Caterpillar 627E
Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown
The Caterpillar 627E is a heavy-duty wheel tractor-scraper designed for earthmoving, mining, and agricultural applications. This machine features a dual-engine configuration: a Caterpillar 3406 turbocharged engine providing 225 hp (167.8 kW) net power for the tractor, and a Caterpillar 3306 turbocharged engine providing 225 hp (167.8 kW) net power for the scraper bowl. The unit operates with an 8-speed forward transmission and a total operating weight range from approximately 34,671 kg (76,436.5 lb) empty to 56,444 kg (124,437.8 lb) loaded.
The 627E series represents a significant era of Caterpillar scraper technology, bridging the gap between older mechanical designs and more modern electronic control systems. In today's used equipment market, the 627E remains a high-value asset due to its robust 3406/3306 powertrain and availability of parts. Maintenance of these machines is critical for preserving resale value and preventing catastrophic failures in the transmission or hydraulic systems, especially when operating in high-production earthmoving environments.
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 627E specifications
Engine
| Tractor Engine Model | Caterpillar 3406 |
| Tractor Engine Net Power | 225 hp (167.8 kW) |
| Tractor Engine Gross Power | 177.5 kW (238 hp) |
| Tractor Engine Displacement | 640.8 cu in (10.5 L) |
| Tractor Engine Aspiration | turbocharged |
| Scraper Engine Model | Caterpillar 3306 |
| Scraper Engine Net Power | 225 hp (167.8 kW) |
| Scraper Engine Gross Power | 183.5 kW (246 hp) |
| Scraper Engine Displacement | 640.8 cu in (10.5 L) |
| Scraper Engine Aspiration | turbocharged |
Weights
| Total Operating Weight - Empty | 34,671 kg (76,436.5 lb) |
| Total Operating Weight - Loaded | 56,444 kg (124,437.8 lb) |
| Front Axle Weight - Empty | 44,753.9 lb |
| Rear Axle Weight - Empty | 31,682.7 lb |
| Front Axle Weight - Loaded | 60,208.3 lb (27,310 kg) |
| Rear Axle Weight - Loaded | 64,229.5 lb |
Dimensions
| Overall Length | 12,890 mm (42.29 ft) |
| Overall Width | 11.38 ft (3,467 mm) |
| Overall Height | 12.16 ft (3,705 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 7,684 mm (25.21 ft) |
| Tractor Ground Clearance | 1.72 ft (522 mm) |
| Height to Top of Cab | 11.05 ft (3,366 mm) |
Performance
| Max Forward Speed | 57.6 km/h (35.8 mph) |
| Max Reverse Speed | 6.5 mph (10.4 km/h) |
| Number of Forward Gears | 8 |
| Number of Reverse Gears | 1 |
| Rated Payload | 48,060.8 lb (21,800 kg) |
| Bowl Heaped Capacity | 20.1 yd³ (15.3 m³) |
| Bowl Struck Capacity | 14 yd³ (10.7 m³) |
| Max Depth of Cut | 13.2 in (333 mm) |
| Width of Cut | 10 ft (3,023 mm) |
Service capacities (summary)
| Fuel Capacity | 790 L (208.7 gal) |
| Hydraulic System Fluid Capacity | 195 L (51.6 gal) |
| Engine Oil Fluid Capacity | 54 L (14.3 gal) |
| Cooling System Fluid Capacity | 139 L (36.8 gal) |
| Transmission Fluid Capacity | 155 L (41 gal) |
| Differential Fluid Capacity | 143 L (37.8 gal) |
| Wheel Coolant Fluid Capacity - Each | 90 L (23.8 gal) per wheel |
Values vary by configuration, region, and serial range — confirm against your machine before planning transport or lifts.
627E fluids & capacities
| System | Capacity | Recommended fluid |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Crankcase | 54 L (14.3 gal) | Cat DEO or Cat DEO-ULS; use 10W-30 for ambient temperatures between -18°C (0°F) and 40°C (104°F). Use 0W-40 for extreme cold or 50 for hot climates only. |
| Cooling System | 139 L (36.8 gal) | Cat ELC (Engine Coolant) |
| Fuel Tank | 790 L (208.7 gal) | Diesel fuel |
| Transmission/Powertrain | 155 L (41 gal) | Cat TDTO; use 10W, 30W, or 50W based on climate. |
| Final Drives/Differentials | 143 L (37.8 gal) | Cat TDTO; use 10W, 30W, or 50W based on climate. |
| Hydraulic System and Tank | 195 L (51.6 gal) | Cat HYDO Advanced 10 (SAE 10W) for cold to moderate temperatures; Cat HYDO Advanced 30 (SAE 30W) for moderate to hot temperatures. |
| Wheel Coolant System | 90 L (23.8 gal) per wheel | Cat ELC (Engine Coolant) |
| Grease | Not specified | Cat Multipurpose Grease for low-load/low-speed; Cat Advanced 3Moly Grease for medium-load/medium-speed; Cat Ultra 5Moly Grease for high-load/high-speed. |
Capacities are refill values from factory literature — always fill to the dipstick/sight gauge, not the number.
