[Mageeacres]

Who here has a caterpillar 3208 diesel, I’m looking for the dip switch code on back of the Stewart Warner rpm gauge with pulse generator. Some are wired to the alternator but mine has a pulse generator that works off the cam. The PO replaced the rpm gauge and didn’t set the dip switches properly. I’m getting 700 rpm at idle and 1600 rpm at about 60 mph. It doesn’t seem correct. (4 speed Allison tranny). Thanks in advance

[Guy]

That is exctly where our Detriot Diesel spins off a 4 speed Allison.

[Georgeb]

As I remember 
That’s real close to correct

[Mageeacres]

Good news
I purchased an inexpensive laser rpm meter so that I could measure the rpm right at the crank pulley.
At idle I measured 966 average. Then I manipulated the dip switches to read the exact same rpm as the laser tool. Then I had the boss hold the rpms at 2000 and 1500 and I measured each with the laser tool confirming each setting. Just to make sure, I measured another vehicle from the crank pulley and the readings were consistent with the rpm gauge in that vehicle to test the laser tool. Now that I have confirmation of the rpms, I now can calculate the differential ratio and set the idle speed accordingly with the 643 transmission.

Thank y’all for all your encouragement and help.
Mike

[Ernie]

For future reference- bluebird Wanderlodge and early Foretravel have the 3208s

[MrE]

Mike, awesome tool. Without an electronic engine, that's probably the most accurate way to measure RPM, and it's cheap!

$24 and it's eligible for Prime. https://www.amazon.com/Neiko-20713A-Digi...RydWU&th=1

About this item
TACHOMETER VS. SPEEDOMETER: While a digital speedometer will read the current speed of a vehicle, this automotive tachometer is used for measuring the rpm of a revolving shaft, as with the driveshaft of an automobile.
ACCURATE RPM METER: This handheld tachometer is highly accurate and noncontact. With high-speed laser-aim operation and instant readings from 2.5 to 99,999 rpm, this radar gun gives you accurate rotational speed readings from a distance.
AUTOMOTIVE TACHOMETER GAUGE: This big- or small-engine tachometer measures velocity in revolutions per minute. The information is displayed on a large and easy-to-read LCD screen.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: This pocket radar device is accurate to +/- 0.05% and is capable of measuring at a distance from 2" to 20". It measures revolutions over a 1-second sampling time and stores them as the last, minimum, or maximum reading.
COMPACT DIGITAL COUNTER: The compact, lightweight design of this photo tachometer makes it easy to get speed readings for diagnostic and measurement purposes. This device operates on 3 AA batteries (included).

[whatsnewell]

Great news Mike!!!

[Mageeacres]

Jon and Clarke,
Awesome information guys.

Thanks Ernie for the wanderlodge and foretravel
Heads up.

I appreciate everyone.

Y’all are the best.
Mike

[MrE]

Mike, we are very fortunate to have such an awesome group for assistance. I had a 1973 Newell with a Cat 1160, the predecessor to the 3208, back in the '90s before the forum existed. Life would have been much easier with help from the forum!

   

[Mageeacres]

Jon, yes old school is best imho, There was talk of a 30’ Classic 1974 non diesel that was available in KC. I have all the running gear, tires and parts to rehab that one. Tried to contact the owner but no reply as of yet. If the interior is decent, I could make it work. I was reading your adventure with your 86. Am encouraged by your patience and perseverance in your repower in spite of the medical roadblocks.