3COM SEBU6251-06 User Manual

Operation and
Maintenance
Manual

SEBU6251-06

April 1999

Caterpillar Commercial Diesel Engine
Fluids Recommendations

For All Commercial Diesel Engines Except 3600 Series Engines

i01097883

Important Safety Information

Most accidents that involve product operation, maintenance and repair are caused by failure to
observe basic safety rules or precautions. An accident can often be avoided by recognizing potentially
hazardous situations before an accident occurs. A person must be alert to potential hazards. This
person should also have the necessary training, skills and tools to perform these functions properly.

Improper operation, lubrication, maintenance or repair of this product can be dangerous and
could result in injury or death.

Do not operate or perform any lubrication, maintenance or repair on this product, until you have
read and understood the operation, lubrication, maintenance and repair information.

Safety precautions and warnings are provided in this manual and on the product. If these hazard
warnings are not heeded, bodily injury or death could occur to you or to other persons.

The hazards are identified by the “Safety Alert Symbol” and followed by a “Signal Word” such as
“DANGER”, “WARNING” or “CAUTION”. The Safety Alert “WARNING” label is shown below.

The meaning of this safety alert symbol is as follows:

Attention! Become Alert! Your Safety is Involved.

The message that appears under the warning explains the hazard and can be either written or
pictorially presented.

Operations that may cause product damage are identified by “NOTICE” labels on the product and in
this publication.

Caterpillar cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a potential hazard. The
warnings in this publication and on the product are, therefore, not all inclusive. If a tool, procedure,
work method or operating technique that is not specifically recommended by Caterpillar is used,
you must satisfy yourself that it is safe for you and for others. You should also ensure that the
product will not be damaged or be made unsafe by the operation, lubrication, maintenance or
repair procedures that you choose.

The information, specifications, and illustrations in this publication are on the basis of information that
was available at the time that the publication was written. The specifications, torques, pressures,
measurements, adjustments, illustrations, and other items can change at any time. These changes can
affect the service that is given to the product. Obtain the complete and most current information before
you start any job. Caterpillar dealers have the most current information available. For a list of the most
current publication form numbers available, see the Service Manual Contents Microfiche, REG1139F.

When replacement parts are required for this
product Caterpillar recommends using Caterpil­lar replacement parts or parts with equivalent
specifications including, but not limited to, phys­ical dimensions, type, strength and material.

Failure to heed this warning can lead to prema­ture failures, product damage, personal injury or
death.

Table of Contents

Foreword ............................................................... 4

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications ........................................ 5

Fuel Specifications ................................................ 17

Cooling System Specifications ............................. 24

Reference Information Section

Reference Materials .............................................. 37

Index Section

Index ..................................................................... 39

3

Table of Contents

4
Foreword

Foreword

Literature Information

This manual should be stored in the literature
storage area.

The information contained in this document is the
most current information available for coolants,
fuels, and lubricants. Refer to the Operation and
Maintenance Manual for any special lubrication
requirements for your engine.

Whenever a question arises regarding the engine,
this publication, or the Operation and Maintenance
Manual, please consult any Caterpillar dealer for
the latest available information.

Safety

Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual
for your engine for all safety information. Read and
understand the basic safety precautions listed in
the Safety Section. In addition to safety precautions,
this section identifies the text and locations of safety
signs used on the engine.

Read and understand the basic precautions listed
in the Safety Section before operating or performing
lubrication, maintenance and repair on this engine.

Maintenance

Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual
for your engine to determine all maintenance
requirements.

Maintenance Intervals

Use the Maintenance Interval Schedule in the
Operation and Maintenance Manual for your
engine to determine servicing intervals. The actual
operating environment of the engine also governs
the maintenance interval schedule. Therefore,
under extremely severe, dusty, wet or freezing cold
operating conditions, more frequent lubrication and
maintenance than is specified in the Maintenance
Interval Schedule may be necessary.

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

5

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

i01111306

Lubricant Information

SMCS Code: 1000; 1300; 7581

General Information

Because of government regulations regarding
the certification of engine exhaust emissions, the
lubricant recommendations must be followed.

Engine Manufacturers Association
(EMA) Oils

The “Engine Manufacturers Association
Recommended Guideline on Diesel Engine Oil” is
recognized by Caterpillar. For detailed information
about this guideline, see the latest edition of EMA
publication, “EMA LRG-1”.

