Caterpillar Engine C-12

Warning: This maintenance check requires trained personnel with PPE!

Engine operational at full load?

Increased fuel consumption and reduced power observations

If oil consumption has risen to three times the original rate, schedule an engine overhaul

If engine block or crankshaft needs repair, an overhaul should be performed

List of parts that comply with the established inspection specifications

Air Starting Motor Lubricator Oil Level - Check

Is the fuel supply to the engine OFF?

Air Tank Moisture and Sediment - Drain

Remove the core. Refer to the Service Manual for the procedure.

Turn the aftercooler core upside-down to remove debris.

NOTICE: Do not use a high concentration of caustic cleaner to clean the core. A high concentration of caustic cleaner can attack the internal metals of the core and cause leakage. Only use the recommended concentration of cleaner.

Back flush the core with cleaner.

Caterpillar recommends the use of Hydrosolv liquid cleaner. Table 37 lists Hydrosolv liquid cleaners that are available from your Caterpillar dealer.

Steam clean the core to remove any residue. Flush the fins of the aftercooler core. Remove any other trapped debris.

Wash the core with hot, soapy water. Rinse the core thoroughly with clean water.

WARNING: Personal injury can result from air pressure. Personal injury can result without following proper procedure. When using pressure air, wear a protective face shield and protective clothing. Maximum air pressure at the nozzle must be less than 205 kPa (30 psi) for cleaning purposes.

Air Compressor Filter - Clean/Replace

One of the single most important aspects of preventive maintenance for the air compressor is the induction of clean air. The type of maintenance that is required for the air compressor and the maintenance interval depends on the type of air induction system that is used. Operating conditions (dust, dirt and debris) may require more frequent service.

Refer to the Service Manual for the type of air compressor that is installed on the engine.

Follow the maintenance recommendations that are provided by the OEM of the air compressor. Some engines use boost air pressure so the engine air cleaner will require servicing.

Caterpillar recommends a scheduled inspection of the alternator. Inspect the alternator for loose connections and proper battery charging. Inspect the ammeter (if equipped) during engine operation in order to ensure proper battery performance and/or proper performance of the electrical system.

Make repairs, as required. Refer to the Service Manual.

Check the alternator and the battery charger for proper operation. If the batteries are properly charged, the ammeter reading should be very near zero. All batteries should be kept charged.

The batteries should be kept warm because temperature affects the cranking power. If the battery is too cold, the battery will not crank the engine. The battery will not crank the engine, even if the engine is warm.

WARNING: Be sure the engine cannot be started while this maintenance is being performed. To prevent possible injury, do not use the starting motor to turn the flywheel.

Hot engine components can cause burns. Allow additional time for the engine to cool before measuring/adjusting the unit injectors.

The electronic unit injectors use high voltage. Disconnect the unit injector enable circuit connector in order to prevent personal injury. Do not come in contact with the injector terminals while the engine is running.

Electronic Unit Injector - Inspect/Adjust

Adjust the electronic unit injector at the same interval as the valve lash adjustment. The operation of Caterpillar engines with improper adjustments of the electronic unit injector can reduce engine efficiency. This reduced efficiency could result in excessive fuel usage and/or shortened engine component life.

Engine Valve Lash - Inspect/Adjust

The initial valve lash adjustment on new engines, rebuilt engines, or remanufactured engines is recommended at the first scheduled oil change.

Only qualified service personnel should perform this maintenance. Refer to the Service Manual or your Caterpillar dealer for the complete valve lash adjustment procedure.

Operation of Caterpillar engines with improper valve adjustments can reduce engine efficiency. This reduced efficiency could result in excessive fuel usage and/or shortened engine component life.