Caterpillarengine - machine(no series)

Caterpillar 3176

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 3176 covered here is a 10.3 liter (629 cu in), turbocharged and aftercooled inline-six diesel using electronic unit injection under Caterpillar's PEEC control, built for Caterpillar's own Challenger rubber-tracked agricultural tractors ahead of the later ADEM-controlled 3176B/3176C generation. This parts book covers the engine as fitted to the Challenger 75, 75C, and 85C, rated from roughly 325 to 355 gross hp (242 to 265 kW) depending on model, with operating weights of about 33,300 to 34,400 lb (15.1 to 15.6 t). Production of these 3176-powered Challengers ran from 1991 through 1996. All of them use a 10-speed full-powershift transmission, hydrostatic differential steering (not articulated or wheel steer) driving Caterpillar's rubber-belted track undercarriage, a rear drawbar/3-point hitch with PTO, and a pressurized cab. Within Caterpillar's own tractor line the 3176 replaced the smaller 10.5 liter 3306 diesel used in the earlier Challenger 65/65B/65C/65D, and Caterpillar's larger 85D and 95E later stepped up to the bigger-displacement 3196 engine.

Across this run Caterpillar tuned the same 10.3 liter block to different power points (325 hp for 75/75C, 355 hp for 85C), mainly through fuel delivery, turbo, and aftercooling calibration rather than a displacement change; weight and track width grew with model to match pull power. Caterpillar exited production farm tractors in 2002, selling the Challenger tractor design, assembly, and marketing to AGCO, which kept the Challenger name going on its own later MT-series tractors; no in-house Cat successor continues this exact chassis and engine combination. That closed production run is exactly why this engine still matters in the parts market: these Challengers are decades out of production, dealer stock has thinned hard, and rebuilders and used-parts suppliers are the practical source for injectors, turbochargers, wet-disc brake components, and the matching final-drive and differential-steering hardware sized to this chassis.

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 3176 specifications

Engine

Engine modelCat 3176, inline-6, four-stroke-cycle diesel, turbocharged with air-to-air aftercooling (ATAAC). Same base engine designation carries through the Challenger 75/75C/85C track-tractor line and contemporary on-highway truck applications of the same era.
Displacement10.3 L (629 cu in)
Bore x stroke125 mm x 140 mm (4.92 in x 5.51 in)
Cylinders / valves6 cylinders inline, 4 valves per cylinder, direct injection
Compression ratioApprox. 15.5:1 to 16:1 - published figures vary slightly by source
Rated gross power - Challenger 75 / 75C tractor325 hp (242 kW) at 2100 rpm
Rated gross power - Challenger 85C tractor355 hp (265 kW) at 2100 rpm
Rated gross power - on-highway truck use187-242 kW (250-325 hp) at 1700-2100 rpm at introduction; higher door ratings up to roughly 350 hp were fielded in later model years - varies by chassis and gearing
Emissions tierPredates formal EPA nonroad Tier certification (tractor production ran 1991-1996); on-highway versions were certified to the heavy-duty diesel standards in force for their model year. No Tier rating applies to this generation.

Weights

Operating weight - Challenger 75 (1991-92)Approx. 15,590 kg (34,370 lb)
Operating weight - Challenger 75C (1993-96)Approx. 15,110 kg (33,305 lb)
Operating weight - Challenger 85C (1994-96)Approx. 15,260 kg (33,645 lb)
Ground pressureNot published for this generation. The rubber-belted undercarriage was marketed for lower ground pressure than a steel-tracked crawler of comparable weight, but no figure is documented.

Dimensions

Transport lengthApprox. 5.89 m (232 in), on the chassis shared by the 75C and 85C
Transport widthApprox. 3.05 m (120 in)
Transport heightApprox. 3.25-3.66 m (128-144 in) - published figures vary, likely reflecting cab/ROPS option differences
WheelbaseApprox. 2.69-2.72 m (106-107 in)
Track width25 in (64 cm) or 30 in (76 cm) rubber belt options; a 36 in (91 cm) belt was offered later in the family
Ground clearanceNot consistently published for this generation - verify with dealer literature for your specific unit

Performance

Drawbar power (Challenger 75)Claimed approx. 260 hp (194 kW); test-measured approx. 251 hp (187 kW)
PTO power (Challenger 75)Claimed approx. 281 hp (210 kW); test-measured approx. 302 hp (225 kW)
PTO speed1000 rpm, rear PTO
Transmission10-speed full powershift (10 forward / 2 reverse)
SteeringHydrostatic differential steering, dual rubber-belt crawler drive. No conventional gradeability rating is published for this type of undercarriage.
Travel speedNot consistently documented across surviving spec sheets for this generation. The rubber Mobil-trac undercarriage was marketed for materially higher road-transport speed than the steel-tracked crawlers it replaced; verify an exact top speed with dealer literature for your specific unit.

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel tankApprox. 791-833 L (209-220 gal), varies by model
Cooling systemApprox. 42-57 L (11-15 gal) as installed in the tractor chassis
Hydraulic systemApprox. 110 L (29 gal) reservoir; system pressure approx. 176 bar (2550 psi); pump flow approx. 102 L/min (27 gpm), with 132 L/min (35 gpm) optional. Documented for the C-series; likely similar on the base 75/85 but not separately confirmed.
Engine oil (crankcase refill)Approx. 26-31 L (28-33 qt), documented across 3176 applications generally - verify the exact figure for this tractor configuration

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

3176 fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase, including oil filter28 L (7.5 US gal) full oil-and-filter service fill. A broader range of about 26-31 L (28-33 qt) also shows up across sources depending on pan and filter configuration; treat that as an approximate service range rather than a fixed number.Cat DEO (Diesel Engine Oil), or an equivalent oil meeting Cat's engine oil spec for this engine generation (API CG-4/CF-4 class, Cat ECF-1). Grade by climate per the oil viscosity chart: SAE 15W-40 for warm and general-duty service (down to about -15C/5F ambient); SAE 10W-30 for cold-weather service (down to about -20C/-4F ambient). Check ambient temperature at the coldest expected start before selecting grade.
Cooling system45 L (12 US gal) total system fill (engine jacket plus radiator).Cat Extended Life Coolant (ELC) is the factory-recommended fill: a glycol-based, organic corrosion-inhibitor coolant that does not need supplemental coolant additive top-off through its service life. If a conventional (non-ELC) glycol coolant is used instead, mix to a 50/50 water-glycol ratio (do not exceed 60% glycol) and maintain Supplemental Coolant Additive (SCA) levels on schedule to control liner cavitation and system corrosion.
Grease (accessory-drive fittings)No bulk grease reservoir on the engine. Lubrication is at individual grease fittings only (fan hub/idler pulley and similar accessory-drive bearings) - spec only, no fill volume.Cat Multipurpose Grease, NLGI Grade 2, or an equivalent multipurpose grease meeting NLGI GC-LB performance, applied at scheduled service intervals.