API Oils

The Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System
by the American Petroleum Institute (API) is
recognized by Caterpillar. For detailed information
about this system, see the latest edition of the “API
publication No. 1509”. Engine oils that bear the API
symbol are authorized by API.

Ta bl e 1

API Classifications

Current Obsolete

CF-4, CG-4, CH-4 CE

CF CC, CD

(1)

CF-2

(1)

CD-2 and API CF-2 are classifications for two-cycle diesel
engines. Caterpillar does not sell engines that utilize CD-2 and
API CF-2 oils.

Note: API CF is not the same classification as

API CF-4. API CF oils are only recommended
for Caterpillar 3600 Series Diesel Engines and
Caterpillar engines with precombustion chamber
(PC) fuel systems.

CD-2

(1)

Grease

The classifications of grease are based on the
“ASTM D217” worked penetration characteristics.
These characteristics for grease are given a defined
consistency number.

Terminology

Certain abbreviations follow the nomenclature of
“SAE J754”. Some classifications follow “SAE J183”
abbreviations, and some classifications follow the
“EMA Recommended Guideline on Diesel Engine
Oil”. In addition to Caterpillar definitions, there
are other definitions that will be of assistance in
purchasing lubricants. Recommended oil viscosities
can be found in this publication, “Engine Oil” topic
(Maintenance Section).

Illustration 1
Typical API symbol

Diesel engine oils CC, CD, CD-2, and CE have
not been API authorized classifications since 1
January 1996. Table 1 summarizes the status of the
classifications.

g00546535

i01072547

Engine Oil

SMCS Code: 1348

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil

Caterpillar Oils have been developed and tested in
order to provide the full performance and service
life that has been designed and built into Caterpillar
Engines. Caterpillar Oils are currently used to fill
diesel engines at the factory. These oils are offered
by Caterpillar dealers for continued use when the
engine oil is changed. Consult your Caterpillar
dealer for more information on these oils.

Due to significant variations in the quality and in
the performance of commercially available oils,
Caterpillar makes the following recommendations:

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil (10W30)

•

6
Maintenance Section
Lubricant Specifications

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil (15W40)

•

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is
formulated with the correct amounts of detergents,
dispersants, and alkalinity in order to provide
superior performance in Caterpillar Diesel Engines.

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is available
in two viscosity grades (10W30 and 15W40).
For direct injection engines, see Table 2 in order
to choose the correct viscosity grade for the
ambient temperature. Multigrade oils provide the
correct viscosity for a broad range of operating
temperatures.

Multigrade oils are effective in maintaining low oil
consumption and low levels of piston deposits.

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil can be
used in other diesel engines and in gasoline
engines. See the engine manufacturer’s guide for
the recommended specifications. Compare the
specifications to the specifications of Caterpillar
multigrade Diesel Engine Oil. The current industry
standards for Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil are listed
on the product label and on the data sheets for the
product.

Consult your Caterpillar dealer for part numbers
and for available sizes of containers.

Commercial Oils

The performance of commercial diesel engine
oils is based on American Petroleum Institute
(API) classifications. These API classifications are
developed in order to provide commercial lubricants
for a broad range of diesel engines that operate at
various conditions.

If Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is not
used, only use commercial oils that meet the
following classifications:

EMA LRG-1 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CH-4 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CG-4 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CF-4 multigrade oil (acceptable oil)

•

In order to make the proper choice of a commercial
oil, refer to the following explanations:

EMA LRG-1 – The Engine Manufacturers
Association (EMA) has developed lubricant
recommendations as an alternative to the API oil
classification system. LRG-1 is a Recommended
Guideline that defines a level of oil performance
for these types of diesel engines: high speed, four
stroke cycle, heavy-duty, and light duty. LRG-1 oils
may be used in Caterpillar engines when API CH-4,
API CG-4, and API CF-4 oils are recommended.
LRG-1 oils are intended to provide superior
performance in comparison to API CG-4 and API
CF-4.

