3304 and 3306 Industrial and Generator Set Engines Caterpillar

Electric Starting

Engines Equipped With Glow Plug Starting Aid

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Starting fluid is volatile and must be stored away from heat and direct sunlight. If an aerosol container is used, follow the instructions on the container.

1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL, or for generator sets, open the main electrical circuit breaker.

2. Move throttle to half engine speed.

3. Turn the battery disconnect switch to the ON position.

4. Turn the HEAT-START switch to HEAT or START, as indicated by the chart.

5. After the indicated heat time, turn the switch to the START position. If starting fluid is necessary, spray sparingly into the air cleaner inlet while the engine is cranking. (If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the starter switch and wait 2 minutes, to allow the starter motor to cool, before using it again.)

6. As soon as the engine starts, allow the engine to idle 3 to 5 minutes or until the water temperature gauge has begun to rise. In cold temperatures, turn the HEAT-START switch to the HEAT position until the engine runs smoothly at low idle.

7. Do not apply load to the engine or increase engine speed until the oil pressure registers on the gauge. (Oil pressure should raise to normal within 15 seconds after the engine starts.) If oil pressure does not register within 15 seconds, stop the engine immediately to prevent damage.

8. Operate the engine at low load until all systems reach operating temperatures. Check all gauges during the warm-up period.

Starting Aid Chart

Engines Not Equipped With Glow Plug Starting Aid

If the temperature is below 16°C (60°F), a starting aid may be necessary and/or crankcase oil may need to be heated. Jacket water heaters are often used to assist starting in cold temperatures.

1. Place the transmission in NEUTRAL, or for generator sets open the main electrical circuit breaker.

2. Move the throttle to half engine speed.

3. Turn the starter switch to START. If starting fluid is necessary, spray it sparingly into the air cleaner inlet while the engine is cranking. (If the engine fails to start within 30 seconds, release the starter switch, and wait 2 minutes to allow the starter motor to cool before using it again.)

4. As soon as the engine starts, allow the engine to idle for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the water temperature gauge has begun to rise.

5. Do not apply load to the engine or increase engine speed until the oil pressure gauge indicates normal. (Oil pressure should raise within 15 seconds after the engine starts.) If oil pressure does not register within 15 seconds, stop the engine immediately to prevent damage.

6. Operate the engine at low load until all systems reach operating temperatures. Check all gauges during the warm-up period.

Air Starting

1. Open and close the bleed valve on the bottom of the air tank to drain condensation and oil carryover.

2. Check the air supply pressure. The air starter must have 7 kg / cm² (100 psi) to operate properly.

3. Check the oil level in the oiler jar. Keep jar at least half full. Add oil if necessary. See the Refill Capacities Chart for the proper oil to use.

4. Pull the air valve upward or push the button to crank the engine. As soon as the engine starts, release the valve, or button.