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

Caterpillar 3176 maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 50 h
  • Check engine oil level, coolant level, and walk around for leaks before starting.
  • Drain water and sediment from the fuel/water separator.
  • Inspect rubber track tension, lug wear, and idler and roller mounting bolts.
  • Grease the PTO shaft, drawbar or 3-point hitch pins, and steering linkage points.
  • Check wet-disc brake pedal travel and confirm full left and right differential-steering response.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and the oil filter.
  • Replace primary and secondary fuel filters.
  • Check transmission/hydrostatic drive oil level and clean the suction screen.
  • Check final-drive oil level on each side.
  • Check differential-steering system oil level.
  • Service or replace the primary air filter element.
Every 500 h
  • Pull an S·O·S sample of engine oil, transmission/hydraulic oil, and final-drive oil.
  • Re-adjust rubber track tension to the sag spec for the current season.
  • Check track roller and idler wheel bearings for play or grease leakage.
  • Inspect wet-disc brake and steering-clutch pack condition through the service ports.
  • Check PTO clutch engagement and drawbar/hitch wear points.
Every 1,000 h
  • Drain and refill the transmission/hydrostatic drive system and replace the filter.
  • Drain and refill final-drive and differential-steering oil on both sides.
  • Clean the fuel tank strainer and tank breather.
  • Check turbocharger shaft end play and inspect for oil seepage.
  • Inspect alternator and starter connections and brush condition.
  • Torque-check ROPS/cab mounting bolts.
Every 2,000 h
  • Check and adjust engine valve lash.
  • Check unit injector timing/height setting against the engine service specification.
  • Inspect the crankshaft vibration damper for damage or bond separation.
  • Check engine coolant corrosion-inhibitor concentration and top off or replace as needed.
  • Inspect powershift transmission clutch packs and modulation response for wear trends.
Every 6,000 h
  • Change engine coolant and flush the cooling system if not already running extended-life coolant.
  • Inspect the turbocharger center housing and bearings; rebuild if play or seepage is found.
  • Inspect cylinder liners and pistons at the next top-end opening for overhaul planning.
  • Replace worn rubber track bands, rollers, and idler wheels as a matched set.
  • Overhaul powershift transmission and differential-steering clutch packs if oil-sample wear trends call for it.

Servicing the 3176 beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Run S·O·S oil sampling on engine oil at every scheduled change to catch unit-injector plunger wear and turbocharger bearing wear early on this EUI-fed 10.3 liter block. Sample transmission/hydrostatic drive oil and both final-drive/differential-steering sumps in parallel; wear-metal trends there flag powershift clutch pack and steering planetary wear before a track slows or drags. Track coolant sample trend for corrosion-inhibitor depletion, since these PEEC-era cooling systems predate factory extended-life coolant fill.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Cold, wet conditions can push the low-mounted boost sensor on this PEEC-controlled 3176 into false low-boost mode, cutting power until the sensor hose dries out; check routing and drainage first on any power complaint. Expect unit-injector leakage and turbocharger seal wear as common top-end repairs at higher hours. On the Challenger chassis, wet-disc brake and steering-clutch drag, and drawbar/3-point hitch pin wear, are the recurring driveline complaints behind uneven steering or hitch play.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Top-end overhaul on this 10.3 liter inline-six centers on injector height/timing reset, valve lash adjustment, and cylinder liner and turbocharger condition once oil sampling or blow-by trends turn. On the driveline, plan powershift clutch pack and differential-steering planetary rebuilds together, since both sumps see the same duty cycle. Undercarriage overhaul means replacing worn rubber track bands, rollers, and idler wheels as a set to keep track tension and tracking even side to side.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

Before cold starts, verify boost sensor hose routing and drainage to prevent PEEC low-boost lockout, and use a block heater and cold-weather fuel additive for this EUI diesel's warm-up needs. Re-check rubber track sag each season; the tracks tighten in heat and loosen in cold, so tension set in summer will be wrong by winter. In dusty tillage work, clean the radiator and air intake screens more often and inspect final-drive seals for abrasive dirt ingress.

3176 common service parts

Part numberPart
8C-8902FilmCheck fitment →
7X-0293Bolt-For Transmission Filter Return LineCheck fitment →
9X-2205Filter Kit (Includes Screw, Filter Assem., Gaskets & Valve)Check fitment →