LRG-1 oils will meet the needs of high performance
Caterpillar diesel engines that are operating in
many applications. The tests and the test limits that
are used to define LRG-1 are similar to the new
API CH-4 classification. Therefore, these oils will
also meet the requirements of the low emissions
diesel engines. LRG-1 oils are designed to control
the harmful effects of soot with improved wear
resistance and improved resistance to oil filter
plugging. These oils will also provide superior piston
deposit control for engines with either two-piece
steel pistons or aluminum pistons.

All LRG-1 oils must complete a full test program
with the base stock and with the viscosity grade of
the finished commercial oil. The use of “API Base
Oil Interchange Guidelines” are not appropriate for
LRG-1 oils. This feature reduces the variation in
performance that can occur when base stocks are
changed in commercial oil formulations.

LRG-1 oils are recommended for use in extended
oil change interval programs that optimize oil life.
These oil change interval programs are based
on oil analysis. LRG-1 oils are recommended
for conditions that demand a premium oil. Your
Caterpillar dealer has the specific guidelines for
optimizing oil change intervals.

API CH-4 – API CH-4 oils were developed in
order to meet the requirements of the new high
performance diesel engines. Also, the oil was
designed to meet the requirements of the low
emissions diesel engines. API CH-4 oils are also
acceptable for use in older diesel engines and in
diesel engines that use high sulfur diesel fuel. API
CH-4 oils may be used in Caterpillar engines that
use API CG-4 and API CF-4 oils. API CH-4 oils will
generally exceed the performance of API CG-4 oils
in the following criteria: deposits on pistons, control
of oil consumption, wear of piston rings, valve train
wear, viscosity control, and corrosion.

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

7

Three new engine tests were developed for the
API CH-4 oil. The first test specifically evaluates
deposits on pistons for engines with the two-piece
steel piston. This test (piston deposit) also measures
the control of oil consumption. A second test is
conducted with moderate oil soot. The second
test measures the following criteria: wear of piston
rings, wear of cylinder liners, and resistance to
corrosion. A third new test measures the following
characteristics with high levels of soot in the oil:
wear of the valve train, resistance of the oil in
plugging the oil filter, and control of sludge.

In addition to the new tests, API CH-4 oils have
tougher limits for viscosity control in applications
that generate high soot. The oils also have improved
oxidation resistance. API CH-4 oils must pass an
additional test (piston deposit) for engines that use
aluminum pistons (single piece). Oil performance is
also established for engines that operate in areas
with high sulfur diesel fuel.

All of these improvements allow the API CH-4 oil
to achieve optimum oil change intervals. API CH-4
oils are recommended for use in extended oil
change intervals. API CH-4 oils are recommended
for conditions that demand a premium oil. Your
Caterpillar dealer has specific guidelines for
optimizing oil change intervals.

Some commercial oils that meet the API
classifications may require reduced oil change
intervals. To determine the oil change interval,
closely monitor the condition of the oil and perform a
wear metal analysis. Caterpillar’sS·O·S oil analysis
program is the preferred method.

NOTICE
Failure to follow these oil recommendations can cause
shortened engine service life due to deposits and/or
excessive wear.

Total Base Number (TBN) and Fuel
Sulfur Levels for Direct Injection
(DI) Diesel Engines

The Total Base Number (TBN) for an oil depends on
the fuel sulfur level. For direct injection engines that
use distillate fuel, the minimum TBN of the new oil
must be 10 times the fuel sulfur level. The TBN is
defined by “ASTM D2896”. The minimum TBN of
the oil is 5 regardless of fuel sulfur level. Illustration
2 demonstrates the TBN.

API CG-4 – API CG-4 oils were developed primarily
for diesel engines that use a 0.05 percent level of
fuel sulfur. However, API CG-4 oils can be used
with higher sulfur fuels. The TBN of the new oil
determines the maximum fuel sulfur level for API
CG-4 and API CF-4 oils. See Illustration 2.

API CG-4 oils are the first oils that are required to
pass industry standard tests for foam control and
viscosity shear loss. API CG-4 oils must also pass
tests that were developed for corrosion, wear and
oxidation.

API CF-4 – These oils service a wide variety of
modern diesel engines. API CF-4 oils provide more
stable oil control and reduced piston deposits in
comparison to API CF and the obsolete CE and CD
classifications of oil. API CF-4 oils provide improved
soot dispersancy in comparison to API CF and
obsolete CD oils. The API CF-4 classification was
developed with a 0.40 percent sulfur diesel fuel.
This represents the type of diesel fuels that are
commonly available worldwide.

