M35a3 3116 Cat looses power at times

[jrhunter]

I have a low hour M35a3 that I use for plowing snow at over 5000 ft. It has begun to stutter and hesitate at times, usually under load, but not always. It only lasts for 5-10 seconds, then runs fine. All turbo connections are tight. No water in fuel. I plowed 2 days in a row in 20 plus degree weather and one day it only did this twice, the next day it did it several times. I'd appreciate any thoughts on this.

 

[davidb56]

If it increases, then Id replace the fuel filter first, that way you have to bleed the fuel system and have fresh filters. My Cat dozer did the same thing a few months ago and that took care if it.

 

[glcaines]

Have you cleaned the check valve located in the fittings directly above the tank? These notoriously plug up and have symptoms like you are describing and usually a lot of white smoke out the exhaust as well. Be careful loosening and tightening the fittings as it is easy to break them. Once apart, very simple to clean.

 

[jrhunter]

If it increases, then Id replace the fuel filter first, that way you have to bleed the fuel system and have fresh filters. My Cat dozer did the same thing a few months ago and that took care if it.

thank you. I'll try that first

 

[jrhunter]

Have you cleaned the check valve located in the fittings directly above the tank? These notoriously plug up and have symptoms like you are describing and usually a lot of white smoke out the exhaust as well. Be careful loosening and tightening the fittings as it is easy to break them. Once apart, very simple to clean.

I haven't had any smoke, but I'll give this a try and see if it helps. Thanks.

 

[jrhunter]

If it increases, then Id replace the fuel filter first, that way you have to bleed the fuel system and have fresh filters. My Cat dozer did the same thing a few months ago and that took care if it.

Well, I feel foolish. It was the fuel filter. Must have been some old crud in the tank, because the used filter was not very old. Thanks for the help

 

[Mullaney]

Well, I feel foolish. It was the fuel filter. Must have been some old crud in the tank, because the used filter was not very old. Thanks for the help

.
Don't feel foolish...
Nobody will ever fuss and say why you didn't check the fuel filter first!
Fuel isn't as clean as it once was and "go go juice" is a requirement.