Caterpillar 12E
Caterpillarmotor grader

Caterpillar 12E

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 12E is a rigid-frame motor grader built from 1959 to the mid-1960s (U.S. production carried the 99E serial prefix), sized around its 12-foot (3.7 m) moldboard. It was the first grader in Caterpillar's long-running No.12 lineage to use a six-cylinder engine, the D333 diesel, factory de-rated to roughly 115 hp for driveline durability. Operating weight runs roughly 11 to 13 t (about 24,400 to 26,000 lb) depending on configuration. The 12E followed the four-cylinder Cat 12 (built through the late 1950s) and was itself replaced by the 12F starting in 1965. Cat offered it with a canopy or an enclosed, heated cab, a 12-ft or 14-ft moldboard, front-mount, mid-mount, or multi-shank rear scarifier-ripper attachments, gas or electric start, and a locked tandem rear axle driven through chain-case final drives with no differential.

The 12E sits at a turning point in the No.12 lineage: it kept fully mechanical "wrist breaker" operating controls and gear-driven ("knuckle buster") blade movements, the last Cat grader generation to do so before the 12F introduced power-assisted planetary blade controls and standard power steering in 1965. A running production change partway through the 12E's build (from serial number 99E04386) added self-adjusting brakes. In the used and parts market today, the 12E's appeal is its mechanical simplicity: no hydraulics or electronics in the blade controls to fail, and D333 engine parts overlap with other period Caterpillar dozers and generator sets, which keeps some engine components in circulation. Grader-specific parts, such as tandem-case chains, circle drive components, and mechanical control linkages, are scarce and typically sourced through salvage yards or custom machining, which is why these machines now draw mostly restoration, ranch, and light-duty buyers rather than production road crews.

Below: full specifications, fluids & capacities, the factory service schedule, common service parts, verified fault codes, what owners discuss, attachment guidance, the complete assembly directory, and a serial-number reference. Complete parts lists with full OEM part numbers, exploded diagrams, quantities, and fitment data are available free in Heavy Parts AI.

Caterpillar 12E specifications

Engine

Engine modelCaterpillar D333, 6-cylinder diesel — the first six-cylinder engine used in the No.12 grader lineage, replacing the smaller four/three-cylinder units of earlier No.12 models
Gross power115 hp (85.8 kW), de-rated from the D333's higher-output ratings used in other applications
Displacement10.4 L (636 cu in), 6 cylinders — figure for the D333 engine family; naturally aspirated in this grader application (no turbo, consistent with its 1959-1966 build era)
Cylinders6
Emissions tierNot applicable — built 1959-1966, predates emissions-tier regulation

Weights

Operating weightAbout 24,400 lb (11,068 kg), roughly 13 short tons
Shipping weightNot separately documented; operating weight figure above is the only weight published for this model
Ground pressureNot published for this model

Dimensions

Overall length26 ft 0 in to 26 ft 4 in (7.92-8.03 m) — varies by configuration/measurement basis
Overall width7 ft 9 in to 9 ft 0 in (2.36-2.74 m) — varies by configuration or measurement method
Overall height7 ft 6 in (2.29 m)
Moldboard12 ft (3.66 m) direct-drive moldboard, described as more rigid construction than prior No.12 variants
Wheelbase / ground clearanceNot documented in available sources for this model

Performance

Travel speedsNot documented in available sources for this specific model
Transmission / controlsDirect mechanical operating controls (no power-assist) — the 12E was the last No.12 grader generation built this way before the follow-on 12F introduced power-assisted controls. A 4-speed reverse gearbox is referenced for later-serial production
BrakesSelf-adjusting brakes introduced starting at a specific serial number partway through the production run (mechanical, non-self-adjusting on earlier units)
GradeabilityNot published for this model

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel tankNot confirmed for this specific serial range — verify against the serial-specific service manual before servicing
Hydraulic systemNot applicable — this generation used direct mechanical linkage rather than a hydraulic implement circuit
Engine oil (crankcase)Not confirmed for this specific serial range
Cooling systemNot confirmed for this specific serial range

Values vary by configuration, region, and serial range — confirm against your machine before planning transport or lifts.