Note: Do not use single grade API CF oils or
multigrade API CF oils in Caterpillar Direct Injection
(DI) Commercial Diesel Engines.

Illustration 2
(Y) TBN by “ASTM D2896”

(X) Percentage of fuel sulfur by weight
(1) TBN of new oil
(2) Change the oil when the TBN deteriorates to 50 percent of

the original TBN.

Use the following guidelines for fuel sulfur levels
that exceed 1.5 percent:

Choose an oil with the highest TBN that meets

•

one of these classifications: EMA LRG-1, API
CH-4, API CG-4, and API CF-4.

Reduce the oil change interval. Base the oil

•

change interval on the oil analysis. Ensure that
the oil analysis includes the condition of the oil
and a wear metal analysis.

g00104890

Excessive piston deposits can be produced by an
oil with a high TBN. These deposits can lead to a
loss of control of the oil consumption and to the
polishing of the cylinder bore.

8
Maintenance Section
Lubricant Specifications

NOTICE
Operating Direct Injected (DI) diesel engines with fuel
sulfur levels over 1.0 percent may require shortened
oil change intervals in order to help maintain adequate
wear protection.

i01111341

Engine Oil (3116 and 3126
Marine Engines)

SMCS Code: 1348

Lubricant Viscosity Recommendations
for Direct Injection (DI) Diesel Engines

The proper SAE viscosity grade of oil is determined
by the minimum ambient temperature during
cold engine start-up, and the maximum ambient
temperature during engine operation.

Refer to Table 2 (minimum temperature) in order
to determine the required oil viscosity for starting
a cold engine.

Refer to Table 2 (maximum temperature) in order to
select the oil viscosity for engine operation at the
highest ambient temperature that is anticipated.

Generally, use the highest oil viscosity that
is available to meet the requirement for the
temperature at start-up.

Ta bl e 2

Engine Oil Viscosity

Ambient TemperatureCaterpillar DEO

Multigrade

EMA LRG-1

API CH-4

API CG-4 and

API CF-4

Viscosity Grade

SAE 0W20

SAE 0W30

SAE 0W40
SAE 5W30 −30C(−22F) 30C (86F)

SAE 5W40 −30C(−22F) 40C (104F)
SAE 10W30 −20C(−4F) 40C (104F)
SAE 15W40 −15C(5

Minimum Maximum

−40C(−40



−40

C(−40F)

−40C(−40



F)



F)



F)



10

C (50F)



30

C (86F)

40C (104

50C (122



F)



F)

Recommendations

Caterpillar does not recommend the use of
multigrade oils in the 3116 and 3126 Marine Diesel
Engines with mechanical unit injection.

Multigrade oils use high molecular weight polymers
as viscosity index improvers.

When the crankcase blowby flows through the
turbocharger and the aftercooler, the viscosity
index improvers in the oil vapor can adhere to the
turbocharger compressor and aftercooler core.

The fouling of the turbocharger and aftercooler can
cause reduced air flow, loss of power, and increased
black smoke. The emission of black smoke results
in buildup of soot on the transom of the boat.

Note: Caterpillar recommends the use of single
grade oils with the API CF-4 classification for all
3116 and 3126 Marine Engines unless crankcase
blowby has been routed completely away from the
air cleaner inlet.

Caterpillar Special Application Engine
Oil (SAEO)

Note: Special Application Engine Oil is for use in
Caterpillar 3116 and 3126 Marine Diesel Engines
with mechanical unit injection. This includes all 3116
and 3126 Marine Diesel Engines that begin with the
following serial number prefixes: (S/N: 4KG), (S/N:
1SK), (S/N: 8NM), and (S/N: 6SR).

The factory fill in 3116 and 3126 Marine Engines is
Caterpillar Special Application Engine Oil (SAEO).
The oil that is used for the factory fill has the
following properties:

API CF-4 classification

•

Viscosity of SAE 30

•

For maximum performance in 3116 and 3126 Marine
Diesel Engines with mechanical unit injection,
Caterpillar recommends the following engine oil:

Caterpillar Special Application Engine Oil (SAEO)

•

with a viscosity of SAE 30

Caterpillar Special Application Engine Oil (SAEO)

•

with a viscosity of SAE 40

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

9

Commercial Oils (3116 and 3126
Marine Engines)

The performance of commercial diesel engine
oil is based on American Petroleum Institute
(API) classifications. These API classifications are
developed in order to provide commercial lubricants
for a broad range of diesel engines that operate at
various conditions.

