TRACK GP 3116452 - Caterpillar

Idling
Caterpillar engines do not require long warm-up times that waste fuel. An engine takes a few minutes during the summer to warm-up. An engine takes a few minutes longer to warm-up during the winter. A load can be applied to the engine after normal oil pressure is achieved and the water temperature gauge begins to rise.Avoid excess idling. If the vehicle is parked for more than five minutes, stop the engine. An engine can burn from 2.8 L (.7 US gal) to 5.7 L (1.5 US gal) of fuel per hour while the engine is idling. Excessive idling can cause carbon buildup and/or excessive idling can cause the engine to slobber. This is harmful to the engine.If extended idle time is required, control the engine rpm to 1000 rpm or above 1000 rpm. Ensure that the coolant temperature exceeds 82° C (180° F). Consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.Catalytic Converter
Proper operation, driving techniques and maintenance are key factors in obtaining the maximum service life of the catalytic converter (if equipped). Some precautions should be taken for operation if the engine is equipped with a catalytic converter.If the engine is operated for 72 or more consecutive hours without a load, then the vehicle should be operated at rated conditions for five to fifteen minutes. This should clean out the catalytic converter. Refer to the Service Manual for your engine, if the vehicle has low power or if the vehicle does not respond properly.Getting Started
Caterpillar engines do not require long warm-up periods that needlessly waste fuel. Typically, the engine should be at normal operating temperature in a few minutes. Begin operating the engine at low load. After normal oil pressure is reached and the temperature gauges begin to rise, the engine may be operated at full load.To get the vehicle in motion, use a gear that will result in a smooth start. Move the load without increasing the engine rpm above low idle or without slipping the clutch. Engage the clutch smoothly. Slipping the clutch and engaging the clutch abruptly can cause stress to occur on the drive train. This can also cause fuel to be wasted.Use progressive shifting techniques. Progressive shifting is using only the rpm that is required in order to upshift into the next gear. Progressive shifting improves fuel economy.
Keep the engine rpm to a minimum. Use an rpm that is from 1400 to 2000 rpm.
Use only enough rpm to pick up the next gear.Progressive shifting also reduces the acceleration rate. Top gear is reached sooner because less time is needed to synchronize the gears during shifting. In addition, the engine is operating at the highest range of torque.The amount of rpm that is required to upshift increases as the vehicle speed increases, unless upshifts are made on upgrades. Experience with the vehicle will show the amount of rpm that is required to upshift under various conditions.If the vehicle can be operated in a higher gear at a vehicle speed that is desired, select the highest gear