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Maintenance Section
Cooling System Specifications
Cooling System Specifications
Many engine failures are related to the cooling system. The following problems are related to cooling system failures: overheating, leakage of the water pump, plugged radiators or heat exchangers, and pitting of the cylinder liners.
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General Coolant Information
SMCS Code: 1350; 1395
NOTICE
Never add coolant to an overheated engine. Engine damage could result. Allow the engine to cool first.
NOTICE
If the engine is to be stored in, or shipped to an area with below freezing temperatures, the cooling system must be either protected to the lowest outside temperature or drained completely to prevent damage.
NOTICE
In cold weather, frequently check the specific gravity of the coolant solution to ensure adequate protection.
Clean the cooling system for the following reasons:
•Contamination of the cooling system
•Overheating of the engine
•Foaming of the coolant
Note: Air pockets can form in the cooling system if the cooling system is filled at a rate that is greater than 20 L (5 US gal) per minute.
After you drain the cooling system and after you refill the cooling system, operate the engine. Operate the engine without the filler cap until the coolant reaches normal operating temperature and the coolant level stabilizes. Ensure that the coolant is maintained to the proper level.
NOTICE
Never operate an engine without water temperature regulators in the cooling system. Water temperature regulators help to maintain the engine coolant at the proper operating temperature. Cooling system problems can develop without water temperature regula- tors.
Refer to Special Instruction, SEBD0518, “Know Your Cooling System” and Special Instruction, SEBD0970, “Coolant and Your Engine” for more detailed information.
These failures can be avoided with proper cooling system maintenance. Cooling system maintenance is as important as maintenance of the fuel system and the lubrication system. Quality of the coolant is as important as the quality of the fuel and the lubricating oil.
Coolant is normally composed of three elements: water, additives, and glycol.
Water
NOTICE
All Caterpillar diesel engines equipped with
NOTICE
Never use water alone without Supplemental Coolant Additives (SCA) or without inhibited coolant. Water alone is corrosive at engine operating temperatures. Water alone does not provide adequate protection against boiling or freezing.
Water is used in the cooling system in order to transfer heat.
Distilled water or deionized water is recommended for use in engine cooling systems.
DO NOT use the following types of water in cooling systems: hard water, softened water that has been conditioned with salt, and sea water.
If distilled water or deionized water is not available, use water with the properties that are listed in Table 9.