Caterpillar 627E maintenance schedule
| Service interval | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Every 10 h |
|
| Every 250 h |
|
| Every 500 h |
|
| Every 1,000 h |
|
| Every 2,000 h |
|
Servicing the 627E beyond the schedule
Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis
Utilize Caterpillar S.O.S Services to monitor engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and transmission oil for wear metals like iron or copper. Regularly analyze coolant for pH levels and SCA concentration to prevent liner pitting. Early detection of silicon in oil can signal air intake leaks, while high particle counts in hydraulic oil indicate pump or valve degradation. These proactive samples turn routine inspections into diagnostic tools for preventing unplanned downtime.
Corrective & Common Repairs
Watch for electrical instability and sensor failures common in older electronic control modules. Hydraulic system failures often stem from contamination; ensure all filters are replaced to prevent pump cavitation. Monitor the 3406 tractor engine for fuel dilution or soot loading, which can lead to expensive piston and ring damage. Addressing leaks in hydraulic hoses and fittings immediately prevents pressure drops that compromise scraper bowl control.
Overhaul & Rebuild Points
Plan major component evaluations during 2,000-hour intervals. Key rebuild focus areas include the transmission system, final drives, and turbocharger inspections. When performing structural inspections, check all welds on the tractor frame and scraper bowl for fatigue. A complete hydraulic oil change and transmission service are essential milestones to extend the life of the powertrain and prevent the high costs associated with emergency engine or transmission replacements.
Seasonal & Environment Servicing
In dusty, sandy, or quarry environments, increase air filter inspections to a daily task and replace elements more frequently. Clean radiator and oil cooler fins daily to prevent overheating. For machines operating in extreme cold, utilize Caterpillar Arctic Platinum Grease and ensure battery load tests are performed before winter. In high-load applications, monitor the 3406 engine for increased fuel consumption and check all cooling system capacities regularly.
627E common service parts
| Part number | Part | Notes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1D-4540 | Bolt,Machine Fuel Filter Mounting | Fuel system service | Check fitment → |
| 1H-5514 | Bolt,Machine Engine Oil Filter Assembly | Lubrication service | Check fitment → |
| 8M-3182 | Spring,Helical,Comp Engine Oil Filter Assembly | Lubrication service | Check fitment → |
| 8T-6765 | Plug-Pipe | Scheduled service item | Check fitment → |
| 9S-8752 | Nut-Full | Scheduled service item | Check fitment → |
Always confirm against your machine's serial number — cross-check any part in Heavy Parts AI before ordering.
627E fault codes & troubleshooting
| Code | Meaning | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| 110-0 | Engine Coolant Temperature — Above Normal | Low coolant level, thermostat failure | Inspect cooling system, refill coolant, test thermostat |
| 110-3 | Engine Coolant Temp Sensor — Voltage High | Open circuit or sensor failure | Check wiring; replace sensor if confirmed faulty |
| 174-3 | Engine Fuel Temperature — Voltage Above Normal | Open circuit in sensor wiring | Inspect harness and replace sensor if necessary |
| 190-8 | Engine Speed — Abnormal Frequency | Speed sensor air gap, sensor failure, or tone ring damage | Check sensor gap; test speed sensor and tone ring |
| 41-3 | 8-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Above Normal | Short to power on 8V reference circuit | Inspect sensors sharing the 8V supply and isolate fault |
| 41-4 | 8-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Below Normal | Short to ground on 8V reference circuit | Disconnect sensors one at a time to locate short |
| 94-1 | Fuel Pressure — Low Fuel Pressure | Not specified | Not specified |
| 100-11 | Oil Pressure Sensor — Very Low Oil Pressure | Not specified | Not specified |
Codes and remedies are general guidance for this model family — always confirm with diagnostic tooling and your dealer before major repairs.
627E attachments & work tools
Scraper Bowl & Cutting Attachments
Standard open bowl configuration features a 18.4 m³ (24 yd³) heaped capacity and 14.1 m³ (18.4 yd³) struck capacity. Available cutting edge options include 3×3 inch (76.2 mm) blades for the bowl and apron. Draft-arm overflow guards are available to divert material away from the bowl sides.
Mounting & Configuration Systems
Machines can be configured in standard or Push-Pull arrangements. The Push-Pull configuration increases overall length to 613.2 in (51.1 ft) and raises empty operating weight to 92,980.0 lb (42,176 kg).
Hydraulic & Technology Kits
Optional Cat Grade attachment includes Load Assist and Sequence Assist to assist operators. Hydraulic position sensing cylinders are used for bowl lift and apron functions. The tractor features a hydraulic on-demand fan to reduce fuel consumption.
Operational Guarding & Protection
Standard protection includes ROPS/FOPS cabs meeting ISO 3471:2008 and ISO 3449:2005 Level II. Additional guarding options include power train guards, crankcase guards, and overflow guards for the bowl.