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3176 fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
Flash Code 55No active diagnostic codes stored - the electronic system currently reads clean.Not a fault by itself. If the engine still won't start or run correctly while showing Code 55, the problem sits outside the monitored electronic circuits.Don't chase this code. Check fuel supply, the fuel shutoff solenoid and its wiring, and basic cranking/starting fundamentals instead.
CID 100 (Flash Code 24)Engine oil pressure sensor circuit fault - signal outside the expected voltage range.Corroded or loose sensor connector, a failed oil pressure sensor, or chafed/open wiring between the sensor and the control module.Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion, check sensor output against a known-good reading, and verify wiring continuity before replacing the sensor.
CID 100 event (Flash Code 46)Actual low engine oil pressure detected, as distinct from a sensor circuit fault.Low oil level, a worn oil pump or bearings, a clogged oil filter, or occasionally a failing sensor giving a false-low reading.Shut down and check oil level and filter condition first. Confirm the reading with a mechanical gauge before any teardown work.
CID 190 (Flash Code 34)Engine speed/timing signal fault - the control module isn't receiving a valid signal from the primary speed/timing sensor.A failed or misadjusted speed/timing sensor, damaged wiring or connector, or sensor air gap out of specification. Can cause a no-start.Check the sensor's air gap and mounting, inspect wiring and the connector, and test sensor resistance against spec before replacing it.
CID 91 (Flash Code 21)Throttle position sensor signal out of range - duty cycle reads too high or too low for several seconds.Throttle linkage binding, sensor misadjustment, or a failing throttle position sensor.Check the throttle linkage for binding, verify sensor adjustment and signal with a diagnostic tool, and replace the sensor if it's out of range.
CID 110 (Flash Code 61)High engine coolant temperature warning.Low coolant level, a debris-blocked radiator or screens, a fan clutch or belt fault, or a stuck thermostat.Check coolant level and top off, clear debris from the radiator and screens, verify fan drive operation, and check the thermostat if overheating continues.
CID 102Boost/intake manifold pressure sensor circuit fault - signal above the normal range.A failed boost pressure sensor or transducer, a corroded connector, or an open/shorted signal wire.Inspect the sensor connector, test sensor output, and replace the sensor/transducer if it's out of range, then verify with a diagnostic tool.
CID 108Barometric pressure sensor circuit fault - signal above the normal range, often logged alongside a boost pressure sensor fault since both share the same pressure transducer module.The same transducer or wiring fault as the boost pressure circuit; connector corrosion is the usual culprit.Check the shared connector and wiring first, then test or replace the pressure sensor/transducer module.
CID 168Battery/system voltage out of the normal operating range, too high or too low.A weak or discharged battery, a poor ground or battery cable connection, or a charging system fault - common on tractors that sit idle between seasons.Check battery state of charge and terminal connections first, then test charging system output before suspecting the control module.

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

3176 attachments & work tools

Three-Point Hitch

A rear three-point hitch was a factory option on this track-tractor family, not a standard fitting; a number of units were built and sold drawbar-only. Where fitted, linkage size falls in the heavy-duty Category III class matching this power range, but no single published lift-capacity figure applies across 75/75C/85C - lift rating varies by hitch supplier and build configuration.

PTO (Power Take-Off)

Rear PTO, where ordered, is a 1000 rpm-type shaft; PTO was likewise a build option, and some tractors shipped without one. Independent dynamometer testing put PTO output at roughly 280-305 hp (209-227 kW) on 75C and 85C engines, consistent with the 3176's tillage-duty rating.

Drawbar

Drawbar is the standard hitch point, fitted even on units built without a three-point hitch or PTO. Independent drawbar testing recorded roughly 248-272 hp (185-203 kW) on 75C and 85C engines. Field use commonly favors a swinging clevis-style drawbar over a fixed bar, which reduces implement jackknifing when towing wide tools on sidehill ground.

Compatible Implements

Documented field use centers on heavy pull-type primary tillage sized to this horsepower class - chisel plows, disk rippers/subsoilers, and heavy field cultivators - hitched off the drawbar. Drawbar hitch kits are also sold to fit this Cat Challenger track-tractor family for towing pull-type earthmoving pan scrapers in land-leveling work, including versions for tractors built without a factory three-point hitch. Three-point-mounted implements need the optional hitch and are not usable on drawbar-only-configured units.

Factory Configuration Options

Caterpillar built this track-tractor family in both hitch-and-PTO-equipped and drawbar-only variants; dealer parts and hitch-fitment records for this Cat Challenger track-tractor range confirm both configurations existed side by side. Confirm three-point hitch and PTO presence on a specific serial before assuming either is fitted.

