Follow these basic instructions whenever you are operating the machine:
- To prevent injury, make sure that no one is working on the machine or near the machine. Always maintain control of the machine.
- Before you release the parking brake, depress the service brake pedal in order to keep the machine from moving.
- For maximum stability and visibility, drive the machine forward with the work tool low to the ground and high enough to negotiate any obstacles.
- Reduce the engine speed when you maneuver in tight quarters and when you are going over a hill.
Machine Operating Temperature Range
The standard machine configuration is intended for use within an ambient temperature range of
Special configurations for different ambient temperatures may be available. If the machine is operated in low temperature conditions, there may be options available that will aid in starting the engine. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Engine Starting" for more information. If the machine is operated in high temperature conditions, a High Ambient Temperature Cooling Package is available. Consult your Cat dealer for additional information on special configurations of your machine.
Do not block, or obstruct, the grills used for engine airflow. These grills can be located on the top, rear, and sides of the machine. Obstructions to these grills will impede airflow and impact the operating temperature range of your machine.
Illustration 1 | g02502338 |
Typical example of the grills used for engine airflow. |
Note: The only suitable location to affix a sign to the rear radiator grill is in the center of the grill, directly behind the fan motor.
Before you start down a hill or grade, select the proper gear to maintain a proper ground speed. Select a speed that is slow enough for the grade and conditions. In most situations, the proper gear will be the same gear that is required to drive up the grade. The proper gear should allow the machine to maintain the appropriate speed without continuous use of the brakes. Use the service brake pedal or the engine brake (if equipped) in order to slow the machine until a lower gear can be selected. The engine speed should be in the mid range to maintain proper cooling and lubrication of the machine systems and not over speed the engine.
If the machine builds up excessive speed, the engine can over speed. Engine over speed can result in damage to the engine, the hydraulic pump and /or the power train.
Using the service brake pedal continuously to control travel speed of the machine on a grade can cause the brake discs and axle oil to overheat. This use of the service brake can result in significant wear and /or damage to the service brakes and final drives.
Note: The impeller clutch/brake pedal should not be used for downhill braking. Using the impeller clutch/brake pedal will disengage the engine from the power train. This action will increase the load on the service brakes, increasing the risk of significant wear and/or damage to the service brakes and final drives.
When operating a new machine or after replacing the pinion shaft bearings, operate the machine by loading or by digging for 15 hours in first gear or in second gear. Do not operate the machine in third gear during the break-in period. The machine should be stopped at every half mile for 30 minutes and the speed of the machine should be varied if the machine must be moved from the assembly position to the work area. Failure to properly break in your machine may result in premature failure of components.