3512E HD Petroleum Engine Caterpillar

In addition to a good preventive maintenance program, Cat recommends using S·O·S oil analysis at regularly scheduled intervals. S·O·S oil analysis provides infrared analysis, which is required for determining nitration and oxidation levels.

Obtain the Sample and the Analysis

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Hot oil and hot components can cause personal injury. Do not allow hot oil or hot components to contact the skin.

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(1) Engine oil sampling port

Before you take the oil sample, complete the Label, PEEP5031 for identification of the sample. To help obtain the most accurate analysis, provide the following information:

• Engine model

• Service hours on the engine

• The number of hours that have accumulated since the last oil change

• The amount of oil that has been added since the last oil change

To ensure that the sample is representative of the oil in the crankcase, obtain a warm, mixed oil sample.

To avoid contamination of the oil samples, the tools and the supplies that are used for obtaining oil samples must be clean.

Cat recommends using the sampling valve to obtain oil samples. The quality and the consistency of the samples are better when the sampling valve is used. The location of the sampling valve allows oil that is flowing under pressure to be obtained during normal engine operation.

The 169-8373 Fluid Sampling Bottle is recommended for use with the sampling valve. The fluid sampling bottle includes the parts that are needed for obtaining oil samples. Instructions are also provided.

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NOTICE
Always use a designated pump for oil sampling, and use a separate designated pump for coolant sampling. Using the same pump for both types of samples may contaminate the samples that are being drawn. This contaminate may cause a false analysis and an incorrect interpretation that could lead to concerns by both dealers and customers.

If the engine is not equipped with a sampling valve, use the 1U-5718 Vacuum Pump. The pump is designed to accept sampling bottles. Disposable tubing must be attached to the pump for insertion into the sump.

For instructions, see Special Publication, PEGJ0047, "How To Take A Good S·O·S Oil Sample". Consult your Cat dealer for complete information and assistance in establishing an S·O·S program for your engine.