12E fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Diesel engine crankcase (with oil filter) — D333 six-cylinder dieselNot published for this exact machine; fill to the 'full' mark on the crankcase oil gauge with the engine hot and running at low idle, per the OMM procedure — do not rely on a fixed fill volume. Verify against the OMM capacities table (inside back cover) or dealer by serial number.OMM specifies 'Superior Lubricants, Series 3 only' for the diesel engine crankcase — Caterpillar's period heavy-duty detergent diesel engine oil designation, SAE 30 for normal ambient temperatures. Owners of running units commonly substitute a modern SAE 15W-40 diesel engine oil, or straight SAE 30 in warm climates, as the nearest equivalent.
Cooling systemNot documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.OMM Coolants topic calls for a factory ethylene-glycol base antifreeze/coolant with corrosion inhibitor, serviced through the Radiator Sealed Pressure Overflow Unit. No separate low-temperature blend ratio is broken out in the material reviewed.
Fuel tankNot documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.No. 2-D diesel fuel per the OMM Fuels / Care of the Diesel Fuel Tank topics. Clean, filtered fuel through the sediment bowl and primary/final fuel filters is stressed ahead of the D333 fuel injection pump and valves.
Transmission (gear transmission + flywheel clutch compartment)Roughly 25 L (26 US qt) to 53 L (14 US gal) — varies by configuration/series; confirm on the dipstick against the OMM Oil Specification Chart for the serial range before filling.OMM lists this compartment under Transmission Lubricants, specifying straight SAE 30 oil; SAE 85W-140 or 80W-90 gear oil is also cited as a modern equivalent for this compartment. Confirm against the OMM chart for the specific serial range before use.
Final drive / tandem drive housings (each side)Not documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.Multipurpose-type gear lubricant per the OMM Description of Lubricants topic. Period equivalent is SAE 90 single-grade gear oil; current parts suppliers cite SAE 85W-140 or 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil as the modern substitute.
Circle drawbar, blade-lift worm gear & power control drive-shaft housingNot documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.Same multipurpose-type gear lubricant used in the final drives/tandems — SAE 90 gear oil era-equivalent, serviced per the Washing Gear Compartments and Power Control Drive Shaft Housing topics.
Steering gear housingNot documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.SAE 30 straight mineral lube oil — a lighter, non-gear lubricant kept separate from the tandem/final-drive gear lubricant, per period service literature for this grader family.
Hydraulic system and tank (power blade circuit, hydraulic steering, steering gear booster)Not documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.Circuit runs on SAE 10W engine-type oil rather than a dedicated hydraulic fluid, consistent with period Cat practice before dedicated hydraulic-oil product lines existed. Current parts suppliers reference Cat 10W or 10W-30 engine oil, moving to a heavier 15W-40 in warm climates.
Hydraulic brake fluidNot documented for this machine — verify against the OMM capacities table or with a dealer by serial number.OMM calls out a dedicated Hydraulic Brake Fluid, listed separately from the engine and hydraulic oils used elsewhere on the machine. Use only the Cat-specified brake fluid in this circuit, not gear or engine oil.
Chassis grease (Ball and Roller Bearing Lubricant / Lubrication Chart points, incl. front wheel bearings)Spec only — applied by grease fitting per the Lubrication Chart; no fill-volume capacity. Regrease at the OMM service interval rather than filling to a set volume.Caterpillar multipurpose chassis grease — a lithium-base EP grease equivalent in period terms — applied at all Lubrication Chart grease points including front wheel bearings and ball-and-socket joints.

Capacities are refill values from factory literature — always fill to the dipstick/sight gauge, not the number.

Caterpillar 12E maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check crankcase oil level on the D333 six-cylinder diesel and top off before start-up.
  • Check coolant level and drain water/sediment from the fuel tank sump.
  • Grease the circle, drawbar ball-and-socket, blade-lift linkage, and moldboard slide rails.
  • Check the tandem case (final drive) oil level at the sight glass on each side.
  • Inspect and lubricate the mechanical "wrist breaker" control linkages for looseness or binding.
  • Service the oil-bath air cleaner and check tire pressure and front wheel-lean linkage.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and filter on the D333 diesel.
  • Clean fuel filters and sediment bowl; check injector lines for leaks or seepage.
  • Check and adjust fan, water pump, and generator/alternator drive belts.
  • Grease front wheel spindles and steering knuckles.
  • Inspect the circle and A-frame for wear or distortion and tighten circle wear strips/shims.
Every 500 h
  • Change tandem case oil and inspect drive chains for stretch or wear.
  • Change transmission oil and check clutch linkage adjustment.
  • Check and adjust the mechanical blade-control ("knuckle buster") gear linkages for backlash.
  • Inspect brake bands or shoes (self-adjusting brake mechanism on later serial numbers) and adjust.
  • Check and repack wheel bearings as needed.
Every 1,000 h
  • Check and top off the steering and lift-cylinder hydraulic reservoir.
  • Inspect the moldboard cutting edge and end bits; replace if worn past service limit.
  • Check circle turntable wear strips and shims; replace as needed.
  • Test coolant condition, flush the radiator, and check the water pump packing/seals.
  • Inspect tandem case sprockets and idlers for wear.
Every 2,000 h
  • Inspect tandem drive chains and sprockets as matched sets; replace together, not individually.
  • Inspect and service the circle drive gear and pinion teeth for wear.
  • Check engine valve lash and injector calibration on the D333; retorque the cylinder head.
  • Inspect final drive housings and seals for leaks or wear and replace as needed.
Every 4,000 h
  • Perform a top-end or full overhaul of the D333 engine (liners, pistons, injectors, injection pump) as hours and condition dictate.
  • Rebuild tandem cases: chains, sprockets, bearings, and seals as complete sets.
  • Rebuild the circle assembly and moldboard slide-rail system.
  • Rebuild the mechanical steering and blade-control ("wrist breaker") gear trains, replacing worn linkage pins and bushings.

Servicing the 12E beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Sample engine oil at every D333 oil change and watch for metal content or coolant intrusion, both known issues on high-hour six-cylinder D333s with worn liners or head gaskets. Pull tandem case oil samples to catch chain and sprocket wear before a chain breaks and drops the grader to three-wheel drive. Track circle wear-strip clearance and A-frame straightness over time; the 12E's mechanical control feel degrades gradually as linkage pins and bushings wear, well before grading accuracy visibly suffers.

Corrective & Common Repairs

A broken tandem drive chain is the classic 12E traction complaint since the axle has no differential and relies on chain-driven tandem cases; a snapped chain leaves only three wheels pulling. Circle and A-frame distortion from grading against curbs or rock requires heat-and-shrink straightening. Worn moldboard slide rails cause blade chatter and slop. Chain case leaks and worn or cracked circle drive gear teeth, often from aggressive "wrist breaker" control use, are recurring repair items on these mechanical-control graders.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Plan D333 top-end work (liners, pistons, injectors, injection pump) as an hours-and-condition call rather than a fixed number. Rebuild tandem case chains and sprockets as matched sets, never mixing new and worn components in the same case. The circle drive gear, turntable bearing, and mechanical blade-control ("knuckle buster") gear train wear together and are best rebuilt as a unit. Steering knuckles and drag links also need periodic rebuild to keep the direct mechanical control feel accurate.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

The oil-bath air cleaner needs more frequent cleaning in dusty grading work, a routine task on this era of D333-powered grader. Cold-weather starts depend on configuration (gas or electric start) since there is no factory block heater; run a lighter-viscosity engine oil grade for winter service. Grease the circle and drawbar ball-and-socket more often in mud or dust to keep abrasive grit out of the joints. After wet-season work, check tandem case oil for water intrusion, since the basic mechanical seals of this era are not a tight barrier.

