SEAL 6H3461 - Caterpillar

The engine is designed for electronic control of most engine operating functions. The electronic system consists of an Electronic Control Module (ECM), the wiring harness, switches, sensors, and electronic unit injectors. The engine ECM receives information from the sensors and the switches on the engine. The engine ECM processes the information that is collected to control the engine. By altering the fuel delivery with the electronic unit injectors, the engine ECM controls the speed and the power that is produced by the engine. The aftertreatment system is monitored by the engine ECM.The following information provides a general description of the control system. Refer to the Systems Operation manual for detailed information about the control system.System Operation
Engine Governor
The ECM governs the engine. The ECM determines the timing, the injection pressure, and the amount of fuel that is delivered to each cylinder. These factors are based on the actual conditions and on the desired conditions at any given time during starting and operation.For variable speed engines, the ECM uses the throttle signal to determine the desired engine speed. The ECM compares the desired engine speed to the actual engine speed. The actual engine speed is determined through interpretation of the signals that are received by the ECM from the engine speed/timing sensors. If the desired engine speed is greater than the actual engine speed, the ECM allows more fuel to be injected, increasing engine speed.Timing Considerations
Once the ECM has determined the amount of fuel that is required, the ECM must determine the timing of the fuel injection.The ECM adjusts timing for optimum engine performance and for the fuel economy. Actual timing and desired timing cannot be viewed with the electronic service tool. The ECM determines the location of top center of the number one cylinder from the signals that are provided by the engine speed/timing sensors. The ECM determines when injection should occur relative to the top center position. The ECM then provides the signal to the injector at the correct time.Fuel Injection
The common rail fuel system is controlled by the ECM. The ECM gathers data from several sensors on the engine. The ECM then uses this data to adjust the quantity of fuel being delivered as well as the timing of the injection event. The injection event begins when the ECM sends a signal to the injector solenoid to actuate the valve inside the injector. As the valve opens, the fuel flows from the fuel rail, through the fuel line, and into the injector. As the valve opening pressure is reached, the valve is lifted and the fuel is delivered at high pressure into the combustion chamber.The flash file inside the ECM establishes certain limits on the amount of fuel that can be injected. The "FRC Fuel Limit" is a limit that is based on the intake manifold pressure. The "FRC Fuel Limit" is used to control the air/fuel ratio for control of emissions. When the ECM senses a higher intake manifold pressure, the ECM increases the "FRC Fuel