Probable Causes
- Cold mode
- Engine derate or active codes
- Programmable parameters
- Throttle position signal
- Fuel supply
- Air inlet and exhaust system
- Inlet manifold pressure
- Rack controls
- Electrical connectors
Recommended Actions
Note: If the problem only occurs under certain conditions, test the engine under those conditions. Examples of certain conditions are high engine speed, full load, and engine operating temperature. Troubleshooting the symptoms under other conditions can give misleading results.
Cold Mode
The Electronic Control Module (ECM) limits engine power during cold mode operation. The ECM may cut out certain engine cylinders. This will increase startability, and this will reduce warm-up time. Cold mode is activated whenever the engine coolant temperature falls below a predetermined value. Cold mode remains active until the engine has warmed, or a time limit is exceeded.
Engine Derate or Active Codes
Some engine monitoring parameters that are capable of triggering an engine derate do not produce an event code. Connect Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET) in order to check for a derate of the engine.
Certain diagnostic codes may cause poor performance. Use Cat ET to check for active codes and for logged codes. Troubleshoot any codes that are present before you continue with this procedure.
Note: Although a sensor's signal may be in the operational range of the sensor, the signal may not represent the actual reading. Use Cat ET to check that the pressures and the temperatures are fluctuating. Also, check that the values are reasonable for the conditions that are present.
Programmable Parameters
Record the full load settings and the full torque settings. The settings should be programmed to the values on the engine information plate. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Programmable Parameters" for more information.
Throttle Position Signal
Monitor the status for "Throttle Position" on Cat ET. Verify that the status for "Throttle Position" is stable and that the engine is able to reach high idle speed. If a problem is suspected with the throttle, refer to the appropriate troubleshooting procedure for troubleshooting the throttle signal.
Fuel Supply
- Visually check the fuel level in the fuel tank. Do not rely on the fuel gauge only. If necessary, add fuel to the fuel tank. If the engine has been run out of fuel, it will be necessary to purge the air from the fuel system. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual for the correct procedure.
- 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.
- Check the fuel tank for debris or foreign objects which may block the fuel supply.
| 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. |
- Prime the fuel system if any of the following procedures have been performed:
- Replacement of the fuel filters
- Service on the low pressure fuel supply circuit
Note: Check the fuel system for air. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for information that is related to checking the fuel system for air.
- Replacement of the fuel filters
- Check fuel quality. Cold weather adversely affects the characteristics of the fuel. Refer to the engine's Operation and Maintenance Manual for information on improving the characteristics of the fuel during cold weather operation.
- Check the filtered fuel pressure while the engine is being cranked. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for the test procedure and for the correct pressure values.
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.
If the fuel pressure is still low, check the operation of the fuel pressure regulating valve. Also, check for the proper operation of the fuel transfer pump. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for test information.
Air Inlet and Exhaust System
- Check for an air filter restriction. 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. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for information on inspecting the air inlet and exhaust system.
Inlet Manifold Pressure
Check the inlet manifold pressure sensor for proper operation. The calibration should also be checked. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Inlet Manifold Pressure - Test" for troubleshooting procedures.
Rack Controls
Check the rack solenoid for proper operation. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Fuel Rack Solenoid - Test" for troubleshooting procedures. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Fuel Control - Test" in order to troubleshoot the dynamic rack controls. Also, refer to Troubleshooting, "Sensor Signal (Analog, Active) - Test" for procedures to troubleshoot the rack position sensor.
Electrical Connectors
Check for correct installation of the J14/P14 ECM connector. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Electrical Connectors - Inspect".