When a Caterpillar Special Application Engine Oil
(SAEO) is not used, use the following commercial
oils:

Single grade oil with a viscosity of SAE 30 or SAE

•

40 with an API CF-4 classification is preferred.

Single grade oil with a viscosity of SAE 30 or

•

SAE 40 with a CF-4 or CG-4 additive package
that does NOT contain viscosity improvers is an
acceptable oil.

For an acceptable commercial single grade oil,
contact your oil supplier or Caterpillar Customer
Service:

Total Base Number (TBN) and Fuel
Sulfur Levels for Direct Injection
(DI) Diesel Engines (3116 and 3126
Marine Engines)

The Total Base Number (TBN) for an oil depends
on the fuel sulfur level. For direct injection engines
that use distillate fuel, the minimum TBN must be 10
times the fuel sulfur level. The TBN is determined by
the “ASTM D2896” procedure. The minimum TBN
of the oil is 5 regardless of a low fuel sulfur level.
Illustration 3 demonstrates the TBN.

1-800-447-4986

The following explanation of the API CF-4
classification can be used to make the proper
choice when a commercial single grade oil with API
CF-4 classification is chosen.

API CF-4 – These oils service a wide variety of
modern diesel engines. API CF-4 oils provide more
stable oil control and reduced piston deposits in
comparison to API CF and the obsolete CE and CD
classifications of oil. API CF-4 oils provide improved
soot dispersancy in comparison to API CF and
obsolete CD oils. The API CF-4 classification was
developed with a 0.40 percent sulfur diesel fuel.
This represents the type of diesel fuels that are
commonly available worldwide.

Some commercial oils that meet the API CF-4
classifications may require reduced oil change
intervals. To determine the oil change interval,
closely monitor the condition of the oil and perform a
wear metal analysis. Caterpillar’sS·O·S oil analysis
program is the preferred method.

NOTICE
Failure to follow these oil recommendations can cause
shortened engine service life due to deposits and/or
excessive wear.

Illustration 3
(Y) TBN by “ASTM D2896”

(X) Percentage of fuel sulfur by weight
(1) TBN of new oil
(2) Change the used oil when the TBN reaches this level.

Use the following guidelines for fuel sulfur levels
that exceed 1.5 percent:

Choose an oil with the highest TBN within the

•

API CF-4 classification.

Reduce the oil change interval. Base the oil

•

change interval on the oil analysis. Ensure that
the oil analysis includes the condition of the oil
and a wear metal analysis.

Excessive piston deposits can be produced by an
oil with a high TBN. These deposits can lead to a
loss of control of the oil consumption and to the
polishing of the cylinder bore.

NOTICE
Operating Direct Injected (DI) diesel engines with fuel
sulfur levels over 1.0 percent may require shortened
oil change intervals in order to help maintain adequate
wear protection.

g00104890

10
Maintenance Section
Lubricant Specifications

Lubricant Viscosity
Recommendations (3116 and
3126 Marine Engines)

The proper SAE viscosity grade of oil is determined
by the minimum ambient temperature during
cold engine start-up, and the maximum ambient
temperature during engine operation.

Refer to Table 3 (minimum temperature) in order
to determine the required oil viscosity for starting
a cold engine.

Refer to Table 3 (maximum temperature) in order to
select the oil viscosity for engine operation at the
highest ambient temperature that is anticipated.

Generally, use the highest oil viscosity that is
allowed for the ambient temperature at start-up.

Ta bl e 3

Engine Oil Viscosity

API CF-4 Oil

Viscosity Grade

SAE 30 0C (32F) 40C (104

SAE 40 5

Ambient Temperature

Minimum Maximum



C (41F)



50

C (122F)

i01123508



F)

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is available
in two viscosity grades (10W30 and 15W40). For
precombustion chamber engines, see Table 4 in
order to choose the correct viscosity grade for the
ambient temperature. Multigrade oils provide the
correct viscosity for a broad range of operating
temperatures.