All 3176 assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 3176. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Air Inlet And Exhaust System
7e7921 Aftercooler Gp-Air
7e7929 Air Cleaner Gp
4p2881 Cartridge Gp-Turbocharger*R
4p2880 Cartridge Gp-Turbocharger*R
1054900 Duct Gp-Air
7e7920 Dust Ejector Gp
7e7919 Extension Gp-Air Cleaner
7e7917 Extension Gp-Exhaust
4e1488 Indicator Gp (Filter Change)
7e8424 Lines Gp-Air (Aftercooler)
7e7918 Lines Gp-Air
7c1757 Manifold Gp-Exhaust
7e7886 Manifold Gp-Exhaust
7c1758 Manifold Gp-Inlet
4p9427 Manifold Gp-Inlet
7e7916 Muffler Gp
4e6427 Shield Gp-Exhaust
4p4018 Turbocharger Gp
4p0624 Turbocharger Gp
4p2870 Turbocharger Gp*R
4p4019 Turbocharger Gp
Basic Engine
6i1533 Camshaft Gp-Single
7e8425 Camshaft Gp-Single
7c1741 Cover Gp-Air Compressor
4p9916 Cover Gp-Air Compressor
7c1740 Cover Gp-Hydraulic Pump Drive
7C***40Cover Group-Hydraulic Pump Drive1
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9y4057 Cover Gp-Valve Mechanism
9y4054 Crankshaft Gp
6i1006 Cylinder Block As
4p9140 Cylinder Block Gp
7c8568 Cylinder Block Gp
4p7269 Cylinder Head As*R
1012066 Cylinder Head As
1011537 Cylinder Head As*R
4p7268 Cylinder Head Gp*R
1012067 Cylinder Head Gp*R
7c8575 Cylinder Head Gp
7e7882 Damper & Pulley Gp
9y3661 Drive Gp-Accessory
7e7679 Drive Gp-Fan
7e7784 Flywheel Gp
7e8429 Gear Gp-Front
7c1749 Housing Gp-Flywheel
9y3594 Housing Gp-Front
1025838 Housing Gp-Front
4p5535 Kit-Bearing Repair
4P***04Bearing-Sleeve 38.5 mm Offset Hole1
4P***05Bearing-Sleeve 30 mm Wide4
4P***06Bearing-Sleeve 38.5 mm Center Hole1
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7c1795 Lifter Gp
7c8271 Lifting Gp
7e7675 Mounting Gp-Engine
7e7678 Mounting Gp-Fan Drive
9y4070 Pan Gp-Oil
6i1175 Pan Gp-Oil
9y0213 Piston & Rod Gp-6 Required
7e4844 Plug Gp
7e7914 Pulley Gp
1004384 Pulley Gp-Auxiliary Drive
7e9583 Pulley Gp-Fan Drive
7w7818 Rocker Arm Gp-Valve
7c8572 Seal Gp-Crankshaft
7e7673 Support Gp-Engine (Front)
7c1738 Valve Mechanism Gp
Braking System
8r0753 Brake Gp-Hydraulic Caliper Service
8R***53Brake Group-Hydraulic Caliper Service1
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3w5071 Brake Gp-Parking
3w5068 Brake Gp-Service
9u4794 Cylinder Gp-Master
4e1028 Cylinder Gp-Master
3w5207 Lines Gp-Brake-Part 2 Of 3
3w5207 Lines Gp-Brake-Part 1 Of 3
4e8509 Lines Gp-Service Brake-Part 2 Of 2
3w5207 Lines Gp-Brake-Part 3 Of 3
4e8509 Lines Gp-Service Brake-Part 1 Of 2
Cooling System
7w5058 Fan Gp-Suction
4p1498 Coolant Conditioner Gp
7e4054 Coolant Conditioner Gp
8r9787 Cooler Ar-Implement Hydraulic
4E***74Pump & Mounting Group1
7E***31Cooler Group-Oil1
8R***61Lines Group-Oil Cooler1
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9u4287 Cooler Ar-Implement Hydraulic
4E***74Pump & Mounting Group0
4L***54Capscrew; (3/8-16x21 In) (Gd8) (Hex Hd) (4-Roller)0
4S***62Clip 25.4mm(1 In.)Width0
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4p3755 Cooler Gp-Engine Oil
7e4131 Cooler Gp-Oil
7e4132 Cooler Gp-Oil (Power Steering)
4p3757 Cooler Gp-Transmission Oil
6n9548 Drive Gp-Pump
4n3586 Heater Gp-Jacket Water
4N***86Heater Group-Jacket Water; (120v)1
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1w1361 Heater Gp-Jacket Water
4p9756 Housing & Regulator Gp
7e7883 Regulator Gp
7e7885 Lines Gp-Coolant
8r7861 Lines Gp-Oil Cooler
9y4162 Lines Gp-Water (Pump Inlet)
4p3756 Lines Gp-Water
4p9387 Lines Gp-Water
4e0174 Pump & Mounting Gp
1L***68Ring-Retaining1
2D***34Bolt-Socket Head; (3/8-16x1-In)8
4E***74Pump & Mounting Group1
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9y4161 Pump Gp-Water
7e8554 Pump Gp-Water*R
1025844 Pump Gp-Water
7e7330 Radiator Gp (Folded Core)
7e7335 Radiator Gp (Folded Core)
Differential Steering System
8y0168 Control Gp-Steering-Part 1 Of 2
5g8820 Control Gp-Steering-Part 3 Of 3
5g8820 Control Gp-Steering-Part 2 Of 3
5g8820 Control Gp-Steering-Part 1 Of 3
8y0168 Control Gp-Steering-Part 2 Of 2
4e8506 Final Drive Gp
3w5067 Final Drive Gp
3w5087 Lines Gp-Pump-Part 2 Of 2
4e8519 Lines Gp-Pump-Part 1 Of 2
4e8519 Lines Gp-Pump-Part 2 Of 2
3w5087 Lines Gp-Pump-Part 1 Of 2
3w5086 Motor & Mounting Gp
3W***86Motor & Mounting Group1
4K***75Bolt-12 Point Head 38.1mm (1.501in) Long4
4S***98Seal-O-Ring1
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9t5426 Motor Gp-Piston*X
9T***26Motor Group-Piston; Motor Gp-Piston1
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6e4345 Pump Gp-Gear
6e1288 Pump Gp-Gear
9t5751 Rotating Gp-Motor
9t4908 Rotating Gp-Pump
9t1823 Valve & Mounting Gp
9t5533 Valve Gp-Pilot
9t8435 Valve Gp-Pilot
9t4880 Valve Gp-Pilot
9t4904 Valve Gp-Pressure Control
1082146 Guard Gp
10***21Guard As-Front-Rh1
10***22Guard As-Front-Lh1
10***23Guard As-Rear-Rh1
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9u0963 Guard Gp-Final Drive
9U***63Guard Group-Final Drive1
9U***64Guard-Lh2
9U***65Guard-Rh2
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6e3340 Head Gp-Pump
8r7907 Lines Gp-Steering-Part 2 Of 3
8r7907 Lines Gp-Steering-Part 1 Of 3
8r7907 Lines Gp-Steering-Part 3 Of 3
8e7805 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 2 Of 3
8E***05Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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7t7927 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 2 Of 3
7T***27Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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7t7927 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 3 Of 3
