C9.3 Engines for Caterpillar Built Machines Coolant Temperature Is High Caterpillar


Coolant Temperature Is High
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Use this procedure in order to troubleshoot high coolant temperature or use this procedure if one of the following event codes is active. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Event Codes" for information about event codes. Access the monitoring system on AVSpare Electronic Technician (ET) in order to view the current trip points for these codes.

Table 1
Event Code 
CDL Code  Code Description  Comments 
E361(1)  Engine Coolant Temperature High- Least Severe (1)  The engine coolant temperature has exceeded the trip point and the delay time has expired.
The code is logged. 
E361(2)  High Engine Coolant Temperature High - Moderate Severity (2)  The engine coolant temperature has exceeded the trip point and the delay time has expired.
Engine power is derated. The code is logged. 
E361(3)  Engine Coolant Temperature High - Most Severe (3) 

Probable Causes

  • Low Coolant Level and/or Coolant Leakage

  • Coolant Temperature Sensor

  • Water Temperature Regulator and/or Pressure Relief Valve

  • Radiator

  • Engine Cooling Fan (if equipped)

  • Coolant Pump

  • Cylinder Head Gasket

Recommended Actions

Note: The procedures have been listed in order of probability. Complete the procedures in order.

Table 2
Troubleshooting Test Steps  Values  Results 

1. Inspect the Coolant Level
 

Coolant Level
 

Result: The coolant level is low.

Repair: Add coolant to the cooling system.
 

2. Check the Cooling System for Leaks
 

Leaks
 

Result: There are leaks in the cooling system.

Repair: Repair or replace the parts that are leaking.

Result: There are no leaks in the cooling system.

Proceed to Test Step 3
 

3. Check the Coolant Temperature Sensor

1. Check the reading of the coolant temperature on Cat ET. The temperature should rise steadily as the engine is warmed. Ensure that the temperature is reasonable. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Sensor Signal (Analog, Passive) - Test".
 

Coolant Temperature Sensor
 

Result: The coolant temperature sensor reading is not reasonable.

Repair: Repair or replace the coolant temperature sensor.

Result: The coolant temperature sensor reading is reasonable.

Proceed to Test Step 4.
 

4. Pressure Test the Cooling System

A. Refer to Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting for the correct procedure.

B. Check that the seating surfaces of the pressure relief valve and the radiator cap are clean and undamaged.

C. Check operation of the pressure relief valve and/or the water temperature regulator.
 

Pressure Test
 

Result: The pressure test results are NOT OK.

Repair: If necessary, clean the components and/or replace the components.

Result: The pressure test results are OK.

Proceed to Test Step 5.
 

5. Check the Radiator

A. Check the radiator fins for dirt, debris, and/or damage.

B. Check the radiator for internal blockage.

C. Ensure that the radiator size is according to the OEM specifications. An undersized radiator does not have enough area for the effective release of heat. An undersized radiator may cause the engine to run at a temperature that is higher than normal. The normal temperature is dependent on the ambient temperature.
 

Radiator
 

Result: The radiator is NOT OK.

Repair: Repair or replace the radiator.

Result: The radiator is OK.

Proceed to Test Step 6.
 

6. Check the Engine Cooling Fan

A. If the fan is belt driven, check for loose drive belts. A loose fan drive belt will cause a reduction in the air flow across the radiator. Check the fan drive belt for proper belt tension.

B. Check the fan clutch, if equipped. A fan clutch or a hydraulic driven fan that is not turning at the correct speed can cause improper air speed across the radiator core. The lack of proper air flow across the radiator core can cause the coolant not to cool to the proper temperature differential. Refer to Troubleshooting, "Cooling Fan Control - Test" for troubleshooting information.
 

Engine Cooling Fan
 

Result: The engine cooling fan is NOT OK.

Repair: Repair or replace the engine cooling fan.

Result: The engine cooling fan is OK.

Proceed to Test Step 7.
 

7. Inspect the Water Pump

A. Inspect the impeller of the water pump for damage and/or erosion.

B. Make sure that the drive gear is not loose on the drive shaft of the water pump.
 

Water Pump
 

(Result:) The water pump is NOT OK.

Repair: Repair or replace the water pump. Refer to Disassembly and Assembly for the correct procedure.

Result: The water pump is OK.
.
Proceed to Test Step 8.
 

8. Inspect the Cylinder Head Gasket

A. Remove the cylinder head. Refer to the Disassembly and Assembly manual.

B. Check the cylinder liner projection. Refer to the Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting manual.

C. Pressure test the head for leaks. Refer to the Systems Operation/Testing and Adjusting manual for testing procedures.
 

Cylinder Head Gasket
 

Result: The cylinder head gasket is NOT OK.

Repair: Install a new cylinder head gasket and new water seals in the spacer plate. Refer to the Disassembly and Assembly manual.
 

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