Caterpillar 583K
Caterpillarpipelayer(no series)

Caterpillar 583K

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 583K is a side-boom pipelayer built in the USA from 1974 into the late 1980s on the D8K dozer chassis, carrying the single 78V serial prefix. It runs the mechanically governed, turbocharged Cat D342T diesel rated at roughly 224 kW (300 hp), driving a 3F/3R planetary power-shift transmission through a torque converter, with no electronic controls anywhere on the machine. Operating weight runs about 41,000-41,700 kg (90,300-92,000 lb) depending on boom length, counterweight, and undercarriage gauge. Standard side-boom lift capacity is rated at 63,500 kg (140,000 lb); the counterweight swings on a dedicated hydraulic cylinder while the boom and hook draw works run off engine-driven, cable-and-clutch winches with band brakes. Cat offered narrow- and wide-gauge undercarriage plus multiple boom lengths to match pipe diameter and lift radius on right-of-way work.

The 583K replaced the D8H-based 583H in 1974, picking up the D8K's combined steering-and-braking system and a further-uprated D342T. Inside its own production run Caterpillar made several running changes without touching the model name: an improved torque converter, a strengthened boom, and an electric hour meter all arrived partway through the 78V serial range, so two 583Ks of different vintage can differ under the sheet metal despite carrying the same designation. Caterpillar later replaced the K with the fully hydraulic 583R (Cat 3406C DITA) and then the ACERT-era 583T (Cat C15 with ADEM controls), both of which dropped the cable-and-clutch winch for hydraulic load-line and boom winches. That makes the 583K the last purely mechanical machine in the lineage, and it's why the model still moves in the used and parts market: no ECM to fail, no hydraulic winch valves to chase, and most wear parts trace back to common D8-series dozer components, which keeps rebuild support strong on machines now pushing 40-plus years old.

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 583K specifications

Engine

Engine modelCat D342T, turbocharged diesel, inline-6
Gross (flywheel) power224 kW (300 hp)
Net powerNot separately published for this model; only flywheel/gross rating is documented
Displacement20.4 L (1,246 cu in)
Cylinders6, bore 146 mm x stroke 203 mm (5.75 in x 8.0 in)
Emissions tierPre-emissions-regulation era diesel, mechanically governed; no tier rating applies. Production spans roughly 1974-1988 (78V serial prefix)

Weights

Operating weight41.0-41.7 t (90,300-92,000 lb); figure varies by source/configuration
Shipping weightNot separately published for this model
Ground pressureNot published for this model

Dimensions

Transport length5.69 m (18 ft 8 in)
Transport width3.05 m (10 ft 0 in) with the three-piece pipelayer frame removed for transport; overall operating width with the frame installed runs wider, cited up to approx. 4.47 m (14 ft 8 in) in some listings
Transport height2.79 m (9 ft 2 in) standard; overall height with boom erect cited up to approx. 3.91 m (12 ft 10 in) in some listings
Boom length6.1 m (20 ft)
Track frameWide-gauge track frame with extra-wide track shoes for added flotation and stability; exact gauge and shoe width not published in general spec sources

Performance

Travel speed, forwardUp to 10.9 km/h (6.8 mph)
Travel speed, reverseUp to 13.5 km/h (8.4 mph)
TransmissionPlanetary power-shift, 3 forward/3 reverse speeds, single-stage torque converter with output torque divider; 530 mm (21 in) diameter high-torque-capacity oil clutches
Side-boom lift capacityRated up to 63.5 t (140,000 lb) per boom/counterweight spec sheets; some dealer listings cite a lower rating near 54 t (60 ton), depending on boom and counterweight configuration
Counterweight systemFully hydraulic, over-center design to resist creep-out when retracted; automatic boom kickout disengages the boom-raise circuit near vertical to prevent boom over-travel

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel tankNot publicly documented for this model in general spec sources
Hydraulic systemNot publicly documented for this model in general spec sources
Engine oilNot publicly documented for this model in general spec sources
Cooling systemNot publicly documented for this model in general spec sources
NoteExact service capacities are not carried in the general dealer/spec-aggregator sources checked for this vintage model; verify against the factory service manual or your Cat dealer for the applicable serial range

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

583K fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter) - D342T diesel33.1 L (8.7 US gal); fill to dipstick, figure is a guideline onlyCat-spec Diesel Engine Oil (DEO) class. SAE 15W-40 multigrade for normal ambient range; single-grade SAE 10W in sustained cold climates, SAE 30-40 in hot climates. Period service interval around 250 hours.
Cooling systemNot confirmed for this specific serial range in available documentation; capacity varies by radiator/config - verify against the machine-specific OMM or dealerFull-strength Caterpillar heavy-duty coolant/antifreeze, period-correct for this engine generation. Machines still in service are commonly refreshed with Cat Extended Life Coolant (ELC) as the modern equivalent. No climate-viscosity split applies to coolant.
Fuel tankNot corroborated across sources for this model - reported figures conflicted and are not published here; verify against the OMM or dealerDiesel fuel meeting Cat's No. 1-D/No. 2-D fuel specification (low-sulfur where required by current regional emissions rules for machines still in service). No viscosity/climate grade applies.
Powershift transmission (single-stage torque converter with output torque divider)117 L (30.9 US gal)Cat-spec Transmission/Drivetrain Oil (TDTO) gear-oil class. SAE 10W in cold climates, SAE 30 for normal ambient, SAE 50 in hot climates. Check near 500 hours, change near 1,000 hours.
Bevel gear case / steering clutch compartmentNot individually published in available sources - shares the drivetrain gear-oil circuit; verify capacity with OMM or dealerSame Cat-spec TDTO gear-oil class as the transmission and final drives, SAE 10W/30/50 by climate.
Final drives, each side (two total)33.1 L (8.7 US gal) per sideCat-spec TDTO gear-oil class, SAE 10W/30/50 by climate. Check near 500 hours, change near 2,000 hours.
Cable/drum hoist drive (boom lift cable drum)Not published in available sources for this model; verify with OMM or dealerSame Cat-spec TDTO gear-oil class as other drivetrain compartments, SAE 10W/30/50 by climate.
Hydraulic system and tank (counterweight, swing, boom circuits)Not confirmed for this model in available documentation; verify against the OMM or dealerCat-spec hydraulic oil, HYDO-class multigrade. SAE 15W-40, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on ambient temperature; biodegradable/synthetic hydraulic fluid acceptable where site environmental rules require it.
Grease (all fittings, pins, bushings - spec only)N/A - grease-gun application at service points, no reservoir capacityMultipurpose moly (MoS2-fortified) EP grease, NLGI 2, Cat MPGM-class spec for pin and bushing joints under heavy shock load such as the boom and counterweight linkage.

