green) range. When the filter element becomes clogged, the indicator moves to OUT (red) 20 psi (140 kPa). When indicator registers below 20 psi, wash the primary fuel filter and replace the secondary fuel filter element.

Indicates the rate of battery charge or discharge.

Indicates engine RPM.

Registers between 45 and 70 psi (310 and 480 kPa) when the engine is running at rated engine speed, with SAE 30 oil, at operating temperature. A lower pressure is normal at low idling speeds. If no pressure is indicated, stop the engine immediately.