M11 Plus Series Engines Operation and Maintenance Manual – 101-015   Operating the Engine

Normal

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If equipped, monitor the oil pressure and coolant temperature gauges frequently. Refer to Lubricating Oil System specifications and Cooling System specifications, in Maintenance Specifications (Section V) for recommended operating pressures and temperatures. Shut off the engine if any pressure or temperature does not meet the specifications.

Continuous operation with engine coolant temperature above or below the engine coolant temperature specifications listed in Maintenance Specifications (Section V) can damage the engine.

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If an overheating condition starts to occur, reduce the power output of the engine by releasing the accelerator pedal or lever or shifting the transmission to a lower gear, or both, until the temperature returns to the normal operating range. If the engine temperature does not return to normal, shut off the engine, and refer to Troubleshooting Symptoms (Section TS), or contact a Cummins® Authorized Repair Location.

 
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Most failures give an early warning. Look and listen for changes in performance, sound, or engine appearance that can indicate service or engine repair is needed. Some changes to look for are:

  • Engine misfires
  • Vibration
  • Unusual engine noises
  • Sudden changes in engine operating temperatures or pressures
  • Excessive smoke
  • Loss of power
  • An increase in oil consumption
  • An increase in fuel consumption
  • Fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.

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 CAUTION 

Do not idle for extended periods of time. Excessive idle time can cause poor engine performance.

Internal combustion engines must not operate at low idle speed for extended periods of time. This operating condition may lead to poor engine performance. The idle shutdown feature, available on most Cummins® engines, can be programmed to shut the engine down after a period of low idle speed operation with no driver activity. A flashing warning lamp will inform the driver of an impending shutdown. If an engine must idle for an extended period of time, it should be done at fast idle (1000 rpm or greater). The Power Take-Off (PTO) feature, available on most Cummins® engines, can be programmed to adjust engine speed with the use of OEM switches to pre-programmed set points.

Cold Weather

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It is possible to operate engines in extremely cold environments if they are properly prepared and maintained. Satisfactory performance of an engine in low ambient temperature conditions requires modification of the engine, surrounding equipment, operating practices and maintenance procedures.

The correct engine coolant lubricating oil and fuels must be used for the cold weather range in which the engine is being operated. Below are the recommendations for these critical engine fluids:

Ambient Temperature

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Use 50-percent ethylene glycol antifreeze and 50-percent water for the engine coolant mixture.

Refer to Maintenance Specifications (Section V) Lubricating Oil recommendations for the correct specifications.

The Diesel fuel must have maximum cloud and pour points 6°C [10°F] lower than the ambient temperature in which the engine operates.

Use 60-percent ethylene glycol antifreeze and 40-percent water for the engine coolant mixture.

Refer to Maintenance Specifications (Section V) Lubricating Oil recommendations for the correct specifications.

The Diesel fuel must have maximum cloud and pour points 6°C [10°F] lower than the ambient temperature in which the engine operates.

The following cold weather operating aids are required for cold weather situations:

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NEEDS TEXT HERE FOR CORRECT STRUCTURE

Winterfronts and Shutters

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Winterfronts and shutters can be used on a vehicle or equipment to reduce air flow through the radiator core into the engine compartment. This can reduce the time required to warm the engine and help maintain the engine coolant temperature. The engine coolant temperature specifications are in the Maintenance Specification (Section V).

 
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Last Modified:  10-Sep-2009