Caterpillar 3512 — Cooling System Coolant (ELC) - Change
Maintenance
For the Caterpillar 3512, from the Caterpillar owner's manual.
Applies to: Caterpillar 3512
Before you start
- Hot coolant can cause serious burns. Stop the engine and wait until components are cool before loosening the filler cap.
Procedure
- Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Ensure the engine will not start.
- Loosen the filler cap slowly to relieve pressure. Remove the filler cap.
- Open drain valves or remove drain plugs (1) and (2). Allow the coolant to drain.
- Flush the cooling system with clean water. Close drain valves; install drain plugs.
- Fill with clean water; install the filler cap. Operate the engine until temperature reaches 49 °C (120 °F) to 66 °C (150 °F).
- Stop the engine and allow it to cool. Remove the filler cap.
- Drain; flush with clean water; close drain valves; install drain plugs.
- Repeat the fill, operate, drain, and flush steps.
- Fill the cooling system with Extended Life Coolant (ELC); do not install the filler cap.
- Start the engine to purge air; allow ELC to warm and stabilize; stop the engine.
- Check the coolant level on the sight gauge, or within 13 mm (.5 inch) below the filler pipe.
- Clean and inspect the filler cap gaskets; pressure test the cap; replace if damaged.
- Start the engine. Inspect the cooling system for leaks and proper operating temperature.
Tools required
- 9S-8140 Pressurizing Pump Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- Flush temperature range: 49 °C (120 °F) to 66 °C (150 °F)
- Fill rate: no faster than 19 L (5 US gal) per minute
Full service-parts list: Caterpillar 3512 →
Source: Caterpillar owner's manual. Steps and values are as documented; always cross-check against the official manual and any later revisions for your exact serial number before servicing.