Caterpillar 3196 and C12 Condensation Issues

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Attention Caterpillar 3196 and C12 Owners

Caterpillar 3196 and C12 Condensation Issues - The Advisory Caterpillar Should Have Disclosed About Your Engine But Probably Failed To Mention

The following applies to 3196 and C12 engines that operate at very low rpm's for extended periods of time in cold waters.

In marine applications excessive condensation can be produced in the aftercooler assembly especially in colder seawater climates. This condensation can drip directly into the intake ports. The damage that can be caused is corrosion to valves, valve seats, and cylinder packs leading to shortened engine life. Reroute seawater lines from the seawater pump to flow through the heat exchanger and then to the aftercooler. This will increase the seawater temperature and reduce the amount of condensation formed on the aftercooler core. NOTE: This rework procedure must only be peformed on vessels that operate at very low rpm for extended periods of time, that have the following sea water temperatures:
- Engines rated at 705 bhp cannot operate in temperatures that exceed 60 degrees F.
- Engines rated at 660 bhp and below cannot operate in seawater temperatures that exceed 68 degrees F.