Caterpillar 955
Caterpillartrack-type loaderbulldozer

Caterpillar 955

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 955 is a track-type loader, marketed under Cat's Traxcavator name, built by mounting a hydraulic loader arm and bucket on a crawler tractor chassis. The original 955 (12A-prefix serials) ran 1954-1960 on a D4-derived 7U chassis with the naturally aspirated Cat D315 four-cylinder diesel, in the 70 hp class, at an operating weight around 9.7 tonnes (21,480 lb). Caterpillar carried the line forward as the 955H (1960 into the mid-1960s, turbocharged D330, roughly 100-115 hp depending on model year, about 11.3 tonnes / 24,950 lb), the 955K (1966-1971, turbocharged D330, 115 flywheel hp, around 12.7 tonnes / 28,000 lb), and the 955L (1971 into the late 1970s, turbocharged D330 or 3304, 130 hp, roughly 13.7-15.9 tonnes / 30,200-34,950 lb). Bucket capacities across the series ran from about 1.3 to 1.75 m3 (1.7-2.25 cu yd) in general-purpose and multi-purpose configurations.

Across the series the 955 grew heavier, more powerful and more automated: steering moved from clutch-and-brake control on the earliest 12A machines to pedal-actuated powershift steering on the 955H/K/L, and the engine progressed from the naturally aspirated D315 to turbocharged D330 variants and finally the direct-injection 3304 block shared with other Cat machines of the era. Every 955-series machine is fully mechanical, with no ECM or electronic fault codes; diagnosis relies on gauge readings, compression and injector pop-off checks, and manual timing procedures, which is exactly why a disciplined interval schedule matters more on this machine than on later electronically monitored loaders. In the used and parts market the 955 line is now largely a vintage/restoration platform: undercarriage, steering-clutch and engine wear parts are still supported through aftermarket channels, but parts are not interchangeable across engine generations, so confirming series and engine identity from the serial prefix before ordering is essential.

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 955 specifications

Identity & Generations

Machine typeTrack-type loader (Traxcavator), not a bulldozer — no blade options; front-mounted bucket only.
LineageOriginal 955 (12A prefix, 1955-1960) built on a D4 7U tractor chassis. Followed by 955H (1960-1966/67), 955K (1966-1971), and 955L (1971/1978-on). Model-number reuse pattern: each letter suffix is a distinct engine/drivetrain generation, not a trim option. Do not blend specs across generations — later 955C/955H/955K/955L data is kept separate below and labeled by generation.
Serial prefixes12A = original 955 (1955-1960). 60A-family and related early-60s prefixes = 955H. Mid/late-60s prefixes (through 1971) = 955K. 43V, 64J, 71J, 85J, 08Y (French-built), 13X = 955L.

Engine — by generation

955 (1955-1960)Cat D315, 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated diesel, approx. 70 hp (52 kW) flywheel per period sources; wet main clutch with dry steering clutches, standard-shift transmission (no torque converter/powershift).
955H (1960-1966/67)Cat D330T, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel, 4.5 in (114 mm) bore, rated 100 hp (75 kW).
955K (1966-1971)Cat D330T (2236 engine family), 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel, displacement 7.0 L (427.2 cu in), rated 115 hp / 85.8 kW at 2185 rpm.
955L (1971/1978 on)Cat D330, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel, displacement 7.0 L (427.2 cu in), net power 130 hp (96.9 kW). The D330 designation is the same engine family later cataloged under Cat's 3-digit numbering as the 3304; sources use both names for 955L-era engines — confirm actual engine tag against the machine's data plate before ordering parts.
EmissionsPre-emissions-regulation mechanical diesels throughout the 955 line; no EPA/EU emissions tier applies to any generation.

Weights — by generation

955, 1955-1957 models9,525 kg (21,000 lb) shipping weight.
955, 1958-1959 models10,192 kg (22,470 lb) shipping weight — heavier undercarriage than the 1955-57 run.
955H11,317 kg (24,950 lb) operating weight.
955K12,701 kg (28,000 lb) operating weight.
955L13,700 kg (30,203 lb) operating weight with standard bucket; reported up to approx. 13,790 kg (30,400 lb) with the larger 1.7 m3 (2.25 yd3) bucket fitted — weight varies by bucket/configuration.

