Normal Performance Conditions of Engines on Certain Mini Hydraulic Excavator {0645, 1000, 1051, 7000} Caterpillar

As with most naturally aspirated engines, the output of the engine depends on the oxygen concentration in the ambient air. Reduced oxygen concentration in the ambient air due to altitude, temperature, and relative humidity will cause incomplete fuel combustion. The incomplete fuel combustion will reduce power output of the engine and increase exhaust smoke. The reaction is typical of a naturally aspirated engine and does not require any corrective action.

To meet emissions regulations for particular models listed above, an extra de-rate occurs at 800 m (2622 ft) altitude to prevent an increase in exhaust smoke. For these engines, the diesel fuel injection volume is reduced at 800 m (2622 ft) altitude to correspond with the decreased oxygen concentration in the ambient air. Together, the reduced oxygen concentration and reduced fuel injection volume may cause a de-rate in engine output power of approximately 10% at 800 m (2622 ft), 15% at 1676 m (5500 ft), and the power reduction could increase at higher altitudes.

The engines could produce some white or black smoke after the engine is started at any elevation. The duration of the smoke will depend on the ambient temperature and altitude.

The following duration of smoke is normal for the conditions listed:

• Below 762 m (2500 ft) in altitude, above 1.7° C (35° F), smoke may last for 10 to 20 seconds.

• Below 762 m (2500 ft) in altitude, below 1.7° C (35° F), smoke may last up to 30 seconds.

• Between 762 m (2500 ft) and 2438 m (8000 ft) in altitude, regardless of the temperature, smoke may last up to 1 minute

• Above 2438 m (8000 ft), regardless of the temperature, smoke may last up to 2 minutes

Use the Engine Starting procedure in the Machine Operation section of the Operation and Maintenance Manual. When the engine is cold, energizing the glow plugs will help reduce smoke during engine starting.

The conditions described above are normal and do not require any corrective actions. If the engine continues to emit excessive white or black smoke, use the following troubleshooting guide.

Troubleshooting Guide

This troubleshooting guide may be used for the machines listed above if experiencing excessive smoke in the first few minutes, after the engine is started.

If the smoke last longer than the durations listed above use the following troubleshooting steps in this order:

1. Inspect the air cleaner for clogging and check the engine oil level.

2. Use glow plug engagement before starting the engine, as stated in the OMM.

3. Check the fuel filter and fuel lines for contamination and obstructions.

4. Check the engine high idle and low idle speed according to the Test and Adjust procedure.

5. If the machine is operating above 1524 m (5000 ft), the 151-8366 Dust Valve may be removed.

   Note: Document the Removal of 151-8366 Dust Valve with the GDSN. The air filter will need to be serviced more frequently.

6. Analyze a fuel sample.

7. If smoke occurs under hydraulic load check the hydraulic pump output.

8. The glow plug engagement after engine start maybe adjusted by GDSN recommendation.

9. Check engine cylinder compression. Use procedure in Test and Adjust.

10. Check injector pressure and spray pattern. Use the procedure in Test and Adjust.

11. Check fuel injection timing according to the Test and Adjust procedure. Enter DSN before adjusting.