SPRING 9M8266 - Caterpillar

Note: Oil pan immersion heaters are not recommended for heating the engine oil. To ensure the compatibility of the components, only use equipment that is recommended by Caterpillar.Startability will be improved at temperatures below 16 °C (60 °F) with a starting aid. A jacket water heater may be needed and/or the crankcase oil may need warmed.A jacket water heater is available as an option for starting in temperatures as low as 0 °C (32 °F). The jacket water heater can maintain the water temperature at approximately 32 °C (90 °F). The heated water will help to keep the oil in the engine block warm enough to flow when the engine is started.Maintain the proper level of electrolyte in the batteries. Keep the batteries fully charged.To maximize the battery power, heat the battery compartment or store the batteries in a warm location. Typically, batteries only have 50 percent of the capability at −10 °C (14 °F) versus 27 °C (80 °F).Extra battery capacity may be necessary for cold temperatures.When No. 2 diesel fuel is used, a fuel heater will maintain the temperature of the fuel above the cloud point. Fuel line insulation will help to maintain the fuel temperature.Consult your Caterpillar dealer for more information on the starting aids that are available for cold weather starting.Starting With the Starting Aid Switch (If Equipped)
Personal injury or property damage can result from alcohol or starting fluids.Alcohol or starting fluids are highly flammable and toxic and if improperly stored could result in injury or property damage.
Excessive starting fluid can cause piston and ring damage.Use starting fluid for cold starting purposes only.Do not use excessive starting fluid during starting or after the engine is running.
The optional ether starting aid which is located on the control panel is the only system that is recommended for the injection of starting fluid.
Perform the procedures that are described in this Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Before Starting Engine".
Press the "RUN" key.
Ether will automatically be injected if the following conditions are met:
The Starting Aid switch is in the AUTOMATIC position.
The jacket water coolant temperature is less than 0 °C (32 °F).
Additional injections may be necessary in order to start the engine. Additional injections may also be necessary in order to achieve low idle. If additional injections are necessary, toggle the Starting Aid switch to the MANUAL position. For additional injections, the jacket water coolant temperature must be less than 10 °C (50 °F).Note: The Starting Aid switch is a momentary switch. To stop the injection, release the Starting Aid switch.