12E common service parts

Part numberPart
1H-6517TransferCheck fitment →
4M-8207Oil Filter AssemblyCheck fitment →
1M-2931Transfer- Filter InstructionsCheck fitment →

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12E fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
Oil pressure warning light (red)Engine oil pressure below safe threshold, sensed by a mechanical/electrical oil pressure switch on the D333 engine blockLow oil level, worn oil pump, plugged oil filter, or failed pressure switch/senderShut down engine immediately, check oil level and filter condition, verify pressure with a mechanical test gauge before restarting
Water temperature gauge in red zoneCoolant temperature exceeds normal operating range, shown on the analog temperature gauge (no stored code, gauge reading only)Low coolant, blocked radiator core, slipping or broken fan belt, thermostat stuck closedIdle down, check coolant level and belt condition once safe, inspect radiator for debris or leaks
Charging system (ammeter/alt light) indicationBattery not charging or discharging, shown by ammeter needle or charge indicator light on the instrument panelLoose or broken alternator/generator belt, faulty regulator, bad connections, or failed alternator/generatorCheck belt tension and wiring connections, test alternator/generator output with a multimeter
No stored diagnostic fault codes (mechanical fuel system)The D333 diesel uses a mechanical (jerk-pump or unit injector) fuel system with no engine control module, so no numeric fault codes are generated or storedNot applicable — hard fuel, air, or governor problems must be diagnosed mechanicallyTroubleshoot fuel delivery, injection timing, governor linkage, and compression by hand per the mechanical service manual procedures
Transmission/steering hydraulic pressure gauge low readingLow system pressure shown on an analog hydraulic pressure gauge, not a coded faultWorn pump, internal leakage, low hydraulic oil level, or clogged suction strainerCheck reservoir level and strainer, test pump output pressure against service manual specification
Engine will not reach rated RPM / loses power (no code)Performance complaint with no associated diagnostic code because the engine and governor are fully mechanicalFuel filter restriction, injector wear, governor linkage out of adjustment, or air intake restrictionInspect fuel filters and lines, check governor linkage travel, verify air cleaner condition, perform an injector pop test if power loss persists

Codes and remedies are general guidance for this model family — always confirm with diagnostic tooling and your dealer before major repairs.

12E attachments & work tools

Moldboard / main blade

12 ft (3.66 m) direct-drive moldboard is standard and gives the model its "12" designation, shared across the wider 12-series naming (12, 12E, 12F, 12G). Cutting edges and end bits bolt to the moldboard face and are replaceable wear items.

Front scarifier

Light-duty scarifier attaches ahead of the front axle on the front lift/draw section. Used to break up compacted surface, thin asphalt, or rocky subgrade before the moldboard pass; not intended for deep ripping.

Rear ripper / scarifier

Rear-frame-mounted shank unit fitted behind the tandem for deeper penetration than the front scarifier, putting ripper weight over the drive tires. Shank and tooth ground-engaging parts on this attachment are cross-compatible with the later 12F/12G/14E graders in the same family.

Push block / nose counterweight

Bolts to the nose plate forward of the front axle. Serves as ballast to counterbalance a rear ripper and doubles as a push point for dozing or pushing duty.

Snow wing / plow

Masted or mastless wing mounts to the right side of the frame and can be run with or without the main moldboard to widen the cleared path. This is a documented option across the Cat 12-series grader class; confirm exact mast and mounting compatibility for a specific 12E serial range with a dealer or shop manual.

Mounting / coupler system

No quick-coupler is used. Blade and ripper/scarifier tools pin or bolt directly to the drawbar-circle-moldboard (DCM) assembly and to dedicated front lift-group or rear-frame brackets, per standard practice for this grader class.

Blade control system

The 12E used full mechanical, gear-sector lever controls (nicknamed "knuckle busters") for blade lift and circle rotation, with hydraulic assist limited to moldboard side-shift. It was the last Cat 12-series grader built before lift and circle functions moved to hydraulic control on later models.

Tires

Standard fitment on 12E listings is 13.00-24, typical rubber for a mid-size Cat grader of this era and class.

Factory start and brake options

Offered with gas or electric start, paired with a 4-speed reverse transmission. Later production runs added self-adjusting brakes as a running change rather than a separate ordered option.