7T***27Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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7t7927 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 1 Of 3
7T***27Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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8e7805 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 3 Of 3
8E***05Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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8e7805 Planetary Gp-Differential Steering-Part 1 Of 3
8E***05Planetary Group-Differential Ster1
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8r7905 Pump & Mounting Gp (Steering)
4e8719 Pump & Mounting Gp-Steering
6e1826 Pump Gp-Piston (Slipper)
6e0383 Valve Gp-Flow Control & Relief
6E***83Valve Group-Flow Control & Relief1
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Drawbar, Three Point Hitch And Pto
8r7134 Control & Mounting Gp-Part 2 Of 2
8R***34Control & Mounting Group; Mounting & Control Gp1
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8r7134 Control & Mounting Gp-Part 1 Of 2
8R***34Control & Mounting Group; Mounting & Control Gp1
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3w5102 Control Gp-Power Take-Off
3W***02Control Group-Power Take-Off; Control Gp-Power Take-Off1
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3w5096 Quick Coupler Gp (Hitch)
3W***96Coupler Group-Quick; Coupler Gp-Quick1
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9t9517 Cylinder Gp-Hitch Lift (Chg 02)
9t9517 Cylinder Gp-Hitch Lift (Chgs 00-01)
3w5104 Drawbar Gp
3w5022 Drawbar Gp-Swinging
9u1695 Drawbar Gp-Swinging
7t3000 Drive Gp-Power Take-Off
8r4820 Hitch Ar (Field Installlation)
3W***91Hitch Group-3 Point; Hitch Gp-3 Point1
3W***95Lines Group-Hydraulic; Lines Gp-Hydraulic 11
3W***96Coupler Group-Quick; Coupler Gp-Quick1
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3w5055 Hitch Ar
3W***55Hitch Ar1
3W***91Hitch Group-3 Point; Hitch Gp-3 Point1
3W***95Lines Group-Hydraulic; Lines Gp-Hydraulic 11
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3w5091 Hitch Gp-3 Point
3W***91Hitch Group-3 Point; Hitch Gp-3 Point1
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3w5079 Lines Gp-Hydraulic
3w5095 Lines Gp-Hydraulic-Part 1 Of 2
3W***95Lines Group-Hydraulic; Lines Gp-Hydraulic 11
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3w6838 Lines Gp-Hydraulic (Four Circuit)
3W***38Lines Group-Hydraulic; Lines Gp-Hydraulic 41
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3w5095 Lines Gp-Hydraulic-Part 2 Of 2
3W***95Lines Group-Hydraulic; Lines Gp-Hydraulic 11
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3w5103 Lines Gp-Power Train Oil
3W***03Lines Group-Power Train Oil; Lines Gp-Power Train Oil1
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4e7866 Link Gp-Lift
3w9400 Link Gp-Lift
4e7872 Link Gp-Pitch Control
8r0657 Link Gp-Pitch Control
3w5462 Mounting Gp-Power Take Off
3W***62Mounting Group-Power Take-Off; Mounting Gp-Power Take-Off1
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8r7940 Power Take-Off Ar
3W***20Power Take-Off Group-Rear; Power Take-Off Gp-Rear1
3W***01Shaft Group-Power Take-Off; Shaft Gp-Power Take-Off1
3W***02Control Group-Power Take-Off; Control Gp-Power Take-Off1
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4e4498 Power Take-Off Ar (Field Conversion)
3W***20Power Take-Off Group-Rear; Power Take-Off Gp-Rear1
3W***01Shaft Group-Power Take-Off; Shaft Gp-Power Take-Off1
3W***02Control Group-Power Take-Off; Control Gp-Power Take-Off1
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3w5020 Power Take-Off Gp-Rear
3W***20Power Take-Off Group-Rear; Power Take-Off Gp-Rear1
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3w5101 Shaft Gp-Power Take Off
3W***01Shaft Group-Power Take-Off; Shaft Gp-Power Take-Off1
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3w5023 Support Gp-Drawbar
8r4819 Lines & Valve Gp
2K***99Seal-Interface Between Inlet Manifold2
3W***91Tube As1
5G***30Tube As1
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6t4739 Valve Gp-Modulating
9w0664 Valve Gp-Modulating
9W***64Valve Group-Modulating; Valve Gp-Modulating1
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1u1100 Valve Gp-Pressure Reducing
Electrical System
3e7763 Control Gp-Electronic
3E***63Control Group-Electronic; (Ground Speed Sensor)1
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9x3333 Control Gp-Electronic (Ground Speed Sensor)
9x7153 Control Gp-Electronic
3e3790 Control Gp-Electronic*R
9w2407 Lamp Gp
9w2408 Lamp Gp
6t7160 Lamp Gp
3w5106 Lighting Gp-Cab & Rops
3w5097 Sender Gp
2Y***22Lockwasher1
3E***42Switch As-Low Fuel-Sump Tank1
3E***03Sensor-Fuel Level-R.H. Rear Fuel Cell1
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3w5160 Sensor & Mounting Gp
3W***60Sensor & Mounting Group; Mounting & Sensor Gp1
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8r6700 Sensor & Mounting Gp
3e7863 Starting Motor Gp-Electric
8c3592 Starting Motor Gp-Electric
8c3593 Starting Motor Gp-Electric*R (12 Volt)
8c3592 Starting Motor Gp-Electric (12 Volt)
9y7129 Starting Motor Gp-Electric (12 Volt)
4H***69Gasket Starter Mtg Part Of Kit P/N 5r***251
8C***92Starting Motor Group-Electric1
8S***32Bolt; (12 Point Head) (5/8-11x1.75in)3
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3w5105 Switch Gp
7e7913 Alternator Gp-Charging (115 Ampere)
9x9096 Alternator Gp-Charging*R
8r4584 Battery Gp
4p0508 Control & Mounting Gp
7e6771 Control & Mounting Gp (243 Kilowatt)
4p9434 Control & Mounting Gp
3e5472 Control Gp-Electric
4e0642 Fastener Gp
9x9009 Guard Gp-Alternator
4e7484 Lighting Gp-Part 1 Of 2
