BEST PRACTICE SERIES

Using Idle Time VIMS™

Data for Pre-PM Analysis
Component Component
Maintenance MARC
Application Renewal Life
and Repair Management
(CRC) Management

Using Idle Time VIMS™ Data for Pre-PM Analysis .... 0

1.0 Introduction ........................................................ 1
2.0 Best Practice Description ................................... 1
3.0 Implementation Steps ........................................ 2
4.0 Benefits .............................................................. 2
5.0 Resources Required .......................................... 3
6.0 Supporting Attachments / References ............... 3
7.0 Related Best Practices ...................................... 3
8.0 Acknowledgements............................................ 3

DISCLAIMER: The information and potential benefits included in this document are based upon information provided by
®
one or more Cat dealers, and such dealer(s) opinion of “Best Practices”. Caterpillar makes no representation or warranty
about the information contained in this document or the products referenced herein. Caterpillar welcomes additional “Best
Practice” recommendations from our dealer network.

June 11
0409-1.01-1166
300 Hamilton Blvd., Ste. 300, Peoria, IL 61629-3810, U.S.A. mining.cat.com
CAT GLOBAL MINING BEST PRACTICE SERIES

1.0 Introduction
Idle time VIMS data can be used during pre-PM analysis to speed the pre-PM process and
check systems that may otherwise have gone unchecked. The idle time data can be taken while no
one is present at the machine, or while inspection personal are doing other checks. Examining 5
minutes of idle time data can eliminate the need for more time consuming tests, such as checking the
steering cycles with gauges, and can detect faults in systems that may have gone unchecked, like the
battery and charging system.

2.0 Best Practice Description

5 minutes of idle and 1 minute of engine off data collected during the Pre PM inspection can be
used to speed up the Pre PM analysis. The collected data can be analyzed for certain truck
performance parameters without operator influences. This analysis can allow the PM downtime to be
utilized more effectively.
Assuming the truck is shut off, start the truck, run through operational tests and inspect
machine while it idles for at least 5 minutes before shutting the machine down. After the engine is
stopped, turn to key on, take a snapshot (EREC) and download the data before releasing the truck.
The same data can be gathered by running a datalogger for the entire pre-PM test/inspection. Note:
If an aftermarket shutdown timer is available, it can be used to collect the same data.

The downloaded VIMS® data can then be analyzed for the following:

• Battery voltage – Battery voltage is an excellent indicator of the condition of the charging
system when the truck was running and the battery condition when the engine was shut down.
When the engine is off and key on a voltage drop below 24 volts is indicative of a problem in
the battery system.

• Engine fan speed & coolant temperature – This data can help insure the engine fan control
and cooling circuit are working properly and not over cooling the engine. If the steering cycle
blips can bee seen in the engine fan speed graph, or the engine coolant temperature drops
below 190 degrees the fan has likely locked up and is over cooling the engine.

• Engine speed – A blip in the engine speed can be seen every time the steering cycles. This
data eliminates the need to check steering cycles with gauges and the need to check
accumulators if the cycle times are correct. Cycle times less than 30 seconds can indicate a
cut in or a cut out problem in the steering system.

• Electrical problems – The 5 minutes of continuous information from all sensors on the truck
can be useful in troubleshooting should there be an electrical problem or intermediate event on
the truck. Also, if a sensor is going bad it can be added to the PM kit.

THE INFORMATION HEREIN MAY NOT BE COPIED OR TRANSMITTED TO OTHERS WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF CATERPILLAR

DATE CHG
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CAT GLOBAL MINING BEST PRACTICE SERIES

Steering cycles should be greater than 30

seconds.

Fan speed should decreases with coolant temp and

coolant temp should not drop below 190 degrees.

Battery voltage should not drop below 24

volts.

3.0 Implementation Steps

• Three days prior to the scheduled PM let the machine idle for 5 minutes while doing other pre-
PM inspections, download the data before releasing the machine.
• Analyze the data and modify the PM appropriately based on findings.

4.0 Benefits
• Saves time by allowing systems to be checked through VIMS™ data rather than by hooking
up gauges.
• Improves PM efficiency by providing information that may detect problems that would have
been overlooked during normal pre-PM inspections.
• Can help improve fleet availability.

THE INFORMATION HEREIN MAY NOT BE COPIED OR TRANSMITTED TO OTHERS WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF CATERPILLAR

DATE CHG
NO NUMBER
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CAT GLOBAL MINING BEST PRACTICE SERIES

5.0 Resources Required

The major resource required to implement this Best Practice will be the people and the time
dedicated to analyzing the data collected from the machine. The VIMS data will be collected from
the machine using the VIMSpc software. VIMS Application training may also be required if the
users are not familiar with the analysis of VIMS data.

6.0 Supporting Attachments / References

References:
VIMSpc subscription numbers: JERD2137 (Dealer Site License)
JERD2138 (Dealer Annual Subscription)
JERD2175 (Customer Annual Subscription)

VIMS Application Guide SELD7001

7.0 Related Best Practices

1006-2.3-1027 Utilizing VIMS Data for Effective Planned Maintenance

8.0 Acknowledgements

This best practice was submitted by:

Wes Rhoden - [email protected]

Matt Blakeman - [email protected]
Wyoming Machinery Company

THE INFORMATION HEREIN MAY NOT BE COPIED OR TRANSMITTED TO OTHERS WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF CATERPILLAR

DATE CHG
NO NUMBER
Using Idle Time VIMS™ Data For Pre PM Analysis 6/17/2011 0409-1.01-1166
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