TIP 4K0050 - Caterpillar

Extended Engine Oil Drains and Warranty
Failures that result from extended oil drain periods are not Caterpillar factory defects and therefore are not covered by the Caterpillar warranty. In addition, failures that result from not using the recommended oil type are not Caterpillar factory defects and therefore are not covered by the Caterpillar warranty.Refer to the applicable Operation and Maintenance Manual for standard oil drain periods and to the "Lubricant Specifications" of this publication for engine oil type and viscosity grade recommendations.To reduce the potential risk of failures associated with extended oil drain periods, Caterpillar recommends that oil drain intervals only be extended based on oil analysis, and subsequent engine inspections. Oil analysis alone does not provide an indication of the rate of formation of lacquer, varnish and/or carbon on pistons and other engine surfaces. The only accurate way to evaluate specific oil performance in a specific engine and application that utilizes extended oil drain periods is to observe the effects on the engine components. This involves tear-down inspections of engines that have run to their normal overhaul period with extended oil drain intervals. Following this recommendation will help ensure that excessive component wear does not take place in a given application.
Light loads, low hour accumulation, and excessive idling time can contribute to excessive water in the crankcase oil. Corrosive damage, piston deposits, and increased oil consumption can also result. If oil analysis is not done or the results are ignored, the potential for corrosive damage and piston deposits increases. Refer to the appropriate Operation and Maintenance Manual for guidance.
Note: Failures that result from extended oil drain periods are not warrantable failures, regardless of use of this recommended procedure. Failures that result from extended engine oil drain periods are considered improper use under the warranty.Aftermarket Products and Warranty
When auxiliary devices, accessories or consumables (filters, oil, additives, catalysts, fuel, and so on) made by other manufacturers are used on Cat products, the Caterpillar warranty is not affected simply because of such use. Failures that result from the installation or usage of other manufacturers auxiliary devices, accessories or consumables, however, are not Caterpillar factory defects and therefore are NOT covered by Caterpillar's warranty.Caterpillar is not in a position to evaluate the many auxiliary devices, accessories, or consumables promoted by other manufacturers and their effect on Cat products. Installation or use of such items is at the discretion of the customer who assumes ALL risks for the effects that result from this usage.Furthermore, Caterpillar does not authorize the use of its trade name, trademark, or logo in a manner which implies our endorsement of these aftermarket products.