- Generator Set:
- C175-16 (S/N: WYB1-UP)
- Engine:
- C175-16 (S/N: P6L1-UP)
- Off-Highway Truck:
- 793F Series AC (S/N: EMD1-UP)
- 793F (S/N: SND1-UP; SSP1-UP)
- 795F Series AC (S/N: ERM1-UP)
- 797F (S/N: LAJ1-UP; WSP1-UP)
- 793F (S/N: SND1-UP; SSP1-UP)
Introduction
The problem that is identified below does not have a known permanent solution. Until a permanent solution is known, use the solution that is identified below.
Problem
An industry-wide issue has arisen with a specific type of deposit that forms in modern fuel injection systems and has a negative effect on operation.
The C175 fuel system operates under higher pressures and temperatures than previous injection systems. Clearances between precision moving parts can be minute, typically less than 5 microns.
A soapy type of deposit has been found in some C175 fuel injection systems. The formation of the deposits is being investigated by Caterpillar, along with the fuel industry and the petroleum industry.
The cause of the deposits is complex, involving these kinds of variables:
- Temperature
- Pressure
- Fuel chemistry
- Water and contaminants in the fuel
The following symptoms are associated with the soapy deposits in the fuel injectors:
- A loss of power
- Excessive variations in exhaust temperature
- Rough running
- Hard starting, especially after allowing an engine to cool down before restarting
- Stuck injectors
Severe deposits cause the injector to stick in one position, resulting in a cylinder that does not fire.
To verify the presence of the deposits, the injector from a cold cylinder must be returned to Caterpillar.
Solution
If the above symptoms are diagnosed or if the deposits are confirmed, use 343-6210 Cleaner (FUEL) to remove the deposits.
The 343-6210 Cleaner (FUEL) is the only fuel system cleaner that has been tested and approved by Cat for use in Cat diesel engines.
For sites that are more susceptible to injector deposits, maintain a supply of 343-6210 Cleaner (FUEL) in order to address the problem quickly.
For more information, refer to the "Cat Diesel Fuel System Cleaner" topic in Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" or in Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU6251, "Cat Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations".
Note: Depending on the amounts of deposits, the fuel filter may plug after initial use of the cleaner due to removal of the deposits. The frequency of the plugging will decrease as the fuel system returns to a condition that is clean and stable.
Perform the following recommendations in order to reduce the potential for the formation of injector deposits:
- Prior to filling the engine fuel tank with fuel from a storage tank, filter the fuel through an absolute filter of 4 µm.
- Use filters of 4 µm filtration on the breathers of fuel storage tanks. In dusty environments, use a filter of 4 µm on the breather of the engine fuel tank.
- Regularly monitor bulk fuel in order to ensure that concentrations of calcium, sodium, zinc, and magnesium are less than 1 ppm.
- Caterpillar does not generally recommend the use of aftermarket fuel additives. If an aftermarket fuel additive is considered to be necessary, use the additive with caution. Follow the guidelines in the "Aftermarket Fuel Additives" topic in Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" or in Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU6251, "Cat Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations".
- Make sure that the maximum water content in bulk fuel is less than 0.05 percent or 500 ppm. For the engine fuel tank, a maximum water content of less than 0.02 percent or 200 ppm is desirable.
- If a substantial amount of water and/or sediment is found in a storage tank, remove the fuel and clean the tank.
- Check the fuel/water separator and drain the separator according to the machine or engine Operation and Maintenance Manual.
- Use 343-6210 Cleaner (FUEL) when the above symptoms of injector deposits are noticed or when the deposits are confirmed. Refer to the container for instructions.
- Consider using 256-4968 Fuel Conditioner in order to help enhance the stability of the fuel and reduce the potential of deposit formation. Refer to the container for instructions. Alternatively, treat the fuel with a 1/2 rate of 343-6210 Cleaner (FUEL) in order to prevent recurrence of deposits.