Caterpillar 594H
Caterpillarpipelayer(no series)

Caterpillar 594H

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 594H is a heavy-duty sideboom pipelayer designed for high-capacity pipe handling and installation. Built within the 1975–1986 production era, this machine features a Caterpillar D353 engine providing approximately 306 kW (416 HP) of power. The configuration typically includes an extendable counterweight system utilizing 17 removable leaves, each weighing 600 kg (1,330 lb), to manage heavy loads. It is engineered with an elevated sprocket design for stability and a boom capable of reaching significant heights.

Across its production generations, the 594H maintained a reputation for durability through robust chassis construction and specialized lifting capabilities. In today's used equipment market, the 594H remains a critical asset due to its high lift capacity—reaching up to 90,700 kg (200,000 lb)—and the availability of rebuildable components. Its presence in the secondary market is driven by the ability to perform frame-up rebuilds and wet deck conversions, making it a cost-effective alternative to much newer, more expensive pipeline machines.

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 594H specifications

Engine

ModelD353TA
Net Power410 hp (306 kW)

Weights

Operating Weight58,800 kg (129,630 lb) to 56,061.5 kg (123,600 lb)
Counterweight weight (extendable)Up to 12,560 kg (27,680 lb)

Dimensions

Overall Length18 ft (5.49 m) to 19 ft 6 in (0.15 m)
Width Over Tracks2.29 m (7.5 ft) to 0.05 m (15 ft 2 in)
Height To Top Of Suspended Cab3.11 m (10.2 ft) to 0.25 m (12 ft 10 in)
Boom Length7.32 m (24 ft) to 8,530 mm (27.99 ft)

Performance

Max Lift Capacity90,700 kg (200,000 lb)
Pump Flow Capacity75.6 gpm (286.18 lpm)
Relief Valve Pressure4,640 psi (32,000 kPa)

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel Tank Capacity760 L (200.75 gal)
Hydraulic System Fluid Capacity31.8 gal (120.37 L)

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

594H fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter)Not specifiedCat DEO (SAE 15W-40 or SAE 10W-30 preferred for temperatures above -18°C/0°F and below 40°C/104°F)
Fuel tank760 l (200.75 US gal)Diesel
Hydraulic system and tankNot specifiedCat HYDO Advanced (SAE 10W for cold to moderate temperatures; SAE 30W for moderate to hot temperatures)
GreaseNot specifiedVaries by application: Cat Multipurpose Grease (low-load/low-speed); Cat Advanced 3Moly Grease (medium-load/medium-speed); Cat Ultra 5Moly Grease (high-load/high-speed)

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

Caterpillar 594H maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check engine oil level and condition
  • Inspect hydraulic fluid level via sight glass
  • Verify coolant level and cap integrity
  • Drain water from fuel/water separator
  • Monitor air filter restriction indicator
  • Inspect tracks for tension and shoe condition
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and filter
  • Grease all boom, stick, and bucket pivot points
  • Drain fuel/water separator
  • Perform visual inspection of belts and hoses
  • Check air filter primary element
Every 500 h
  • Replace fuel filters
  • Replace hydraulic return filter
  • Perform battery service and terminal inspection
  • Conduct detailed undercarriage inspection
  • Test coolant additive/SCA levels
Every 1,000 h
  • Perform hydraulic oil sample analysis (S.O.S)
  • Service final drive oil
  • Inspect turbocharger for wear or leaks
  • Check torque on ROPS bolts
  • Measure undercarriage component wear
Every 2,000 h
  • Change hydraulic system oil
  • Perform coolant flush and replacement
  • Service transmission/torque converter oil
  • Conduct comprehensive structural inspection of boom and welds
  • Evaluate major machine components