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

Caterpillar 583K maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check engine oil level, coolant level, and fuel tank water/sediment before starting each shift.
  • Walk around the machine and check for fresh oil or fuel leaks at the engine, transmission, and final drives.
  • Inspect the load line and boom hoist wire rope for kinks, broken strands, or crushing, and check spooling on the winch drums.
  • Check boom and counterweight pivot pins, sheaves, and the hook block for visible wear or cracking.
  • Test service brakes, steering clutches, and the automatic boom kick-out device before working under load.
  • Weekly (50 h): grease boom, counterweight, and winch clutch linkage points, and check track tension and undercarriage wear.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and filter on the D342T and check the oil for fuel or coolant contamination.
  • Check and adjust fan belt tension, and inspect the turbocharger for oil leaks and sound boost hose connections.
  • Check powershift transmission oil level and inspect the torque converter housing for leaks.
  • Lubricate steering clutch and brake linkage, plus counterweight frame and cylinder pins, until grease purges at each fitting.
  • Check battery electrolyte level and cable connections on the start/charge system.
  • Check winch clutch and band brake linkage adjustment.
Every 500 h
  • Change powershift transmission and torque converter oil and filter.
  • Change final drive oil in both final drive housings.
  • Pull oil samples from the engine, transmission, and final drives for lab analysis before draining.
  • Inspect the load line and boom hoist wire rope in depth; replace if wear, corrosion, or broken wires exceed safe limits.
  • Clean the radiator core and check the cooling system for scale or depleted corrosion inhibitor.
  • Inspect winch band brake lining and clutch discs for wear.
Every 1,000 h
  • Check and adjust valve lash on the D342T against the factory chart; it has no electronic control to flag it.
  • Inspect and clean the turbocharger and air precleaner, and check the exhaust system for leaks.
  • Inspect undercarriage track pins, bushings, sprockets, and rollers for the wear typical of side-boom loading.
  • Sample coolant condition and replenish corrosion inhibitor on the conventional cooling system.
  • Inspect boom sheaves, hook block bearings, and counterweight pivot bushings for play.
Every 2,000 h
  • Change coolant and flush the cooling system if running conventional coolant rather than extended-life coolant.
  • Inspect and recondition steering clutches and brake bands, and check final drive housings for metal in the oil.
  • Disassemble and inspect winch clutch packs and band brakes, and replace linings as needed.
  • Inspect boom, A-frame, and counterweight structure welds for cracking, and check the hydraulic counterweight cylinder for leakage and pin wear.
  • Check engine mounts and the crankshaft vibration damper for deterioration.
Every 6,000 h
  • Evaluate the D342T top end - cylinder liners, injectors, and valve train - for overhaul based on oil analysis trends and blow-by.
  • Evaluate the powershift transmission and torque converter for rebuild, focusing on planetary clutch packs and the modulating valve.
  • Budget for undercarriage renewal (track chain, sprockets, idlers) given the added side-load wear from boom and pipe-handling duty.
  • Have the boom, counterweight arm, and mounting structure inspected for fatigue cracking before returning the machine to heavy lift-duty service.

Servicing the 583K beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Run scheduled oil sampling on the D342T, powershift transmission, and final drives every 250-500 hours - it's the earliest warning on a mechanical engine with no ECM to flag itself. Watch for fuel dilution or soot loading from the jerk-pump injection system, and track iron and copper trends in the transmission sample for torque converter or clutch-pack wear. Pair oil trending with a wire-rope inspection log on the load line and boom hoist cable; on a cable-and-clutch pipelayer, rope condition is the real predictive-maintenance leading indicator, not just fluid data.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Typical K repairs center on the winch clutch packs and band brakes, which wear from cycling under load during pipe handling and need periodic adjustment or relining. Steering clutch and brake linkage on the D8K-derived final drive also loosens with hours and throws off the combined steering-and-braking feel the 583K uses. Expect turbocharger and injector work on the D342T as hours climb, plus torque converter seal and clutch-pack repairs in the powershift transmission - all straightforward mechanical fixes with no diagnostic scan tool involved.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Plan a D342T top-end overhaul around cylinder liners and injectors once oil analysis and blow-by trend up; valve lash and injector timing are the key rebuild checkpoints on this mechanically governed engine. Powershift rebuilds focus on the planetary clutch packs and torque converter; final drives share components with the D8K dozer. On the pipelayer end, budget for winch drum and band-brake relining, boom sheave and pin bushings, and a structural check of the boom and counterweight arm before returning to heavy lift duty.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

Cold-start the D342T with ether or manifold priming in winter since it has no glow plugs or electronic cold-start strategy, and check coolant inhibitor concentration before freeze season on the conventional cooling system. In hot, dusty pipeline corridors, service the turbocharger air precleaner more often and inspect the radiator core for mud packing that starves cooling. Wire rope and open winch components need more frequent inspection and lubrication in wet or corrosive right-of-way conditions to prevent hidden strand corrosion.