All 627E assemblies by section
Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 627E. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.
Air Inlet And Exhaust System
219-9711 Turbocharger Gp
| 21***14 | Cartridge Group-Turbocharger | 1 |
| 21***15 | Cover; (Compressor) | 1 |
| 21***11 | Turbocharger Group | 1 |
Basic Engine
9n-5760 Damper Gp
| 1W***78 | Spring; (35.7mm Long) | 2 |
| 1W***79 | Spring; (54.6mm Long) | 2 |
| 4B***73 | Screw-Machine; (10-24x0.5-In) | 2 |
284-7810 Kit-Hardware
| 03***19 | Bolt; --To Bearing Ret. At Lower Front Shaft Bore | 4 |
| 03***57 | Bolt; --To Reverse Shaft Bearing Retainer & Forward Shaft Bearing Retainer | 4 |
| 0L***43 | Bolt 63.5 mm (3/8" X 2 1/2" -Cover Assembly To Fender | 1 |
Engine Arrangement
279-3381 Conversion Ar-Engine
| 0R***14 | Rod As-Connecting | 1 |
| 0R***43 | Cylinder Pack Group | 6 |
| 0R***91 | Nozzle As-Fuel Valve | 6 |
Fuel System
7c-8993 Fastener Gp-Fuel Inj Pump
| 0S***14 | Bolt (.25" Diameter-.50" Long) | 3 |
| 2S***83 | Bolt (3.25" Long-Drilled Head) | 1 |
| 4F***57 | Screw,Cap,Hexagon H Shock Mount To Bracket | 8 |
111-5162 Control Gp-Fuel Ratio
| 10***93 | Washer | 1 |
| 11***62 | Control Group-Fuel Ratio (Basic) | 1 |
| 11***58 | Washer; (12.7x6.65x0.79-mm Thk) | 1 |
1w-7834 Governor Gp
| 03***16 | Bolt-Self Locking; (1/4unc X 3/4) | 3 |
| 0S***16 | Screw,Cap,Hexagon H Receptacle Mtg; Bolt Brackets To Firewall Assembly | 6 |
| 15***28 | Gasket-Governor | 1 |
111-3769 Pump Gp-Fuel Injection
| 0S***15 | Bolt 19 mm (.75 In.) Long Return Air Console To Enclosed Rops | 4 |
| 11***69 | Pump Group-Fuel Injection | 1 |
| 11***70 | Camshaft Group | 1 |
4p-9827 Pump Gp-Fuel Injection
| 1W***87 | Valve As-Check; (Fuel Injection Pump) | 1 |
| 4P***27 | Pump Group-Fuel Injection | 1 |
| 4P***30 | Plunger & Barrel Assem. | 1 |
7c-8992 Seal Gp-Pump
| 03***79 | Seal-O-Ring (Id=10.82mm) | 1 |
| 14***77 | Gasket | 1 |
| 15***26 | Gasket | 1 |
8n-7276 Torque Control Gp
| 1P***52 | Insulator,Bushing Governor | 1 |
| 2P***85 | Spacer (.635 mm Thk); (0.635-mm Thk) | 1 |
| 2W***34 | Bar-Load Stop; (4.0mm Thk) | 1 |
Service Equipment And Supplies
279-3375 Kit-Engine Parts
| 12***88 | Housing-Aftercooler | 1 |
| 12***89 | Cover As-Aftercooler | 1 |
| 12***94 | Bolt-Tamperproof; (28.58mm) | 1 |
627E serial number reference
Locate the ID plate on the machine outer frame or the engine data plate on the left side near the rocker arm cover/injection pump. The serial prefix is the first three alphanumeric characters of the 8-character serial number (or the last 8 characters of a 17-character PIN).
| Prefix | Identifies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6HB1+ | 627E | Serial number range starts at 6HB1 and up. Covers configurations with air conditioner, heater, and DEF systems. Tractor engine is Caterpillar 3406. |
Frequently asked questions
What engine powers the Caterpillar 627E tractor?
The tractor is powered by a Caterpillar 3406 turbocharged engine, delivering 225 hp (167.8 kW) net power.
What is the total operating weight of the 627E?
The total operating weight varies by configuration, ranging from approximately 34,671 kg (76,436.5 lb) when empty to 56,444 kg (124,437.8 lb) when loaded.
What model replaced the 627E?
The 627E was part of a lineage that includes the 627G and later high-efficiency models like the 627H, which utilizes C13 and C9.3 engines.
What 627E owners discuss
What engine is used in the Caterpillar 627E tractor?
What are common symptoms of hydraulic system failure on Caterpillar machines?
How can electrical instability manifest in Caterpillar equipment?
What are the primary indicators of engine-related power loss?
What should be checked regarding oil condition during maintenance?
What is a critical check when purchasing a used 627E scraper?
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 627E. Related factory variants of the same model family:
Need a specific 627E part?
Search live OEM part data, check fitment, and cross-reference alternatives with Heavy Parts AI.