Down and out in Spartanberg SC

[christsong1]

We were traveling home and decided to fuel up while it was cheaper in SC.
We pulled up to the pump and refueled. When I turned the key it didn't want to start again. It finally did start, but was idling very rough. I realized that I had left the jake brake on. After turning it off, it still idles very rough and check engine light is on. We drove it 3 miles to the next truck stop, but barely made it there.
Does anyone have an idea or know of a reputable caterpillar mechanic in this area? We are close to Greenville/Spartanberg SC. in Gaffney actually.

[christsong1]

sorry brother..they didn't tell me that part..

[Dachristianman]

Just for reference, did they happen to give you the code that tripped the Check Engine Light?

[C-Leigh_Racing]

Christsong1, sounds like a gospel singing group.
Glad it was something simple to replace, sorry though it held you up from your destination point.

My family attended a lot of gospel singings over the years. Youst to love the one at Boone the Greens put on at the fair grounds.
Neil

[vegasfoodguy]

hanko wrote:
and my gas job just keeps motoring down the road.

That really helps the OP. Stupid!

[christsong1]

Just wanted to update this in case someone might need this info. My wife posted that it was an idle sensor, then mentioned the jake brake. I want to clarify. It was a sensor found on top of the valve cover of the engine. It's about 6 inches long and screws into the top of the intake or valve cover, the other end plugs into the harness. The symptoms were lose of power, engine surging and stalling with check engine light on. I hope this will clarify this subject.I believe in this form and the support it gives folks like me. This is quite a learning experience and I so appreciate the wealth of knowledge and the willingness to share...Bobby

[christsong1]

It was a couple of brothers named Hensley came to the rescue. They were so nice and helpful and very knowledgeable. If you are in the area and need help they are worth looking up!

[Passin_Thru]

Great. Got that note after I copied you. Glad it was simple.

[DSDP_Don]

Good for you...glad you're back on the road and that you reported the results. This may help someone else down the road. Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

[christsong1]

WELL! Turns out it was the Idle Sensor. They changed the fuel filter, but it didn't look bad, then they messed with the exhaust brake. Then they touched the Exhaust Brake (Jake) and that was it. They changed it and we are "On the Road Again"....Feeling blessed!:B

[garysol]

hanko wrote:
and my gas job just keeps motoring down the road.

Must be awesome to be you... What a jerk.

[Squealers]

^^^^^^^^WOW^^^^^^^^^

[hanko]

and my gas job just keeps motoring down the road.

[krivanj]

Cat runs a 24 hour help line. They can at least tell you the nearest dealer.(877) 228-0909
Worked for us.

[christsong1]

Well, thank you all for your posts. We lubed and oiled the Jake/Pac Brake...that was actually what we thought it was. But, then started it back up and again the motor surges in idle and check engine light came back on.
We are only 2 miles from the Freight Liner Service Facility and we could leave it there if we have to, but they are closed on Saturday. That remains an option.

We are waiting right now on a service guy who is bringing a fuel filter.
This one has been changed just 2000 miles ago, but when it was changed it was FULL of sludge and gunk....thinking that it might need to be changed again because this thing was setting a long time before we bought it.

We also have come from 100 elevation to about 2000 feet. Would that be an issue?

We'll let you know what happens. Thanks again for the help!