583K common service parts

Part numberPart
2S-8877Filter As-Engine OilCheck fitment →
6H-6000Film-Warning Left Side Of Filter Opening On Seat FrameCheck fitment →

Always confirm against your machine's serial number — cross-check any part in Heavy Parts AI before ordering.

583K fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
Coolant Temperature warning lamp (dash gauge cluster, no CID/FMI code)Engine coolant temperature has risen above the normal operating rangeLow coolant level, plugged radiator core or fins, slipping or failed fan drive, stuck thermostat, water pump failureReduce load and idle to cool; shut down if lamp stays lit; check coolant level and radiator core for blockage before restarting; do not open a hot pressure cap
Engine Oil Pressure warning lampEngine oil pressure has dropped below the safe minimumLow oil level, worn or failing oil pump, clogged oil filter or suction screen, worn main/rod bearingsShut engine down immediately, do not continue running; check oil level and filter condition, inspect for external leaks before restart
Power Train (Torque Converter/Transmission) Oil Temperature warning lampOil temperature in the power-shift transmission and torque converter circuit is above normalLow power train oil level, sustained high-stall operation in too low a gear, plugged power train oil cooler, worn torque converterReduce load or shift to a gear that lowers converter stall, let oil temperature drop before continuing, check oil level and cooler fins for debris
Power Train Oil Filter Restriction indicatorPower train oil filter is nearing or past its service limitOverdue or dirty filter element, degraded oil, cold thick oil giving a false reading at startupRecheck the indicator once oil is at normal operating temperature; replace the filter element if it remains in the restricted range
Hydraulic Oil Temperature warning lampBoom and counterweight hydraulic oil temperature is above the normal operating rangeLow hydraulic oil level, plugged hydraulic oil cooler, a relief valve holding open and bypassing continuously, sustained heavy-lift duty cycleEase off boom/counterweight duty cycle and let oil cool, check oil level, inspect cooler core for mud or debris packing
Charging System (Alternator) warning lampCharging system output is below battery voltage or the alternator is not chargingBroken or slipping alternator belt, failed alternator or regulator, loose or corroded battery cableCheck belt condition and tension and battery cable connections first; if lamp stays lit with engine at operating rpm, test alternator output
Air Cleaner Service (Restriction) indicatorMechanical vacuum-actuated gauge shows intake air restriction at the primary air filter is at or past the service pointDirty or clogged primary filter element, torn/collapsed element allowing unfiltered air past the seal, plugged precleanerService or replace the air filter element once the indicator reads in the service range at rated rpm, then reset the indicator

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

583K attachments & work tools

Generation / series context

The 583K (introduced 1974) runs on the same winch drive, load blocks, controls, undercarriage, and final drives as the earlier 583H (1959-74). Caterpillar's first hydraulic-winch pipelayer, the 583R, did not arrive until 1998, followed later by the C15-powered 583T. Specs for those newer variants should not be assumed to carry over to the mechanical 583K.

Side boom (main work tool) - length options

Standard side boom is 6.10 m (20 ft). Caterpillar also offered a 7.31 m (24 ft) boom for larger-diameter pipe or extra reach. Longer boom options generally trade some rated capacity for reach, per standard pipelayer lift-capacity practice.

Rated lift capacity and base machine weight

Maximum rated lift capacity is about 63,500 kg (140,000 lb), unchanged from the preceding 583H. Base machine operating weight is reported in the 41,000-41,700 kg (90,300-92,000 lb) range depending on source and configuration - treat as approximate and verify against the specific serial's spec plate.

Load block and hook rigging

Load line reeves over a multi-sheave boom-point block into a forged hook fitted with a safety latch, with multi-part line reeving sized for the machine's rated lift range. Blocks and hook use sleeve-bearing sheaves built for continuous pipe-handling duty rather than quick-change work-tool couplers.

Counterweight system

Counterweight is hydraulically actuated and high-mounted for side and bottom clearance, extending outboard for lifting stability and retracting for travel. An over-center linkage design resists creep-out when the counterweight is retracted, typical of this mechanical-era 583 platform.

Winch / hoist drive arrangement

The 583K uses the mechanical clutch-and-brake, cable-drum winch system common to the 583 platform through the 1980s, with separate boom-hoist and load-hoist drums, not the hydraulic hoist system introduced later on the 583R. Some rebuild shops offer aftermarket hydraulic-winch conversion packages for these older mechanical chassis - that is a field retrofit, not an original 583K factory option.

Boom control and kickout safety device

Boom, load line, and counterweight are run from lever controls at the operator's station, with a 3-lever boom control layout typical of this pipelayer generation. Some 583K listings note an automatic boom kickout that disengages the boom-raise circuit as the boom nears vertical to prevent boom over-travel - confirm this device is fitted on a given serial range before relying on it.

Undercarriage and track shoe options

Standard undercarriage uses individually linked, free-rolling, wide-gauge track pads running on working tensioners and idlers, sharing D8-series-derived running gear. Single-grouser track shoes around 762 mm (30 in) wide are typical for this class; exact shoe width and grouser style can vary by configuration.

Operator station

Factory operator station is open (no enclosed cab as standard), with lever and joystick controls, foot pedals, and a full instrumentation panel for engine and winch monitoring. Enclosed cabs or canopies with ROPS are commonly seen as field-installed or dealer-fitted upgrades on machines still in service.

