- Active codes and logged codes
- Incorrect parameters
- Restriction in the air inlet and exhaust system
- Unstable fuel supply
- Unstable fuel injection
- Engine accessories
- Parasitic loads
Note: The procedures have been listed in order of probability. Complete the procedures in order.
Check for active diagnostic codes on Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET). Troubleshoot any active codes before continuing with this procedure.
Use Cat ET to verify that the correct parameters are being used. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Configuration Parameters" for the proper information.
Restriction in the Air Inlet and Exhaust System
- Observe the check engine lamp. Check for an air filter restriction indicator. Clean plugged air filters or replace plugged air filters. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual.
- Check the air inlet and exhaust system for restrictions and/or leaks.
- Visually check the fuel level in the fuel tank. Do not rely on the fuel gauge only.
- Ensure that the fuel supply valve (if equipped) is in the full OPEN position.
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Contact with high pressure fuel may cause fluid penetration and burn hazards. High pressure fuel spray may cause a fire hazard. Failure to follow these inspection, maintenance and service instructions may cause personal injury or death.
- Inspect the fuel system. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System" for additional information.
- Cold weather adversely affects the characteristics of the fuel. Refer to the engines Operation and Maintenance Manual for information on improving the characteristics of the fuel during cold-weather operation.
- Check fuel quality. Check the fuel tank for debris or foreign objects which may block the fuel supply.
- Check the filtered fuel pressure while the engine is being cranked.
If the fuel pressure is low, replace the fuel filters. Clean the primary filter/water separator of debris. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual for details.
Also, check for the proper operation of the fuel transfer pump.
- Perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" on Cat ET in order to determine if all of the injector solenoids are being energized by the Electronic Control Module (ECM).
- Access the "Cylinder Cutout Test" in the "Diagnostic Tests" under the "Diagnostics" menu. Perform the "Automatic Cylinder Cutout Test".
Diagnose the problem and then repair the problem. Clear all logged diagnostic codes. Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.
Inspect any engine accessories and the transmission (if applicable). Repair any problems that may create excessive load on the engine.