C3.4B Industrial Engine Caterpillar


Fluid Recommendations

Usage:

3.4B C88

Engine Lubrication Oil


NOTICE

These recommendations are subject to change without notice. Contact your local Cat dealer for the most up-to-date fluids recommendations.


  • EMA____________________Engine Manufacturers Association

  • API____________________American Petroleum Institute

  • SAE____________________Society Of Automotive Engineers Inc.

  • DEO-ULS ____________________ Diesel Engine Oil-Ultra Low Sulfur

Cat DEO-ULS

Cat DEO-ULS is developed and tested in order to provide superior protection and life for your Caterpillar engines.

  • Better Detergents

  • Advanced Additive Package

  • Enhanced Dispersants

  • Improved Protection from Thermal breakdown and Oxidation Breakdown

Due to significant variations in the quality and in the performance of commercially available oils, Caterpillar makes the following recommendations:

  • Cat DEO-ULS (SAE 10W-30)

  • Cat DEO-ULS (SAE 15W-40)

Cat DEO-ULS Multigrade oil is available in various viscosity grades that include SAE 10W-30 and SAE 15W-40. To choose the correct viscosity grade for the ambient temperature, see illustration 1. Multigrade oils provide the correct viscosity for a broad range of operating temperatures. Multigrade oils are also effective in maintaining low oil consumption and low levels of piston deposits.

Consult your Cat dealer for part numbers and for available sizes of containers.

Note: Cat DEO-ULS in SAE 15W-40 passes the following proprietary tests: sticking of the piston ring, oil control tests, wear tests and soot tests. Proprietary tests help ensure that Caterpillar multigrade oil provides superior performance in Caterpillar Diesel Engines. In addition, Cat DEO-ULS Multigrade oil exceeds many of the performance requirements of other manufacturers of diesel engines. Therefore, this oil is an excellent choice for many mixed fleets. True high performance oil is produced with a combination of the following factors: industry standard tests, proprietary tests, field tests and prior experience with similar formulations. The design and the development of Caterpillar lubricants that are both high performance and high quality are based on these factors.

Commercial Oils

Note: Non-Caterpillar commercial oils are second choice oils.


NOTICE

Caterpillar require the use of the following specification of engine oil. Failure to use the appropriate specification of engine oil will reduce the life of your engine. Failure to use the correct specification of engine will also reduce the life and the effectiveness of your aftertreatment system.


Table 1
API Classifications for the Industrial Engine 
Oil Specification 
ECF-3
CJ-4
AECA E9 


NOTICE

Failure to follow these oil recommendations can cause shortened engine service life due to deposits and/or excessive wear.


Note: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information that relates to lubrication for your engine.

Lubricant Viscosity Recommendations

The proper SAE viscosity grade of oil is determined by the minimum ambient temperature during cold engine start-up, and the maximum ambient temperature during engine operation.

Refer to illustration 1 (minimum temperature) in order to determine the required oil viscosity for starting a cold engine.

Refer to illustration 1 (maximum temperature) in order to select the oil viscosity for engine operation at the highest ambient temperature that is anticipated.

Note: Generally, use the highest oil viscosity that is available to meet the requirement for the temperature at start-up.

If ambient temperature conditions at engine start-up require the use of multigrade SAE 0W oil, SAE 0W-40 viscosity grade is preferred.



Illustration 1g03329687
Supplemental heat is recommended for cold soaked starts below the minimum ambient temperature. Supplemental heat may be required for cold soaked starts that are above the minimum temperature that is stated, depending on the parasitic load and other factors. Cold soaked starts occur when the engine has not been operated for a period of time. This time period will allow the oil to become more viscous due to cooler ambient temperatures.

S·O·S Oil Analysis

Caterpillar has developed a tool for maintenance management that evaluates oil degradation and the tool also detects the early signs of wear on internal components. The Caterpillar tool for oil analysis is called S·O·S Oil Analysis and the tool is part of the S·O·S Services program. S·O·S Oil Analysis divides oil analysis into three categories:

  • Component wear rate

  • Oil condition

  • Oil contamination

  • Oil identification

The wear analysis monitors metal particles, some oil additives, and some contaminants.

Oil condition uses infrared (IR) analysis to evaluate the chemistry of the oil. Infrared analysis is also used to detect certain types of contamination.

Additional tests are used to measure contamination levels from water, fuel, or coolant. Oil viscosity and corrosion protection can be evaluated, as needed.

Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" or contact your local Caterpillar dealer for additional information concerning the S·O·S Oil Analysis program.

