Usage:
Perform required periodic maintenance before starting the engine. Make a "walk-around" check of the installation. It takes only a few minutes to correct minor discrepancies that can develop into major repair jobs.
Pre-Start Checks
- 1. Correct any leaks, loose bolts or covers, and obstructions. The fan and radiator must be clear of restrictions.
- 2. Check the coolant level. The radiator must be full to the bottom of the filler neck.
OIL LEVEL
- 3. The crankcase oil level must be above the ADD mark on the dipstick.
- 4. Disconnect any battery chargers that are not protected against the starter current drain.
- 5. All guards must be in place. If guards are inadequate or in need of repair, notify your supervisor.
If an engine has not been run for several weeks, fuel may have drained from or air accumulated in the filter housing. When fuel filters have been changed, some air space will be left in the housing. In these instances, prime the fuel system until pressure registers on the gauge.
Starting Procedure
Electric Start
- 1. Open the fuel supply valve. The fuel return line must be open to prevent engine damage.
- 2. Disengage the clutch or open the circuit breaker. Do not start an engine under load.
- 3. Move the controls to half engine speed position or to limiter stop. Push in on the center knob and simultaneously pull back the control knob.
OPERATING GOVERNOR CONTROL
- 4. Turn the start switch to START position. Start the engine using starting aids as necessary.
If the engine fails to start after 30 seconds of cranking, allow the starter to cool for two minutes before repeating the starting procedure.
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Do not engage the starter when the flywheel is moving. |
- 5. As the engine starts, release the start switch. It will return to the RUN position.
Clearances and tolerances are designed for operating conditions - including operating temperature. After the engine is started it takes several minutes to establish the lubricating oil film and allow the moving parts to heat up and expand. Loading a cold engine will cause shortened service life; i.e., broken rings, seized pistons, etc. This warm up period allows time for another "walk-around" check for leaks, etc.
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Do not attempt repairs or adjustments while the engine is running. |
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Cold Weather Starting
These engines are designed to start at temperatures above 10°F without using starting aids. If temperature is below 10°F, a starting aid may be necessary and/or crankcase oil may need to be heated.
ETHER - Ether is much more volatile than diesel fuel and is used to start combustion of the fuel-air mixture.
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Ether is volatile and must be stored away from heat and direct sunlight. See the instructions on the container. |
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Engine mounted either dispensers are available commercially. Aerosol cans can also be used. Point the can opening at the air inlet and give a quick spray while cranking the engine. Too much ether will cause excessively high pressure and detonation. Liquid ether can be used by pouring a small amount on a cloth and holding the cloth in front of the air cleaner while the engine is cranking. Be sure the cloth is outside the air cleaner and cannot be drawn into the engine.
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DO NOT use ether after the engine has started. DO NOT inhale ether fumes. |
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In extremely cold climates, additional aids such as water heaters and battery heaters may be used. Contact your Caterpillar dealer before installing submersible crankcase oil heaters.