PIN-TRACK MASTER 8E0855 - Caterpillar

Probable Causes
Cold cylinder
Electrical connectors or power supply
Ignition system
Fuel supply
Incorrect air/fuel ratio
Air inlet restriction
Exhaust restriction
Incorrect valve lash
Cylinder head and related componentsRecommended Repairs
Note: If the symptom only occurs under certain operating conditions (high idle, full load, engine operating temperature, etc), test the engine under the conditions. Troubleshooting the symptom under other conditions can give misleading results.Cold Cylinder
Locate the misfiring cylinder. Check the following components for failure: spark plug, extender, ignition transformer and primary wiring. Inspect the extender for signs of pin holes and/or arcing.Refer to Troubleshooting, "Ignition Transformers Secondary Circuit and Spark Plugs".Electrical Connectors or Power Supply
There may be an intermittent interruption of power. Check the wiring harnesses and the connectors. Inspect the connectors in the terminal boxes. Inspect the power supply connections and the ground.Inspect the wiring from the power supply to the control modules. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Electrical Power Supply".Ignition System
Note: Data from a fuel analysis is required for this procedure.Inspect the ignition transformers for the following items: loose connections, moisture, short circuits and open circuits. Inspect the primary wiring and the secondary electrical connections.Make sure that the correct transformers and spark plugs are installed. Inspect the extenders for signs of pin holes and of arcing.Maintain the spark plug according to the engine's Operation and Maintenance Manual.Make sure that the ignition timing is correct.Fuel Supply
Make sure that fuel is supplied at a sufficient pressure that is stable. Make sure that the size of the fuel line is sufficient. Inspect the fuel system for leaks.The following conditions can cause the engine to malfunction:
Low fuel pressure
High fuel pressure
Poor fuel qualityMake sure that the fuel pressure is correct. When possible, interview the operator in order to determine if fuel quality is in question. Try to determine if the source of the fuel was changed.Inspect the fuel system components: fuel filter, gas pressure regulator, gas shutoff valve and fuel metering valve. Verify that the system's components are operating correctly.Replace the fuel filter, if necessary.Inspect the gas pressure regulator's diaphragm for leaks. Make sure that the valve moves freely. The valve must seat correctly.Make sure that the balance line is secure. Inspect the balance line for plugging.Inspect the actuator and the linkage. Make sure that the linkage operates smoothly for the full range of travel. The linkage must have no free play. Adjust the actuator and the linkage, if necessary.Air/Fuel Ratio
An air/fuel mixture that is too rich or too lean will have an adverse effect on engine operation. Verify that the exhaust emissions are correct. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Carburetor Air/Fuel Ratio - Check/Adjust".A change in the fuel energy content will change the air/fuel ratio. Obtain a fuel analysis.The fuel supply pressure must be adequate and stable.Air Inlet Restriction
The maximum allowable air inlet restriction is 3.75 kPa (15 inches of H2O). If the indication is higher than the maximum permissible restriction, clean the filter element or install a new filter element. Check the restriction again. If the restriction remains too high, inspect the air inlet piping before the air cleaner for