How to Manually Run the Caterpillar Valve Actuator Test

The manual mode of the Cat ET Intake Valve Actuator Test allows for the troubleshooting of a specific intake valve actuator by actuating a single intake valve actuator. At the start of the test, all intake valve actuators are stopped, and only one actuator can be activated at a time.

Related Contents:

Caterpillar ET 2024A 2023A 2018A Electronic Technician Software Free Download
CAT Communication Adapter 3 478-0235

Steps to Start the Automatic Test:

  1. Start the Test:
    • Click the Start button.
    • The Suction Valve Actuator Test Selection screen will appear.
  2. Select Manual Mode:
    • Click the Manual Suction Valve Actuator Test radio button.
    • Click Next >> to proceed.
    • The Suction Valve Actuator Test Conditions screen will appear.
  3. Verify Service Conditions:
    • Ensure that all service conditions are met.
    • Click Next >> to begin the test.
    • Note: The test will only run if all test conditions are met. If the service conditions are not met, the Suction Valve Actuator Test Aborted screen will appear, indicating the reason for the test being aborted.

Continue with Manual Mode:

  1. Warning Notification:
    • A warning box will display the following message:
      • “Running this test will cause significant engine smoke. This test should be run in a well-ventilated area.”
    • Click OK to continue the test or Stop to abort and return to the main screen.
  2. Additional Warnings:
    • A warning message may appear if:
      • The cooling fan is controlled by the ECM. Click OK to continue or Stop to abort without turning on the cooling fan.
      • Engine speed is controlled by the ECM, click **OK** to continue or **Stop** to abort without adjusting the engine speed.
    • Note: Clicking Stop initiates the shutdown process. The engine speed will automatically increase, and a progress bar will display the status. Once the increased speed is maintained for a specific time, the progress bar will show the progress. A Test Stopped by User message box will provide post-test instructions.
  3. Troubleshoot Specific Actuator:
    • To test a specific intake valve actuator, either double-click the actuator or highlight it and click the Change button.
    • The selected actuator will energize for five seconds and then de-energize automatically.
    • Note: Only one actuator can be energized at a time. The number of tests is limited. When this limit is reached, a message box will appear. Click OK and exit the test to continue testing.
  4. End the Test:
    • Click Stop to end the Intake Valve Actuator Test in manual mode.