As someone who relies on Cat® machines, you understand that keeping them in good working order is nonnegotiable for your business’s success. Although Caterpillar offers reliable equipment, normal wear and tear over time is inevitable. But that doesn’t mean these warning signs should be ignored.
An unexpected engine failure can lead to significant financial losses from project delays, operational downtime and costly emergency repairs. To mitigate these risks, you need to know how to proactively spot the early signs of engine component wear. Consider this guide as your go-to, easy-to-follow resource for identifying wear and tear of Cat engine parts.
A Cat engine may experience various types of wear and tear problems during its lifetime. To identify them, you need to take a systematic approach using different methods. Follow this simple Cat engine troubleshooting guide for excessive wear.
The first step is to identify the problem before you can address it. Gather as much information as possible. You can do this by interviewing the operator and asking them questions related to the engine’s symptoms, onset and operating conditions. Take notes for future reference.
Perform a thorough visual inspection of the engine and its connected components. Look for obvious signs of wear and tear, such as damage, leaks, worn parts or loose connections. Check the oil and coolant levels and conditions for any signs of leaks, residue or unusual colors or smells. Inspect the filters for possible blockages.
Cat machines will typically display a warning indicator on their dashboard. The indicator often logs diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) in the Engine Control Module (ECM) to help you pinpoint the exact issue. There is also the Cat Electronic Technician (ET), a diagnostic software on a personal computer (PC) that also connects with the ECM. Both systems provide codes connected to the problem.
Refer to your Cat machine’s operation and maintenance manual (OMM) for specific and detailed troubleshooting steps related to the engine’s symptoms and DTCs. If the problem is complex, consider contacting a certified Cat technician or an authorized service center.
The key warning signs of a Cat engine failure can include the following:
If your Cat engine is showing any of these signs, it’s crucial to address them immediately to prevent further, costly damage.
Engine wear and tear often happens in specific parts — that’s why it’s important to know the specific symptoms and where to look. Here are a few examples of common components affected and what to watch for.
When fuel injectors begin to wear out, your engine’s performance will take a noticeable hit. Watch out for:
A failing turbocharger is generally easy to identify once you know the signs:
Internal wear on liners and rings usually shows the following signs of degradation:
Any wear and tear in valves and bearings will show subtle signs. Keep a close eye on:
Sometimes, downtime happens at the most inconvenient time. Having several Cat parts on hand will help keep your machines running, as you’ll be able to replace them immediately. It’s just as important to have the essential tools to replace specific parts.
Depending on your model, different engine service intervals may be recommended. Refer to the specific machine’s OMM for details. You can also use this checklist — separated into hour intervals — as a guide for maintaining your Cat engine’s performance and lifespan.
Ensure you have your Cat engine overhaul kit and personal protective equipment (PPE) ready.
Perform the following maintenance tasks every 250 hours of operation:
Perform the following maintenance tasks every 500 hours of operation:
Perform the following maintenance tasks every 1,000 hours of operation:
Perform the following maintenance tasks every 2,000 hours of operation:
There are more general engine maintenance tips that can help prolong your parts’ lifespan.
Have you identified a potential engine part issue? The timely repair or replacement of these items is vital to keep your machines and business running smoothly. However, you must use authentic Cat parts on your Cat equipment to ensure its compatibility, reliability and performance.
At Gregory Poole, we’ve been an authorized Cat dealer since 1951. We offer a wide range of genuine Cat engine parts, from engines and blocks to exhausts and transmissions. We also provide expert Cat-certified rebuild services where we inspect and recondition your machine’s engine and other components.
Place your online order today at your convenience. If you’re unsure which specific parts you need, contact us online for assistance.