Engine and drivetrain

Power comes from a Cat D342 turbocharged diesel rated up to about 224 kW (300 hp) flywheel power, up from roughly 201 kW (270 hp) on the preceding 583H. Drive runs through a planetary power-shift transmission with 3 forward/3 reverse ranges; the 583K also adopted a combined steering-and-brake control from the D8K dozer, though many machines in the field have since been converted back to separate steering and brake controls.

Guarding and structural protection

Pipelayers in this weight class commonly add heavier-gauge sheet-metal side access panels and a rear guard for jobsite protection. Exact guarding fitted to a given 583K depends on configuration and production era - confirm with the machine's spec plate or a dealer.

Mounting / coupler system

The pipelaying boom, counterweight, and winch assembly are structurally mounted to the tractor frame as a purpose-built package, not attached through a quick-coupler like excavator work tools. There is no factory quick-attach work-tool interface on this model; boom or counterweight changes are shop-level structural jobs.

All 583K assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 583K. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Air Inlet And Exhaust System
6n5971 Air Cleaner Group-Side View
6n5971 Air Cleaner Group-Rear View
6n5970 Air Lines Group
6n0171 Exhaust Manifold Group
6n0170 Inlet Manifold Group
6n0868 Jacket Water Heater Group-Type 1
6n0868 Jacket Water Heater Group-Type 2
6n5969 Muffler Group
8n5511 Turbocharger Cartridge Group*R
8n5510 Turbocharger Group*R
8n5931 Turbocharger Group
6n7203 Turbocharger Group (3s2341 N/S)*R
Basic Engine
6n1860 Cylinder Block Cover Group
6N***60Cover Group-Cylinder Block; Cylinder Block Cover Group1
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Crankshaft Bearing Replacements
4S***96Bearing Assembly Intermediate6
4S***97Bearing Assembly Center1
4S***98Variable Timing Drive Assembly; Bearing Assembly Intermediate6
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6n5400 Cylinder Block Assembly
8n4312 Cylinder Block Assembly
7n3035 Cylinder Block Assembly
6n5648 Cylinder Block Assembly
5n8213 Cylinder Block Group
7n3334 Cylinder Block Group
6n1859 Cylinder Block Group
6N***59Cylinder Block Group; Cylinder Block Group1
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7n1769 Cylinder Block Group
5n8214 Cylinder Block Assembly
7n3803 Cylinder Block Group-Field Installation
1A***69Bolt (R.H. Side Flywheel Housing)12
1D***99Bolt Plate To Head26
1D***00Bolt (.625" Dia.-7.50" Long)2
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1m0626 Rear Power Take-Off Group-Part 1
1M***26Power Take-Off Group; Power Take-Off Group1
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1m0626 Rear Power Take-Off Group-Part 2
1M***26Power Take-Off Group; Power Take-Off Group1
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4s7368 Engine Support Group
4S***68Support Group-Engine; Support Group1
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4h9649 Camshaft Group
4n6816 Connecting Rod And Piston Group-6 Required
4N***16Connecting Rod And Piston Group1
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7n1368 Connecting Rod And Piston Group-6 Required
7N***68Connecting Rod And Piston Group1
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4n5236 Crankshaft Group
4N***36Crankshaft Group; End-To L.H. Rod Assembly1
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7n0142 Crankshaft Seal Group-Front-Field Installation
7N***42Crankshaft Seal Group1
9J***10Sleeve1
9N***39Seal1
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8n6004 Cylinder Head Service Group-Field Installation For One Head*R
7n1966 Cylinder Head Assembly
8n6000 Cylinder Head Assembly-Field Installation
8n6734 Cylinder Head Assembly-Replaced By 8n6000 Shown On Page 18a
5n8501 Cylinder Head Assembly*R
7n3503 Cylinder Head Assembly
7n3336 Cylinder Head Group*R
4n9894 Cylinder Head Group
5n8522 Cylinder Head Group
7n1964 Cylinder Head Group
6n0010 Engine Support Fastener Group
6n0941 Fan Drive Group
9s1807 Flywheel Group
4n9874 Flywheel Housing Group
4n9878 Front Housing Cover Group
4n9876 Front Gear Housing Group
4n9877 Oil Pan Group
4n5235 Pulley And Damper Group
9h6248 Rear Power Take-Off Drive Group
9H***48Rear Power Take-Off Drive Group; Power Take-Off Drive Group1
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7n7624 Transmission Fastener Group
4n9893 Valve Mechanism Cover Group
4n9892 Valve Mechanism Group
5h4204 Water Pump Idler Gear Group
Chassis And Undercarriage
1m1969 Crankcase Guard Group
8h5476 Drawbar Group
6p3492 Fender Group-Part 1
6p3492 Fender Group-Part 2
6p3493 Floorplate Group
3p7141 Frame And Case Group
9h7397 Track Roller Frame Group
8h8883 Front Bumper Group
6p3490 Hood And Dash Group
3p7672 Front Idler Group-Part 1
3p7672 Front Idler Group-Part 1 Of 2
3p7672 Front Idler Group-Part 2 Of 2
3p7672 Front Idler Group-Part 2
3p7465 Radiator Guard Group
7m5202 Track Carrier Roller Group-4 Required
1m2154 Main Frame Support Group
8s0400 Track Group-711 Mm (28 In.) Grouser Shoe-2 Required
8S***00Track Group-711 mm (28 In.) Grouser Shoe1
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8s0399 Track Group-762 Mm (30 In.) Grouser Shoe-2 Required-Type 2
8S***99Track Group-762 mm (30 In.) Grouser Shoe1
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8s0399 Track Group-762 Mm (30 In.) Grouser Shoe-2 Required-Type 1
8S***99Track Group-762 mm (30 In.) Grouser Shoe1
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9h2060 Track Roller Frame Guard Group
7s7365 Brake Band Assembly
9s5327 Battery Box Group
2h9476 Front Pull Hook Group
3b3460 Tool Box Group
7s9041 Track Roller Group-Single Flange-6 Required
6p4897 Track Roller Group-Single Flange-6 Required
7g8809 Track Roller Group-Double Flange-8 Required-Field Installation
7s9042 Track Roller Group-Double Flange-8 Required
6p4898 Track Roller Group-Double Flange-8 Required
7g8810 Track Roller Group-Single Flange-6 Required-Field Installation
Cooling System
5n7871 Water Aftercooler Group-Field Installation-Type 2
5n7871 Water Aftercooler Group-Field Installation-Type 1