Servicing the 594H beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Utilize Caterpillar S.O.S Services to monitor engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant. Analyze samples for wear metals like iron or copper, and contaminants such as silicon (dirt) or sodium (coolant). For the D353 engine, check for fuel dilution and soot loading. Regular hydraulic oil analysis is vital to detect particle counts and oxidation levels before they cause pump or valve failure.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Monitor hydraulic hoses for cracks, abrasion, or leaks to prevent catastrophic pressure loss. Inspect track pads and pins regularly; worn components can lead to expensive undercarriage rebuild. If milky oil appears on the dipstick, investigate immediate coolant contamination via head gasket failure. Ensure all hydraulic cylinders and winch components are checked for seal integrity to maintain lifting precision.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Focus on structural inspections of boom welds and attachment points during major service intervals. When rebuilding, evaluate the condition of the single-stage torque converter and planetary gear set. The 594H is designed for component replacement; consider full hydraulic system flushes and transmission oil changes during mid-life rebuild to restore factory-spec performance and prevent internal gear wear.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

In high-dust or quarry environments, check air filters daily and clean radiator/oil cooler fins frequently. For extreme cold, utilize Caterpillar Arctic Platinum Grease and appropriate cold-weather engine oils. In hot climates, prioritize hydraulic oil drain intervals and monitor for overheating. Always inspect the undercarriage for debris buildup after operation in muddy or heavy clay conditions.

594H fault codes & troubleshooting

CodeMeaningLikely causeWhat to do
E360Engine Coolant Temperature — HighLow coolant level, failed thermostat, or water pump issueDiagnose cooling system; do not operate until resolved
E361Engine Coolant Temperature — Very High (Shutdown)Severe cooling system failurePerform full cooling system diagnosis; engine shutdown required
110-0Engine Coolant Temp — Above NormalLow coolant level or thermostat failureInspect cooling system, refill coolant, and test thermostat
110-3Engine Coolant Temp Sensor — Voltage HighOpen circuit or sensor failureCheck wiring and replace sensor if confirmed faulty
174-3Engine Fuel Temperature — Voltage Above NormalOpen circuit in sensor wiringInspect harness and replace sensor if necessary
190-8Engine Speed — Abnormal FrequencySpeed sensor air gap, sensor failure, or tone ring damageCheck sensor gap and test speed sensor/tone ring
41-38-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Above NormalShort to power on 8V reference circuitInspect sensors sharing the 8V supply and isolate fault
41-48-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Below NormalShort to ground on 8V reference circuitDisconnect sensors one at a time to locate short
2348-9SAE J1939 Data Link #2 — Abnormal Update RateCAN bus wiring damage or termination faultCheck CAN wiring and measure termination resistance

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

594H attachments & work tools

Boom and Lifting Systems

Available in extra-long configurations. Standard boom lengths include 24' (7.32 m) or 8,530 mm.

Counterweight Systems

Features removable counterweight leaves. Configuration includes 17 leaves at 600 kg (1,330 lb) each for a total extendable weight of 12,560 kg (27,680 lb).

Winches and Hydraulics

Equipped with Braden-Paccar winches utilizing 2-speed Bosch Rexroth hydraulic motors. Systems may feature Kawasaki hydraulic components.

Drive and Control Configurations

Available with combined steer and brake functionality. Some units feature single-lever control for three forward and three reverse speeds.

Guard and Safety Options

Customizations may include open ROPS configurations. Machine utilizes an elevated sprocket design for increased stability.

All 594H assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 594H. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

