ELBOW 6N3026 - Caterpillar

Scheduling a Major Overhaul
The need for a major overhaul is determined by several factors.
An increase of oil consumption
An increase of crankcase blowby
A decrease and variation of cylinder compressionThe following changes in the three conditions normally require a scheduled overhaul:
A 300 percent increase in oil consumption
A 200 percent increase in crankcase blowby
A 20 percent loss of cylinder compressionNote: These indications do not require an engine to be shut down for service. These indications only mean that an engine should be scheduled for service in the near future. If the engine operation is satisfactory, an immediate overhaul is not a requirement.The engine does not require an overhaul if the engine is operating within acceptable limits for oil consumption, crankcase blowby, and cylinder compression.Other factors must also be considered for determining a major overhaul:
The service hours of the engine
The wear metal analysis of the lube oil
An increase in the levels of noise and vibrationAn increase of wear metals in the lube oil indicates that the bearings and the surfaces that wear may need to be serviced. An increase in the levels of noise and vibration indicates that rotating parts require service.Note: It is possible for oil analysis to indicate a decrease of wear metals in the lube oil. The cylinder liners may be worn so that polishing of the bore occurs. Also, the increased use of lube oil will dilute the wear metals.Monitor the engine as the engine accumulates service hours. Consult your Caterpillar dealer about scheduling a major overhaul.Note: The driven equipment may also require service when the engine is overhauled. Refer to the literature that is provided by the OEM of the driven equipment.Major Overhaul Information
A major overhaul includes all of the work that is done for top end overhauls. A major overhaul includes additional parts and labor. Additional parts and labor are required in order to completely rebuild the engine. In some cases, the engine is relocated for disassembly.For the major overhaul, all of the bearings, seals, gaskets, and components that wear are disassembled. The parts are cleaned and inspected. If necessary, the parts are replaced. The crankshaft is measured for wear. The crankshaft may require regrinding. Alternatively, the crankshaft may be replaced with a Caterpillar replacement part.Your Caterpillar dealer can provide these services and components. Your Caterpillar dealer can ensure that the components are operating within the appropriate specifications.If you elect to perform an overhaul without the services of a Caterpillar dealer, be aware of the following recommendations.The following definitions explain the terminology for the services that are performed during an overhaul:Inspect - Inspect the components according to the instructions that are in Caterpillar reusability publications. Refer to Guidelines for Reusable Parts and Salvage Operations, SEBF8029, "Index of Publications on Reusability or Salvage of Used Parts". The guidelines were developed in order to help Caterpillar dealers and customers to avoid unnecessary expenditures. New parts are not required if the existing parts can still be used, reconditioned, or repaired. If the components are not in the reusability guidelines,