C18 Marine Engines Caterpillar


Engine Top Speed Is Not Obtained

Usage:

C18 J2K
Note: If this problem occurs only under load, refer to Troubleshooting, "Power Is Intermittently Low or Power Cutout Is Intermittent".

Probable Causes

  • Configuration parameters

  • Diagnostic codes and events

  • Trolling mode switch and slow vessel mode switch

  • Intake manifold pressure sensor

  • Fuel supply

  • Air inlet and exhaust system

  • Accessory equipment

Recommended Actions

Configuration Parameters

Use Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET) to check for the correct settings of the configuration parameters. Check that the engine is configured correctly for your application. Check the settings of the following parameters: , "Maximum Trolling Engine Speed" and "Secondary Throttle Enable Status". Refer to Troubleshooting, "Configuration Parameters" for details.

Diagnostic Codes and Events

Use Cat ET to check for logged derates. The engine speed or the engine power may be limited due to one of the following conditions: high intake manifold air temperature, low oil pressure, air filter restriction and other factors. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Event Codes List" for the specific events that are applicable to this application.

Trolling Mode Switch and Slow Vessel Mode Switch

Ensure that either of these switches are not the cause of this complaint. Check that the switches are not in the ON position.

Monitor the switch status for the switches on Cat ET. Verify that the switch status is stable during engine operation. During the test, wiggle the harnesses from the ECM to each of the switches in order to check for an intermittent electrical problem.

If an intermittent electrical problem is suspected with a switch or the circuit, refer to Troubleshooting, "Switch Circuits - Test" for troubleshooting information.

Intake Manifold Pressure Sensor

  1. Monitor the status of "Fuel Position", of "Rated Fuel Limit", and of "FRC Fuel Limit" on Cat ET while the engine is operating under full load. These parameters must reflect the information below.

    Table 1
    "Fuel Position" = "Rated Fuel Limit"
    and
    "Fuel Position" < "FRC Fuel Limit" 

    If "Fuel Position" equals "Rated Fuel Limit" and "Fuel Position" is less than "FRC Fuel Limit", the electronics are operating correctly. Otherwise, proceed with the next Step.

  2. Use Cat ET in order to monitor the status of the "Boost Pressure". With the engine stopped, the correct "Boost Pressure" is 0 kPa (0 psi).

  3. Start the engine and monitor the status of "Boost Pressure" while you vary the engine speed. Ensure that the pressure reading is fluctuating with the engine speed.

Fuel Supply

  1. Check the fuel lines for the following problems: restrictions, collapsed lines and pinched lines. If problems are found with the fuel lines, repair the lines and/or replace the lines.

  2. Check the fuel tank for foreign objects or debris which may block the fuel supply.

  3. Prime the fuel system if any of the following items have been serviced recently:

    • Fuel filters

    • Low pressure fuel supply circuit

    • Unit injectors

    Note: A sight glass in the low pressure supply line is helpful in diagnosing air in the fuel. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Air in Fuel - Test" for more information.


    NOTICE

    Do not crank the engine continuously for more than 30 seconds. Allow the starting motor to cool for two minutes before cranking the engine again.


  4. Cold weather adversely affects the characteristics of the fuel. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual for information on improving the characteristics of the fuel during cold weather operation.

  5. Check the fuel pressure during engine cranking. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System" for the correct procedure. If the fuel pressure is below specifications, replace the fuel filters. If this does not correct the problem, check for the proper operation of the following items: fuel transfer pump, fuel pressure relief valve and fuel pressure regulator valve.

Air Inlet and Exhaust System

  1. Check for an air filter restriction indicator. Clean plugged air filters or replace plugged air filters. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual.

  2. Check the air inlet and exhaust system for restrictions and/or leaks. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Air Inlet and Exhaust System".

Accessory Equipment

Check all accessory equipment for problems that may create excessive load on the engine. Make the necessary repairs to damaged components. Replace parts, if necessary.

Caterpillar Information System:

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