PIN 4E9377 - Caterpillar

Above normal coolant temperatures can be caused by many conditions. Use the following procedure to determine the cause of above normal coolant temperatures:
Personal injury can result from escaping fluid under pressure.If a pressure indication is shown on the indicator, push the release valve in order to relieve pressure before removing any hose from the radiator.
Check the coolant level in the cooling system. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Cooling System Coolant Level - Check". If the coolant level is too low, air will get into the cooling system. Air in the cooling system will cause a reduction in coolant flow and bubbles in the coolant. Air bubbles will keep coolant away from the engine parts, which will prevent the transfer of heat to the coolant. Low coolant level is caused by leaks or incorrectly filling the cooling system with coolant.
Check the mixture of antifreeze and water. Refer to Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations , SEBU6250, "Cooling System Specifications ". If the coolant mixture is incorrect, drain the system. Put the correct mixture of water, antifreeze and coolant conditioner in the cooling system.
Check for air in the cooling system. Air can enter the cooling system in different ways. The most common causes of air in the cooling system are the incorrect filling of the cooling system and combustion gas leakage into the cooling system. Combustion gas can get into the system through inside cracks, a damaged cylinder head, or a damaged cylinder head gasket. Air in the cooling system causes a reduction in coolant flow and bubbles in the coolant. Air bubbles keep coolant away from the engine parts, which prevents the transfer of heat to the coolant.
Check the operation of the hydraulically driven fan. Ensure that the Electronic Control Module (ECM) is controlling the fan correctly. A fan that is not turning at the correct speed can cause improper air speed across the radiator core. The lack of proper air flow across the radiator core can cause the coolant not to cool to the proper temperature differential.
Check the water temperature gauge. A water temperature gauge which does not work correctly will not show the correct temperature. Refer to Testing