C13 Engines for Caterpillar Built Machines Caterpillar

Fuel System Water Separator Has Water

Usage:

This procedure covers the following diagnostic codes:

Note: Some of the following codes may not be applicable for certain applications.

Clear all "Active" codes using Cat ET before proceeding with the following procedure. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Diagnostic Capabilities - Clearing Active Codes for On Board Diagnostics (OBD)" for more information on clearing "Active" codes.

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Table 1
Diagnostic Codes Table
CDL Code	Code Description	Comments
E232 (1)	High Fuel/Water Separator Water Level	A high level of water is detected in the water separators. If equipped, the action lamp will illuminate.
E232 (2)	High Fuel/Water Separator Water Level	A high level of water is detected in the water separators. The level in the water separator has been high for at least an hour. The operator needs to empty the water separator. The engine will be derated. If equipped, the action lamp will illuminate.

Note: Visually identifying the presence of water in the bowl may be impossible. Water may turn dark yellow in the fuel system. Differentiating the water from the fuel would then be difficult.

Troubleshooting Procedure

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Table 2
Troubleshooting Test Steps	Values	Results
1. Remove the Water from the Separator Bowl A. Turn the ignition key to the OFF position. B. Drain the fuel/water separator bowl. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Fuel System Primary Filter (Water Separator) - Drain". C. If necessary, prime the fuel system. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Fuel System - Prime". D. Turn the ignition key to the ON position. Do not start the engine. E.Wait for 1 minute. The "Water in Fuel" warning should disappear.	Water	Result: The "Water in Fuel" warning disappeared. Allow the engine to run for 5 minutes. If the "Water in Fuel" warning reappears, the fuel supply is contaminated with water. Drain the fuel tank and then fill the fuel tank with clean fuel. Return the unit to service. Result: The "Water in Fuel" warning did not disappear. Proceed to Test Step 2.
2. Check the Water Separator Switch for Correct Installation A. Check the engine to determine if a water separator switch is installed.	Sensor installed	Result: There is a water separator switch installed. Proceed to Test Step 3. Result: There is no water separator switch installed. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position. Connect Cat ET and select "Configuration". Select "Engine Configuration Parameters" then disable the water separator switch. Return to the unit service.
3. Check the Water Separator Switch and Harness A. Turn the keyswitch to the OFF position. B. Disconnect the harness. C. Create a short in the harness. D. Turn the keyswitch to the ON position.	Open or Short Circuit	Result: The "Water Separator Has Water" warning disappears. Replace the water separator switch. Return the unit to service. Result: The "Water Separator Has Water" warning did not disappear. Repair the wiring or replace the wiring.