LEVER 9M7394 - Caterpillar

Caterpillar has received a number of inquires regarding a clarification of the oil recommendations for 3600 Family of Engines.
Caterpillar Scheduled Oil Sampling (S O S) is highly recommended for determining oil change intervals on the 3600 Family of Engines. This article provides guidance on discussing the subject with Dealers and users.
Engine oil performs several basic functions in order to provide adequate lubrication. Oil works to keep the engine clean and free from rust and corrosion. It acts as a coolant, and provides an oil film cushion that keeps metal-to-metal contact a minimum, thereby reducing friction and wear. These are only the basic functions of oil. It is the particular demands of a given application and the special conditions under which an oil is used which largely determine the numerous additional functions it must perform. The selection of the correct oil for the 3600 Family of Engines is vital.
The selection of suitable lubricating oil should be given careful consideration, taking into account the quality of available diesel fuel. Additives in the oil play a very important role. The final performance characteristics of the oil depend upon the base oil and the additive used. The amount or type of additives used will vary according to the properties of the base oil and the environment in which the oil will function.
Market forces and legislative mandates have driven modern diesel engine technology to improve performance in two major areas: better fuel economy and lower emissions.
The improvements are achieved by attaining more complete combustion and better oil control. Improved combustion is the result of many enhancements; higher peak cylinder pressure is one of the major contributors. Better oil control, which also reduces oil consumption costs, is achieved by refinements in the piston, ring and liner.
Both of these performance improvements increase the demands placed on lubricating oil in a modern diesel engine. The higher cylinder pressure increases the loads and temperatures on engine components. Better oil control and reduced oil consumption means that the oil additive package is not replenished between oil changes because a smaller amount of new oil is added to the sump between oil changes.
Scheduled Oil Sampling (S O S)
S O S is a diagnostic tool used to determine oil performance and equipment wear rates. Caterpillar recommends using S O S at regularly scheduled intervals to monitor the condition and maintenance requirements of your equipment. The S O S program is a series of diagnostic tests which analyze used lubricating oils from the oil wetted compartments of the equipment.
There are several methods used to obtain S O S samples. Sampling methods recommended are in preference order. If one of the first two methods is not feasible, use the drain stream method.
* Use an in-line sampling valve.* Use a sampling gun inserted into the sump.* Use the drain stream method when changing oil.When using the drain stream method to obtain an oil sample, take the sample after some of the oil has drained out and before the final drain oil. The