797F Off-Highway Truck Caterpillar


Lubricant Viscosities - Fluids Recommendations

Usage:

797F LTZ

General Information for Lubricants

When the machine is operating in temperatures below −20°C (−4°F), refer to Special Publication, SEBU5898, "Cold-Weather Recommendations". This publication is available from your Cat dealer.

For cold-weather applications where transmission oil SAE 0W-20 is recommended, Cat Cold-Weather TDTO is recommended.

Refer to the “Lubricant Information” section in the latest revision of the Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" for a list of Cat engine oils and for detailed information. This manual may be found on the web at Safety.Cat.com. The footnotes are a key part of the tables. Read ALL footnotes that pertain to the machine compartment in question.

Selecting the Viscosity

To select the proper oil for each machine compartment, refer to the “Lubricant Viscosity for Ambient Temperature” table. Use the oil type AND oil viscosity for the specific compartment at the proper ambient temperature.

The proper oil viscosity grade is determined by the minimum ambient temperature (the air in the immediate vicinity of the machine). Measure the temperature when the machine is started and although the machine is operated. To determine the proper oil viscosity grade, refer to the “Min” column in the table. This information reflects the coldest ambient temperature condition for starting a cold machine and for operating a cold machine. Refer to the “Max” column in the table for operating the machine at the highest temperature that is anticipated. Unless specified otherwise in the “Lubricant Viscosities for Ambient Temperatures” tables, use the highest oil viscosity that is allowed for the ambient temperature.

Machines that are operated continuously should use oils that have the higher oil viscosity in the final drives and in the differentials. The oils that have the higher oil viscosity will maintain the highest possible oil film thickness.


NOTICE

Not following the recommendations found in this manual can lead to reduced performance and compartment failure.


Engine Oil

Cat oils have been developed and tested to provide the full performance and life that has been designed and built into Cat engines.

Cat DEO-ULS or oils that meet the Cat ECF-3 specification, API CJ-4, and the newer API CK-4, are required for use in the applications listed below. Cat DEO-ULS and oils meeting Cat ECF-3 specification, API CJ-4, the newer API CK-4, and ACEA E9 oil categories have been developed with limited sulfated ash, phosphorus, and sulfur. These chemical limits are designed to maintain the expected aftertreatment devices life, performance, and service interval. If oils meeting the Cat ECF-3 specification, API CJ-4, the newer API CK-4 specifications are not available, oils meeting ACEA E9 may be used. ACEA E9 oils meet the chemical limits designed to maintain aftertreatment device life. ACEA E9 oils are validated using some but not all ECF-3 and API CJ-4 standard engine performance tests. Consult your oil supplier when considering use of an oil that is not Cat ECF-3, API CJ-4, or the newer API CK-4 qualified.

Failure to meet the listed requirements will damage aftertreatment-equipped engines and can negatively impact the performance of the aftertreatment devices.

Oils that are per API CI-4 or prior categories are not allowed. These oils have high ash and are not appropriate for use in engines with aftertreatment devices.

Table 1
Cat Diesel Engines Lubricant Viscosities for Ambient Temperatures(1)(2) 
Compartment or System  Oil Type and Performance Requirements  Oil Viscosities  °C  °F 
Min Max Min Max 
Engine Crankcase for all Direct Injection (DI) Engines  Cat DEO Cold Weather (API CK-4)  SAE 0W-40  −40  40  −40  104 
Cat DEO-ULS SYN (API CK-4) SAE 5W-40  −30  50  −22  122 
Cat DEO-ULS (API CK-4)
Cat DEO (API CI-4/CI-4 PLUS)
SAE 10W-30  −18  40  104 
SAE 15W-40 −10  50  14  122 
(1) Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Engine Oil" for information on the recommended and required engine oils for Tier 4 emissions certified engines.
(2) Commercial oils of viscosity grades that are not included in this table may be used if the oils are per Cat ECF specifications. Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Engine Oil" for more information. Commercial oils are second choice.

Off Highway Trucks

Cat FDAO SYN, CatFDAOSAE 60, or commercial oil that meets Cat FD-1 SAE 60 is preferred in most Differential, Front Wheels, and Final Drives, particularly continuous operation.

