BLOCK-CONTACT 5396661 - Caterpillar

the transmission oil is allowed to warmup gradually, the bearings maintain optimum operating conditions. High speeds during a cold start-up may decrease the durability of the bearing components. During warmup, the electronic control systems on the transmission will restrict available transmission gears for certain cold oil temperatures. The transmission must be preheated when the ambient temperature is −20 °C (−10 °F). Preheating can be accomplished by using an appropriate electrical heating element installed in the oil pan drain plug, or by running the transmission in neutral for 20 minutes prior to operation.To reduce the time required for the transmission to reach operating temperature, a warmup feature is available. When activated, the warmup feature will stall the torque converter to place the engine under a slight load and generate heat in the transmission. This feature is described in more detail in the additional features section.Transmission Oil HeaterCaterpillar recommends installing a commercial heating element when the transmission is started and the ambient temperatures are −30 °C (−20 °F). Heaters facilitate starting the engine and transmission in cold climates, and heaters reduce the warmup time required to get a power train operational. The SAE J1926 #16 straight thread o-ring port in the oil pan under the converter housing is the appropriate location to install a transmission oil heater in the CX38-P892. As a general rule, suppliers recommend 8 to 10 watts per quart of sump oil. Commercial heaters with and without thermostats are available in 150, 300 and 500 watt capacities that are compatible with the CX38–P892 transmissions.