All 12E assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 12E. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Attachments
2d2370 Adjustable Seat Assembly
Air Cleaner--Dry Type--Type 1
Air Cleaner--Dry Type--Type 2
7m914 Air Filter Service Indicator Group
7M***14Air Filter Service Indicator Group1
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4d3940 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Part 4 Of 4
4d3940 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Part 3 Of 4
4d3940 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 4
4d3940 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 4
3d610 Battery And Wiring System Group--24 Volt--Top Front View--Type 1--Part 2 Of 2
3D***10Battery And Wiring System Group1
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3d610 Battery And Wiring System Group--24 Volt--Top Front View--Type 2-Part 2 Of 2
3D***10Battery And Wiring System Group1
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3d610 Battery And Wiring System Group--24 Volt--Top Rear View--Type 1 - Part 1 Of 2
3D***10Battery And Wiring System Group1
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3d610 Battery And Wiring System Group--24 Volt--Top Rear View--Type 2-Part 1 Of 2
3D***10Battery And Wiring System Group1
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3d6380 Battery Group--24 Volt, 150 Ampere Hour
2d9217 Blade Extension Group--R.H.--2 Foot
2D***17Blade Extension Group--R.H.,Blade Extension Group--L.H.1
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4d270 Blade Group--13 Foot
2d8499 Blade Group--14 Foot
2d3508 Bracket And Guard Group--Type 1
2d3508 Bracket And Guard Group--Type 3
2d3508 Bracket And Guard Group--Type 2
4d1681 Brake Assembly--R.H.
4D***82Brake Assembly--R.H.,Brake Assembly--L.H.1
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4d3275 Brake Assembly--R.H.
4D***76Brake Assembly--R.H.,Brake Assembly--L.H.1
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8d2325 Brake Assembly--R.H.
8D***25Brake Assembly--R.H.,Brake Assembly--L.H.1
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4b8497 Brake Assembly--R.H.
4B***98Brake Assembly--R.H.,Brake Assembly--L.H.1
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3d2172 Cab Arrangements With Tinted Glass And Doors
2D***39Windshield And Front Panel Group1
2D***49Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group1
2D***00Cab Group1
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3d2170 Cab Arrangements With Glass And Doors
2D***50Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group1
2D***10Windshield And Front Panel Group1
2D***00Cab Group1
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2d3150 Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group
2D***50Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group1
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2d7349 Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group
2D***49Cab Door, Rear Window And Side Panel Group1
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4d3970 Cab Group
2d8900 Cab Group
4d3880 Cab Heater Group--24 Volt
4d3880 Cab Heater Group--24 Volt--Type 2
4d3890 Cab Heater Group--12 Volt--Type 2
3d7630 Cab Heater Group--12 Volt
4d3890 Cab Heater Group--12 Volt
3d7631 Cab Heater Group--24 Volt
2d3730 Canopy Group
2d7890 Check Valve--Pilot Operated
3k1651 Combination Stop And Tail Lamp--24 Volt
4d7850 Control Valve Assembly
3d4066 Control Valve Group
1h1130 Valve Group
3d8716 Control Valve Group
1h1062 Valve Group
Cutting Edge Groups
3d2219 Master Cylinder Assembly
Cylinder Head Assembly
2m6647 Dash Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
3d5070 Defroster Fan Group--12 Volt
4d3810 Defroster Fan Group--24 Volt
3d5080 Defroster Fan Group--24 Volt
4d3820 Defroster Fan Group--12 Volt
4m1493 Direct Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt--Factory Installation Only
0L***51Bolt Starting Engine Fuel Tank Bracket To Diesel Intake Manifold2
0S***88Bolt,Machine; Hose Assembly Mounting,Hose Assembly To Transmission,And To Torque Converter3
0S***94Bolt (1 In. Long 3/8 In. Dia.); Plate Assembly To Support Assembly2
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9f740 Discharger
4d4190 Ether Starting Aid Group
2d9930 Ether Starting Aid Group
3d7777 Ether Starting Aid Group
4d4210 Ether Starting Aid Group
Exhaust Manifold--Type 4
Exhaust Manifold--Type 1
Exhaust Manifold--Type 3
Exhaust Manifold--Type 5
Exhaust Manifold--Type 2
6f6522 Exhaust Rain Trap Group--Diesel Engine
2d2150 Filter Group
Flywheel
Flywheel--Type 2
Flywheel-Type 1
2d3754 Front Rim Group
4d7190 Front Wheel And Rim Group
4d4655 Front Wheel Group
5m9139 Fuel Priming Pump Group
8h9998 Fuel Priming Pump Group
2m6496 Generator Assembly--24 Volt, 15 Ampere
1s5134 Generator Assembly--24 Volt, 25 Ampere
1s5133 Generator Group--24 Volt, 25 Ampere
1m7296 Generator Group--24 Volt, 15 Ampere--Type 1
1m7296 Generator Group--24 Volt, 15 Ampere--Type 2
2m4299 Glow Plug And Wiring Group
8m3193 Glow Plug And Wiring Group
8f9866 Grease Gun
4d3840 Head Lamp Group--For Use Without Cab--Type 2
4d3830 Head Lamp Group--12 Volt--For Use With Cab
4d3860 Head Lamp Group--24 Volt--For Use Without Cab
4d3850 Head Lamp Group--24 Volt--For Use With Cab
4d3840 Head Lamp Group--12 Volt--For Use Without Cab--Type 1
2d9461 Headlight System Group--24 Volt--For Use Without Cab
3d5320 Headlight System Group--12 Volt--For Use With Cab
2d9451 Headlight System Group--12 Volt--For Use Without Cab
2d9460 Headlight System Group--24 Volt--For Use With Cab
2d3972 Heater--24 Volt
3d2580 Hood Side Door Group
4d6626 Hot Water Heater--24 Volt
4d6625 Hot Water Heater--12 Volt
3d7619 Hot Water Heater--12 Volt
4d3737 Hot Water Heater Assembly--12 Volt
4d3736 Hot Water Heater Assembly--24 Volt
4k3138 Hydraulic Cylinder Group--5.5" Bore X 19.5" Stroke
2d840 Hydraulic Cylinder Group--4 1/2" X 30"
3d9950 Hydraulic Cylinder Group-5.20" Bore X 48" Stroke
2d750 Hydraulic Cylinder Group-5.20" Bore X 10" Stroke
4d6130 Hydraulic Lines Group
4d4662 Hydraulic Pump Assembly--Replaces 5h123
4d5965 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
5h123 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
5h6980 Hydraulic Pump Group - Type 1
5h6980 Hydraulic Pump Group--Type 2
2d4495 Hydraulic Steering Booster Arrangement
2D***57Hydraulic Steering Booster Group1
2D***95Hydraulic Steering Booster Arrangement1
5H***20Tank And Pump Group1
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2d4257 Hydraulic Steering Booster Group
2D***57Hydraulic Steering Booster Group1
