SEBU7901-01 39 Operation Section Engine Operation Observe the service indicator for the air cleaner frequently, if equipped. Keep the air cleaner elements clean. Maintain a good electrical system. One bad battery cell will overwork the alternator. This will consume excess power and excess fuel. Ensure that the belts are properly adjusted. The belts should be in good condition. Ensure that all of the connections of the hoses are tight. The connections should not leak. Ensure that the driven equipment is in good working order. Cold engines consume excess fuel. Keep cooling system components clean and keep cooling system components in good repair.
Never operate the engine without water temperature regulators. All of these items will help maintain operating temperatures. Settings for the fuel system and the limits for the operating altitude are stamped on the Engine Information Plate. If an engine is moved to a higher altitude, the settings must be changed by a Caterpillar dealer. Changing the settings will help to provide the maximum efficiency for the engine. Engines can be operated safely at higher altitudes, but the engines will deliver less horsepower. The fuel settings should be changed by a Caterpillar dealer in order to obtain the rated horsepower.