6n1587 Aftercooler Water Lines Group-Field Installation
2s6096 Protection Cover Group-Radiator Cap
2S***96Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group-- Radiator Cap1
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1n3599 Protection Cover Group-Radiator Cap
1N***99Cover Group-Protection; Radiator Cap Protection Cover Group1
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6n2676 Engine Oil Cooler Group
6N***76Engine Oil Cooler Group; Oil Cooler Group1
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6n0942 Reversible Fan Group
6n0942 Fan Gp-Reversible
5n8537 Watercooled Turbocharger Housing Lines Group
5N***37Lines Group-Water; Watercooled Turbocharger Lines Group1
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6n0943 Radiator Core Protection Grid Group
6N***43Radiator Core Protection Grid Group1
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6n0956 Radiator Group-Side View
6n0956 Radiator Group-Rear View
3p2705 Torque Converter Cooler Lines Group
6n0335 Cooler Gp-Transmission Oil
5n7873 Water Aftercooler Group-Field Installation
6n1586 Water Aftercooler Group-Field Installation
6n0338 Water Lines Group-Part 1
6n0338 Water Lines Group-Part 2
6n6015 Water Pump Group*R
8n5797 Water Cooled Turbocharger Housing Lines Group
8N***97Watercooled Turbocharger Housing Lines Group1
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Engine Arrangement
7n3492 Engine Arrangement-Part 1
1M***26Power Take-Off Group; Power Take-Off Group1
2P***43Filler & Breather Group; Breather And Filler Group1
2P***52Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick); Oil Level Gauge Group1
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7n3492 Engine Arrangement-Part 2
2P***13Service Meter Group; Service Meter Group1
2P***36Control Group-Governor; Governor Control Group1
2P***60Fuel Injection Lines Group1
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4n7664 Engine Arrangement-Part 1
1M***26Power Take-Off Group; Power Take-Off Group1
2P***43Filler & Breather Group; Breather And Filler Group1
2P***52Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick); Oil Level Gauge Group1
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4n7664 Engine Arrangement-Part 2
2P***13Service Meter Group; Service Meter Group1
2P***50Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Group1
2P***36Control Group-Governor; Governor Control Group1
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Fuel System And Governor
2p2436 Governor Control Group-Engine Area
2P***36Control Group-Governor; Governor Control Group1
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3p7673 Fuel Lines Group
3p7675 Fuel Tank Group
1m7997 Governor Control Group-Chassis Area
1M***97Governor Control Group-Chassis Area1
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2p1213 Service Meter Group
2P***13Service Meter Group; Service Meter Group1
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2p5171 Accessory Drive Group
2P***71Accessory Drive Group; Governor & Fuel Injection Pump Group1
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9g8847 Protection Cap Group-Fuel Tank
9G***47Cap Group-Protection; Fuel Tank Protection Cap Group1
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1p8678 Protection Cover Group-Fuel Tank Cap
1P***78Cap Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group Fuel Tank Cap1
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8p0456 Protection Cap Group-Fuel Tank-Replaced By 9g8847
8n9527 Fuel Heater Changeover Group-Field Installation
8n6158 Governor Cover Group
2p5144 Fuel Filter Group
2p2660 Fuel Injection Valves And Lines Group
1p9988 Fuel Injection Pump Group
1p2297 Fuel Priming Pump Assembly
6n9740 Fuel Priming Pump Barrel Assembly-Field Installation
6N***40Fuel Priming Pump Barrel Assembly1
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2p5208 Fuel Priming Pump Group
8s5095 Fuel Ratio Control Group
7n0849 Fuel Ratio Control Group
4n4880 Fuel Transfer Pump Group (2p5194 N/S)-Type 1
4n4880 Transfer Fuel Group (2p5194 N/S)
4n4880 Fuel Transfer Pump Group (2p5194 N/S)-Type 2
2p1650 Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Group
2P***50Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Group1
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7n1369 Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Group
7N***69Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Group1
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2p1499 Governor Group-Side View-Type 1
2p1499 Governor Group-End View-Type 1
2p1499 Governor Group-End View-Part 2 Of 2-Type 2
2p1499 Governor Group-Side View-Part 1 Of 2-Type 2
6n5969 Muffler Group
8s7608 Primary Fuel Filter Group
7n1377 Torque Control Group
7n1377 Torque Control Group-Type 1
7n1377 Torque Control Group-Type 2
6n4402 Torque Control Group
Gauges And Accessories
6p3491 Gauge Group
6p3491 Gauge Group-Part 1
6p3491 Gauge Group-Part 1 Of 2
6p3491 Gauge Group-Part 2 Of 2
6p3491 Gauge Group-Part 1 0f 2
6p3491 Gauge Group-Part 2
9g9801 Vandalism Guard Group-Instrument Panel
3s0729 Seat Cushion And Frame Group
3s0729 Seat Cushion & Frame Group-Adjusting
5s0045 Seat Assembly
9h7383 Track Roller Guard Group
2p7111 Vandalism Guard Group-Instrument Panel
2P***11Instrument Panel Protection Cover Group1
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7n8292 Fuse Holder, Fuse And Wire Kit-Field Installation
3p4615 Electric Hour Meter Group
Lubrication System
2p2743 Breather And Oil Filler Group
2P***43Filler & Breather Group; Breather And Filler Group1
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2s8877 Oil Filter Assembly
6n1861 Oil Filter Group
6N***61Filter Group-Oil; Oil Filter Group1
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2p6552 Oil Level Gauge Group
2P***52Gauge Group-Oil Level (Dipstick); Oil Level Gauge Group1
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6n1862 Oil Lines Group-Part 3 Of 3
6N***62Lines Group-Oil; Oil Lines Group1
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6n1862 Oil Lines Group-Part 1 Of 3
6N***62Lines Group-Oil; Oil Lines Group1
