TILT GP-PLATFORM 3353941 - Caterpillar

"Important: Use Only 12 Volts Direct Current To Boost Start 3208 Truck Engines Equipped With Exhaust Gas Recirculation Systems ", in the April 9, 1980 Engine News.The reference article tells about the danger of possible injury and/or damage when an electrical current source with a voltage higher than the engine electrical system is used to boost start the engine. The engine electrical system is rated at 12 Volts DC (Direct Current), and the maximum permissible voltage in the system is 15 Volts DC. Any voltage higher than 15 Volts will cause damage to electrical system components, especially the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) system.
The EGR system has transistors in the cover assembly on the governor and fuel injection pump group. These transistors will give long service life in normal use, but can be easily damaged in any of several ways:
... The use of a different type fuse as a replacement for the original fuse in the cover assembly on the fuel pump. The original equipment fuse has a special design for protection of the transistors, and any other type fuse will not give this protection.... Any voltage higher than 15 Volts DC in the electrical system, especially if the fuse has been changed to a different type.... Any contact of disconnected solenoid wires with an electrical ground (either the engine or the truck chassis) while the ignition switch is "ON". This is very important. If the serviceman makes a ground contact for the shortest possible time to check for an electrical spark as a circuit test, the transistors can be damaged. To prevent transistor damage, be sure the ignition switch is "OFF" when the solenoid wires are disconnected.