59 Winch
8p3704 Cable Guide And Case Group--Top View
6p6735 Winch Control Group--Side View - Part 1 Of 2
6p6735 Winch Control Group--Front View - Part 2 Of 2
2p5830 Oil Filter Group
6p6736 Pump Lines Group
6P***36Lines Group-Pump; Pump Lines Group1
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Name Plates And Films
2P***31Film--Cat On Each Side Of Radiator Guard; Film--Cat On Each Side--Above Drum Shaft2
2P***55Plate--Serial Number On L.H. Side Of Winch--Forward Edge1
2P***77Film--Warning On Console--Near Control Lever1
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1p2187 Gear Pump Group--Basic
2p2110 Gear Pump Group
2P***10Pump Group-Gear; Gear Pump Group1
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1p3190 Magnetic Screen Group
2p3640 Valve Group
1p7528 Control Valve Group
1P***28Valve Group-Control; Selector & Pressure Control Valve Group.1
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8p1392 Pressure Control Valve Group
3p4121 Selector Valve Group
Winch Arrangements
1P***04Winch Drive Group1
1P***28Valve Group-Control; Selector & Pressure Control Valve Group.1
1P***04Winch Arrangement1
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1p6604 Winch Drive Group
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 1 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 2 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 4 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 5 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 6 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 3 Of 7
1p8909 Winch Group--Part 7 Of 7
1p9205 Winch Mounting Group
Basic Engine
Belt Tightener
Camshaft
Connecting Rod And Piston--6 Required
Crankshaft
Crankshaft Bearing Replacements
6N***47Bearing--Center1
6N***48Bearing--Center1
6N***49Bearing--Intermediate4
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Cylinder Block
7n1497 Cylinder Block Assembly
7N***97Cylinder Block As; Cylinder Block Assembly1
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Cylinder Block Cover
Cylinder Head
Damper
Engine Mounting Hardware
1D***39Bolt- Rear Support To Frame4
2B***94Dowel Rear Bracket Assembly To Frame; Dowel-Rear Bracket Assembly To Frame2
2S***15Washer 4.78 mm(.188 In.) Thick; Washer- Front Support To Frame4
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Engine Support
Fan Belt Drive
Flywheel
Flywheel Housing
Front Housing--Timing Gear
Oil Pan
Power Take-Off--Part 1 Of 2
Power Take-Off--Part 2 Of 2
Power Take-Off Drive--Rear
Rear Gear--Camshaft And Power Take-Off
Valve Mechanism
Valve Mechanism Cover
Chassis And Undercarriage
1z8139 Radiator Guard And Shutter Group
1Z***39Radiator Guard And Shutter Group1
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Battery Box
Bumper
3p8604 Frame And Case Assembly
Crankcase Guard
Fenders--Part 2 Of 2
Fenders--Part 1 Of 2
Frame And Case
Front Idler--Part 2 Of 2
Front Idler--Part 1 Of 2
Hood And Dash--Part 2 Of 2
Hood And Dash--Part 1 Of 2
5s8658 Front Pull Hook Group
Main Frame Support
Track Carrier Roller--4 Required
8s1747 Track Group--30" Grouser Shoe--Extreme Service--2 Required
Track Roller--Double Flange--8 Required
Track Roller Frame
Track Roller Frame Guard
Track Roller Guard
Cooling System
7n1970 Engine Oil Cooler Group
7n1968 Jacket Water Heater Group
7n1969 Transmission Oil Cooler Group
2s6096 Radiator Cap Group
2S***96Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group-- Radiator Cap1
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6n987 Radiator Core Protection Grid Group
6n6424 Water Pump Group
Radiator--Side View Part 2 Of 2
Radiator--Rear View-Part 1 Of 2
Reversible Fan And Guard
Torque Converter Cooler Lines
Water Lines--Part 1 Of 2
Water Lines--Part 2 Of 2
Fuel System And Governor
Accessory Drive
Aftercooler
8p456 Fuel Tank Cap Group
8h4681 Primary Fuel Filter Group
8H***81Filter Group-Primary Fuel; Primary Fuel Filter Group1
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Fuel Filter
Fuel Injection Pump
Fuel Injection Valves And Lines
Fuel Oil Lines
Fuel Ratio Control
Fuel Tank
Fuel Transfer Pump
Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Drive--Part 2 Of 2
Governor And Fuel Injection Pump Drive--Part 1 Of 2
Governor Control--Engine Parts--Part 1 Of 2
Governor Control--Engine Parts--Part 2 Of 2
Governor Control--Chassis Area
4n5136 Governor Group--Part 1 Of 3
4n5136 Governor Group--Part 3 Of 3
4n5136 Governor Group--Part 2 Of 3
Governor Torque Spring
Primary Fuel Filter And Lines
8s2706 Fuel Priming Pump Group
6n1813 Fuel Transfer Pump Group
Gauges And Accessories
Gauges--Part 1 Of 2
Gauges--Part 2 Of 2
8f9866 Grease Gun
Instrument Panel Protection Cover
5s45 Seat Assembly
9s5310 Seat Cushion And Frame Group
1p1037 Tool Box Group
9s7977 Hand Tool Group
Intake And Exhaust System
Aftercooler Water Lines
Air Cleaner
Air Lines
Exhaust Manifold
Inlet Manifold
Muffler
Turbocharger
7n1758 Basic Turbocharger Group
Turbocharger Oil Lines
Turbocharger Shield
Lubrication System
Breather And Oil Filler
2s3025 Protection Cover Group--Oil Filler Cap
2S***25Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group1
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Engine Oil Lines--Part 1 Of 2
Engine Oil Lines--Part 2 Of 2
