Caterpillar Truck Engine 3126B

Warning: Pressurized System: Hot coolant can cause serious burns. To open the cooling system filler cap, stop the engine and wait until the cooling system components are cool.

Cooling system pressure cap loosened slowly to relieve pressure?

Cooling system filler cap removed slowly to relieve pressure?

Coolant level within 13 mm (0.5 inch) of the bottom of the filler pipe?

Coolant level maintained to the proper level in the sight glass (if equipped)?

Cooling system filler cap and gaskets cleaned and checked?

Cooling system filler cap replaced if gaskets are damaged?

Cooling system filler cap reinstalled?

Warning: Follow OEM recommendations for different type of service indicators

Is the service indicator mounted on the air cleaner housing or in a remote location?

Is the yellow diaphragm in the red zone?

Is the red piston locked in the visible position?

Warning: This inspection requires trained personnel with PPE!

Caps and plugs wiped before servicing

Cooling lines properly clamped and tight

Warning: Hot oil and hot components can cause personal injury. Do not allow hot oil or hot components to contact the skin.

NOTICE: Perform this maintenance with the engine stopped.

Note: Before you perform this maintenance, do not operate the engine for at least 10 minutes in order to allow the engine oil to return to the oil pan.

Maintain the oil level between “ADD” mark (Y) and “FULL” mark (X) on oil level gauge (1). Do not fill the crankcase above “FULL” mark (X).

NOTICE: Engine damage can occur if the crankcase is filled above the “FULL” mark on the oil level gauge (dip-stick). An overfull crankcase can enable the crankshaft to dip into the oil. This will reduce the power that is developed and also force air bubbles into the oil.

These bubbles (foam) can cause the following problems: reduction of the oil’s ability to lubricate, reduction of oil pressure, inadequate cooling of the pistons, oil blowing out of the crankcase breathers, and excessive oil consumption.

Excessive oil consumption will enable deposits to form on the pistons and in the combustion chamber. Deposits in the combustion chamber lead to the following problems: guttering of the valves, packing of carbon under the piston rings, and wear of the cylinder liner.

If the oil level is above the “FULL” mark on the oil level gauge, drain some of the oil immediately.

Remove oil filler cap (2) and add oil, if necessary. For the correct oil to use, refer to Special Publication, SEBU6251, “Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine Fluids Recommendations”. Do not fill the crankcase above “FULL” mark (X) on the oil level gauge. Clean the oil filler cap. Install the oil filler cap.

Warning: Fuel leaked or spilled onto hot surfaces or electrical components can cause a fire. To help prevent possible injury, turn the start switch off when changing fuel filters or water separator elements. Clean up fuel spills immediately.

NOTICE: The water separator is not a filter. It separates water from the fuel. The engine should never be allowed to run with the water level in the separator more than 1/2 full or engine damage may result.

A water separator is recommended. The water separator should be installed between the fuel tank and the engine fuel inlet. Drain the water and sediment from the water separator on a daily basis.

Open drain (1). Catch the draining water in a suitable container. Dispose of the water properly.

NOTICE: The water separator is under suction during normal engine operation. Ensure that the drain valve is tightened securely to help prevent air from entering the fuel system.

Sign off on the daily fuel system water separator maintenance