CONE 1B3990 - Caterpillar

Fuel Tanks
Condensation can form in partially filled fuel tanks. Top off the fuel tanks after operating the engine.Fuel tanks should contain some provision for draining water and sediment from the bottom of the tanks. Some fuel tanks use supply pipes that allow water and sediment to settle below the end of the fuel supply pipe.Some fuel tanks use supply lines that take fuel directly from the bottom of the tank. If the engine is equipped with this system, regular maintenance of the fuel system filter is important.Drain the water and sediment from any fuel storage tank at the following intervals:
Weekly
Oil changes
Refueling of the fuel tankThis will help prevent water and/or sediment from being pumped from the fuel storage tank and into the engine fuel tank.Fuel Filters
A primary fuel filter and/or a water separator is installed between the fuel tank and the engine mounted fuel filter. The location of the primary fuel filter is important in cold weather operation. The primary fuel filter and the fuel supply line are commonly affected by cold fuel. The best location for the primary fuel filter is in the engine compartment. Here, the primary fuel filter will benefit from the radiant heat of the engine. A primary fuel filter that is mounted outside the frame rails or in any location that is exposed to wind can be a persistent problem in cold weather.Fuel Heaters
Fuel heaters help to prevent fuel filters from plugging in cold weather due to waxing. If the engine is operated in cold weather, a fuel heater should be installed. This will heat the fuel before the fuel enters the primary fuel filter.Select a fuel heater that is mechanically simple, yet adequate for the application. The fuel heater should also help to prevent overheating of the fuel. High fuel temperatures reduce engine performance and the availability of engine power. Choose a fuel heater with a large heating surface. The fuel heater should be practical in size. Small heaters can be too hot due to the limited surface area.Disconnect the fuel heater in warm weather.Note: Fuel heaters that are controlled by the water temperature regulator or self-regulating fuel heaters should be used with this engine. Fuel heaters that are not controlled by the water temperature regulator can heat the fuel in excess of 65 °C (149 °F). A loss of engine power can occur if the fuel supply temperature exceeds 37 °C (100 °F).Note: Heat exchanger type fuel heaters should have a bypass provision in order to prevent overheating of the fuel in warm weather operation.For further information on fuel heaters, consult your Caterpillar dealer.