Lubricating Grease

Caterpillar provides a range of moderate greases to extremely high performance greases in order to service the entire line of Caterpillar products that operate throughout the wide variety of climates. You will always be able to find a grease that will meet your machines requirements for a certain application. Caterpillar grease products often exceed Caterpillar specifications.

Before selecting a grease products for any application, the performance requirements must be determined. Consult the grease recommendations that are made by the OEM for the equipment when the equipment is operated in the expected conditions. Then, consult with your Caterpillar dealer for a list of greases and the following related characteristics.

  • Performance specifications

  • Available sizes of containers

  • Part numbers

Always choose a grease that meets the recommendations that are specified by the equipment manufacturer for the application, or choose a grease that exceeds the recommendations that are specified by the equipment manufacturer for the application.

Always choose a grease that meets the requirements of the most demanding application. A product that barely meets the minimum performance requirements will shorten the life of the part. Use the grease that yields the least total operating cost. Base this cost on an analysis that includes the costs of the parts, the labor, the downtime, and the cost of the grease that is used.

Some greases are not chemically compatible. Consult your supplier in order to determine if two or more greases are compatible.

Purge the grease from a joint at the following times:

  • Switching from one grease to another grease

  • Switching from one supplier to another supplier

Note: All Caterpillar brand name greases are compatible with each other.

Note: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information that relates to lubrication for your engine.

Fuel

Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" for the Caterpillar Specification for distillate fuel and for additional information that relates to fuel for your engine.

Ultra low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD)

Your Caterpillar Diesel Engine must use ultra low sulfur diesel fuel. This fuel complies with the emissions regulations that are prescribed by the Environmental Protection Agency of the United States.

Engines that are manufactured by Caterpillar are certified with the fuel that is prescribed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Engines that are manufactured by Caterpillar are certified with the fuel that is prescribed by the European Certification. Caterpillar does not certify diesel engines on any other fuel.

Note: The owner and the operator of the engine has the responsibility of using the fuel that is prescribed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and other appropriate regulatory agencies.

Fuel tank inlet labels are installed in order to ensure that the correct fuels are used. Illustration 2 is an example of one of the labels designs that will be installed.



Illustration 2g02157153
Typical example

Fuel Additives

Many types of fuel additives are available. Caterpillar does not generally recommend the use of fuel additives.

In special circumstances, Caterpillar recognizes the need for fuel additives. Use caution if using fuel additives. The additive may not be compatible with the fuel. Some additives may precipitate. This action causes deposits in the fuel system. The deposits may cause seizure. Some additives may be corrosive and some additives may be harmful to the elastomers in the fuel system.

Some additives may damage emission control systems. Some additives may cause the amount of sulfur in the fuel to be greater than 15 ppm.

Contact your fuel supplier for those circumstances when fuel additives are required. Your fuel supplier can recommend the best additives for your application and for the proper level of treatment.

Note: For the best results, your fuel supplier should treat the fuel when additives are necessary.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

General Information

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is a liquid that is injected into the exhaust system of engines equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems. SCR reduces emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) in diesel engine exhaust.

In engines equipped with SCR emissions reduction system, DEF is injected in controlled amounts into the engine exhaust stream. At the elevated exhaust temperature, urea in DEF is converted to ammonia. The ammonia chemically reacts with NOx in diesel exhaust in the presence of the SCR catalyst. The reaction converts NOx into nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O).

DEF is known by many brands including AdBlue or API certification.

DEF Recommendations

For use in Cat engines, DEF must meet all the requirements defined by "ISO 22241-1" Requirements.

Caterpillar recommends the use of DEF available through the Cat parts ordering system for use in Cat engines equipped with SCR systems. Refer to Table 2 for part number information:

Table 2
Cat Part Number  Container Size 
350-8733  2.5 gal bottle 
350-8734  1000-L tote 

In North America, commercial DEF that is API approved and meets all the requirements defined in "ISO 22241-1" may be used in Cat engines that are equipped with SCR systems.

Outside of North America, commercial DEF that meets all requirements defined in "ISO 22241-1" may be used in Cat engines that are equipped with SCR systems.

The supplier should provide documentation to prove the DEF is compliant with the requirements of "ISO 22241-1".


NOTICE

Cat does not warrant the quality or performance of non-Cat fluids.



NOTICE

Do not use agriculture grade urea solutions. Do not use any fluids that do not meet "ISO 22241-1" Requirements in SCR emissions reduction systems. Use of these fluids can result in numerous problems including damage to SCR equipment and a reduction in NOx conversion efficiency.


DEF is a solution of solid urea that is dissolved in demineralized water to produce a final concentration of 32.5% urea. DEF concentration of 32.5% is optimal for use in SCR systems. DEF solution of 32.5% urea has the lowest attainable freeze point of −11.5° C (11.3° F). DEF concentrations that are higher or lower than 32.5% have higher freeze points. DEF dosing systems and "ISO 22241-1" specifications are designed for a solution that is approximately 32.5%.

