BOX GP-INSTRUMENT PANEL 3N9015 - Caterpillar

Illustration 1 g01393753
Crankshaft
The crankshaft changes the reciprocating motion of the pistons into usable rotating torque.The crankshaft drives a group of gears on the front and on the rear of the engine. The front gear group drives the engine oil pump, the jacket water pump, and the accessory drives. The rear gear group drives the camshafts.Pressurized engine oil is supplied to the crankshaft main bearings through drilled passages in the webs of the cylinder block. The engine oil then flows through drilled passages in the crankshaft in order to provide lubrication to the connecting rod bearings.A 12 cylinder engine has seven main bearings. A 16 cylinder engine has nine main bearings. A 20 cylinder engine has 11 main bearings. Two thrust plates on the sides of the center main bearing control the end play of the crankshaft.
Illustration 2 g00807826
Cross sections of the crankshaft seals and wear sleeves
Seals and wear sleeves are used at both ends of the crankshaft. Engine oil is sealed by the lip seals and the wear sleeves help prevent wear on the crankshaft.
Illustration 3 g00929007
Side view of the vibration damper
A vibration damper is bolted to the front of the crankshaft in order to reduce torsional vibrations that can damage the engine.