ROD 7M7681 - Caterpillar

Use this procedure to troubleshoot excessive oil consumption.Probable Causes
Oil level
Leaks
Worn engine components
Oil viscosity
TurbochargerRecommended Actions
Table 1
Troubleshooting Test Steps Values Results
1. Check the Crankcase for Excessive Oil
A. Check the engine oil level.
Note: Too much oil in the engine crankcase can cause the engine to consume oil.
B. Ensure that the level indicator is calibrated correctly for the installation.
Oil Level
Result: The oil level is correct and the level indicator is correctly calibrated.
Proceed to Test Step 2.
Result: The oil level is high or the level indicator is incorrectly calibrated.
Repair: Remove excessive engine oil from the crankcase.
If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 2.
2. Check for External Engine Oil Leaks
A. Check for oil leaking on the outside of the engine.
Leaks
Result: There are no oil leaks on the outside of the engine.
Proceed to Test Step 3.
Result: There are oil leaks on the outside of the engine.
Repair: Find the oil leaks. Repair or replace damaged components.
If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 3.
3. Inspect the Engine for Oil Leaks in the Combustion Area of the Cylinder
A. Inspect the following components for wear:
- Damaged piston
- Worn piston ring
- Worn cylinder liners
- Worn valve guides
- Damaged cylinder head
Damaged or Worn Engine Components
Result: There are no oil leaks in the combustion area of the cylinder.
Proceed to Test Step 4.
Result: There are oil leaks in the combustion area of the cylinder.
Repair: Repair or replace damaged components.
If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 4.
4. Ensure that the Correct Oil Viscosity is Being Used
Note: Excessive consumption of engine oil can result if engine oil with the wrong viscosity is used. Engine oil with a thin viscosity can be caused by fuel leakage into the crankcase or by increased engine temperature.
Oil Viscosity
Result: The engine oil viscosity is correct.
Proceed to Test Step 5.
Result: The engine oil viscosity is not correct.
Repair: Replace the engine oil.
If the problem is not resolved, proceed to Test Step 5.
5. Check for Proper Operation of the Turbocharger
A. Check for any oil that may be leaking into the air inlet.
Turbocharger
Result: The turbocharger seals are leaking.
Repair: Repair or replace the turbocharger.
Verify that the repair eliminated the problem.
If the procedure did not correct the issue, contact your Cat dealer Technical Communicator (TC). For further assistance, your TC can confer with the Dealer Solutions Network (DSN).