How to find the serial number on your Caterpillar engine
When ordering spare parts, planning an overhaul or requesting technical support, the correct engine serial number is essential. In practice, however, we often receive photos of identification plates that do not contain the information needed to identify the engine correctly. In this article, we explain where to find the correct serial number on a Caterpillar industrial diesel engine, and which plates should not be used for identification.
The Engine in this example
The engine shown in these photos is a Caterpillar industrial diesel engine, commonly used in industrial applications and generator sets. Like most Caterpillar engines, it is fitted with several plates and labels, but only one of these is the official engine identification plate.
This is where you find the correct serial number
The only correct and reliable identification is the metal Caterpillar identification plate mounted directly on the engine block.
On this plate you will find: The ngine model: C11, the engine serial number: GLS00708, and the arrangement number.
This serial number is required to identify the exact engine configuration and to select the correct spare parts and overhaul components.
This is not the engine serial number
Some plates on the engine, such as the emissions and technical information label, contain data like engine family, year of manufacture, valve settings and power ratings. Although this information is useful, these labels do not contain the official engine serial number and cannot be used to identify the engine for parts or overhaul.
Small labels on or near the valve cover also only contain assembly or configuration information and are not suitable for engine identification.
Serial number stamped in the block
On some Caterpillar engines, the serial number is also stamped directly into the engine block. This can be useful if the identification plate is damaged or missing.
Why this is important
A Caterpillar exists in many different versions. Without the correct serial number, there is a high risk of ordering incorrect parts or using the wrong specifications.
If you are unsure which number is the correct one, you can always send Hamofa clear photos of the engine and all visible plates. Our engineers will help you identify the engine correctly.
