Fuel that is leaking, fuel that is spilled onto hot surfaces, and fuel that is spilled onto electrical components can cause a fire.
Store all fuels and lubricants in properly marked containers and away from all unauthorized persons.
Store all oily rags or other flammable material in a protective container.
Do not weld pipes that contain flammable fluids or tubes that contain flammable fluids. Do not flame cut pipes that contain flammable fluids or tubes that contain flammable fluids. Clean the pipes or tubes thoroughly with nonflammable solvent before you weld the pipes or tubes or you flame cut the pipes or tubes.
Remove all flammable materials (fuel, oil, debris, etc) before the flammable materials accumulate on the machine.
Shields protect hot exhaust components from oil spray or fuel spray. Make sure that the shields are installed correctly in case a line, a tube, or a seal fails.
A fire extinguisher should be available in case of a fire. Know the correct operating procedure for the fire extinguisher. Follow the recommended procedure on the fire extinguisher's instruction plate for the inspection and/or servicing of the fire extinguisher.
Do not bend high pressure lines or do not strike high pressure lines. Do not install lines, tubes, or hoses that are bent or damaged.
Repair any lines, tubes, and hoses that are loose or damaged. Leaks can cause fires. See your Caterpillar dealer for repair or for replacement parts.
Check lines, tubes and hoses carefully. Do not use your bare hand to check for leaks. Use a board or cardboard to check for leaks. See Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Fluid Penetration" in this section for more details. Tighten all connections to the recommended torque.
Replace the parts if any of the following conditions are present:
- The end fittings are damaged or leaking.
- The outer covering is chafed or cut.
- The outer covering is ballooning locally.
- The flexible part of the hose is kinked or crushed.
- The armoring is embedded in the outer cover.
- The end fittings are displaced.
Make sure that all clamps, guards, and heat shields are installed correctly. During the operation of the machine, this will help to prevent vibration, the rubbing of other parts, and excessive heat.