4e7484 Lighting Gp-Part 2 Of 2
4e0202 Monitor Ar-True Ground Speed Sensor
3E***90Control Group-Electronic1
3W***97Sender Group; Sender Gp1
3W***60Sensor & Mounting Group; Mounting & Sensor Gp1
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4p9429 Sensor Gp-Electronic
4p9874 Sensor Gp-Electronic
4p0500 Sensor Gp-Electronic
7c8590 Sensor Gp-Electronic
2w8918 Magnetic Pickup As
2W***18Sensor Group-Speed; -Engine Timing1
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1029029 Sensor Gp-Speed
10***29Sensor Group-Speed; -Timing-Engine Speed1
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8r7941 Starting Aid Gp-Ether
4e0444 Wiring Gp-Cab-Part 4 Of 5
4e0444 Wiring Gp-Cab-Part 1 Of 5
4e0444 Wiring Gp-Cab-Part 5 Of 5
4e0444 Wiring Gp-Cab-Part 2 Of 5
4e0444 Wiring Gp-Cab-Part 3 Of 5
4p0499 Wiring Gp-Electronic Control
4P***99Wiring Group-Electronic Control1
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9y4185 Wiring Gp-Electronic Control
9Y***85Wiring Group-Electronic Control1
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4p9428 Wiring Gp-Electronic Control
4P***28Wiring Group-Electronic Control1
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8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 4 Of 6
8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 2 Of 6
8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 1 Of 6
8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 6 Of 6
8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 5 Of 6
8r4583 Wiring Gp-Vehicle-Part 3 Of 6
4p0502 Wiring Gp-Unit Injector
Engine Arrangement
7e3713 Engine Ar-Part 2 Of 3
10***38Housing Group-Front1
4P***09Pump Group-Fuel Injection6
4P***10Pump Group-Fuel Injection6
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7e3713 Engine Ar-Part 3 Of 3
3E***30Kit-Cylinder Block; (Rear Structure)0
3E***29Kit-Gasket; (Oil Cooler And Lines)0
3E***31Water Pump0
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7e3713 Engine Ar-Part 1 Of 3
4P***08Control & Mounting Group1
4P***98Coolant Conditioner Group1
4P***55Cooler Group-Engine Oil1
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Frame And Body
3w5061 Axle Gp-Front
9t7802 Cylinder Gp-Belt Tensioner (Change 00-03)
8r4978 Guard Gp-Track Roller
3w5046 Mounting Gp-Cab
3w5063 Support Gp-Suspension
3w5062 Suspension Gp
3w5059 Tensioner Gp
9t7924 Valve Gp-Relief--Direct Operated
1r0880 Wheel & Idler Gp
1r0949 Belt & Drive Gp
Belt Ars-Vehicle Drive
1R***38Belt 626 mm (25") Wide2
1R***58Belt Ar0
1R***66Belt 626 mm (25") Wide2
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8r4580 Frame Gp-Part 2 Of 2
8r4580 Frame Gp-Part 1 Of 2
8r4581 Hood & Guard Gp
4e4160 Step Gp
Fuel System
8r7936 Tank Gp-Fuel
3w5018 Tank Gp-Fuel
4e1671 Tank Gp-Fuel
9u3414 Cap Gp-Fuel
1U***46Sealant (For Locations A)1
2H***88Seal-O-Ring; (50.17mm Id)2
3N***56Screw-Tapping12
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7c1760 Filter Gp-Fuel
7c6399 Filter Gp-Primary Fuel
4p5018 Filter Gp-Primary Fuel
8r4588 Installation Gp-Controls
4e7715 Lines Gp-Fuel
8r4582 Lines Gp-Fuel
2V***87Bracket2
3P***47Clamp2
3W***82Hose2
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9y8289 Lines Gp-Fuel Injection
4p0510 Pump Gp-Fuel Injection-Unit
4p0509 Pump Gp-Fuel Injection
7c2919 Pump Gp-Fuel Priming
4p3777 Pump Gp-Fuel Transfer (One Section Gear)
9y4183 Pump Gp-Fuel Transfer
1070592 Service Gp
00***98Connector-Hose (3/4-14nptf Thd)2
00***90Elbow1
00***86Connector-Hose (1/4-18nptf Thd)1
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Hydraulic System
9t5238 Adjustment Gp-Hydraulic Valve
9T***38Adjustment Group-Hydraulic Valve1
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8r9959 Cover Gp
3w5077 Mounting Gp-Hydraulic Tank
8r7904 Pump & Mounting Gp
6e0356 Pump Gp-Piston
9t3819 Rotating Gp-Pump
4e2918 Valve & Mounting Gp
4e4059 Valve & Mounting Gp-4 Implement
6e0389 Valve Gp
6e0387 Valve Gp-Bank-4 Control Valve
6e0385 Valve Gp-Control
9t1799 Valve Gp-Control
9T***99Valve Group-Control; Valve Gp-Control1
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9t1812 Valve Gp-Compensator
9T***12Valve Group-Press & Flow Cmpnstr1
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9t1819 Valve Gp-Relief
8r7906 Lines Gp-Hydraulic Oil
6e1877 Tank Gp-Hydraulic-Part 1 Of 2
6e1877 Tank Gp-Hydraulic-Part 2 Of 2
4e7483 Trim Gp-Hydraulic Tank
4t1860 Valve Gp-Shuttle
4T***60Valve Group-Shuttle; -Ripper Lift-Ripper Tilt-Blade Tilt-Blade Lift1
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Lubrication System
3w5083 Filter & Mounting Gp
1112720 Base Gp-Oil Filter
9y8257 Filler Gp-Oil
9Y***57Filler Group-Engine Oil; -Left Front1
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4p8509 Filler Gp-Oil
9y3899 Filter Gp-Oil
9y4839 Fumes Disposal Gp
4p8507 Gauge Gp-Oil Level (Dipstick)
4P***07Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick)1
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9y1843 Gauge Gp-Oil Level (Dipstick)
9Y***43Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick); -Left Side1
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4p8298 Lines Gp-Engine Oil
9y3982 Lines Gp-Engine Oil
7e8571 Lines Gp-Turbocharger Oil
6i2515 Lines Gp-Turbocharger Oil
6i2541 Lines Gp-Turbocharger Oil
9y8073 Pump Gp-Engine Oil (One Section Gear)*R
9y3791 Pump Gp-Engine Oil (One Section Gear)
Operator Station
9x1096 Air Conditioner & Mounting Gp
9X***96Air Conditioner & Mounting Group; Air Conditioner & Mounting Gp1
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9x0324 Air Conditioner Gp-Part 2 Of 2
9x0324 Air Conditioner Gp-Part 1 Of 2
