ELBOW 2004246 - Caterpillar

Before Starting the Engine
Walk-Around Inspection
For maximum service life of your engine, thoroughly inspect the installation before starting the engine. Look for such items as fuel, oil or coolant leaks, loose bolts, worn belts and trash build-up. Keep the engine area clean. Remove trash build-up and have repairs made as needed. Perform required Daily and other periodic maintenance before starting the engine. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Daily maintenance recommendations in this Manual for details.
All valves in fuel return lines must be open before and during engine operation to prevent high fuel pressure. High fuel pressure may cause filter housing failure or other damage.Each time any significant quantity of oil (or other fluid) is spilled on or near the engine it should be cleaned up. Accumulated grease and oil on an engine or platform is a fire hazard. Remove this debris with steam cleaning or high pressure water, at least every 1000 hours or each time any significant quantity of oil (or other fluid) is spilled on or near an engine and working area.Wipe clean all fittings, caps and plugs before servicing.
Pre-Start Checks
Do not start the engine or move any of the controls if there is a DO NOT OPERATE or similar warning tag attached to the start switch or controls. The operator must be satisfied that no one will be endangered before starting the engine. All guards must be in place. Repair or replace all guards that are damaged or missing.Starting Information
Above 12°C (55°F)
Diesel engine exhaust contains products of combustion which may be harmful to your health. Start and operate the engine in a well-ventilated area and, if in an enclosed area, ensure exhaust is vented outside and piping is connected properly.
For initial start-up of a new or rebuilt engine, make provision to shut down the engine should a runaway (overspeed) occur. This may be accomplished by cutting off the air and/or fuel supply to the engine.
Do not start the engine or move any of the controls if there is a DO NOT OPERATE or similar warning tag attached to the start switch or controls. The operator must be satisfied that no one will be endangered before and when starting the engine.If the engine has not been run for several weeks, fuel may have drained and allowed air into the filter housing. Also, when fuel filters have been changed, some air space will be left in the housing. In these instances, prime the fuel system. Refer to Priming the Fuel System in this publication for more information.Cold Weather Starting Aids
When using starting fluid, use it sparingly and spray it only while cranking the engine. Use ether for cold starting purposes only. Failure to do so, could result in an explosion and/or fire and possible personal injury.
Heating of jacket water (coolant) and crankcase oil may be required to assist starting in temperatures below 12°C (55°F). Startability will be improved at temperatures below 12°C (55°F) by the use of the jacket water (coolant) heater.
Caterpillar engines are