If the ambient temperature is below −10°C (14°F), warm up the oil prior to operation. The oil must be maintained to a temperature above −10°C (14°F) during operation. If the ambient temperature is below −10°C (14°F), prior to operation, perform the differential warmup procedure. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Differential warmup and Break-in".

If the ambient temperature is below −25°C (−13°F) (below −35°C (−31°F) for Cat FDAO SYN), consult your Cat dealer for instructions. Failure to warmup the oil prior to operation will damage the machine.

For cold-weather applications where transmission oil SAE 0W-20 is recommended, Cat Cold-Weather TDTO is recommended.

Table 2
797F Off Highway Truck Lubricant Viscosities for Ambient Temperatures 
Compartment or System  Oil Type and Performance Requirements  Oil Viscosities  °C  °F 
Min Max Min Max 
Power Shift Transmission and Torque Converter System  Cat TDTO
Cat TDTO-TMS
Cat Cold-Weather TDTO
Cat TO-4 
SAE 0W-20  −40  10  −40  50 
SAE 10W −20  10  −4  50 
SAE 30(1) 50  32  122 
Cat TDTO-TMS −10  50  14  122 
Steering and Fan Hydraulic System  Cat Bio HYDO Advanced 30
BIO HYDO Advanced
Cat TDTO 30
Cat TDTO-TMS
Cat DEO-ULS
Cat DEO
Cat DEO-ULS Syn
Cat Cold-Weather DEO-ULS
ECF-1a, ECF-2, ECF-3, CK-4
Cat TO-4 
SAE 30(1)  −5  50  23  122 
"ISO 46" Multi-Grade −30  45  -22  113 
SAE 5W-40 −30  40  −22  104 
SAE 15W-40 −15 50  122 
Multi-Grade −15  50  122 
SAE 0W-40 −40 40  −40  104 
Hoist and Brake Hydraulic System  Cat TDTO
Cat Cold-Weather TDTO
Cat TO-4 
SAE 0W-20  −40  40  −40  104 
SAE 10W(1) −20 50  −4  122 
Differential, Front Wheels, and Final Drives  Cat FDAO
Cat FDAO SYN
Cat FD-1 
SAE 60(1)  −10  50  14  122 
Multi-Grade −25 50  -13  122 
Powered Stairway  Cat TDTO
Cat TO-4 
SAE 10W  50  32  122 
Cat Cold-Weather TDTO SAE 0W-20  50  32  122 
MIL-H-5606A MIL-H-5606A(2)  -40  40  -40  104 
Suspension and Link Pins  Cat GO  SAE 80W-90  -20  40  -4  104 
SAE 85W-140 -10 50  14  122 
Cat Synthetic GO SAE 75W-140  -30  45  -22  113 
API GL-5 gear oil SAE 90  40  32  104 
SAE 75W-90 -30  40  -22  104 
(1) Factory fill oil for standard configuration machines.
(2) Current factory fill is Mobil Aero HFA. Shell Aeroshell Fluid 4 or equivalent oils are also acceptable.

Grease Recommendations

Table 3
Type of Cat Grease for Off Highway Trucks 
Application Point(1)  Typical Load and Speed  % Load Factor  Ambient Temperature Range  NLGI Grade  Grease Type 
° C ° F 
Min Max  Min  Max 
Belt Tightener, Drive Shaft Slip Spline, Fan Drive Pulley, Hoist Control Bellcrank, Hoist Cylinder Bearing, Front and Rear Axle A-Frame Bearing, Steering Cylinder End, Steering Linkage, Steering Tie Rod and Pin Bearings, Swaybar, Tachometer Drive  High  40-50  −35  40  −31  104  Extreme Application Grease 
−30 50 −22 122 
Medium 30-40  −20  40  −4  104  Prime Application Grease 
Low 20-30  −30  40  −22  104  Utility Grease 
Fan Drive Bearings    −20  40  −4  104  Ball Bearing Grease 
Extreme Temperature Conditions  High
Medium
Low 
  -50  20  -58  68  Extreme Application Grease - Arctic 
-20 60 -4 140  Extreme Application Grease - Desert 
(1) Typical examples. Not all machines will have the same application points.

