3406E, C-10 and C-12 Truck Engines Caterpillar

These engines use a cold start strategy that limits power until the coolant temperature reaches 28 °C (82 °F). This cold start strategy is called cold mode. The electronic system will automatically idle the C-10 and C-12 engines at 800 RPM. The electronic system will automatically idle 3406E engines at 600 RPM. Cold mode will also vary the fuel injection amount, the timing for the maximum start-up, and the timing for the control of white smoke. Cold mode will provide reduced emissions and reduced warm-up times. Cold mode will be disabled and the engine rpm will drop to the programmed low idle speed if the throttle, the service brake, or the clutch is depressed.

The engine should be operated at low rpm and low power demand until the engine reaches normal operating temperature. The engine will reach normal operating temperature faster when the engine is operated at low rpm and low power demand instead of idling the engine until the engine reaches normal operating temperature.

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NOTICE
A truck should not be moved until it is out of the cold mode. If the truck is operated while in cold mode, power will be noticeably reduced.