C18 Marine Auxiliary and Marine Generator Set Engines Caterpillar


Engine Top Speed Is Not Obtained

Usage:

C18 DTP
Note: If this problem occurs only under load, refer to Troubleshooting, "Power Is Intermittently Low or Power Cutout Is Intermittent".

Probable Causes

  • Configuration parameters

  • Diagnostic codes, events, and derates

  • Trolling mode switch and slow vessel mode switch

  • Intake manifold pressure sensor

  • Boost pressure

  • Fuel supply

  • Fuel pressure

  • Air inlet and exhaust system

  • Accessory equipment

Recommended Actions

Table 1
Troubleshooting Test Steps     Values     Results    

1. Configuration Parameters

A. Use Cat ET to verify that the correct engine parameters are being used. Check the settings of the following parameters:

- Maximum trolling engine speed

- Secondary throttle enable status

B. Verify that all of the parameters for parasitic loads are correct.

Refer to Troubleshooting, "Configuration Parameters" for additional information.    

Parameters    

Result: The parameters are configured correctly.

Proceed to Test Step 2.

Result: The parameters are not configured correctly.

Correctly configure the parameters.

Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.    

2. Diagnostic Codes and Events

A. Use Cat ET to check for diagnostic codes, event codes and/or derates. The engine speed or the engine power may be limited due to one of the following conditions:

- High intake manifold air temperature

- Low oil pressure

- Air filter restriction

- Engine protection torque derate

Refer to Troubleshooting, "Event Codes List" for the specific events that are applicable to this application.    

Logged codes    

Result: There are no logged or active diagnostic codes or events.

Proceed to Test Step 2.

Result: There are logged or active diagnostic codes of events.

Troubleshoot any active or logged codes before continuing with this procedure.    

3. Trolling Mode Switch and Slow Vessel Mode Switch

A. Ensure that either of these switches are not the cause of this complaint. Check that the switches are not in the ON position.    

Switches    

Result: The trolling mode switch, and slow vessel mode switch are in the correct position.

Proceed to Test Step 4.

Result: There is an electrical problem with the trolling mode, and slow vessel mode switch.

Monitor the switch status for the switches on Cat ET. Verify that the switch status is stable during engine operation. During the wiggle test, wiggle the harnesses from the ECM to each of the switches in order to check for an intermittent electrical problem.

If an intermittent electrical problem is suspected with a switch or the circuit, refer to Troubleshooting, "Switch Circuits - Test"    

4. Intake Manifold Pressure Sensor

A. Monitor the following parameters on Cat ET while the engine is operating under full load. These parameters must reflect the information below.

- Fuel position

- Rated fuel limit

- FRC fuel limit    

   

Result: "Fuel Position" equals "Rated Fuel Limit" and "Fuel Position" is less than "FRC Fuel Limit", the electronics are operating correctly.

Proceed to Test Step 4.

Result: "Fuel Position" equals "Rated Fuel Limit" and "Fuel Position" is less than "FRC Fuel Limit", the electronics are operating correctly.    

5. Boost Pressure

A. Use Cat ET in order to monitor the status of the "Boost Pressure".

B. Start the engine and monitor the status of "Boost Pressure" while you vary the engine speed. Ensure that the pressure reading is fluctuating with the engine speed.    

0 kPa (0 psi)    

Result: The boost pressure is within specification.

Proceed to Test Step 6.

Result: The boost pressure is not within specification.    

6. Fuel Supply

A. Inspect the fuel system. Refer to System Operation/Testing and Adjusting for more information.

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

Fuel    

Result: The fuel system is OK

Proceed to Test Step 6.

The fuel system is NOT OK.

Make the necessary repairs. Verify that the problem is resolved.    

7. Fuel Pressure

A. Check the fuel pressure during cranking. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Fuel System Pressure - Test"    

Fuel Pressure    

Result: The fuel pressure is within specification.

Proceed to Test Step 6.

Result: The fuel pressure is not within specification.

Replace the fuel filters. If the fuel pressure is still low check for proper operation of the following items:

- Fuel transfer pump

- Fuel pressure relief valve

- Fuel pressure regulator valve.    

8. Air Inlet and Exhaust System

A. Check for an air filter restriction indicator. Clean plugged air filters or replace plugged air filters. Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual.

B. Check the air inlet and exhaust system for restrictions and/or leaks. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting, "Air Inlet and Exhaust System".    

Restrictions    

Result: There are no restrictions in the air inlet or exhaust system.

Result: There are restrictions in the air inlet or exhaust system.

Make the necessary repairs. Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.    

9. Accessory Equipment

A. Check all accessory equipment for problems that can create load on the engine.    

Accessories    

Result: The accessory equipment is OK

Result: The accessory equipment is NOT OK.

Make the necessary repairs. Replace parts, if necessary.    

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