42 SEBU7901-01 Operation Section Cold Weather Operation Cold Weather Operation i01872912 Fuel and the Effect from Cold Weather i01646447 Radiator Restrictions SMCS Code: 1000; 1250 SMCS Code: 1353; 1396 The following fuels are the grades that are available for Caterpillar engines: Caterpillar discourages the use of airflow restriction devices that are mounted in front of radiators. Airflow restriction can cause the following conditions: No. 1 High exhaust temperatures No. 2 Power loss Blend of No. 1 and No. 2 Excessive fan usage No. 2 diesel fuel is the most commonly used fuel. Either No. 1 diesel fuel or a blend of No. 1 and No. 2 is best suited for cold weather operation.
Reduction in fuel economy If an airflow restriction device must be used, the device should have a permanent opening directly in line with the fan hub. A centered opening that is directly in line with the fan hub is specified in order to prevent an interrupted airflow on the fan blades. Interrupted airflow on the fan blades could cause a fan failure. Quantities of No. 1 diesel fuel are limited. No. 1 diesel fuels are usually available during the months of the winter in the colder climates. During cold weather operation, if No. 1 diesel fuel is not available, use No. 2 diesel fuel, if necessary. There are three major differences between No. 1 and No. 2 diesel fuel. No.
1 diesel fuel has the following properties: Caterpillar recommends a warning device for the inlet manifold temperature and/or the installation of an inlet air temperature gauge. The warning device for the inlet manifold temperature should be set at 75 °C (167 °F). The inlet manifold air temperature should not exceed 75 °C (167 °F). Temperatures that exceed this limit can cause power loss and potential engine damage. Lower cloud point Lower pour point Lower rating of kJ (BTU) per unit volume of fuel When No. 1 diesel fuel is used, a decrease in power and in fuel efficiency may be noticed. Other operating effects should not be experienced.
The cloud point is the temperature when a cloud of wax crystals begins to form in the fuel. These crystals can cause the fuel filters to plug. The pour point is the temperature when diesel fuel will thicken. The diesel fuel becomes more resistant to flow through fuel pumps and through fuel lines. Be aware of these values when diesel fuel is purchased. Anticipate the average ambient temperature for the engine area. Engines that are fueled in one climate may not operate well if the engines are moved to another climate. Problems can result due to changes in temperature. Before troubleshooting for low power or for poor performance during cold weather, check the type of fuel that is being used.