C15 Petroleum Engines Caterpillar

Note: Some white smoke may be present during cold start-up conditions when the engine is operating normally. If the white smoke persists, there may be a problem.

Note: Refer to Troubleshooting, "Cat ET Service Features" for information about service features.

Probable Causes

Codes

• Active codes

Cold Starting

• Cold mode operation (if applicable)

• Starting aids (if applicable)

Flash File

• Noncurrent flash file

Coolant System

• Cooling system

Fuel Supply

• Unstable fuel supply

• Unstable fuel injection

Recommended Actions

Note: The procedures have been listed in order of probability. Complete the procedures in order.

Active Codes

Certain diagnostic codes may cause poor performance. Connect Caterpillar Electronic Technician (ET) and check for active codes. Download the "Warranty Report" from the engine Electronic Control Module (ECM) before performing any troubleshooting or clearing diagnostic trouble codes. Troubleshoot any codes that are present before continuing with this procedure.

Cold Mode Operation (if applicable)

Note: During cold mode operation, condensation may be present and is normal.

Cold mode is activated whenever the engine coolant temperature falls below a predetermined value. Monitor the status screen on Cat ET in order to verify that the engine has exited cold mode. Observe the reading for coolant temperature on the Cat ET.

Starting Aids (If Applicable)

If cold ambient conditions exist, check operation of starting aids. Verify that the starting aid is operating correctly. Refer to the appropriate circuit test for information that is related to troubleshooting the starting aid.

Note: If ether bottles are not installed, check the configuration screen on Cat ET in order to verify that ether is not enabled.

Noncurrent Flash File

Verify that the latest flash file is installed in the ECM. Refer to Troubleshooting, "ECM Software - Install" for the proper procedure.

Cooling System

Check for an internal coolant leak into the cylinder and/or the exhaust. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Cooling System".

Unstable Fuel Supply

Show/hide table

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.

1. Inspect the fuel system. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System - Inspect" for additional information.

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

3. Check fuel quality. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System - Inspect" for the proper procedure. Check the fuel tank for debris or foreign objects which may block the fuel supply.

4. Check the filtered fuel pressure while the engine is being cranked. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System - Inspect" for the test procedure and for the correct pressure values.

Unstable Fuel Injection

1. For C13, C15, and C18 applications, perform the "Injector Solenoid Test" on Cat ET. The test will determine if all of the injector solenoids are being energized by the ECM.

2. For C13, C15, and C18 applications, access the "Cylinder Cutout Test" in the "Diagnostic Tests" under the "Diagnostics" menu. Perform the "Automatic Cylinder Cutout Test".

   Note: For C9.3 applications, perform the "Fuel System Verification Test" on Cat ET.

   Diagnose the problem and then repair the problem. Clear all logged diagnostic codes. Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.