3116 Truck Engine Caterpillar

Gauges and Indicators

Usage:

3116 2BK

Your engine may not have the same gauges or all of the gauges that are described. For more information about the gauge package, see the literature that is provided by the OEM.

Gauges provide indications of engine performance. Ensure that the gauges are in good working order. Determine the normal operating range by observing the gauges over a period of time.

Noticeable changes in gauge readings indicate potential gauge or engine problems. Problems may also be indicated by gauge readings that change even if the readings are within specifications. Determine the cause of any significant change in the readings. Then, correct any cause of any significant change in the readings. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.

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NOTICE

If no oil pressure is indicated, STOP the engine. Engine damage can result.

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Engine Oil Pressure - Typical oil pressure for an engine at rated speed with SAE 10W30 or with SAE 15W40 is 240 to 480 kPa (35 to 70 psi). Higher oil pressure is normal on start-up with cold oil. A lower oil pressure is normal at low idle. Oil pressure will increase and oil pressure will stabilize as the engine speed increases.

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Jacket Water Coolant Temperature - Typical temperature range is 88 to 102 °C (190 to 215 °F). The maximum allowable temperature with the pressurized cooling system is 105 °C (220 °F). Higher temperatures may occur under certain conditions. The water temperature reading may vary according to load. The reading should never exceed the boiling point for the pressurized system that is being used.

If the engine is operating above the normal range and steam becomes apparent, perform the following procedure:

Reduce the load and the engine rpm.
Inspect the cooling system for leaks.
Determine if the engine must be shut down immediately or if the engine can be cooled by reducing the load.

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NOTICE

Do not exceed 2900 rpm in any situation.

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Tachometer (If Equipped) - This gauge indicates engine speed. When the throttle control lever is moved to the full throttle position without load, the engine is running at high idle. The engine is running at the full load rpm when the throttle control lever is at the full throttle position with maximum rated load.

Note: The high idle rpm and the full load rpm are stamped on the Information Plate.

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Ammeter - This gauge indicates the amount of charge or of discharge in the battery charging circuit. Operation of the indicator should be to the right side of "0"(zero).

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Service Hour Meter - This gauge indicates the total number of clock hours that the engine has operated. Hours of operation are logged in the ECM. A service tool is needed to retrieve the hours from the ECM. A Service Hour Meter may be installed on the engine.

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Fuel Level - This gauge indicates the level of fuel in the fuel tank. The fuel level gauge registers the fuel level only when the ignition switch is in the ON position.