Caterpillar
If the engine is in good mechanical condition and the precautions necessary for cold-weather operation are taken, ordinary cold weather will not cause difficulty in starting or loss of efficiency.
If the engine does not start, prime the fuel system.
When the use of unblended No. 2 diesel fuel in winter cannot be avoided, install a thermostatically controlled fuel heater. Fuel heaters can prevent wax from clogging the fuel filters and formation of ice crystals from water in the fuel.
Important: If a fuel heater is used, make sure it has thermostatic controls to prevent excessive heating of the fuel in warm weather. Excessive heating of fuel can cause a loss of engine power.
For cold weather operation, use the following guidelines:
- When starting the engine in temperatures below 32°F (0°C), use engine lubricants of lower viscosity. Refer to the Caterpillar Operation and Maintenance Manual for specifications.
- When the temperature is below freezing, use sufficient antifreeze solution in the cooling system to prevent freezing.
- During cold weather, give more attention to the condition of the batteries. Test them frequently to ensure sufficient power for starting. See Group 15 of the Century Class Trucks Workshop Manual for detailed information.
- If so equipped, turn off the battery disconnect switch
after the engine is shut down, to prevent battery discharge.For starting below 0°F (–18°C), an optional cold-weather starting assist is recommended. For temperatures below –10°F (–23°C), consult your Caterpillar dealer for recommendations.
- When customer parameters include cold-mode operation and the coolant temperature is below 82°F (28°C), the system puts the engine into cold mode. It adjusts the low idle to 600 rpm (for the 3406E, C–15, and C–16 engines) and 800 rpm (for the C–10 and C–12 engines). It also advances the timing, to reduce white smoke emissions and improve warm-up time. The system will keep the engine in cold mode until the coolant temperature rises above 82°F (28°C). After cold mode has been completed, operate the vehicle at low load and low rpm until the engine coolant reaches normal operating temperature of 189°F (87°C).
- Fuel cloud point is the temperature at which wax crystals become visible, which is generally above the pour point of the fuel. To keep the fuel filter elements from plugging with wax crystals, the cloud point should be no higher than the lowest ambient temperature at which the engine must start.