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6n1862 Oil Lines Group-Part 2 Of 3
6N***62Lines Group-Oil; Oil Lines Group1
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2s3025 Protection Cover Group-Oil Filler Cap
2S***25Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group1
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6n2412 Oil Pump Drive Group
6n2463 Oil Pump Group
1p9340 Oil Pump Group (3h3093 N/S)
7n4170 Oil Pump Group
Pipelayer Controls And Components
9h0283 Sheave Block Group
2k2375 Boom Group-20 Foot
9h3305 Counterweight Group-24.330 Lbs.
9H***05Counterweight Group-24.330 Lbs.1
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8h6820 Pipelayer Frame Group
5j6730 Hydraulic Control And Mounting Group
5J***30Hydraulic Control And Mounting Group1
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1m8757 Hydraulic Lines Group
5j4873 Hydraulic Pump Lines Group
4m4646 Power Take-Off Clutch Control Group
4M***46Power Take-Off Clutch Control Group1
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9g9288 Protection Cover Group-Hydraulic Tank Cap
9G***88Protection Cover Group; -Hydraulic Tank-Steering Tank Fill Cap-Hydraulic Tank Fill Cap1
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9h0284 Winch Drum Shaft Group
9h0380 Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement-Boom Line
9H***80Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement-Boom Line1
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2k3083 Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement-Load Line
2K***83Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement-Load Line1
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1m0310 Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group-Side View
1M***10Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group1
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1m0310 Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group-Top View
1M***10Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group1
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8m1393 Winch Transmission Control Group
8M***93Winch Transmission Control Group1
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1m0315 Winch Transmission Reverse Lock Control Group
1M***15Winch Transmission Reverse Lock Control Group1
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2k5540 Winch Base Group
2k3810 Winch Brake Group
3g1269 Cartridge Group*R
1m0522 Winch Clutch And Drive Group-Rear View
1m0522 Winch Clutch And Drive Group-Top View
7s7962 Power Take-Off Clutch Assembly
5d1910 Protection Cover Group-Hydraulic Tank Cap
5D***10Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group Hydraulic Tank Cap1
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1m1580 Cylinder Group-2 Required-Type 2
1m1580 Cylinder Group-2 Required-Type 1
2k7062 Drive Shaft Group
2k7061 Drive Shaft Assembly
3g6468 Hydraulic Filter Group
7j0680 Hydraulic Oil Filter Group
2k5956 Winch Guard Group
2k2784 Drive Hanger Group
9j5047 Vane Pump And Mounting Group (6j0806 N/S)
2j9921 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group
2k1636 Winch Transmission Group-Part 1
2k1636 Winch Transmission Group-Part 2
3j0189 Control Valve Group
3j1050 Relief Valve Group
Power Train-Power Transmission Unit
6p9559 Final Drive Group-Lower Half
6p9559 Final Drive Group-Upper Half
Power Train
1p4108 Selector Valve Group
9s9866 Drive Shaft Group
2s9392 Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System
2S***92Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System1
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2s9392 Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System-Part 2 Of 4
2S***92Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System1
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2s9392 Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System-Part 4 Of 4
2S***92Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System1
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2s9392 Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System-Part 3 Of 4
2S***92Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System1
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2s9392 Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System-Part 1 Of 4
2S***92Transmission And Steering Clutch Lubrication System1
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3p6559 Transmission Arrangement
3p6558 Transmission Case And Covers Group
3P***58Transmission Case And Covers Group1
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4m1128 Transmission Control Group-Side View
4m1128 Transmission Control Group-Side View-Part 3 Of 3
4m1128 Transmission Control Group-Top View-Part 1 Of 3
4m1128 Transmission Control Group-Top View
4m1128 Transmission Control Group-Side View-Part 2 Of 3
4m1788 Transmission Hydraulic Control Group
4M***88Transmission Hydraulic Control Group1
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3p4243 Transmission Filter Group
3p1690 Transfer Gear Group
1t0670 Hydraulic Torque Converter Assembly
1T***70Hydraulic Torque Converter Assembly1
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8h3825 Final Drive Lubrication System
3p1689 Planetary Transmission Group-Part 1 Of 3
3p1689 Planetary Transmission Group-Part 2 Of 3
3p1689 Planetary Transmission Group-Part 3 Of 3
2p9239 Gear Pump Group
7s7400 Scavenge And Circulating Pump Group
7S***00Pump Group-Scavenge & Circulating1
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3p4405 Transmission Gear Pump Group
9m8669 Magnetic Screen Group
9M***69Screen Group-Magnetic; -Differential Lock1
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9p0189 Torque Converter Group-Part 2
9p0189 Torque Converter Group-Part 1
9g6773 Transfer Gear Group
3p7664 Relief Valve Group-Converter Charging
1p4145 Pressure Control Valve Group
6p3554 Priority Valve Group
3p7665 Relief Valve Group
8m2502 Selector Valve And Housing Group
Service Equipment And Supplies
Name Plates And Transfers
1P***78Film--Cat; Film -Cat1
2P***31Film--Cat On Each Side Of Radiator Guard; Film--Cat On Each Side--Above Drum Shaft1
