SLEEVE 0878463 - Caterpillar

Caterpillar Diesel Truck Engines can operate effectively in cold weather. However, engine starting and operation in cold weather is dependent on the type of fuel used, oil viscosity and other optional starting aids. The purpose of this section is to explain potential problems and steps which can be taken to minimize starting and operation problems when the ambient air temperature is colder than 0°C (+32°F) down to -55°C (-67°F).Fuel and the Effect from Cold Weather
Store the fuel outside to allow water (condensation) to freeze after separation from the fuel and to indicate any immediate temperature affect on the fuel.The use of starting aids, engine oil pan heaters, engine coolant heaters, fuel heaters and fuel line insulation also provide a means of minimizing starting and fuel problems in cold weather when No.2 diesel fuel is used.Fuel Related Components in Cold Weather
Fuel Tanks
Fuel tanks should contain some provision for draining water and sediment from the bottom of the tanks. Some fuel tanks use supply pipes that allow water and sediment to settle below the end of the fuel supply pipe. This water and sediment should be drained at each oil change.Some fuel tanks use supply lines that take fuel directly from the bottom of the tank. If equipped with this system, regular maintenance of the fuel system filter(s) is important.Fuel Heaters
Only thermostatically controlled or self-regulating fuel heaters should be used with this engine.
Heat exchanger-type fuel heaters should have a bypass provision to prevent excessive heating of the fuel in warm weather operation. This overheating of the fuel will cause a loss of engine power.Fuel heaters prevent plugging of the fuel filters in cold weather due to waxing. Non-thermostatically controlled fuel heaters can heat the fuel in excess of 65°C (150°F). High fuel temperatures reduce engine performance and power availability.A fuel heater should be installed so that the fuel is heated before it enters the fuel filter. Select a fuel heater that is mechanically simple, yet adequate for the application. The fuel heater should also prevent overheating of the fuel. Choose a fuel heater with as large a heating surface as practical. Small heaters can be too hot in their limited surface area.Disconnect or deactivate the fuel heater in warm weather. A loss of engine power can occur if the fuel supply temperature exceeds 37°C (100°F).For further information on fuel or cylinder block (coolant) heaters, contact Caterpillar.Fuel Filters
The primary fuel filter and/or water separator is installed between the fuel tank and the engine mounted fuel filter. The location of the primary fuel filter is important in cold weather operation. The primary fuel filter and its fuel supply line are the most common components affected by cold fuel.The best location for the primary fuel filter is in the engine compartment, where it will benefit from the radiant heat of the engine. A filter mounted outside the frame rails, or any location exposed to wind, can be a persistent problem in cold weather.Refer to the Parts Manual for this engine to determine the