Grease for the Autolube System

The grease used with the automatic lubrication system must not contain any graphite or PTFE.

Note: Pumpability is based on "US Steel Mobility and Lincoln Ventmeter Tests". Performance may vary depending on lubrication equipment and the length of the lines.

Table 4
Recommended Grease for the Autolube System 
Compartment or System  Grease Type  NLGI Grade  °C  °F 
Min Min
Cat Autolube System  Cat Prime Application Grease  NLGI Grade 2  −18 
Cat Extreme Application Grease(1) NLGI Grade 2  −7  20 
NLGI Grade 1 −18 
NLGI Grade 0 −29  −20 
Cat Extreme Application Grease - Arctic NLGI Grade 0  −43  −45 
Cat Extreme Application Grease - Desert NLGI Grade 2  35 
(1) Preferred grease for most Off-highway Truck applications.

Reference: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information about grease. This manual may be found on the web at Safety.Cat.com.

Diesel Fuel Recommendations

Diesel fuel must meet “Caterpillar Specification for Distillate Fuel” and the latest versions of "ASTM D975" or "EN 590" to ensure optimum engine performance.

The preferred fuels are distillate fuels. These fuels are commonly called diesel fuel, furnace oil, gas oil, or kerosene. These fuels must meet the “Caterpillar Specification for Distillate Diesel Fuel for Off-Highway Diesel Engines”. Diesel Fuels that meet the Caterpillar specification will help provide maximum engine service life and performance.

Misfueling with fuels of high sulfur level can have the following negative effects:

  • Reduce engine efficiency and durability

  • Increase the wear

  • Increase the corrosion

  • Increase the deposits

  • Lower fuel economy

  • Shorten the time period between oil drain intervals (more frequent oil drain intervals)

  • Increase overall operating costs

  • Negatively impact engine emissions

Failures that result from the use of improper fuels are not Caterpillar factory defects. Therefore the cost of repairs would not be covered by a Caterpillar warranty.

Caterpillar does not require the use of ULSD in off road and machine applications that are not Tier 4/Stage IIIB certified engines. ULSD is not required in engines that are not equipped with after treatment devices.

Follow operating instructions and fuel tank inlet labels, if available, to ensure that the correct fuels are used.

Fuel Additives

Cat Diesel Fuel Conditioner and Cat Fuel System Cleaner are available for use when needed. These products are applicable to diesel and biodiesel fuels. Consult your Cat dealer for availability.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a fuel that can be made from various renewable resources that include vegetable oils, animal fat, and waste cooking oil. Soybean oil and rapeseed oil are the primary vegetable oil sources. To use any of these oils or fats as fuel, the oils or fats are chemically processed (esterified). The water and contaminants are removed.

U.S. distillate diesel fuel specification "ASTM D975-09a" includes up to B5 (5 percent) biodiesel. Currently, any diesel fuel in the U.S. may contain up to B5 biodiesel fuel.

European distillate diesel fuel specification "EN 590" includes up to B5 (5 percent) and in some regions up to B7 (7 percent) biodiesel. Any diesel fuel in Europe may contain up to B5 or in some regions up to B7 biodiesel fuel.

Note: Up to B20 biodiesel blend level is acceptable for use in Medium Wheel Loader engines.

When biodiesel fuel is used, certain guidelines must be followed. Biodiesel fuel can influence the engine oil, aftertreatment devices, non-metallic, fuel system components, and others. Biodiesel fuel has limited storage life and has limited oxidation stability. Follow the guidelines and requirements for engines that are seasonally operated and for standby power generation engines.

To reduce the risks associated with the use of biodiesel, the final biodiesel blend and the biodiesel fuel used must meet specific blending requirements.

Reference: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information about fuels. This manual may be found on the web at Safety.Cat.com.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

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.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is also known under other names including Aqueous Urea Solution (AUS) 32, AdBlue, or generically referred to as urea.

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 harmless nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O).

DEF Recommendations for Diesel Engines

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

The caps of DEF tanks are blue, as required by emissions regulations. Fill DEF only in clearly marked DEF tanks that have the blue cap.

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 5 for part number information:

Table 5
Cat Part Number
(32.5% Urea) 
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 that 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. Most SCR systems are designed to operate only on DEF concentration of 32.5 percent. 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.

