- Engine:
- 3024 (S/N: 4RF1-UP)
- Generator Set:
- C2.2 GEN SET (S/N: E6K1-UP)
- Industrial Engine:
- 3024C (S/N: G4P1-UP; 4241-UP)
- C2.2 (S/N: NCB1-UP; XYE1-UP; TAG1-UP; G7L1-UP; C4M1-UP; C6M1-UP; G7M1-UP)
In cold temperatures that are anticipated or expected, it is critical to ensure use of the correct oil grade. Failure to use the correct grade of engine oil for the minimum ambient temperature may result in engine wear that is accelerated. This can lead to engine damage or reduced engine life.
The correct SAE viscosity grade of oil is determined by the following:
- The maximum ambient temperature during engine operation
- The minimum ambient temperature for the cold engine soak or cold engine start-up
Note: The minimum of these two values should be used.
Refer to table 1 (maximum temperature) in order to select the oil viscosity for engine operation at the highest ambient temperature that is anticipated.
Refer to table 1 (minimum temperature). This will determine the required oil viscosity for anticipated cold soak or cold engine start-up throughout the night, for example.
Note: Use the highest oil viscosity that is available to enable the engine oil to meet the required temperature at cold soak or engine start-up.
| Lubricant Viscosities for Ambient Temperatures for Cat Machine Diesel Engines. (1) (2) (3) | ||
| Ambient Temperature | ||
| Viscosity Grade | Minimum | Maximum |
| SAE 0W-30 | −40 °C (−40 °F) | 30 °C (86 °F) |
| SAE 0W-40 | −40 °C (−40 °F) |
40 °C (104 °F) |
| SAE 5W-30 | −30 °C (−22 °F) |
30 °C (86 °F) |
| SAE 5W-40 | −30 °C (−22 °F) |
50 °C (122 °F) |
| SAE 10W-30 | −18 °C (0 °F) |
40 °C (104 °F) |
| SAE 10W-40 | −18 °C (0 °F) |
50 °C (122 °F) |
| SAE 15W-40 | −9.5 °C (15 °F) |
50 °C (122 °F) |
| ( 1 ) | To determine the correct oil for the engine, refer to Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations, "Engine Oil". |
| ( 2 ) | Supplemental heat is recommended for cold soaked starts below the minimum ambient temperature. Supplemental heat may be required for cold soaked starts that are above the minimum temperature that is stated, depending on the parasitic load and other factors. Cold soaked starts occur if the engine has not been operated for a period of time. This allows the oil to become more viscous due to cooler ambient temperatures. |
If the viscosity of the oil is changed for colder weather, also change the filter element. If the filter is not changed, the filter element and the filter housing can become a solid mass. After you change the oil, operate the equipment in order to circulate the oil of a lower viscosity.
Supplemental heat
The use of a starting aid is a conventional method of assistance for cold starts in low temperature conditions. A variety of starting aids are available for Caterpillar engines. For 3024C and C2.2 engines, glow plugs are used under all normal starting conditions. Table 2 shows the recommended operation time for the glow plugs for a set of temperature ranges.
| 3024C and C2.2 engines | |
|---|---|
| Ambient temperature | Preheat time for the glow plugs |
| Greater than 0° C (32° F) |
6 seconds |
0° to −18° C (32° to 0° F) |
10 seconds |
−19° C (−2° F) or less |
30 seconds |
Additional heat may be required if the ambient temperature is −27° C (−17° F) or less. A jacket water heater and glow plugs will provide additional heat. Units that are electrically powered are available to provide heat. The units require an electrical source to operate. Other heaters that burn fuel are also available as a heat source and may be used in place of electrical heaters.
Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Engine Starting" for the correct procedure to start the engine. In cold conditions, it is important to ensure that the performance of the machine is maintained.
Refer to Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations, SEBU6250 and Cold Weather Recommendations for all Caterpillar Machines, SEBU5898 for more information.