Multigrade oils are effective in maintaining low oil
consumption and low levels of piston deposits.

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil can be
used in other diesel engines and in gasoline
engines. See the engine manufacturer’s guide for
the recommended specifications. Compare the
specifications to the specifications of Caterpillar
multigrade Diesel Engine Oil. The current industry
standards for Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil are listed
on the product label and on the data sheets for the
product.

Consult your Caterpillar dealer for part numbers
and for available sizes of containers.

Commercial Oils

The performance of commercial diesel engine
oils is based on American Petroleum Institute
(API) classifications. These API classifications are
developed in order to provide commercial lubricants
for a broad range of diesel engines that operate at
various conditions.

Engine Oil for Precombustion
Chamber (PC) Diesel Engines

SMCS Code: 1348

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil

Caterpillar Oils have been developed and tested in
order to provide the full performance and service
life that has been designed and built into Caterpillar
Engines. Caterpillar Oils are currently used to fill
diesel engines at the factory. These oils are offered
by Caterpillar dealers for continued use when the
engine oil is changed. Consult your Caterpillar
dealer for more information on these oils.

Due to significant variations in the quality and in
the performance of commercially available oils,
Caterpillar makes the following recommendations:

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil (10W30)

•

Caterpillar Diesel Engine Oil (15W40)

•

Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is
formulated with the correct amounts of detergents,
dispersants, and alkalinity in order to provide
superior performance in Caterpillar Diesel Engines.

If Caterpillar multigrade Diesel Engine Oil is not
used, only use commercial oils that meet the
following classifications:

EMA LRG-1 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CH-4 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CG-4 multigrade oil (preferred oil)

•

API CF-4 multigrade oil (acceptable oil)

•

API CF oil (acceptable oil for PC engines)

•

In order to make the proper choice of a commercial
oil, refer to the following explanations:

11

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

EMA LRG-1 – The Engine Manufacturers

Association (EMA) has developed lubricant
recommendations as an alternative to the API oil
classification system. LRG-1 is a Recommended
Guideline that defines a level of oil performance
for these types of diesel engines: high speed, four
stroke cycle, heavy-duty, and light duty. LRG-1 oils
may be used in Caterpillar engines when API CH-4,
API CG-4, and API CF-4 oils are recommended.
LRG-1 oils are intended to provide superior
performance in comparison to API CG-4 and API
CF-4.

LRG-1 oils will meet the needs of high performance
Caterpillar diesel engines that are operating in
many applications. The tests and the test limits that
are used to define LRG-1 are similar to the new
API CH-4 classification. Therefore, these oils will
also meet the requirements of the low emissions
diesel engines. LRG-1 oils are designed to control
the harmful effects of soot with improved wear
resistance and improved resistance to oil filter
plugging. These oils will also provide superior piston
deposit control for engines with either two-piece
steel pistons or aluminum pistons.

All LRG-1 oils must complete a full test program
with the base stock and with the viscosity grade of
the finished commercial oil. The use of “API Base
Oil Interchange Guidelines” are not appropriate for
LRG-1 oils. This feature reduces the variation in
performance that can occur when base stocks are
changed in commercial oil formulations.

LRG-1 oils are recommended for use in extended
oil change interval programs that optimize oil life.
These oil change interval programs are based
on oil analysis. LRG-1 oils are recommended
for conditions that demand a premium oil. Your
Caterpillar dealer has the specific guidelines for
optimizing oil change intervals.

API CH-4 – API CH-4 oils were developed in
order to meet the requirements of the new high
performance diesel engines. Also, the oil was
designed to meet the requirements of the low
emissions diesel engines. API CH-4 oils are also
acceptable for use in older diesel engines and in
diesel engines that use high sulfur diesel fuel. API
CH-4 oils may be used in Caterpillar engines that
use API CG-4 and API CF-4 oils. API CH-4 oils will
generally exceed the performance of API CG-4 oils
in the following criteria: deposits on pistons, control
of oil consumption, wear of piston rings, valve train
wear, viscosity control, and corrosion.

