3054 Engine Caterpillar

Engine And Cooling System Heat Problems

Note: Use a coolant recovery system in order to collect any coolant which drains from the coolant system.

1. The following conditions indicate that a heat problem exists.

   1. Hot coolant is released through the pressure cap during the normal operation of the engine. Hot coolant can also be released when the engine is stopped.

   2. Hot coolant is released from the coolant system but not through the pressure cap during normal operation of the engine. Hot coolant can also be released when the engine is stopped.

   3. Coolant must be added frequently to the cooling system. The coolant is not released through the pressure cap or through an outside leak.

2. If any of the conditions in Step 1 exist, perform the following procedures:

   1. Run the engine at medium idle, which is approximately 1200 rpm, for three minutes after the high idle shuts off. Running the engine at medium idle will allow the engine to cool before the engine is stopped.

3. Refer to the following procedures in order to determine if the pressure cap is damaged or if a leak exists in the cooling system.

   1. Refer to "Visual Inspection Of The Cooling System" procedures.

   2. Refer to "Testing The Pressure Cap" procedures.

   3. Refer to "Testing The Radiator And Cooling System For Leaks" procedures.

   4. Refer to the Testing And Adjusting, "Belt Tension Chart". Check the tension of all belts on the engine.

4. If the coolant does not flow through the radiator and through other components of the cooling system, perform the following procedures.

   1. Perform the "Testing The Water Temperature Regulator " procedures.

   2. Clean the radiator and other components with hot water or steam at low pressure. Detergent in the water may also be used. Compressed air may be used to remove materials from the cooling system. Identify the cause of the restriction before you choose the method for cleaning.

   3. Straighten any fins of the radiator if the fins are bent.

5. Check the high idle of the engine. The engine may overheat if the high idle rpm is set too high.

6. Timing of the engine which is incorrect may also cause overheating of the engine. Late timing creates more heat in the engine. Early timing creates less heat in the engine.

   Note: If the timing of the engine is too early, the exhaust valves may be burned and damage to the exhaust manifold may occur.

Cooling System Conditioner

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Supplemental cooling system additive contains alkali. To prevent personal injury, do not drink, avoid contact with the skin and eyes.

Caterpillar Cooling System Conditioner can be used with an antifreeze or without an antifreeze of ethylene glycol base in the coolant.

When the conditioner is added to the coolant, the cooling system must be flushed and the cooling system must be cleaned. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual for additional information.