Caterpillar — Cooling System Coolant (ELC) - Change
Maintenance
From a Caterpillar owner's manual covering: 3054E, 3056E, C12. Check it applies to your exact model before use.
Browse Caterpillar generators & specs →
Before you start
- Pressurized System: Hot coolant can cause serious burns. Loosen the pressure cap slowly.
Procedure
- Stop the engine and allow the engine to cool. Loosen the filler cap slowly to relieve pressure. Remove the cap.
- Open the drain valve (if equipped) or remove the cooling system drain plugs. Allow the coolant to drain.
- Flush the cooling system with clean water in order to remove any debris.
- Close the drain valve. Clean and install the drain plugs.
- Fill the cooling system with clean water. Install the cooling system filler cap.
- Start and run the engine at low idle until the temperature reaches 49 to 66 C (120 to 150 F).
- Stop the engine, cool, drain, and flush the cooling system with clean water.
- Close the drain valve. Clean and install the drain plugs.
- Fill the cooling system with Extended Life Coolant (ELC). Do not install the filler cap.
- Run the engine at low idle, increase to high idle for one minute to purge air. Stop the engine.
- Check the coolant level within 13 mm (0.5 inch) below the bottom of the filler pipe.
- Clean the filler cap, inspect the gasket, and pressure test with a 9S-8140 Pressurizing Pump.
- Start the engine. Inspect the cooling system for leaks and for 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
- Fill the cooling system no faster than 19 L (5 US gal) per minute.
- Temperature reaches 49 to 66 C (120 to 150 F).
- Coolant level within 13 mm (0.5 inch) below the bottom of the pipe for filling.
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.