MIRROR- 4235816 - Caterpillar

Grounding Practices
The electrical systems for the engine and the control systems must be properly grounded. Proper grounding is necessary for optimum performance and reliability. Improper grounding will result in uncontrolled electrical circuit paths and in unreliable electrical circuit paths.Uncontrolled electrical circuit paths can result in damage to main bearings, to the surface of crankshaft journals, and to aluminum components. Uncontrolled electrical circuit paths can also cause electrical activity that may degrade performance.The alternator and the starting motor must be grounded to the negative "−" battery terminal.A ground plate with a direct path to the negative "−" battery terminal may be used as a common ground for the components of one engine system.For engines with an alternator that is grounded to an engine component, a ground strap must connect that component to the negative "−" battery terminal. Also, that component must be electrically isolated from the engine.The ground strap for the alternator must be of a size that is adequate for carrying the full charging current of the alternator.