Gauges provide indications of engine performance. Ensure that the gauges are in good working order. Determine the normal operating range by observing the gauges over a period.
Noticeable changes in gauge readings indicate potential gauge or engine problems. Problems may also be indicated by gauge readings that change even if the readings are within specifications. Determine and correct the cause of any significant change in the readings. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.
Some engine applications are equipped with Indicator Lamps. Indicator lamps can be used as a diagnostic aid. There are two lamps. One lamp has an orange lens and the other lamp has a red lens.
These indicator lamps can be used in two ways:
- The indicator lamps can be used to identify the current operational status of the engine. The indicator lamps can also indicate that the engine has a fault. This system is automatically operated via the ignition switch.
- The indicator lamps can be used to identify active diagnostic codes. This system is activated by pressing the Flash Code button.
Refer to the Troubleshooting Guide, "Indicator Lamps" for further information.
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If no oil pressure is indicated, STOP the engine. If maximum coolant temperature is exceeded, STOP the engine. Engine damage can result. |
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Engine Oil Pressure - The oil pressure should be greatest after a cold engine is started. The typical engine oil pressure with SAE10W40 is |
A lower oil pressure is normal at low idle. If the load is stable and the gauge reading changes, perform the following procedure:
- Remove the load.
- Stop the engine.
- Check and maintain the oil level.
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Jacket Water Coolant Temperature - Typical temperature range is |
A
If the engine is operating above the normal range, reduce the engine load. If high coolant temperatures are a frequent event, perform the following procedures:
- Reduce the load on the engine.
- Determine if the engine must be shut down immediately or if the engine can be cooled by reducing the load.
- Inspect the cooling system for leaks. If necessary, consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.
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Tachometer - This gauge indicates engine speed (rpm). When the throttle control lever is moved to the full throttle position without load, the engine is running at high idle. The engine is running at the full load rpm when the throttle control lever is at the full throttle position with maximum rated load. |
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To help prevent engine damage, never exceed the high idle rpm. Overspeeding can result in serious damage to the engine. Operation at speeds exceeding high idle rpm should be kept to a minimum. |
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Ammeter - This gauge indicates the amount of charge or discharge in the battery charging circuit. Operation of the indicator should be to the "+" side of "0" (zero). |
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Fuel Level - This gauge indicates the fuel level in the fuel tank. The fuel level gauge operates when the "START/STOP" switch is in the "on" position. |
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Service Hour Meter - The gauge indicates total operating hours of the engine. |
- Shutdown lamp
- Warning lamp
- Wait to start lamp
- Low oil pressure lamp
For information, refer to this manual, "Monitoring System (Table for the Indicator Lamps)" for the sequence of operation of the shutdown lamp and the warning lamp.
The function of the wait to start lamp is automatically controlled at engine start-up.
The function of the low oil pressure lamp is controlled by the engine ECM. If low oil pressure is detected, the lamp will be illuminated. The reason for the illumination of the low-pressure lamp should be investigated immediately.
All lamps will illuminate for 2 seconds in order to check that the lamps are functioning when the keyswitch is turned to the ON position. If any of the lamps stay illuminated, the reason for illumination should be investigated immediately.
For information on the aftertreatment lamp, refer to this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Diesel Particulate Filter Regeneration".