3N***90Plate Serial Number; On R.H. Rear Bank Of Cylinder Block As Viewed From Rear Of Engine1
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8f9866 Grease Gun Group
9s7977 Hand Tool Group
Starting And Electrical System
9p1043 Battery & Wiring Gp
9p1043 Battery And Wiring Gp
9p1043 Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt-Part 3 Of 3
9p1043 Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt-Part 1 Of 3
9p1043 Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt-Part 2 Of 3
6p3763 Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt-Part 1
6P***63Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt1
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6p3763 Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt-Part 2
6P***63Battery And Wiring Group-24 Volt1
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1p3074 Emergency Starting Receptacle Group
1P***74Emergency Starting Receptacle Group1
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9p1042 Wiring Harness Assembly
8s8608 Wiring Harness Assembly
8s8606 Lighting Group-24 Volt-Part 2
8s8606 Lighting Group-24 Volt-Part 1
1p7035 Emergency Starting Receptacle Group
1P***35Receptacle Group-Auxiliary Start1
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3t4421 Solenoid Assembly
6p0756 Wiring Harness Assembly
8n1057 Charging Alternator Group-24 Volt, 50 Ampere
4n5616 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 50 Ampere
6n9294 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 2*R
6N***94Alternator Group; (24-Volt, 35-Ampere)1
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2p1204 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 19 Ampere
6n9294 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 1*R
6N***94Alternator Group; (24-Volt, 35-Ampere)1
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7n9720 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Type 2
7N***20Alternator Group; Alternator Group (Robert Bosch)1
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7n9720 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Type 1
7N***20Alternator Group; Alternator Group (Robert Bosch)1
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6n9294 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere*R
3T***52Alternator Group-Charging1
6N***94Alternator Group; (24-Volt, 35-Ampere)1
7N***20Alternator Group; Alternator Group (Robert Bosch)1
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4n5233 Alternator Group-24 Volt-35 Ampere
4N***33Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group1
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9g8255 Alternator Group-Delco-Remy-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 1 Of 2
5s9088 Alternator Assembly-24 Volt, 50 Ampere-Part 2-Type 1*R
9g8255 Alternator Group-Delco-Remy-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 2 Of 2
4n5233 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 19 Ampere
4N***33Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group1
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5s9088 Alternator Assembly-24 Volt, 50 Ampere-Part 2-Type 2*R
5s9088 Alternator Assembly-24 Volt, 50 Ampere-Part 1-Type 1*R
4n5233 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere
4N***33Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group1
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3t6352 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 1 0f 2
5s9088 Alternator Assembly-24 Volt, 50 Ampere-Type 3*R
3T***88Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group Delco-Remy 24 Volt, 50 Ampere1
5S***88Alternator Group-Charging1
9G***38Alternator Group-Charging1
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9g4574 Alternator Group-Nippondenso
9G***74Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group (Nippondenso)1
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9g9538 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 50 Ampere
3t1888 Alternator Group-Delco-Remy-24 Volt, 50 Ampere
3T***88Alternator Group-Charging; Alternator Group Delco-Remy 24 Volt, 50 Ampere1
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5s9088 Alternator Assembly-24 Volt, 50 Ampere-Part 1-Type 2*R
3t6352 Alternator Group-24 Volt, 35 Ampere-Part 2 Of 2
3s4463 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt
3S***63Electric Starting Motor Group; Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt1
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7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 3 Of 3
7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 1 Of 3
7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 2 Of 3
3s5160 Glow Plug And Wiring Group
3S***60Glow Plug And Wiring Group; Glow Plug Group1
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3s5160 Glow Plug Group
3S***60Glow Plug And Wiring Group; Glow Plug Group1
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7n2054 Glow Plug Wiring Group
1m1882 Flood Lamp Assembly
9h6338 Dash Lamp Assembly
6p6916 Emergency Starting Receptacle Group
1p9182 Starting Motor Group-Part 1
1p9182 Starting Motor Group-Part 2
3t2781 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 1 Of 3*R
3t2781 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 3 Of 3*R
3t2781 Electric Starting Motor Group-24 Volt-Part 2 Of 3*R
7n0718 Disconnect Switch Assembly
7N***18Switch As-Disconnect; -Battery-Ground Level1
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6n5123 Solenoid Switch Assembly
7n4160 Switch Gp-Heat Start
Steering Clutches And Brakes
3p7133 Steering Clutch Control Group
3p7135 Brake Hydraulic Mechanism Group-L.H.-Part 3 Of 3
3p7135 Brake Hydraulic Mechanism Group-L.H.-Part 1
3p7135 Brake Hydraulic Mechanism Group-R.H.-Part 2 Of 3
3p7135 Brake Hydraulic Mechanism Group-R.H.-Part 2
3p7135 Brake Hydraulic Mechanism Group-L.H.-Part 1 Of 3
3p7134 Steering Brake Group-Side View
3p7134 Steering Brake Group-Top View
3p2280 Steering Clutch Group
8p8120 Segmented Sprocket Group
6p4132 Segmented Sprocket Group
8p8119 Segmented Sprocket Group-Field Installation
8p7813 Control Valve Group
8p7814 Control Valve Group