Three new engine tests were developed for the
API CH-4 oil. The first test specifically evaluates
deposits on pistons for engines with the two-piece
steel piston. This test (piston deposit) also measures
the control of oil consumption. A second test is
conducted with moderate oil soot. The second
test measures the following criteria: wear of piston
rings, wear of cylinder liners, and resistance to
corrosion. A third new test measures the following
characteristics with high levels of soot in the oil:
wear of the valve train, resistance of the oil in
plugging the oil filter, and control of sludge.

In addition to the new tests, API CH-4 oils have
tougher limits for viscosity control in applications
that generate high soot. The oils also have improved
oxidation resistance. API CH-4 oils must pass an
additional test (piston deposit) for engines that use
aluminum pistons (single piece). Oil performance is
also established for engines that operate in areas
with high sulfur diesel fuel.

All of these improvements allow the API CH-4 oil
to achieve optimum oil change intervals. API CH-4
oils are recommended for use in extended oil
change intervals. API CH-4 oils are recommended
for conditions that demand a premium oil. Your
Caterpillar dealer has specific guidelines for
optimizing oil change intervals.

API CG-4 – API CG-4 oils were developed primarily
for diesel engines that use a 0.05 percent level of
fuel sulfur. However, API CG-4 oils can be used
with higher sulfur fuels. The TBN of the new oil
determines the maximum fuel sulfur level for API
CG-4 and API CF-4 oils. See Illustration 4.

API CG-4 oils are the first oils that are required to
pass industry standard tests for foam control and
viscosity shear loss. API CG-4 oils must also pass
tests that were developed for corrosion, wear and
oxidation.

API CF-4 – These oils service a wide variety of
modern diesel engines. API CF-4 oils provide more
stable oil control and reduced piston deposits in
comparison to API CF and the obsolete CE and CD
classifications of oil. API CF-4 oils provide improved
soot dispersancy in comparison to API CF and
obsolete CD oils. The API CF-4 classification was
developed with a 0.40 percent sulfur diesel fuel.
This represents the type of diesel fuels that are
commonly available worldwide.

Some commercial oils that meet the API
classifications may require reduced oil change
intervals. To determine the oil change interval,
closely monitor the condition of the oil and perform a
wear metal analysis. Caterpillar’sS·O·S oil analysis
program is the preferred method.

12
Maintenance Section
Lubricant Specifications

NOTICE
Failure to follow these oil recommendations can cause
shortened engine service life due to deposits and/or
excessive wear.

Total Base Number (TBN) and Fuel
Sulfur Levels for Precombustion
Chamber (PC) Diesel Engines

The TBN for a new oil depends on the fuel sulfur
level of the fuel that is used. The minimum TBN of
the oil that is used in PC engines must be 20 times
the fuel sulfur level. The TBN is defined in “ASTM
D2896”. Regardless of fuel sulfur level, the minimum
TBN of new oil is five. Refer to illustration 4.

Lubricant Viscosity Recommendations
for Precombustion Chamber (PC) Diesel
Engines

The proper SAE viscosity grade of oil is determined
by the minimum ambient temperature during
cold engine start-up, and the maximum ambient
temperature during engine operation.

Refer to Table 4 (minimum temperature) in order
to determine the required oil viscosity for starting
a cold engine.

Refer to Table 4 (maximum temperature) in order to
select the oil viscosity for engine operation at the
highest ambient temperature that is anticipated.

Generally, use the highest oil viscosity that
is available to meet the requirement for the
temperature at start-up.

Illustration 4
(Y) The TBN that is shown by “ASTM D2896”

(X) Percentages of fuel sulfur by weight
(1) TBN of new oil
(2) Change the oil when the TBN deteriorates to 50 percent of

the original TBN.

g00274867

Whenever the fuel sulfur exceeds 1.5 percent, do
the following tasks.

Choose an oil with the highest TBN that meets

•

one of these classifications: EMA LRG-1, API CF,
API CF-4, API CG-4, and API CH-4.

Shorten the oil change interval if the oil analysis

•

dictates.