Oil Filter
Oil Level Gauge
Oil Pump Drive
9m1068 Oil Pump Group
6n2450 Oil Pump Group
Pipelayer Controls And Components
9h284 Winch Drum Shaft Group
4s9870 Winch Base Group
4s6649 Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement--Load Lines
4s6648 Sheave Block And Cable Arrangement--Boom Lines
7s7627 Boom Group--24 Foot
4s6640 Boom Group--28 Foot--With Cables
2k3810 Winch Brake Group
4s6659 Winch Clutch And Drive Group--Part 2 Of 2
4s6659 Winch Clutch And Drive Group--Part 1 Of 2
7s7962 Power Take-Off Clutch Assembly
4s6644 Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group--Side View - Part 1 Of 2
4s6644 Winch Clutch And Brake Control Group--Top View-Part 2 Of 2
4s6641 Power Take-Off Clutch Control Group
4s6643 Transmission Reverse Lock Control Group
4s6642 Winch Transmission Control Group
4s6645 Hydraulic Counterweight Group--25,050 Pounds
5d1910 Hydraulic Tank Cap Lock Group
5D***10Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group Hydraulic Tank Cap1
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6j416 Lift Cylinder Group--5" Bore X 22.97" Stroke--2 Required
2k7062 Drive Shaft Group
3g6468 Hydraulic Filter Group
4s6646 Pipelayer Frame Group--Part 1 Of 2
4s6646 Pipelayer Frame Group--Part 2 Of 2
5s4007 Reverse Gear Group
4s6647 Hydraulic Lines Group--Counterweight--Part 2 Of 2
4s6647 Hydraulic Lines Group--Counterweight--Part 1 Of 2
4s6636 Hydraulic Pump Lines Group
4s6637 Hydraulic Control Mounting Group
4S***37Mounting Group-Hydraulic Control1
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4s6638 Pump And Mounting Group
9j5046 Vane Pump Group
4s9882 Drive Shaft Group
Sheave Block
2j9921 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group
2k1636 Winch Transmission--Part 2 Of 2
2k1636 Winch Transmission--Part 1 Of 2
3j189 Control Valve Group
3j1050 Relief Valve Group
2k2956 Winch Guard Group
Power Train-Power Transmission Unit
Drive Shaft
3p4243 Transmission Filter Group
Final Drive--Upper Half--Part 1 Of 2
Final Drive--Lower Half--Part 2 Of 2
Final Drive Gear Pump--Single Section--2 Required
Final Drive Lubrication System
Gear Pump--Scavenge And Circulating--Double Section
Planetary Transmission--Part 3 Of 3
Planetary Transmission--Part 1 Of 3
Planetary Transmission--Part 2 Of 3
Power Train Oil Lines--Front View--Part 3 Of 3
Power Train Oil Lines--Side View--Part 2 Of 3
Power Train Oil Lines--Side View--Part 1 Of 3
2p9239 Gear Pump Group--Transmission Oil
7s7400 Scavenge And Circulating Pump Group
7S***00Pump Group-Scavenge & Circulating1
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9m8669 Magnetic Screen Group
9M***69Screen Group-Magnetic; -Differential Lock1
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Torque Converter--Part 2 Of 2
Torque Converter--Part 1 Of 2
1t611 Torque Converter Assembly
Torque Converter Relief Valve
Transfer Gears--As Viewed From R.H. Side Of Machine
3p4100 Transmission Arrangement
Transmission Case And Covers
Transmission Control Linkage--Top View--Part 1 Of 3
Transmission Control Linkage--Side View--Part 2 Of 3
Transmission Control Linkage--Side View--Part 3 Of 3
Transmission Hydraulic Control
1s8754 Universal Joint Assembly Part Of Drive Shaft
1p4145 Pressure Control Valve Group
6p3554 Priority Valve Group Part Of 3p4100 Transmission Arrangement
3p7665 Relief Valve Group
8m2502 Selector Housing And Valve Group
6p994 Selector Valve Group
Starting And Electrical System
Alternator--24 Volt, 50 Ampere
8n1067 Charging Alternator--24 Volt, 50 Ampere
5s9088 Alternator Assembly--24 Volt, 50 Ampere--Part 1 Of 2
5s9088 Alternator Assembly--24 Volt, 50 Ampere--Part 2 Of 2
Battery And Wiring--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 4
Battery And Wiring--24 Volt--Part 4 Of 4
Battery And Wiring--24 Volt--Part 3 Of 4
Battery And Wiring--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 4
1z6400 Boom Lighting Group--24 Volt
7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 3
7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 3
7n8604 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Part 3 Of 3
Emergency Starting Receptacle
3s5160 Glow Plug Group
3S***60Glow Plug And Wiring Group; Glow Plug Group1
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Glow Plug Wiring
3p5885 Wiring Harness Assembly--Dash
Lighting
8s3196 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt
8S***96Motor Group-Electric Starting; Electrical Starting Motor Group1
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1p7034 Emergency Starting Receptacle Group
1P***34Receptacle Group-Auxiliary Start1
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7n718 Disconnect Switch Assembly
7N***18Switch As-Disconnect; -Battery-Ground Level1
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8p7908 Wiring Harness Assembly
Steering Clutches And Brakes
Brake Hydraulic Mechanism (L.H.)--Part 1 Of 2
Brake Hydraulic Mechanism (R.H.)--Part 2 Of 2
Steering Brakes--Top View - Part 2 Of 2
Steering Brakes--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Steering Clutch Hydraulic Control--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
Steering Clutch Hydraulic Control--Top View--Part 1 Of 2
Steering Clutches And Brakes
8p7813 Control Valve Group

