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.
A red "Warning" lamp should be installed. The red "Warning" lamp warns the operator of engine problems.
The following conditions are some examples of the problems:
- Low oil pressure
- High coolant temperature
- Low coolant level
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Be ready to activate the engine shutoff manually, if there is no oil pressure. Damage to the engine will result if the engine continues to run without the correct oil pressure. |
| Engine Oil Pressure - Typical oil pressure for an engine at rated speed with SAE 10W30 or with SAE 15W40 should not exceed 380 kPa (55 psi). |
A lower oil pressure is normal at low idle. If the load is stable and the gauge reading changes, perform the following procedure:
- Remove the load.
- Reduce engine speed to low idle.
- Shut down the engine and allow time for the oil to settle back into the engine oil pan.
- Check the oil level. Maintain the oil level at the proper amount.
| Engine Oil Temperature - This gauge indicates the engine oil temperature. Maximum oil temperature at rated speed with a full load is 115° to 120°C (240° to 248°F). |
| Jacket Water Coolant Temperature - Typical temperature range is 80° to 90°C (176° to 194°F). The audible alarm will activate at the following temperature 94° to 96° C (200° to 205° 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.
| Tachometer - 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. |
| NOTICE |
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Engine overspeed may cause serious damage. Keep the tachometer indicator in the green operating range. |
Note: The high idle rpm and the full load rpm are stamped on the Information Plate.
| 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). |
| Service Hour Meter - The service hour meter indicates the total number of clock hours on the engine. |
| Fuel Level - This gauge indicates the fuel level in the fuel tank. The electrically operated fuel level gauge will register the fuel level in the tank when the "START/STOP" switch is in the "ON" position. |