Ta bl e 4

Engine Oil Viscosity

Caterpillar DEO

Multigrade

EMA LRG-1

API CH-4
API CG-4

API CF-4 and

API CF

Viscosity Grade

SAE 0W20 −40C(−40F) 10C (50F)

SAE 0W30

SAE 0W40

SAE 5W30

SAE 5W40

SAE 10W30 −20C(−4F) 40C (104F)
SAE 15W40 −15C(5F) 50C (122F)

SAE 30 0C (32F) 40C (104F)

SAE 40 5C (41F) 50C (122F)

Ambient Temperature

Minimum Maximum

−40C(−40F) 30C (86F)

−40C(−40F) 40C (104F)

−30C(−22F) 30C (86F)

−30C(−22F) 40C (104F)

i01098470

Excessive piston deposits can be produced by an
oil with a high TBN. These deposits can lead to a
loss of control of the oil consumption and to the
polishing of the cylinder bore.

NOTICE
Operating PC engines at fuel sulfur levels over 1.0
percent may require shortened oil change intervals to
maintain adequate wear protection.

Marine Transmission Oil

SMCS Code: 3080; 3300

Caterpillar Transmission/Drive Train Oil (TDTO)
is balanced in order to give maximum frictional
material service life in Caterpillar transmissions.
TDTO exceeds the requirements for the Caterpillar
TO-4 oil specification which includes the frictional
requirements and gear wear requirements. TDTO
is offered in different lubricant viscosity grades
for maximum service life of components at high
ambient temperatures and heavy duty cycles.

For maximum transmission service life and
performance, Caterpillar recommends Caterpillar
Transmission/Drive Train Oil (TDTO).

Ta bl e 5

Lubricant Viscosities For Operating Temperatures

Cooling of

Transmission

Raw/Seawater

Jacket Water SAE 50 −5

Oil Viscosities

SAE 30

SAE 50

Caterpillar TDTO

Minimum

Temperature

−15C(5

−5C (23



C (23

13

Maintenance Section

Lubricant Specifications

Maximum

Temperature



F)



F)



F)



80

C (176F)

95C (203



95

C (203



F)



F)

Contact your Caterpillar dealer for part numbers
and for sizes of available containers.

NOTICE
This oil is formulated for transmissions and drive trains
only, and should not be used in engines. Shortened
engine life will result.

NOTICE
Caterpillar Gear Oil (GO) is not the same as
Caterpillar Transmission/Drive Train Oil, and does
not meet Caterpillar’s specifications for TO-4 oil.
Caterpillar GO or commercial gear oils should not be
used in compartments which specify TO-4 oil.

Caterpillar Transmission/Drive
Train Oils

If Caterpillar Transmission/Drive Train Oil is not
used, commercial oils meeting the Caterpillar TO-4
specification must be used in Caterpillar marine
transmissions. Use TO-4 Specification Oils that are
single grade only.

Commercial Marine Transmissions

For marine transmissions which are not
manufactured by Caterpillar, refer to the lubrication
recommendation of the OEM for the marine
transmission or the vessel.

i01111406

Synthetic base oils generally perform better than
conventional oils in the following two areas:

Synthetic base oils have improved flow at low

•

temperatures especially in arctic conditions.

Synthetic base oils have improved oxidation

•

stability especially at high operating temperatures.

Some synthetic base oils have performance
characteristics that enhance the service life of the
oil. However, Caterpillar does not recommend the
automatic extension of oil change intervals for
any type of oil. Oil change intervals for Caterpillar
engines can only be adjusted after an oil analysis
program that contains the following tests: oil
condition and wear metal analysis (Caterpillar’s
S·O·S oil analysis), trend analysis, fuel consumption,
and oil consumption.

i01111412

Re-refined Base Stock Oils

SMCS Code: 1300; 1348; 7581

Re-refined base stock oils are acceptable for
use in Caterpillar engines if these oils meet the
performance requirements that are specified by
Caterpillar. Re-refined base stock oils can be used
exclusively in finished oil or in a combination with
new base stock oils. The US military specifications
and the specifications of other heavy equipment
manufacturers also allow the use of re-refined base
stock oils that meet the same criteria.

Synthetic Base Stock Oils

SMCS Code: 1300; 1348; 7581

Synthetic base oils are acceptable for use
in Caterpillar engines if these oils meet the
performance requirements that are specified for the
engine compartment.

The process that is used to make re-refined base
stock oil should adequately remove all wear metals
that are in the used oil and all additives that are
in the used oil. The process that is used to make
re-refined base stock oil generally involves the
processes of vacuum distillation and hydrotreating
the used oil. Filtering is inadequate for the
production of high quality re-refined base stock oils
from used oil.