8r1626 Arm Gp-Swing
8r7938 Cab Gp
3W***68Control Group-Transmission; Control Gp-Transmission1
3W***37Cab Group; Cab Gp1
3W***41Panel Group-Instrument; Panel Gp-Instrument1
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3w5037 Cab Gp-Part 3 Of 5
3w5037 Cab Gp-Part 2 Of 5
3w5037 Cab Gp-Part 1 Of 5
3w5037 Cab Gp-Part 4 Of 5
3w5037 Cab Gp-Part 5 Of 5
3w5051 Control Gp-Brake
4e2662 Control Gp-Brake & Clutch-Part 1 Of 2
4e2662 Control Gp-Brake & Clutch-Part 2 Of 2
3w5058 Control Gp-Brake & Clutch-Part 2 Of 2
3W***58Control Group-Clutch & Brake; Control Gp-Brake & Clutch1
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3w5058 Control Gp-Brake & Clutch-Part 1 Of 2
3W***58Control Group-Clutch & Brake; Control Gp-Brake & Clutch1
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3w5047 Control Gp-Hydraulic
3W***47Control Group-Hydraulic; Control Gp-Hydraulic1
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3w5052 Control Gp-Steering
3W***52Control Group-Steering; Control Gp-Steering1
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3w4568 Control Gp-Transmission
3W***68Control Group-Transmission; Control Gp-Transmission1
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3w5056 Control & Duct Gp
3W***56Duct & Control Group; Control & Duct Gp1
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7x6023 Filter Gp-Cab Air
3w5028 Horn Gp-Electric
3w5044 Panel Gp-Instrument
3W***44Panel Group-Instrument; Panel Gp-Instrument1
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3w5041 Panel Gp-Instrument
3W***41Panel Group-Instrument; Panel Gp-Instrument1
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9x3509 Radio Gp-Am/Fm/Cassette (12 Volt Dc)
3w6744 Seat Gp-Grammer-Part 2 Of 3
9u4541 Seat Gp
3w6744 Seat Gp-Grammer-Part 3 Of 3
3w6744 Seat Gp-Grammer-Part 1 Of 3
3w5053 Seat Gp-Adjustable
10***97Bracket1
3W***53Seat Group-Adjustable1
3W***44Seat Group; Seat Gp-Adjustable1
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4e3342 Suspension Gp
3w5042 Wiper Gp
3w6598 Wiper Gp
3w6027 Wiper Gp
3w5107 Wiper Gp
1043281 Absorber Gp-Shock
1043269 Air Compressor Gp
1043267 Bar Gp
1043279 Bearing Gp-Lower
1043280 Bellows Gp
1043274 Cam As-Sliding
7t7825 Clutch & Refrigerant Compressor Gp
7T***25Compressor Group-Clutch & Refrig1
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7e7915 Compressor Gp-Refrigerant
7e7672 Condenser Gp
4e0445 Control Gp-Governor-Part 1 Of 2
4e0445 Control Gp-Governor-Part 2 Of 2
4e0728 Cover Gp-Dash
1V***22Nut-Speed-Front Headliner Support6
3W***19Cover As1
3W***08Film-High Beam/Turn Indicator1
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9u1695 Drawbar Gp-Swinging
1043266 Lever Gp-Control
1043271 Lines Gp-Air Compressor
8r4586 Lines Gp-Air Conditioner-Part 1 Of 2
8r4586 Lines Gp-Air Conditioner-Part 2 Of 2
1043277 Linkage Gp-Suspension
1043263 Plate Gp-Upper
4e9422 Seat Belt As
1043262 Seat Gp-Suspension-Part 2 Of 3
1043262 Seat Gp-Suspension-Part 3 Of 3
1043262 Seat Gp-Suspension-Part 1 Of 3
1043273 Spring Gp-Air
1043264 Stop Gp
4e1293 Support Gp
1043261 Suspension Gp-Seat-Air
1043278 Wiring Gp
Service Equipment And Supplies
Name Plates & Films
1P***07Film-Symbol; 2 On Bottom Of Upper Frame Below Engine. 2 On Front Of Upper Frame Above Boom Articulation4
3E***16Film-Warning-On Top Master Shield1
3E***27Plate-Rops/Fops-On Left Rear Of Cab Just1
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Transmission
9w0342 Actuator Gp-Rotary
9w5623 Cover Gp-Shipping
9W***23Cover Group-Shipping; Cover Gp-Shipping1
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6t4740 Covers Gp-Shipping
6T***40Cover Group-Shipping; Covers Gp-Shipping1
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7t3443 Drive Gp-Pump
7T***43Drive Group-Pump; Drive Gp-Transmission Pump1
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9w1374 Drive Gp-Pump
9W***74Drive Group-Pump; Drive Gp-Steering Pump1
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3w5072 Filler Gp-Power Train Oil
3w5074 Lines Gp-Filter
3W***74Lines Group-Transmission Filter1
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7t7953 Pump Gp-Gear
7t7990 Pump Gp-Gear
3w5066 Drive Shaft Gp
3w5032 Support Gp-Transmission
8y1293 Universal Joint Gp
6t4733 Valve Gp
6y0185 Valve Gp-Modulating
9w1580 Valve Gp-Pressure Control-Part 1 Of 2
9w1580 Valve Gp-Pressure Control-Part 2 Of 2
6t4735 Valve & Selector Gp
6T***35Valve Group-Selector & Press Cont1
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8e5142 Case & Parts Gp-Part 1 Of 3
8e5143 Case & Parts Gp-Part 3 Of 3
8e5143 Case & Parts Gp-Part 2 Of 3
8e5142 Case & Parts Gp-Part 2 Of 3
8e5142 Case & Parts Gp-Part 3 Of 3
8e5143 Case & Parts Gp-Part 1 Of 3
9n4504 Clutch Gp-Fifth & Reverse-Part 2 Of 2
7t6126 Clutch Gp-High & Low-Part 2 Of 2
9n4504 Clutch Gp-Fifth & Reverse-Part 1 Of 2
7t6126 Clutch Gp-High & Low-Part 1 Of 2
8e7038 Control Gp-Transmission Hydraulic
8E***38Control Group-Transmission Hydraulic1
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8r4597 Lines Gp-Power Train Cooler
6y1242 Planetary Gp-Part 3 Of 3
6y1242 Planetary Gp-Part 1 Of 3
6y1242 Planetary Gp-Part 2 Of 3
8e5141 Shaft Gp-Input
8r4592 Shaft Gp-Input
7t6362 Transmission Ar
6Y***42Planetary Group1
7T***00Drive Group-Power Take-Off1
7T***43Drive Group-Pump; Drive Gp-Transmission Pump1
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7t6123 Transmission Ar
3E***34Parts & Case0
3E***35Hydraulic Control0
6T***40Cover Group-Shipping; Covers Gp-Shipping1
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8e7037 Valve Gp-Relief

