Usage:
Cooling
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Never add coolant to an overheated engine; allow the engine to cool first. Check specific gravity of antifreeze solution frequently in cold weather to assure adequate protection. When permanent antifreeze and water solutions are used in the cooling system, the solution should be drained and replaced "EVERY 100,000 MILES or 2,500 SERVICE HOURS." The cooling system should contain a 3% concentration of Caterpillar Cooling System Conditioner, Cooling System Elements, or equivalent, at all times regardless of concentration of antifreeze. Do not use Caterpillar Cooling System Conditioner with Dowtherm 209 coolant. |
If the truck is to be stored or used in an area with below freezing temperatures, the cooling system must be protected to the lowest expected ambient temperature.
Operate with a thermostat in the cooling system all year-round. Cooling system problems can arise without a thermostat.
Use clean water that is low in scale forming minerals, not softened water. Add Caterpillar Cooling System Conditioner, Cooling System Elements, or equivalent, to the water to provide corrosion protection. Follow the recommendations on the container for the quantity required.
Whenever draining and refilling the cooling system, always recheck the coolant level when the engine reaches normal operating temperature.
Filling at over 5 U.S. gallons (19 liters) per minute can cause air pockets in the cooling system.
Premix antifreeze solution to provide protection to the lowest expected ambient temperature. Pure undiluted antifreeze will freeze at -10°F (-23°C).
Electrical
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When using jumper cables to start the engine, be sure to connect in parallel: POSITIVE (+) to POSITIVE (+) and NEGATIVE (-) to NEGATIVE (-). When using external electrical source to start the engine, turn the disconnect switch off and remove the key before attaching jumper cables. |
Scheduled Oil Sampling
Use Scheduled Oil Sampling to monitor truck condition and maintenance requirements. Each oil sample should be taken when the oil is hot and well mixed to ensure a sample which is representative of the oil in the compartment. Consult your authorized Caterpillar engine dealer for complete information and assistance in establishing a scheduled oil sampling program for your truck.
Fuel
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Fill the fuel tank at the end of each day of operation to drive out moisture laden air and to prevent condensation. Do not fill the tank completely full. The fuel expands when it gets warm and may overflow. |
Water and sediment should be drained from the fuel tank at the start of each shift or after the fuel tank has been filled and allowed to stand for 5 to 10 minutes. Drain the fuel tank of moisture and sediment as required by prevailing conditions.
After changing the fuel filters, always blend the fuel system to remove air bubbles.
Service fuel filters at regular intervals determined by fuel conditions.
General
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Accumulated grease and oil on the engine is a fire hazard. Remove this debris with steam cleaning or high pressure water, at least every 1000 hours or each time any significant quantity of oil is spilled on the engine. |
Wipe all fittings, caps and plugs before servicing.