CAT 315 F fire - Hi all I recently had a fir in a CAT 315 F, I also found out that another contractor had a fire in their 315F anyone else have this?

[DKG]

Hi all I recently had a fire in a CAT 315 F, I also found out that another contractor had a fire in their 315F anyone else have or seen this issue. Looks like the fire started or was caused by the DPF canister getting too hot and melted the insulation around the wiring and caused a short then started a fire????

 

[masterwelder]

What kind of hours were on these machines?

Breakdown of materials over time leading to the fire or one time failure?

 

[DKG]

Happy New Year.
First machine had a fire around 3200 hours model year 2019, the other machine 2023 next gen just over 1500 hours.
Both machines were well maintained.
Any ideas are greatly appreciated. I have found a few pictures online showing 315F's that also caught fire.

 

[masterwelder]

DPF looks to be mounted on top of the machine?

To what level of fire damage occurred to these machines? Total loss?

 

[masterwelder]

Do you have any pictures of the damage?

 

[DKG]

Damage on the older machine was extensive not a total loss, He said the insurance covered the repair. This contractor has since retired. Not sure if he still has the machine or not.
The newer machine, damage was $20K, wiring harness, sensors, fuel lines. The fire actually happened after machine was shut down and we went home. Next day we noticed the burnt paint and found that there had been a fire.
Yes, the DPF filter is on top.
I will see if I can find the pictures.
Thank you for the help, just don't want it to happed again, especially since we work very close to some structures in very tight spots. A fire that could cause the structure to catch on fire is problematic.

 

[masterwelder]

My SOP is to shut off the master disconnect every day. All my Cat equipment has them factory, my Deere 650K and my KW T800 has them factory also. My Kubota equipment does not, it’s something I’m going to address.
Mice, gremlins, the law of averages and who knows what else are all working against me. 12 and 24 volt systems with multiple batteries have a tremendous electrical potential.
Not saying it would have prevented the fires you have mentioned, but it sure can’t hurt to get in the routine of killing the power when no one is around.
Beyond that good house keeping. Seeing how the filter is on top with a perforated shield its going to collect leaves, twigs and anything else that can fit through the openings. Certainly an area to inspect daily. Even if you’re working in the great wide open. I used to deliver bulk water for pools. I did many year after year, the one thing I heard the most was how the home owner couldn’t believe the amount of leaves and other debris ended up in the pool despite the fact they didn’t have any trees near by. The wind carries things quite far. Might not build up as fast but it will happen.