HomeEnginesCaterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine)

Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) Engine

The Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) is an engine. It powers generator sets from Caterpillar, including the 3406C Industrial Engine.

Also known as: CATERPILLAR 3ER1-Up (Engine)

Engine specifications

Common problems

10
  • SMCS Code: 1000 i01197515
    Fix: • Check the crankcase oil level. Maintain the oil level between the “ADD” mark and the “FULL” mark on the oil level gauge. • If necessary, perform minor adjustments. Repair any leaks and tighten any loose bolts. • Note the service hour meter reading. Perform the maintenance that is in the Operation and Maintenance Manual, “Maintenance Interval Schedule”.
  • Low power or poor performance in the winter i01190421
    Fix: Before troubleshooting for low power or for poor performance in the winter, check the type of fuel that is being used. When No. 2 diesel fuel is used the following components provide a means of minimizing problems in cold weather: • Starting aids • Engine oil pan heaters • Engine coolant heaters • Fuel heaters • Fuel line insulation
  • Low oil pressure or no oil pressure is indicated
    Fix: Stop the engine and determine the cause of the problem. Refer to Troubleshooting for further information or consult with your Caterpillar dealer.
  • High exhaust temperatures Power loss Excessive fan usage Reduction in fuel economy
    Cause: Airflow restriction can cause these conditions.
    Fix: If an airflow restriction device must be used, the device should have a permanent opening directly in line with the fan hub. The device must have a minimum opening dimension of at least 770 cm2 (120 in2). A centered opening that is directly in line with the fan hub is specified in order to prevent an interrupted airflow on the fan blades. Interrupted airflow on the fan blades could cause a fan failure. Caterpillar recommends a warning device for the inlet manifold temperature and/or the installation of an inlet air temperature gauge. The warning device for the inlet manifold temperature should be set at 65°C (150°F). The inlet manifold air temperature should not exceed 65°C (150°F). Temperatures that exceed this limit can cause power loss and potential engine damage.
  • Gauge readings that change even if the readings are within specifications
    Cause: Significant change in the readings
    Fix: Determine the cause of any significant change in the readings, and/or correct the cause of any significant change in the readings. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for assistance.
  • Engine operating above the normal range and steam becomes apparent.
    Fix: 1. Reduce the load and the engine speed (rpm). 2. Inspect the cooling system for leaks. 3. Determine if the engine must be shut down immediately or if the engine can be cooled by reducing the load.
  • Engine operating above the normal range and steam becomes apparent
    Fix: Reduce the load and the engine speed (rpm). Inspect the cooling system for leaks. Determine if the engine must be shut down immediately or if the engine can be cooled by reducing the load.
  • Decrease in fuel pressure.
    Fix: A decrease in fuel pressure usually indicates a plugged fuel filter.
  • Decrease in fuel pressure
    Fix: A decrease in fuel pressure usually indicates a plugged fuel filter.
  • A lower oil pressure is normal at low idle.
    Fix: If the load is stable and the gauge reading changes, perform the following procedure: 1. Remove the load. 2. Reduce engine speed to low idle. 3. Check and maintain the oil level.

Compiled from service & troubleshooting documentation across every generator set that uses the Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine).

Maintenance schedule

ItemSpecCapacityPart #Interval
Air filter250 hr
Fuel filter1000 hr
Oil filter250 hr
Battery1000 hr
Belt250 hr
Coolant1000 hr
Coolant filter
Oil250 hr
Spark plug2500 hr

Pooled from every document that names this exact engine — confirm the interval and part number against your unit's serial number.

Common questions

Which generators use the Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) engine?

The Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) powers 1 generator set(s), including Caterpillar 3406C Industrial Engine.

How often should you change the oil in the Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine)?

The Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) oil change interval is every 250 hours.

What is a common problem with the Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) engine?

A commonly reported issue on generators using the Caterpillar 3ER1-Up (Engine) is: SMCS Code: 1000. Fix: • Check the crankcase oil level. Maintain the oil level between the “ADD” mark and the “FULL” mark on the oil level gauge. • If necessary, perform minor adjustments. Repair any leaks and tighten any loose bolts. • Note the service hour meter reading. Perform the maintenance that is in the Operation and Maintenance Manual, “Maintenance Interval Schedule”..