583K serial number reference

The PIN/serial plate on a 583K sits on the tractor frame in the same spot as on the D8K tractor it is built from, forward of the operator's platform. Read the first three characters as the prefix identifying the production series/model, and the digits after that as the individual unit's sequence number in that series. On the 583K the prefix stays constant across the whole production run, so the trailing number alone tells you roughly how early or late a given machine was built and which running changes it should already have.

PrefixIdentifies
78V583K Pipelayer, Power Shift, D8K-based undercarriage

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the Caterpillar 583K pipelayer use?

The 583K runs the Caterpillar D342T, a mechanically governed, turbocharged inline six-cylinder diesel of about 20.4 L displacement rated at roughly 224 kW (300 hp) flywheel. It uses a jerk-pump fuel system with no electronic controls or fault codes, unlike the 3406C- and C15-powered 583R and 583T that replaced it.

What is the operating weight of the Caterpillar 583K?

Operating weight runs about 41,000-41,700 kg (90,300-92,000 lb), varying with boom length, counterweight, and undercarriage gauge fitted at the factory. Verify the exact figure against the specific serial number and configuration.

What replaced the Caterpillar 583K pipelayer?

Caterpillar replaced the mechanical 583K with the 583R, which switched to the Cat 3406C DITA diesel and fully hydraulic load-line and boom winches. The 583R was later succeeded by the ACERT-era 583T, powered by the Cat C15 with electronic ADEM engine controls; both later machines dropped the K's cable-and-clutch winch design.

What 583K owners discuss

What engine powers the 583K, and how does it behave on a cold start?
The 583K runs Cat's D342T, a mechanically governed turbocharged inline-six rated around 224 kW (300 hp) at the flywheel. This generation predates electronic engine management: fuel delivery is set by the mechanical governor and injection pump, not an ECM. A rough, stumbling idle for the first minute or two after a cold start is normal on these older mechanical sixes and settles out once oil and coolant come up to temperature. A stumble that does not clear after warm-up points to the fuel system, not worn-out injectors.
What usually causes a persistent misfire or uneven cylinder temps on an older 583K?
On machines that sat unused for long stretches, a contaminated fuel system is the most common root cause, not worn injectors. Owners chasing a stubborn misfire have found the fuel primer pump and filter bowl loaded with rust scale, in one case with the filter screen missing entirely, feeding dirty fuel straight into the injection pump. Before swapping nozzles, pull and inspect the primer pump, filter bowl, and screen, and run fresh filters. That clears most cold-natured misfires on these mechanical engines. If a fault traces back into the injection pump or governor linkage itself, have your dealer verify the repair, since a sticking fuel rack can affect engine shutdown.
Is the 583K's steering and brake control setup a known issue?
Yes, it is the drivetrain change owners bring up most. The K model adopted a combined steering-and-brake control carried over from the D8K, replacing the separate steering-clutch and brake levers used on the 583H and earlier machines. It was not well received in the field, and a large share of working 583Ks have since been converted back to the older separate-lever arrangement. When shopping a used unit, confirm which control setup is actually fitted, since both configurations exist today and it changes how the machine drives and stops. Have your dealer verify the steering and brake mechanism condition before you put the machine to work.
What undercarriage wear pattern is typical on a 583K sideboom?
Because the boom hangs permanently off one side with a counterweight on the opposite side, load on the undercarriage is never centered the way it is on a straight dozer. The boom side sees more repeated ground-contact loading during pick-and-carry work and tends to wear its sprocket, track, and rollers faster than the counterweight side. Inspect remaining percentage on rails, rollers, idlers, and pads on each side separately rather than averaging the two, and check the track frame and sway bar on the boom side for scarring from hard-surface contact.
What wears on the winch drawworks and rigging?
Boom and load drawworks run off engine-driven cable winches with clutch packs and band brakes holding position, not the hydraulic winch motors used on later pipelayer generations. Watch for glazed or worn band-brake lining, which shows up as creeping or loss of smooth hold under load, plus grooved or unevenly worn sheaves and wire rope with flattened strands, kinks, or broken wires. Drawworks oil condition and level matter for clutch-pack life, since the gear oil in the winch compartment is what keeps the packs cooled and lubricated on repeated pick-and-set cycles. Because this is lifting and rigging gear, have your dealer or a qualified rigging inspector verify brake holding capacity and wire rope condition before working pipe with it.
Are there notable electrical or sensor issues on the 583K?
Not in the sense of sensor or ECM faults. This generation predates electronic engine management entirely, so there is no fault-code diagnostics to fall back on. Reported electrical trouble is basic starting and charging system work: weak or sulfated batteries that mimic an alternator fault, corroded connections at the alternator B+ and ground terminals causing a false bad-alternator diagnosis, and age-related wiring and gauge deterioration. Standard practice is to load-test the batteries and check connections before condemning the alternator. Later hydraulic and electronically-managed pipelayer generations have their own separate sensor systems that do not apply to the K.
What should I check when buying a used 583K?
Work through it system by system. Undercarriage: percentage remaining on each side separately, tightness of track pads and bolts, and track frame or sway bar scarring on the boom side. Boom: walk the full length looking for cracks, bends, dents, or repair welds. Drawworks and rigging: wire rope condition, sheave groove wear, and band-brake holding under load. Steering and brake: confirm whether the machine still has the original combined D8K-style control or has been converted back to separate levers, since this varies machine to machine. Engine: cold-start it and watch whether the stumble clears within a minute or persists, since a persistent stumble means the fuel system needs attention; also check the engine compartment for hydraulic wet spots, chafed wiring, and radiator condition. Fuel system: if the machine sat idle a long time, pull the primer pump and filter bowl to check for rust contamination before trusting the fuel delivery. Steering, braking, and the lifting rigging are all safety-critical on this machine, so have your dealer verify boom structural condition and the steering/brake mechanism before putting it into service.

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

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