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6d5695 Hydraulic Steering Conversion Group--Field Installation
6D***95Hydraulic Steering Conversion Group1
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2d2284 Hydraulic Valve Group
4d7520 Instrument Protection Cover Group
4D***20Instrument Protection Cover Group; Protection Cover Group1
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7m7147 Combination Stop And Tail Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
1m3387 Dash Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
2m855 Head Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
1m6052 Head Lamp Assembly--24 Volt--Type 2
1m6052 Head Lamp Assembly--24 Volt--Type 1
9h6338 Dash Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
5h6970 Linkage Group
5H***70Linkage Group; Power Blade Control Linkage Group1
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2d430 Linkage Group
2D***30Linkage Group; Snow Plow Control Linkage Group1
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2d460 Linkage Group
2D***60Linkage Group; Control Linkage Group1
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4k3031 Mounting Group--Top View
4k3085 No. 12 Ripper-Scarifier Arrangement
4D***30Hydraulic Lines Group1
4D***70Tool Box Group1
4K***31Mounting Group1
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7d3320 Odometer Group (Miles)-7d3300 Odometer Group (Kilometers)
7b1358 Odometer Group (Miles)-5f1246 Odometer Group (Kilometers)
9m1428 Oil System Group--Field Installation
Plates And Transfers
1H***51Transfer- Lubrication Instructions1
1H***40Transfer; Safety On Dash Or Guards When Used1
1H***17Transfer; --Lubricating Oil Filter Instructions1
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2d4475 Power Blade & Snow Plow Control Arrangement
2D***60Linkage Group; Control Linkage Group1
2D***70Tank And Valve Group1
2D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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2d4480 Power Blade & Snow Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***10Tank And Valve Group1
2D***40Hydraulic Cylinder Group2
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4d295 Power Blade And Snow Plow Control Arrangement
2D***60Linkage Group; Control Linkage Group1
2D***70Tank And Valve Group1
2D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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2d2281 Power Blade And Snow Plow Valve Group
2D***81Power Blade And Snow Plow Valve Group1
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4d1762 Power Blade And Snow Plow Valve Group
4D***62Power Blade And Snow Plow Valve Group1
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2d2282 Power Blade And Snow Wing Valve Group
2D***82Power Blade And Snow Wing Valve Group1
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4d1761 Power Blade And Snow Wing Valve Group
4D***61Power Blade And Snow Wing Valve Group1
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3d9997 Power Blade Arrangement--14 Foot
2D***08Bracket And Guard Group1
2D***99Blade Group1
2D***95Power Blade Lines Group1
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3d9996 Power Blade Arrangement--12 Foot
2D***08Bracket And Guard Group1
2D***95Power Blade Lines Group1
3D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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4d510 Power Blade Arrangement--13 Foot
2D***08Bracket And Guard Group1
2D***95Power Blade Lines Group1
3D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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2d4460 Power Blade Hydraulic Control Arrangement
2D***57Hydraulic Steering Booster Group1
2D***60Power Blade Hydraulic Control Arrangement1
5H***70Linkage Group; Power Blade Control Linkage Group1
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2d8595 Power Blade Lines Group
2d2278 Power Blade Valve Group
4d1760 Power Blade Valve Group
2d4490 Power Blade, Plow & Snow Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***60Linkage Group; Control Linkage Group1
2D***85Tank And Valve Group1
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4d285 Power Blade, Snow Plow & Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***60Linkage Group; Control Linkage Group1
2D***85Tank And Valve Group1
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3d9080 Power Blade, Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group
3D***80Power Blade, Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group1
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5m2734 Prescreener Group
9h2256 Pump Assembly
4h8496 Pump Assembly
2d3755 Rear Rim Group
2d3070 Rear Window Group
4d6770 Rear Window Wiper Group--24 Volt
5d190 Rear Window Wiper Group--12 Volt
5d180 Rear Window Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 2
5d180 Rear Window Wiper Group--24 Volt-Type 1
4d6690 Rear Window Wiper Group--12 Volt
2m6497 Regulator Assembly--24 Volt, 15 Ampere
1j153 Relief Valve Group
4k3084 Ripper-Scarifier Group
Scarifier Controls--Type 5
Scarifier Controls--Type 3
Scarifier Controls--Type 4
Scarifier Controls
Scarifier Controls--Type 2
2d4254 Scarifier Group-"V" Type-11 Teeth-46" Swath-Type 1
2d4254 Scarifier Group-"V" Type-11 Teeth-46" Swath-Type 2
2d4255 Scarifier Group--Wide Type--17 Teeth--72" Swath
6d3290 Scarifier Group-Wide Type-17 Teeth-Field Installation
6d3300 Scarifier Group--"V" Type--11 Teeth--Field Installation
9k682 Shaft And Link Assembly
2d4485 Snow Plow & Snow Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***30Linkage Group; Snow Plow Control Linkage Group1
2D***65Tank And Valve Group1
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4d290 Snow Plow & Snow Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***30Linkage Group; Snow Plow Control Linkage Group1
2D***65Tank And Valve Group1
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4d1764 Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group
4D***64Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group1
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2d2283 Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group
2D***83Snow Plow And Snow Wing Valve Group1
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4d300 Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Control Arrangement
2D***30Linkage Group; Snow Plow Control Linkage Group1
2D***40Tank And Valve Group1
2D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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2d4465 Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Control Arrangement
2D***30Linkage Group; Snow Plow Control Linkage Group1
2D***40Tank And Valve Group1
