GASKET-VALVE COVER 2984546 - Caterpillar

Note: Oil pan immersion heaters are not recommended for heating the lube oil. To ensure the compatibility of the components, only use equipment that is recommended by Caterpillar.Startability will be improved at temperatures below 16 °C (60 °F) with a starting aid. A jacket water heater may be needed and/or the crankcase oil may need to be warmed.A jacket water heater is available as an option for starting in temperatures as low as 0 °C (32 °F). The jacket water heater can maintain the water temperature at approximately 32 °C (90 °F). The heated water will help to keep the oil in the engine block warm enough to flow when the engine is started.Maintain the proper level of electrolyte in the batteries. Keep the batteries fully charged.To maximize the battery power, heat the battery compartment or store the batteries in a warm location. Typically, batteries only have 50 percent of the capability at −10 °C (14 °F) versus 27 °C (80 °F).Extra battery capacity may be necessary for very cold temperatures.When No. 2 diesel fuel is used, a fuel heater will maintain the temperature of the fuel above the cloud point. Fuel line insulation will help to maintain the fuel temperature.Consult your Caterpillar dealer for more information on the starting aids that are available for cold weather starting.Starting With the Starting Aid Switch
Personal injury or property damage can result from alcohol or starting fluids.Alcohol or starting fluids are highly flammable and toxic and if improperly stored could result in injury or property damage.
Excessive starting fluid can cause piston and ring damage.Use starting fluid for cold starting purposes only.Do not use excessive starting fluid during starting or after the engine is running.
The optional ether starting aid which is located on the control panel is the only system that is recommended for the injection of starting fluid.Perform the procedures that are described in this Operation and Maintenance Manual (Operation Section), "Before Starting Engine".
Turn the Engine Control Switch to the "MAN. START" position. The engine will crank.
Ether will automatically be injected if the following conditions are met:
The "STARTING AID" switch is in the AUTOMATIC position.
The jacket water temperature is less than 21 °C (70 °F). Note: Additional injections may be necessary in order to start the engine. Additional injections may also be necessary in order to achieve low idle.
If additional injection is necessary, toggle the "STARTING AID" switch to the MANUAL position. For additional injection, the jacket water temperature must be less than 21 °C (70 °F).
The "STARTING AID" switch is a momentary switch. To stop the injection, release the "STARTING AID" switch.