216B2, 226B2, 232B2, 236B2, 242B2 and 252B2 Skid Steer Loaders Engine Starting Caterpillar

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Do not use aerosol types of starting aids such as ether. Such use could result in an explosion and personal injury.

It is important to prepare the machine for operation in temperatures that are below 0 °C (32 °F). It is also important to follow the appropriate warm up procedures when the machine is operated in temperatures that are below 0 °C (32 °F).

Machine preparation for cold weather includes using the correct hydraulic system oil. The factory fills the hydraulic system with 10W hydraulic oil which has a minimum operating temperature of −20 °C (−4 °F). If the machine will be operated at temperatures below −20 °C (−4 °F), the 10W oil must be replaced with 0W30 hydraulic oil in order to provide the proper oil viscosity. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Lubricant Viscosities and Refill Capacities". Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU5898, "Cold Weather Recommendations for AVSpare Machines". Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, SEBU6250, "AVSpare Machine Fluids Recommendations".

1. Fasten the seat belt.

2. Pull the armrest downward.

3. Move the governor control lever to the low idle position.

4. Before the engine is started, check for the presence of bystanders or maintenance personnel. Ensure that all personnel are clear of the machine. Briefly sound the forward horn before you start the engine.

5. Turn the engine start switch key to the ON position.
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   NOTICE
   Do not operate the glow plugs for more than 30 seconds at one time. Damage to the glow plugs could occur.

6. Press the glow plug switch and hold the switch for the time specified in the following table:
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   Table 1

   Ambient Temperature	Preheat time for the Glow Plugs
   greater than 0 °C (32 °F)	6 seconds
   0 °C (32 °F) to −18 °C (0 °F)	10 seconds
   less than −18 °C (0 °F)	30 seconds

   Note: For ambient temperatures of −27 °C (−16 °F) or colder, it is recommended to use a jacket water heater in addition to glow plugs.

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   NOTICE
   Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds. Allow the electric starting motor to cool for two minutes before cranking the engine again.

7. Release the glow plug switch momentarily.

8. Turn the engine start switch key to the START position in order to start the engine. Press the glow plug switch and hold the switch during engine cranking in order to assist starting. Release the keyand release the glow plug switch after the engine has started.

9. Run the engine for 5 minutes. The engine should run smoothly at low idle. The engine should run smoothly as speed is gradually increased to high idle. Allow the white smoke to disperse before you proceed with normal operation.

10. Disengage the parking brake.

11. Run the engine at half throttle. Hold the work tool control in the TILT BACK position for thirty seconds. Release the control for thirty seconds. Hold the work tool control in the LOWER position for thirty seconds. Release the control for thirty seconds. Perform the procedure for three minutes.

    Note: If you are operating the machine below 0 °C (32 °F), perform the procedure for eight minutes.

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    NOTICE
    Do not use the hydraulic interlock override function to warm up the machine.

12. Keep all personnel away from the machine. Move the machine very slowly to an open area. Repeat Step 11 as you move the machine back and forth for 3 m (10 ft).

Note: More warm up time may be required if the hydraulic functions are sluggish.