2D***50Hydraulic Cylinder Group1
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4d70 Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group--Type 2
4D***70Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group1
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4d70 Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group - Type 1
4D***70Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group1
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2d4382 Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group
2D***82Snow Plow Or Bulldozer Lines Group1
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2d2279 Snow Plow Valve Group
4d1765 Snow Plow Valve Group
2d4470 Snow Wing Control Arrangement
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
2D***50Tank And Valve Group1
2D***40Hydraulic Cylinder Group2
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2d240 Snow Wing Control Linkage Group
2D***40Snow Wing Control Linkage Group1
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2d7880 Snow Wing Lines Group
2d910 Snow Wing Lines Group
2d2280 Snow Wing Valve Group
4d1763 Snow Wing Valve Group
8h1913 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 2
8h1913 Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 2
1m55 Starting Motor Group--24 Volt
5h4024 Steering Booster Tank Group
6d2651 Gear Assembly--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d6198 Steering Gear Assembly--Part 1 Of 2
6d2651 Steering Gear Assembly--Top View--Part 1 Of 2
2d6198 Steering Gear Assembly--Part 2 Of 2
7h7290 Disconnect Switch Assembly
4m1812 Solenoid Switch Assembly
4d3340 Tandem Front Brake Group
3d9199 Tandem Front Brake Group--Type 1
3d9199 Tandem Front Brake Group--Type 3
3d9199 Tandem Front Brake Group--Type 2
5h4520 Tank And Pump Group
4d1705 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
4d1685 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
4d1755 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d470 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d440 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
4d1695 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
4d1745 Tank And Valve Group--Side View - Part 2 Of 2
2d470 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
4d1785 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d465 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
4d1705 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d485 Tank And Valve Group--Front View - Part 1 Of 2
4d1755 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d485 Tank And Valve Group--Side View - Part 2 Of 2
4d1685 Tank And Valve Group--Side View - Part 2 Of 2
5h6990 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d410 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
4d1785 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
4d1775 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d440 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d465 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d250 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
5h6990 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
2d410 Tank And Valve Group--Front View-Part 1 Of 2
4d1745 Tank And Valve Group--Front View - Part 1 Of 2
4d1775 Tank And Valve Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
2d250 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
4d1695 Tank And Valve Group--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
3d7600 Tire Pump Group--Type 3
3d7600 Tire Pump Group--Type 1
3d7600 Tire Pump Group--Type 2
4d6470 Tool Box Group
8m9857 Tool Group
9s7978 Tool Group
Tools
3k7415 Tooth Group
4k3330 Tooth Group--9 Teeth
4m1491 Turbocharger Arrangement--Field Installation
1D***17Nut-Plate And Angle Assembly To Hydraulic And Fuel Tanks; Nut Plate And Angle Assembly To Hydraulic And Fuel Tanks1
1M***36Exhaust Pipe1
2D***78Fastener- Door Assembly To Side Plate2
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8m22 Turbocharger Assembly
4m9051 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 2
4m9051 Turbocharger Assembly--Type 1
Turbocharger Oil Lines--Type 1
Turbocharger Oil Lines--Type 2
7m8941 Turbocharger Oil Lines Group
4h442 Valve Assembly
2d7348 Rear Window Group
2d3710 Windshield And Front Panel Group
2D***10Windshield And Front Panel Group1
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4d4050 Windshield And Front Panel Group
4D***50Windshield And Front Panel Group1
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2d7339 Windshield And Front Panel Group
2D***39Windshield And Front Panel Group1
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4d4060 Windshield And Front Panel Group
4D***60Windshield And Front Panel Group1
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5d2585 Windshield Wiper Assembly--12 Volt
5d2586 Windshield Wiper Assembly--24 Volt
4d4070 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 1
4d4070 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 2
2d474 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt
4d4070 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 4
8d1452 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt
4d4070 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 3
4d4080 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt-Type 1
4d4080 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 2
3d7610 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt
4d4080 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 3
4d4090 Wiper Assembly--12 Volt
4d4100 Wiper Assembly--24 Volt
8d1451 Wiper Group--Basic--12 Volt
9d215 Wiper Group--12 Volt
Clutch, Transmission And Grader
2d7829 Blade Group--12 Foot
Blade Lift--Rear View--Part 1 Of 2
Blade Lift--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
5h3600 Blade Lock Group
4b8759 Wheel Cylinder Assembly
Centershift
Circle
Circle Reversing Mechanism
Clutch And Brake Controls--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
Clutch And Brake Controls--R.H. Side View--Part 2 Of 2
Control Shafts
Flywheel Clutch
Frame
Front Axle
Front Axle--Sectional Views
Front Wheels And Tires (2d4130 N/S)--9.00 X 24 Tubeless Tires
Gear Shift--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Gear Shift--Front View--Part 2 Of 2
Gear Shift--Part 1 Of 2
Gear Shift--Part 2 Of 2
Hood And Dash
Hub Cap
Hydraulic Brake Control
Hydraulic Wheel Brake--Rear
Leaning Wheel Control Shaft
2d9600 Master Cylinder Assembly
Power Control--Front View-Part 1 Of 2
Power Control--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
Power Control-Side View-Part 2 Of 2
Power Control--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
