Usage:
3400 Series Engines
Caterpillar has received many questions concerning the salvaging of cylinder block top decks with liner seat erosion. A list of the most frequently asked questions, along with the answers, follow:
QUESTION: What is the preferred method of salvage for minor erosion of the top deck?
ANSWER: If the erosion is less than 0.28 mm (.011") deep, the preferred salvage method is shaving or resurfacing the top deck of the block.
QUESTION: If erosion has occurred on only one cylinder, should liner seat inserts be installed for the other cylinder liners?
ANSWER: No. There is no reason to install liner seat inserts in any cylinders which have not had liner seat erosion.
QUESTION: What can be done if the liner seat erosion is so severe (deep) that the cylinder block cannot be salvaged with a 2W3815 Insert?
ANSWER: If the erosion is too deep to be salvaged by using the 2W3815 Insert, a 5N93 Insert can possibly be used to salvage the block.
QUESTION: Is there any reason to perform salvage operations on cylinder block top decks which have only visual indications of erosion?
ANSWER: The area around the liner seat can be polished by very slight (small) movements between the cylinder liner and the block. This visual indication is sometimes mistaken as erosion. If the measurable erosion is not more than 0.03 mm (.001"), there is no need to shave (resurface) the top deck or install an insert. Always check for proper liner projection during assembly.
QUESTION: What type of salvage is possible for erosion around the water director hole?
ANSWER: Erosion around the water director hole is not critical if sufficient material remains to support the water director. A room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) compound can be used to help seal the water director into the block.