1991/07/01 Caterpillar

3176 (2YG, 7LG) Truck Engines;
3406B (8TC, 5YG, 2EK) (PEEC) Truck Engines

Reference: Truck Engine News; November 1985; Page 3; "Engine Information Plate Contains More Data; Use Of Performance Specifications. "

Full Load Setting (FLS) and Full Torque Setting (FTS) are used to fine-tune the performance curves of electronically governed engines. Instead of making adjustments with hand tools for settings, (as done on mechanically governed engines), FLS and FTS are adjusted by entering numbers into the Electronic Control Module (ECM). This is accomplished with an Electronic Control Analyzer Programmer (ECAP), as part of the System Configuration Parameters. The ECM then retains these numbers in memory indefinitely. They do not correspond to settings on a mechanical governor, nor do they cover as wide an adjustment range.

Every Caterpillar Engine is tested on a dynamometer prior to shipment. The engine's power output must fall within plus or minus three percent of a new engines specification. To keep power within these limits, the settings may be adjusted by programming new FLS and FTS numbers into the ECM. These new values are then stamped on the Engine Information Plate. Since these values were developed SPECIFICALLY for that particular engine, they are the BEST VALUES to use for that engine.

The FLS and FTS numbers should not be changed in an attempt to correct performance problems. Good troubleshooting methods should be used to find the real cause of the problem. Masking the real problem by making fuel system adjustments can cause high fuel consumption and can exceed design parameters for the engine. Do not overlook the basics when troubleshooting electronically controlled engines. Parameters such as fuel temperature, intake restrictions, drive train selection, etc., can affect performance just as on a mechanically governed engine.

The only acceptable reasons for programming FLS and FTS values other than those on the engine information plate are:

1. A change in the horsepower family. For example: 350 hp to 400 hp. This usually will include a major engine component change, such as fuel injectors, pistons, or turbocharger. In this example, a new 4W5140 Engine Information Plate should be installed over the original plate.

2. A change in emissions certification. For example: 49-state to 50-state emissions. Again, a new 4W5140 Engine Information Plate should be installed over the original plate.

3. If the engine information plate is lost, mutilated, or destroyed.

NOTE: Minor changes, such as going from a 310 standard to a 310 multi-torque, or changing ratings within a family, (1800 rpm to 1700 rpm) DO NOT require changing the FLS and FTS.

To install a new 4W5140 Engine Information Plate:

1. Thoroughly clean the surface of the original plate.

2. Stamp the new information and the unchanged information on the new plate. Straighten the plate if necessary.

3. Pull off the protective back and break off the lower section of the plate at the scribed mark.

4. Use 8T9021 Adhesive to provide a permanent bond between the former identification plate and the new 4W5140 Engine Information Plate. Carefully follow instructions for the adhesive. If the adhesive is premixed, it will NOT bond correctly.

5. Position the new engine information plate so that the "arrangement number" block is directly over the "arrangement number " block on the former plate. The original engine information plate should remain in place, and the new plate should partly cover the original plate. The engine serial number MUST remain visible on the original plate. Attach the new plate.

If the original engine information plate is lost, mutilated, or destroyed, a replacement engine information plate must be requested. The model, serial number, and arrangement number may be obtained from the engine serial number plate. This plate is located on the right rear side of the engine block on 3406B (PEEC), and 3176 Truck Engines. This information can be used to locate performance specifications for temporary use until a replacement engine information plate is available from the factory.

NOTE: A replacement engine information plate CAN NOT be ordered by part number. To protect the user, dealers must verify ownership of the engine or equipment. The model, serial number, arrangement number, and performance specification number can then be provided to the Dealer Marketing Manager at the factory, or the appropriate Engine Division Manager at subsidiaries. After approval, a new identification plate (not a 4W5140 Engine Information Plate) will be furnished. The FLS and FTS values must be stamped into the new identification plate, and the same numbers then used to program the engine's ECM.

The FLS and FTS values that should be used, in order of preference are:

1. Values from the original plate, if known. The original ECM on the engine should be programmed with those values, if the original plate is missing or illegible.

2. Values from Technical Marketing Information (TMI) are available on computer at Caterpillar dealers. TMI contains the second most accurate and current information available for fuel settings, but may not be available for all engines.

3. Values from microfiche. Performance data on microfiche may be used if values are not available from the original plate or from TMI.

The original performance specifications can be provided for engines manufactured since 1980 if the engine rating or arrangement number has not been changed.

An understanding of performance specifications, their tolerances, and the correct adjustment of all fuel system and governor settings is important for good performance and fuel economy. Correct use of FLS and FTS settings will help.