C15 Petroleum Generator Set Caterpillar


Starting the Engine

Usage:

C15 LWR

------ WARNING! ------

Engine exhaust contains products of combustion which may be harmful to your health. Always start and operate the engine in a well ventilated area and, if in an enclosed area, vent the exhaust to the outside.

----------------------

Starting the Engine

Refer to the Owner's Manual of the OEM for your type of controls. Use the following procedure to start the engine.

  1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL. Disengage the flywheel clutch in order to allow the engine to start faster, and to reduce the draining of the battery.

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.

    During the key on, the diagnostic lamp, and warning lamp will be checked for proper bulb operation. If any of the lamps do not illuminate, replace the bulb.


    NOTICE

    Do not engage the starting motor when flywheel is turning. Do not start the engine under load.

    If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the starter switch or button and wait two minutes to allow the starting motor to cool before attempting to start the engine again.


  1. Push the start button or turn the ignition switch to the START position in order to crank the engine.

    Do not push down or hold the throttle down while the engine is cranked. The system will automatically provide the correct amount of fuel that is needed to start the engine.

  1. If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the start button, or the ignition switch. Wait for 2 minutes in order to allow the starting motor to cool before attempting to start the engine again.


    NOTICE

    Oil pressure should rise within 15 seconds after the engine starts. Do not increase engine rpm until the oil pressure gauge indicates normal. If oil pressure is not indicated on the gauge within 15 seconds, DO NOT operate the engine. STOP the engine, investigate and correct the cause.


  1. Allow the engine to idle for approximately 3 minutes. Idle the engine until the water temperature gauge has begun to rise. Check all gauges during the warm-up period.

    Note: Oil pressures and fuel pressures should be in the normal range on the instrument panel. Engines that are equipped with "WARNING" lamps do not have an operating range. The "WARNING and DIAGNOSTIC" lamp (if equipped) will flash while the engine is cranking. The lamp should turn off after proper engine oil pressure or fuel pressure is achieved. Do not apply a load to the engine or increase engine rpm until the oil pressure gauge indicates at least normal pressure. Inspect the engine for leaks and/or unusual noises.

If the engine is operated with a low load, the engine will reach normal operating temperature sooner than idling the engine with no load. When the engine is idled in cold weather, increase the engine rpm to approximately 1000 to 1200 rpm in order to warm up the engine more quickly. Do not exceed the recommended rpm in order to increase the speed of the warm-up. Limit unnecessary idle time to 10 minutes.

Starting Problems

An occasional starting problem may be caused by one of the following items:

  • Low battery charge

  • Lack of fuel

  • Problem with the wiring harness

If the engine fuel system has been run dry, fill the fuel tank and prime the fuel system. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Fuel System - Prime" topic (Maintenance Section).

If the other problems are suspected, perform the appropriate procedure in order to start the engine.

Problems with the Wiring Harness




Illustration 1g01248812

ECM Connector J2/P2

Locate the ECM. Check the connector in order to ensure that the connector is secure. Lightly pull each of the wires in the chassis harness.

  1. Pull each wire with approximately 4.5 kg (10 lb) of force. The wire should remain in the connector.

  1. If a wire is loose, push the wire back into the connector. Pull the wire again in order to ensure that the wire is secure.

  1. Start the engine. If the engine does not start, consult the nearest Caterpillar dealer for assistance.

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