Engine Operating Software Caterpillar

Problem:

Two existing problems follow:

1. When the boat's ignition switch is turned to the ON position the engine's air inlet heater is also activated. The air inlet heater will NOT deactivate after 30 seconds if the ignition is left in the ON position. If the ignition is left in the ON position, the air inlet heater will continue to draw current from the boat's batteries and cause them to become discharged. The heater ribbon could also be damaged.

2. When the boat's ignition switch is turned to the ON position, "Active Codes" are not displayed on Electronic Technician (ET), as is common with other electronic engines.

Solution:

New flash files are available in SIS WEB that will cause the air inlet heater to deactivate after 30 seconds if the ignition is left in the ON position. The new flash files will also allow "Active Codes" to be displayed when the ignition is in the ON position.

The 3126B 420HP flash file number is 203-4002 and for the 3126B 450HP the flash file is 203-4003.

GENERAL COMMENTS:

The air inlet heater cycle is in the Systems Operation Testing and Adjusting Manual, RENR2248-01, "3126B Marine Engine", but some of the information is not correct.

When the air inlet heater is operating properly, the following will happen:

1. Before starting the engine, turn the key switch to the on position for 30 seconds.

2. Start the engine. The voltmeter could drop down to 10 volts, depending on the size of batteries in the boat.

3. The air inlet heater will stay on continuously for 5 minutes.

4. The heater will then cycle on for 10 seconds and off for 10 seconds for 15 minutes.

5. If at any time the engine coolant reaches 120° F (49° C) during the first 5 minute period (see Step 3) or the 15 minute period (see Step 4), the air inlet heater will turn off.

The rework will be covered by standard warranty.

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