Caterpillar offers a refractometer, Cat part number 360-0774, that can be used to measure DEF concentration. Follow the instructions provided with the instrument. Appropriate commercial portable refractometers can be used to determine urea concentration. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer.

DEF Guidelines

DEF solution is typically colorless and clear. Changes to color or clarity are indicators of quality issues. Quality of DEF can degrade when stored and handled inappropriately or if DEF is not protected from contamination. Details are provided below.

If quality issues are suspected, testing of DEF should focus on urea percentage, alkalinity as NH3 and biuret content. DEF that does not pass all these tests or that is no longer clear should not be used.

Materials compatibility

DEF is corrosive. Due to the corrosion caused, DEF must be stored in tanks constructed of approved materials. Recommended storage materials:

Stainless Steels:

  • 304 (S30400)

  • 304L (S30403)

  • 316 (S31600)

  • 316L (S31603)

Alloys and metals:

  • Chromium Nickel (CrNi)

  • Chromium Nickel Molybdenum (CrNiMo)

  • Titanium

Non-metallic materials:

  • Polyethylene

  • Polypropylene

  • Polyisobutylene

  • Teflon (PFA)

  • Polyfluoroethylene (PFE)

  • Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)

  • Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)

Materials NOT compatible with DEF solutions include Aluminum, Magnesium, Zinc, Nickel coatings, Silver and Carbon steel and Solders containing any of the above. Unexpected reactions may occur if DEF solutions come in contact with any non-compatible material or unknown materials.

Bulk storage

Follow all local regulations covering bulk storage tanks. Follow proper tank construction guidelines. Tank volume typically should be 110% of planned capacity. Appropriately vent indoor tanks. Plan for control of overflow of the tank. Heat tanks that dispense DEF in cold climates. DEF will start to freeze at −11° C (12.2° F).

Bulk tank breathers should be fitted with filtration to keep airborne debris from entering the tank. Desiccant breathers should not be used because water will be absorbed, which potentially can alter DEF concentration.

Handling

Follow all local regulations covering transport and handling. DEF transport temperature is recommended to be −5° C (23° F) to 25° C (77° F). All transfer equipment and intermediate containers should be used exclusively for DEF. Containers should not be reused for any other fluids. Ensure that transfer equipment is made from DEF-compatible materials. Recommended material for hoses and other non-metallic transfer equipment include:

  • Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

  • Fluoroelastomer (FKM)

  • Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

The condition of hoses and other nonmetallic items that are used with DEF should be monitored for signs of degradation. DEF leaks are easily recognizable by white urea crystals that accumulate at the site of the leak. Solid urea can be corrosive to galvanized or unalloyed steel, aluminum, copper, and brass. Leaks should be repaired immediately to avoid damage to surrounding hardware.

Cleanliness

Contaminants can degrade the quality and life of DEF. Filtering DEF is recommended when dispensed into the DEF tank. Filters should be compatible with DEF and should be used exclusively with DEF. Check with the filter supplier to confirm compatibility with DEF before using. Mesh-type filters using compatible metals, such as stainless steel, are recommended. Paper (cellulose) media and some synthetic filter media are not recommended because of degradation during use.

Care should be taken when dispensing DEF. Spills should be cleaned immediately. Machine or engine surfaces should be wiped clean and rinsed with water. Caution should be used when dispensing DEF near an engine that has recently been running. Spilling DEF onto hot components will cause harmful vapors.

Stability

DEF fluid is stable when stored and handled properly. The quality of DEF rapidly degrades when stored at high temperatures. The ideal storage temperature for DEF is between −9° C (15.8° F) and 25° C (77° F). DEF that is stored above 35° C (95° F) for longer than 1 month must be tested before use. Testing should evaluate Urea Percentage, Alkalinity as NH3 and Biuret content.

The length of storage of DEF is listed in the following table:

Table 3
Storage Temperature  Expected DEF Life 
Below 25° C (77° F)  18 months 
25° C (77° F) to 30° C (86° F)  12 months 
30° C (86° F) to 35° C (95° F)  6 months 
Above 35° C (95° F)  test quality before use 

Refer to "ISO 22241" document series for more information about DEF quality control.

Note: Dispose of all fluids according to applicable regulations and mandates.

Filling Tank

The DEF tank filler cap is colored blue. A special nozzle size is required in order to fill a DEF tank. Ensure that the DEF tank is on level ground before the tank is filled.