Power Control--Side View-Part 2 Of 2
Power Control Drive Shaft
Rear Axle
Rear Wheels And Tires (3d8920 N/S)--13.00 X 24 Tubeless Tires
Seat Frame, Fuel Tank And Platform--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
Seat Frame, Fuel Tank And Platform--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Steering Gear
3d6341 Steering Gear Assembly
2d9521 Steering Gear Assembly
Tandem Drive Housing
Tandem Drive Housing (2d3360 N/S)
Transmission--Top View-Part 1 Of 2
Transmission--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
Transmission--Side View-Part 2 Of 2
Transmission Brake
Transmission Case And Covers--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Transmission Case And Covers--End View-Part 2 Of 2
Transmission Case And Covers--Side View-Part 1 Of 2
Transmission Case And Covers--End View--Part 2 Of 2
Transmission Lubrication System
Wheel Brake Drum
Diesel Engine
Accessory Drive
Air Cleaner--Dry Type
Belt Tightener
Breather
Breather And Oil Filler
Camshaft
Connecting Rod And Piston--6 Required
Crankshaft
Crankshaft Bearing Replacement Groups
Cylinder Block And Covers--Side View-Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--End View-Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--End View--Part 2 Of 2
7m4403 Cylinder Block Assembly--Type 1
7m4403 Cylinder Block Assembly--Type 2
4m9001 Cylinder Block Assembly
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--End View--Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--Side View-Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--End View-Part 2 Of 2
Flywheel
Flywheel (9h6018 N/S)
Fuel Filter
Fuel Injection Valves And Lines
Fuel Lines
Fuel Pump Housing And Governor
9h3707 Fuel Pump Housing Group
Fuel Transfer Pump And Filter
4m9965 Fuel Transfer Pump Assembly
5m5945 Fuel Transfer Pump Group
Governor Control--Part 1 Of 2
Governor Control--Part 2 Of 2
8h9605 Governor Group
Manifold
8b8205 Muffler Group
Oil Cooler
4m8207 Oil Filter Assembly
Oil Gauge, Fuel Gauge And Heat Indicator
7m4202 Oil Pump Assembly
1s1406 Oil Pump Assembly--Field Installation
1s9903 Oil Pump Assembly--Field Installation
5m453 Oil Pump Group
9m6864 Oil System Group--Field Installation--Type 2
9m6864 Oil System Group--Field Installation--Type 1
5s6849 Pressure Relief Valve Group--Replaced By 7s4327
7s4327 Pressure Relief Valve Group
2m833 Oil Pump Assembly
Radiator--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
Radiator--Rear View--Part 2 Of 2
Radiator--Rear View--Part 1 Of 2
Radiator Support
Service Meter
5m5461 Suction Fan Group
9h3698 Suction Fan Group
5m7491 Water Pump Group
4m4402 Water Pump Group
Starting System
8m5479 Air Cleaner Installation Group--Field Installation
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--Top View--Part 2 Of 3
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--2 Lamp--Top Rear View--Part 1 Of 2
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--Top View--Part 3 Of 3
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--2 Lamp--Top Front View - Part 2 Of 2
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--2 Lamp--Top Front View--Part 2 Of 2
Battery And Wiring System--12 Volt--Top View--Part 1 Of 3
Camshaft And Governor
4m4312 Carburetor
7m4048 Carburetor
8m8059 Carburetor Conversion Group--Field Installation
Carburetor, Choke, Compression Release, Clutch And Starter Pinion Control--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
Carburetor, Choke, Compression Release, Clutch And Starter Pinion Control--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Carburetor, Choke, Compression Release, Clutch And Starter Pinion Control--Top View - Part 2 Of 2
8m9169 Choke And Throttle Control Group
8M***69Choke And Throttle Control Group1
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8m1520 Choke And Throttle Control Group
8M***20Choke And Throttle Control Group1
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4m9730 Choke And Throttle Control Group
4M***30Choke And Throttle Control Group1
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7m2738 Choke And Throttle Control Service Group
7M***38Choke And Throttle Control Service Group1
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2m6644 Clutch And Brake Group
4m5460 Clutch, Brake And Starter Pinion Control Group
4M***60Clutch, Brake And Starter Pinion Control Group1
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Compression Release Control
Connecting Rod And Piston--2 Required
Crankshaft
Cylinder Block And Covers--Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism
2m6646 Dash Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
7m7783 Electric Starter Assembly--12 Volt
9h3675 Electric Starter Group--12 Volt
9h3675 Electric Starter Group--12 Volt--Type 2
9h3675 Electric Starter Group--12 Volt--Type 1
3d493 Fuel System Group
2m7932 Generator Assembly--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
1m7279 Generator Group--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
4m5340 Ignition System Group
8m9144 Magneto Assembly
4m4314 Magneto Assembly
7m5550 Magneto Assembly
5m8116 Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group
5M***16Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group1
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8m3593 Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group
8M***93Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group1
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9h3687 Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group
9H***87Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group1
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8m7574 Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group
8M***74Manifold, Carburetor And Air Cleaner Group1
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4n7385 Motor Assembly--12 Volt
8h1543 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt
8m6592 Muffler Group
8m5377 Muffler Installation Group--Field Installation
4m5330 Oil Lines Group
9h3665 Oil Pump Group
8m1525 Oil Pump Group
2m5169 Recoil Starter Assembly
8m4655 Recoil Starter Group
8m4320 Recoil Starter Group
4m5541 Recoil Starter Group
8m3420 Recoil Starter Group
2m7955 Regulator Assembly--12 Volt, 30 Ampere
8m3688 Separate Lubrication Conversion Group--Field Installation
8M***88Separate Lubrication Conversion Group1
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4m4340 Starter Pinion Group
8m9249 Starter Pinion Group--Field Installation--Type 2
8m9249 Starter Pinion Group--Field Installation--Type 1
3d7674 Stop And Tail Lamp Assembly
Support
9h3667 Water Lines Group

