C280 Marine and Petroleum Engines Caterpillar


Engine Has Mechanical Noise (Knock)

Usage:

C280-16 A4F

Probable Causes

Accessory Equipment

  • Isolate the source of the noise.

Internal Engine Components

  • Valve train components

  • Pistons

  • Crankshaft

  • Gear train

Recommended Actions

Table 1
Troubleshooting Test Steps  Values  Results 

1. Isolate the Source of the Noise

A. If the source of the noise is the engine accessory, remove the suspect engine accessory. Inspect the suspect engine accessory.
 

Engine accessory 

Result An engine accessory is not the source of the noise.

Repair: Proceed to next Step

Result An engine accessory is the source of the noise.

Repair: Repair the engine accessory and/or replace the engine accessory, if necessary.

If the problem is not resolved, proceed to the next step. 

2. Inspect the Valve Train Components

A. Remove the valve mechanism cover and the camshaft covers.

B. Check the following items for damage:

- Camshaft
- Valve springs
- Lifters
- Pushrods
- Bridges

C. Refer to the Disassembly and Assembly for additional information.

D. Thoroughly clean the valve train components. Ensure that all of the valves move freely. Replace any damaged parts.

E. During engine operation at rated speed, the valve rotation can be observed and measured.
 

Valve train 

Results: The valve train components are not damaged.

Repair: Proceed to the next step.

Proceed to the next test Step

Results: The valve train components are damaged.

Repair: Repair the engine components and/or replace the engine components, if necessary.

If the problem is not resolved, proceed to the next test Step.
 

3. Inspect the pistons for damage and wear.
 

Pistons 

Results: The pistons are OK.

Repair: Proceed to the next test Step

Results: The pistons are NOT OK.

Repair: Perform the necessary repairs or replace.

If the problem is not resolved, proceed to the next step.
 

4. Inspect the Crankshaft

A. Inspect the crankshaft and the related components. Look for worn thrust plates and wear on the crankshaft.

B. Inspect the connecting rod bearings and the bearing surfaces on the crankshaft. Make sure that the bearings are in the correct position.

C. Check the counterweight bolts.
 

Crankshaft 

Result: The crankshaft or the related components are damaged or worn.

Repair: Repair or replace any damaged parts. Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.

If the problem is not resolved, proceed to the next test Step.
 

5. Inspect the Gear Train

A. Inspect the gear train and lower end components.
 

Gear train 

Results: The gear train is OK.

Results: The gear train is NOT OK.

Repair: Repair or replace any damaged parts. Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.
 

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