Spillage

Care should be taken when dispensing DEF. Spills should be cleaned immediately. All surfaces should be wiped clean and rinsed with water.

DEF that has been split will crystallize when the water within the liquid evaporates. Split DEF will attack paint and metal. If DEF is split, wash the area with water.

Caution should be used when dispensing DEF near an engine that has recently been running. Spilling DEF onto hot components may cause the release of ammonia vapors. Do not breathe ammonia vapors. Do not clean up any spills with bleach.

Coolant

The following two coolants are used in Caterpillar diesel engines:

Preferred - Cat ELC (Extended Life Coolant) or a commercial extended life coolant that meets the Caterpillar EC-1 specification

Acceptable - A Cat DEAC (Diesel Engine Antifreeze/Coolant) or a commercial heavy-duty antifreeze that meets "ASTM D6210" specifications


NOTICE

The Caterpillar industrial engine must be operated with a 1:1 mixture of water and glycol. This concentration allows the NOx reduction system to operate correctly at high ambient temperatures.



NOTICE

Do not use a commercial coolant/antifreeze that only meets the ASTM "D3306" or equivalent specification. This type of coolant/antifreeze is made for light duty automotive applications.

Use only the coolant/antifreeze that is recommended.


Caterpillar recommends a 1:1 mixture of water and glycol. This mixture of water and glycol will provide optimum heavy-duty performance as an antifreeze.

Note: Cat DEAC does not require a treatment with an SCA at the initial fill. Commercial heavy-duty antifreeze that meets "ASTM D6210" specifications MAY require a treatment with an SCA at the initial fill. Read the label or the instructions that are provided by the OEM of the product.

In stationary engine applications that do not require anti-boil protection or freeze protection, a mixture of SCA and water is acceptable. Caterpillar recommends a 6 percent to 8 percent concentration of SCA in those cooling systems. Distilled water or deionized water is preferred. Water which has the recommended properties may be used.

Table 4
Coolant Service Life 
Coolant Type  Service Life (1) 
Cat ELC  12000 Service Hours or Six Years(2) 
Commercial coolant that meets the Caterpillar EC-1 Specification  6000 Service Hours or Six Years(3) 
Cat DEAC  3000 Service Hours or Three Years 
Commercial Heavy-Duty Coolant/Antifreeze that meets "ASTM D6210"  3000 Service Hours or Two Years 
(1) Use the interval that occurs first. The cooling system must also be flushed out at this time.
(2) Cat ELC Extender must be added at 6000 service hours or one half of the service life of the Cat ELC. Refer to your machine Operation and Maintenance Manual for exceptions.
(3) An extender must be added at 3000 service hours or one half of the service life of the coolant.

Note: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information that relates to coolant for your engine.

S·O·S Coolant Analysis

Table 5
Recommended Interval 
Type of Coolant  Level 1  Level 2 
DEAC  Every 250 Hours (1)  Yearly(1) 
ELC  Optional (1)  Yearly 
(1) The Level 2 Coolant Analysis should be performed sooner if a problem is identified by a Level 1 Coolant Analysis.

S·O·S Coolant Analysis (Level 1)

A coolant analysis (Level 1) is a test of the properties of the coolant.

The following properties of the coolant are tested:

  • Glycol concentration for freeze protection and boil protection

  • Ability to protect from erosion and corrosion

  • pH

  • Conductivity

  • Visual analysis

  • Odor analysis

The results are reported, and appropriate recommendations are made.

Refer to the Maintenance Interval Schedule in this Operation and Maintenance Manual in order to find the maintenance interval for collecting the coolant samples.

S·O·S Coolant Analysis (Level 2)

A coolant analysis (Level 2) is a comprehensive chemical evaluation of the coolant. This analysis is also a check of the overall condition of the inside of the cooling system.

The S·O·S Coolant Analysis has the following features:

  • Full coolant analysis (Level 1)

  • Identification of the source of metal corrosion and of contaminants

  • Water hardness

  • Identification of buildup of the impurities that cause corrosion

  • Identification of buildup of the impurities that cause scaling

The results are reported, and appropriate recommendations are made.

Refer to the Maintenance Interval Schedule in this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Cooling System Coolant Sample (Level 2) - Obtain" for the maintenance interval for collecting the coolant samples.

Testing the engine coolant is important to ensure that the engine is protected from internal cavitation and from corrosion. The analysis also tests the ability of the coolant to protect the engine from boiling and from freezing. The S·O·S Coolant Analysis can be done at your Caterpillar dealer. Caterpillar S·O·S Coolant Analysis is the best way to monitor the condition of your coolant and your cooling system. S·O·S Coolant Analysis is a program that is based on periodic samples.

Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, "Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information.

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