594H serial number reference

Locate the ID plate on the machine outer frame. The prefix consists of the first three alphanumeric characters of the serial number.

PrefixIdentifies
48WStandard configuration
96VSeries/Generation identifier

Frequently asked questions

What engine is used in the Caterpillar 594H?

The Caterpillar 594H is powered by a Caterpillar D353 in-line, 6-cylinder diesel engine, delivering approximately 306 kW (416 HP).

What is the operating weight of this machine?

The net operating weight varies by configuration; documented weights include approximately 55,500 kg (122,357 lb) and up to 123,600 lb (56,061 kg).

What replaced the Caterpillar 594H?

The 594H is part of a lineage of pipelayers that includes models like the 587R and newer high-capacity hydraulic sidebooms.

What 594H owners discuss

What are common causes for transmission power loss in the 594H pipelayer?
Power loss in the transmission often results from worn or damaged O-rings causing hydraulic leaks. Operators should also inspect for internal valve blockages, pump wear, and ensure all seals are properly seated to maintain pressure.
What is the typical engine configuration and power output for a 594H?
The 594H can be equipped with a Caterpillar D353TA engine producing 410 HP or a Caterpillar D353 engine providing 306 kW. Specific configurations may also feature the D353 engine.
What hydraulic behaviors indicate potential system failure in this machine type?
Loss of pressure, overheated oil, and jerky movement are primary indicators of contamination or internal leakage. Low hydraulic oil levels can specifically cause cavitation that destroys pumps.
Are there known electrical issues affecting Caterpillar machines?
Electrical instability is a frequent issue, often caused by moisture intrusion into connectors, stressed wiring harnesses, or failing charging systems. Loose or corroded grounds and battery deterioration can also cause the ECM to behave erratically.
What should be checked regarding the counterweight on a 594H?
The 594H utilizes removable counterweight leaves. Each leaf weighs 600 kg (1,330 lb), and the configuration includes 17 leaves.
What is critical to check when purchasing a used 594H?
Verify the exact serial-prefix specification sheet and the installed attachment package. Check for any history of transmission power loss or hydraulic pressure drops, and inspect the condition of the boom and counterweight leaves.

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

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