CYLINDER GP-STICK 3683246 - Caterpillar

If air enters the fuel system, the air must be purged before the engine can be started. Priming the fuel system fills the fuel filter. Air can enter the fuel system when the following events occur:
The fuel tank is empty or the fuel tank has been partially drained.
Fuel filter maintenance
Disconnecting fuel lines and installing fuel lines
Repair of leaks in the fuel lines
Fuel leaked or spilled onto hot surfaces or electrical components can cause a fire. To help prevent possible injury, turn the start switch off when changing fuel filters or water separator elements. Clean up fuel spills immediately.
Use a suitable container to catch any fuel that might spill. Clean up any spilled fuel immediately.
Do not allow dirt to enter the fuel system. Thoroughly clean the area around a fuel system component that will be disconnected. Fit a suitable cover over disconnected fuel system component.
Illustration 1 g00400285
Loosen the vent plug (1) on the fuel injection pump.Note: The priming lever of the fuel transfer pump cannot be operated if the cam is at the maximum lift position. If this occurs, the crankshaft must be rotated one revolution.
Operate the priming lever for the fuel transfer pump (2) until the flow of fuel from the vent plug (1) is continuous and free of air bubbles. Tighten vent plug (1) .
Do not crank the engine continuously for more than 30 seconds. Allow the starting motor to cool for two minutes before cranking the engine again.
Ensure that the manual stop control (if equipped) is in the RUN position. Start the engine. The engine may run rough. Run the engine at low idle until the engine runs smoothly. If the engine will not start, further priming may be necessary. If the engine starts and if the engine continues to misfire or smoke, then the fuel system may require more priming. Check for any leaks in the fuel system.
Ensure that all fuel connections are secure and tightened to the proper torque. Ensure that any spilled fuel is cleaned up.