Caterpillar C175 / C280 — Procedure for Cleaning an Oil Contaminated Cooling System
Maintenance
For the Caterpillar C175 / C280, from the Caterpillar manual.
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Before you start
- Corrosion of the metal can occur if the detergent solution is in the cooling system for longer than one hour.
Procedure
- Drain the cooling system.
- Fill the cooling system with acceptable quality water.
- Start the engine and run until the thermostat opens.
- Add 0.473 L (0.5 qt) of 269-1948 non-foaming detergent; if capacity exceeds 113.6 L (30 US gal) add 2-3% of capacity.
- Run the engine for at least 30 minutes and drain the cooling system.
- Remove a small sample, allow to sit 30 minutes and check for a visible oil layer; repeat if oil is present.
- Flush the cooling system with acceptable quality water; run engine 20 minutes and drain.
- Perform the Cat Cooling System Cleaner - Quick Flush cleaning procedure if needed.
- If no additional cleaning is needed, refill the cooling system with new coolant.
Tools required
- Clear container Amazon
Tool links are Amazon searches (affiliate links); manufacturer special tools may only be available from a dealer.
Specs & values
- 0.473 L (0.5 qt) of 269-1948 non-foaming detergent
- 2-3% cooling system capacity for systems over 113.6 L (30 US gal)
Source: Caterpillar 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.