12E serial number reference

The PIN/serial tag on a 12E is a metal plate riveted to the main frame, typically on the right-hand chassis rail near the front axle. Some units also carry a second tag near the pony-motor start controls or in the engine compartment. Read the number as a 2-3 character alpha-numeric prefix (e.g. 99E, 38E, 17K) followed by a sequential build number - the prefix identifies the production series/plant and is what ties the machine to its engine and year range, not the trailing digits.

PrefixIdentifies
99E12E, US-built, direct-electric-start series
38E12E, Australian-export series
17K12E, later Australian-built series
21F12E, unconfirmed configuration - confirm with dealer

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the Caterpillar 12E motor grader use?

A Caterpillar D333 six-cylinder diesel, factory de-rated to roughly 115 hp in this application. It was the first six-cylinder engine used in Cat's No.12 grader lineage.

What is the operating weight of a Caterpillar 12E?

Roughly 11 to 13 t (about 24,400 to 26,000 lb). The exact figure varies by configuration: tire size, cab versus canopy, and scarifier or ripper attachment fitted.

What replaced the Caterpillar 12E motor grader?

The Caterpillar 12F, introduced in 1965. It kept the D333 engine, boosted to about 125 hp, but replaced the 12E's fully mechanical "wrist breaker" blade controls with power-assisted planetary controls and added standard power steering.

What 12E owners discuss

What engine does the 12E run, and is it gas or diesel?
The 12E (built roughly 1959-1966) uses a Cat D333 six-cylinder diesel main engine, factory de-rated to about 115 flywheel hp for this series (later 12F variants with the same block were bumped to around 125 hp - do not apply that figure back to a 12E). Like other Cat crawler and grader diesels of that era, the D333 is cold-started by a small gasoline pony motor rather than an electric starter turning the diesel directly. Owners report the pony motor is the weak link: fouled carburetor passages, weak points/condenser causing hard hot-restarts, and trapped air in the pony's cooling jacket causing overheating are the recurring complaints, not the D333 itself.
Why does a 12E lose traction or spin its drive tires?
Community consensus is this is usually operator technique or a worn cutting edge, not a mechanical fault. A dull moldboard edge needs more downpressure to cut, which lifts weight off the drive wheels; keeping a sharp edge and tucking the blade close to the drive tire keeps weight on the wheels. Overloading the cut (trying to move too much material at once) is the other common cause - graders are finishing tools, not bulk dozers, so operators are told to take lighter cuts and use a higher gear (2nd/3rd) to reduce slip, or add liquid ballast to the tires for extra grip. If only one side's wheels stop spinning that points to a broken drive axle; if only three of the four spin, suspect a broken chain inside a tandem case - these are genuine mechanical failures, not technique issues.
What's the deal with the tandem drive chains and chain cases on these graders?
The 12E, like the rest of the mechanical No.12 series, has no differential - all four drive wheels are locked together through chain-driven tandem cases, so tire matching side to side and front to back matters to avoid stressing the chains and axles. A quick field check owners rely on: stand behind the grader and sight the chain cases - if they lean inward at the top instead of sitting vertical, that indicates significant chain/case wear. Leaks at the chain case seals are also a common inspection point. Case oil is typically a straight gear-type lubricant (consult the era-correct lube chart for exact grade); running it low accelerates chain wear.
Are there known issues with the 12E's hydraulic power steering?
Yes - the 12E's optional hydraulic-assist steering circuit is a recurring topic among long-time owners. Reported failure points include the splined coupling between the steering pump and the control-tower shaft working loose or shearing, and seal failures in the steering gear itself (a seal installed backwards can pump oil straight out the top vent). An older-design fault involved the vertical downshaft to the steering arm shearing under shock loading; Cat later relocated the hydraulic booster ram down to the steering arm on subsequent designs to eliminate that failure path, so which steering-assist layout a given 12E has can vary by build/serial range. Have your dealer or a specialist verify steering-assist function and check for play in the linkage before putting the machine into service - loss of steering assist under load is a safety issue.
What electrical quirks show up on 12E graders with electric start?
Electric-start 12Es use a generator and a mechanical cutout relay rather than an alternator, and this charging setup is a known source of nuisance no-start and slow-drain complaints in the owner community: as engine rpm rises the cutout relay closes to bring the generator online, and a weak or misadjusted relay can leave a parasitic drain on the battery when the machine sits. Because this is a pre-alternator, single/dual-battery system, owners frequently convert to a modern alternator and starter to get more reliable cold starts, though purists keep the original generator/pony-start setup for correctness. Any electrical work involving starting or charging circuits should be checked over by your dealer or a qualified electrician before relying on it in the field.
What should I check before buying a used 12E?
Forum consensus points to the same handful of items every time: (1) pony motor condition - oil leaks, gas contamination in the crankcase oil, and rust in the carb/tank are common on machines that sat; a full pony rebuild is a known, bounded cost rather than a deal-breaker. (2) Chain case tilt (sighted from behind) and any oil weeping at the cases, as a sign of tandem drive wear. (3) Wheel-to-spindle looseness, especially if the machine has had recent brake work - the wheels are press-fit onto tapered spindles and a loose wheel can hammer the spindle before it is noticed. (4) The shear pin in the power shaft under the control box - verify it's a proper soft pin and not a substituted bolt, and that a spare is stowed on the machine. (5) Whether chains are still mounted on the tires (often means the machine only saw light/snow duty) and general cab glass/sheet metal condition as a proxy for how it was stored. (6) Confirm the serial number (stamped near the oil cooler mounting rivets or on the left frame rail/gooseneck) matches paperwork, since parts interchange and lube specs shifted across the No.12 production run. Have a dealer or qualified mechanic inspect the pony motor, chain cases, and steering-assist linkage before you rely on the machine - these are the items most likely to strand or injure an unprepared buyer.
How uncomplicated is the 12E to maintain compared to later graders?
Owners consistently describe the 12E as the last of the fully mechanical, direct-control No.12 graders - no power-shift transmission, no torque converter, and (aside from optional hydraulic steering assist) no electronics to chase. Blade lift, circle rotate, and side shift are run through direct mechanical/gear controls (nicknamed knuckle-busters by operators), which owners say take real physical effort compared to later power-assisted 12F and successor models but are also straightforward to diagnose and repair with basic tools. The tradeoff is that parts and service literature are 1960s-vintage: owners strongly recommend sourcing the original parts, operator, and service manuals for the specific serial range before doing any teardown, since procedures like clutch draining and oil capacities were reported as unintuitive without the manual in hand.

Compiled from owner and technician discussions across the industry — experiences vary by serial range and machine history.

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