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.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is also known under other names including Aqueous Urea Solution (AUS) 32, AdBlue, or generically referred to as urea.

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 harmless nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O).

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.

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 that 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 includes:

  • Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

  • Fluoroelastomer (FKM)

  • Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

The condition of hoses and other nonmetallics 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.

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.


NOTICE

Storing Diesel Exhaust Fluid in high heat areas is not recommended. Do not store DEF in high heat generating areas on the machine, such as the pump compartment or the engine compartment. The quality of the DEF can degrade when exposed to high temperatures.


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 6
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.

Coolant Information

The following two types of coolants may be used in Cat diesel engines:

Preferred - Cat ELC (Extended Life Coolant)

Acceptable - Cat DEAC (Diesel Engine Antifreeze/Coolant)


NOTICE

Never use water alone as a coolant. Water alone is corrosive at engine operating temperatures. In addition, water alone does not provide adequate protection against boiling or freezing.


Reference: Refer to Special Publication, SEBU6250, "Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations" for additional information about coolant. This manual may be found on the web at Safety.Cat.com.

Caterpillar Information System:

XQP1100 Generator Set Space Heater - Test
797F Off-Highway Truck Battery or Battery Cable - Inspect/Replace
3512E and 3516E Marine Engines Aftercooler - Install
3512E and 3516E Marine Engines Aftercooler - Remove
New Engine Software Is Now Used for Certain C32 Marine Engines {1920} New Engine Software Is Now Used for Certain C32 Marine Engines {1920}
Improved Bellows Fins and Exhaust Elbows are Now Used on Certain Cat® C175 Engines {1061} Improved Bellows Fins and Exhaust Elbows are Now Used on Certain Cat® C175 Engines {1061}
Procedure to Selection of Parts for Right Turbocharger to Clean Emissions Module (CEM) Inlet for Certain C175 Engines {1052, 1061, 108D} Procedure to Selection of Parts for Right Turbocharger to Clean Emissions Module (CEM) Inlet for Certain C175 Engines {1052, 1061, 108D}
C7.1 Commercial Marine Engine Cooling System
797F Off-Highway Truck Towing the Machine
Rain Water May Enter in Muffler/Silencers on Certain 3516 Power Modules {1062} Rain Water May Enter in Muffler/Silencers on Certain 3516 Power Modules {1062}
Improved Crankshafts are Now Used on Certain Cat® Engines {1202} Improved Crankshafts are Now Used on Certain Cat® Engines {1202}
336 Excavators (Powered by C9.3 Tier 4 Engine) Engine Supplement Electronic Control Module - Remove and Install
3516B Generator Set Engines with Dynamic Gas Blending Detonation Occurrence
797F Off-Highway Truck Frame and Body - Inspect
797F Off-Highway Truck Frame and Body Support Pads - Clean/Inspect
336 Excavators (Powered by C9.3 Tier 4 Engine) Engine Supplement Hood - Remove and Install
New Speed Sensor Groups are Now Used on Certain Engines {1907, 1912} New Speed Sensor Groups are Now Used on Certain Engines {1907, 1912}
Improved Crankshafts are Now Used on Certain Cat® Products {1202} Improved Crankshafts are Now Used on Certain Cat® Products {1202}
797F Off-Highway Truck Belts - Inspect/Replace
New Engine Software is Now Used for Certain G3600B Series Engines {1920} New Engine Software is Now Used for Certain G3600B Series Engines {1920}
New Pressure Relief Breather for Hydraulic Tank Is Now Used on Certain Cat Products {1354} New Pressure Relief Breather for Hydraulic Tank Is Now Used on Certain Cat Products {1354}
336 Excavator Machine Systems Cab - Remove and Install
XQP1100 Generator Set Generator Bearing - Replace
XQP1100 Generator Set Generator Bearing - Inspect
Back to top
The names Caterpillar, John Deere, JD, JCB, Hyundai or any other original equipment manufacturers are registered trademarks of the respective original equipment manufacturers. All names, descriptions, numbers and symbols are used for reference purposes only.
CH-Part.com is in no way associated with any of the manufacturers we have listed. All manufacturer's names and descriptions are for reference only.