3176 serial number reference

The engine serial/PIN plate is a metal tag riveted to the engine, typically on the left side of the cylinder block near the fuel injection pump or rocker cover. If the plate is missing or damaged, the number is also stamped into the block itself, usually on the right side behind the exhaust manifold. The serial number reads as a 3-character arrangement prefix (letters and/or digits) followed by a sequential run of digits. Match the prefix, not the sequence digits, against Caterpillar's arrangement list to identify the specific build, application, and approximate model year.

PrefixIdentifies
43ZEngine - Machine (agricultural power unit)
7LGTruck Engine (on-highway)
2YGTruck Engine (on-highway)
5XNTruck Engine (on-highway)

Frequently asked questions

What engine powers this Caterpillar 3176 machine?

A 10.3 liter (629 cu in) turbocharged, aftercooled inline-six diesel using electronic unit injection under Caterpillar's PEEC control. Across the Challenger 75, 75C, and 85C it was rated from roughly 325 to 355 gross hp (242 to 265 kW), varying by model and series.

What is the operating weight?

Roughly 33,300 to 34,400 lb (15.1 to 15.6 t), depending on model and configuration. The 75C sits near the bottom of that range and the 85C near the top; verify against your specific model and equipment for an exact figure.

What replaced this engine and machine?

There is no direct one-for-one successor. Within Caterpillar's own line, the larger 85D and 95E Challengers moved up to the bigger 3196 engine. Caterpillar sold its Challenger farm-tractor design, assembly, and marketing to AGCO in 2002, and AGCO kept the Challenger name going on its own later MT-series tractors.

What 3176 owners discuss

Is the hydrostatic differential steering on a 3176-powered Challenger reliable, and what does a fault feel like?
The differential steering system is regarded as simple and generally trouble-free. Unequal steering pull side to side is usually a track tension or suspension/air-bag pressure imbalance, not a steering fault — check and match tension/pressure on both sides first. Steering that feels strong when cold but goes soft or delayed once oil reaches normal operating temperature (roughly 82°C/180°F) points to internal leakage past the steering pump or motor; case-drain flow above about 19 L/min (5 US gpm) at either component calls for a rebuild. Slow, long-term internal valve leakage can also overfill the transmission with steering oil while the steering reservoir runs low, so check both levels together if response feels weak. Have your dealer verify case-drain flow and reservoir levels before replacing the pump or motor.
What undercarriage wear is normal on these rubber-track Challengers, and how is track tension adjusted?
Track tension is held by a spring-and-nitrogen hydraulic tensioner and adjusted at a grease fitting: adding grease extends the idler and tightens the track, backing grease out lets the idler retract and the track sag. Adjust in small increments and recheck against the operator's manual sag spec; some dash layouts include a tension-imbalance warning light. Idler wheels are a wear item — watch for rubber pitting, cracking, or chunks missing from the tread, and check idler hub oil level once a season. Guide blocks that keep the track aligned to the frame can be bonded or bolted; loose or missing blocks let the track walk and should be corrected before the frame rail takes damage. Track tensioner cylinders hold grease under high pressure — have your dealer verify safe de-pressurization procedure before loosening a fitting.
What are the known 3176 engine quirks in this Challenger application?
The most common complaint is a coolant weep at the aluminum spacer deck between the cylinder block and head, most often showing up once an engine is well past mid-life hours. Fixing it means splitting the head from the spacer, so it is a major labor job, not a quick gasket swap. Outside of that spacer-deck issue, long-term users describe the inline six as strong and generally trouble-free compared with the transmission and final drives on the same machine, which rarely give problems. Have your dealer verify a spacer-deck leak with a pressure/dye test before committing to head removal.
Why does a 3176 in one of these tractors sometimes need starting fluid every time, hot or cold?
Chronic ether dependence on this engine is usually a fuel-pressure problem at cranking speed, not a true cold-start issue — it shows up hot as well as cold. The engine needs adequate rail pressure to fire cleanly on the first few revolutions; figures cited for a healthy system run roughly 480-620 kPa (70-90 psi) depending on where in the fuel circuit it's measured, so treat any single number as a rough target and confirm the exact spec for the serial/configuration in front of you. Suspects include a weak lift pump, a leaking or stuck check/poppet valve in the fuel return housing on the cylinder head, and injectors worn enough that they can't build pressure until the engine is already spinning — ether gives just enough extra push to get past that threshold. If ether dependence shows up alongside injector-circuit fault codes, look at injector wiring and the ECM connector before condemning injectors outright. Have your dealer verify fuel rail pressure and injector condition with proper test equipment before replacing parts.
What electrical and sensor problems show up on these Challengers, and how should they be chased down?
Grounds and harness condition cause more intermittent faults than the ECM itself. The cab ground strap and chassis control module ground connections work loose or corrode with age — wiggling and flexing the harness while watching for a dropout is a standard first step. Harness wire can look intact on the outside while individual strands are broken inside the insulation from years of vibration and flexing, so a static continuity check at rest can miss the fault; test under flex or load instead. A sensor circuit fault code identifies the circuit, not necessarily the failed part — verify wiring and connector condition between the sensor and the ECM before swapping the sensor or the ECM. Have your dealer verify any ECM or sensor circuit fault with the proper diagnostic software before parts are replaced.
Were these Challengers typically run with a PTO and three-point hitch, or drawbar only?
Many Cat-era Challengers in this power range left the factory without a rear PTO or three-point hitch at all — set up as pure drawbar/scraper tractors for heavy tillage and towing pull-type implements. Where a hitch is fitted, it is a Category 3 three-point with several tonnes of lift capacity, and rear or mid PTO options exist on some configurations for pull-type or PTO-driven implements. When evaluating a used machine, confirm the PTO and three-point hitch (or their absence) match what the listing states; adding either to a tractor built without them is a substantial conversion, not a simple bolt-on kit.
What should a buyer check before purchasing a used 3176-powered Challenger?
Favor documented service history over hours alone — a well-maintained machine can run through multiple engine rebuilds and tens of thousands of hours, but budget for a spacer-deck coolant-leak inspection on any engine well past mid-life hours. Walk the full length of both tracks looking for tread wear, cuts, exposed steel banding, and loose or missing guide blocks; track replacement or reconditioning is the single largest cost surprise on these machines. Check tensioner pressure/nitrogen charge for even side-to-side tension and confirm any suspension air bags hold their rated pressure. Verify the transmission, differential (back end), and hydraulic systems each show clean, correct-type fluid with no cross-contamination, and that oil-change intervals were kept. Road-test the machine and load-test the steering — differential steering should stay equally responsive left and right once oil is at full operating temperature, not just when cold. Expect some cosmetic corrosion at the lower right-hand cab corner on higher-hour machines; it is a known cosmetic weak spot, not structural. Have your dealer verify any coolant/spacer-deck leak, steering case-drain flow, and track tensioner condition as part of a pre-purchase inspection.

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

Serial-range & configuration variants

This page covers the Caterpillar 3176. Related factory variants of the same model family:

31763176

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