PLATE, BENT 1206492 - Caterpillar

Troubleshooting the Air Compressor's Lubrication System
The engine provides a continuous supply of oil to the air compressor. Oil is routed from the engine to the oil inlet of the air compressor. This oil is used to lubricate all of the components of the air compressor. Return oil is allowed to drain back into the engine through the mounting flange of the air compressor or through a drain tube that is external to the engine.Utilize the following procedure in order to verify the correct operation of the air compressor's lubrication system.Supply Pressure
A high oil supply pressure can result in an increased oil level in the crankcase of the air compressor. During the operation of an air compressor that has an increased oil level, there is a constant saturation of the cylinder walls with oil. The increased amount of oil on the compressor's cylinder walls also increases the amount of oil that migrates past the compressor's piston rings. This oil eventually collects in the air dryer and the supply reservoir of the air system. In order to maintain the compressor's oil level, the engine oil pressure must remain within specifications. Use a test gauge that is known to be accurate in order to test the engine oil pressure. If the engine oil pressure is not within the factory specifications, repair the engine lubrication system in order to bring the pressure into specifications.Note: Do not attempt to correct a high engine oil pressure by placing a restriction in the air compressor's oil supply line. Damage to the air compressor may result.Oil Return
The compressor's oil return to the engine should not be restricted in any manner. Restrictions that are present in the oil drain passage from the compressor to the engine will cause the oil level in the air compressor's crankcase to increase. This will cause excessive carryover of oil to occur. A field test procedure is not available for testing the compressor's crankcase oil level.For compressors that drain the return oil directly to the engine through a flange mounting hole, check for the following problems:
Ensure that the drain ports are properly aligned.
Check for the proper alignment of the mounting gasket. Ensure that the drain passage is not obstructed by the gasket.
Check that the drain passage is not obstructed by a buildup of gasket sealant.Adjust problems that have been discovered with port alignment and remove any restrictions in the oil drain passage.For compressors that utilize a drain tube for the return oil, check for the following problems:
Check that the oil drain tube has a continuous descent from the compressor's drain port to the fitting that connects to the engine crankcase.
Check that the routing of the drain tube does not obstruct the flow of oil. Check for bends in the tube that have excessive angles. The drain tube should not be kinked in a manner that would restrict the flow of oil.
Remove the drain tube from the engine and inspect the passage for obstructions. Ensure that the tube is free of sludge deposits.Make