Dimensions — by generation

955 bucket dimensionsBucket width 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in); dumping height 3.25 m (10 ft 8 in); dumping clearance 2.53 m (8 ft 3-3/4 in); bucket carry angle approx. 51.5 degrees.
955H overall sizeLength 4.80 m (15 ft 9 in) x width 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in) x height 2.64 m (8 ft 8 in).
955K overall sizeLength with bucket on ground 5.00 m (16.41 ft); width across tracks 2.06 m (6.76 ft); height to cab top 2.26 m (7.42 ft); ground clearance 0.41 m (1.35 ft); track length on ground 2.34 m (7.68 ft).
955K undercarriageTrack gauge 1.68 m (66.15 in); track shoe width 380 mm (14.97 in); 41 shoes per side; 6 track rollers per side; ground contact area approx. 1.78 m2 (2,760 in2) per side pair.
955L overall sizeLength with bucket on ground 4.95-4.97 m (16.2-16.4 ft) — figure varies slightly by source; width across tracks 2.16 m (7.10 ft); height to cab top 2.29-2.32 m (7.5-7.6 ft); ground clearance approx. 0.42 m (1.37 ft); track length on ground 2.36 m (7.75 ft).
955L undercarriageTrack gauge 1.68 m (66.15 in); track shoe width 380 mm (15.0 in) — same undercarriage envelope as 955K.

Performance

955H travel2-speed powershift transmission with high/low range, giving 4 speeds forward and 4 reverse; oil-cooled clutches and brakes.
955K travel3-speed powershift transmission with torque converter and pedal steer; maximum travel speed 11.3 km/h (7 mph).
955L travel2-range, 3-speed powershift transmission; maximum travel speed 11.4 km/h (7.1 mph).
Ground pressureNot published directly by the factory spec sheets for this loader line. Using 955K's reported operating weight and ground contact area, calculated ground pressure is approximately 0.71 kg/cm2 (10.1 psi) — treat as a derived estimate, not a quoted factory figure, and verify against the specific undercarriage/shoe width fitted.
Drawbar pullNot published for the 955/955H/955K/955L Traxcavator series in available spec sheets — these are loader-only publications (breakout force and static tipping load are given instead of dozer-style drawbar-pull curves).
955L breakout forceStandard bucket breakout force approx. 10,401 kg (22,930 lb / 102 kN), folded/curled position.
955L static tipping loadApprox. 8,440 kg (18,607 lb).
955L hydraulic cycle timesBucket raise approx. 6.6 sec; dump approx. 1.6 sec; lower (power-down) approx. 3.2 sec.

Bucket capacities — by generation

955 (1955-1960)1.15 m3 (1.5 yd3) standard bucket.
955H1.34 m3 (1.75 yd3) — both the standard general-purpose bucket and the multi-purpose 4-in-1 bucket were offered at this same rated capacity.
955K1.2 m3 (1.5 yd3) struck, 1.4 m3 (1.8 yd3) heaped.
955L1.3 m3 (1.7 yd3) struck, 1.6 m3 (2.1 yd3) heaped; a larger 1.7 m3 (2.25 yd3) bucket option is also referenced in dealer listings.
Blade/dozer attachmentsNo dozer blade (S/SU/A/VPAT) options documented for this model line — the 955 family is a bucket loader, not a dozer chassis.

Service capacities — by generation

955 (12A, 1955-1960)Fuel tank approx. 113.6 L (30 US gal); crankcase (engine oil) approx. 18.9 L (5 US gal); transmission approx. 17.0 L (4.5 US gal); final drive, each side, approx. 6.6 L (1.75 US gal); cooling system approx. 41.6 L (11 US gal).
955KFuel tank approx. 216 L (57.1 US gal); hydraulic system approx. 98 L (25.9 US gal); cooling system approx. 42 L (11.1 US gal); engine oil approx. 18.9 L (5 US gal); final drive, each side, approx. 9.8 L (2.6 US gal).
955LFuel tank approx. 238 L (62.9 US gal). Cooling system is reported at approx. 148 L (39.1 US gal) in one spec aggregator — this is markedly larger than the 955K figure on what is otherwise the same engine platform, so treat the 955L cooling-capacity number as unconfirmed and verify against the machine's own service manual before use. Engine oil and hydraulic system capacities were not found published separately for 955L; likely close to 955K figures given the shared D330 platform, but not confirmed — verify with dealer or service manual.

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

955 fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter)approx. 19 L (5 US gal)Cat 30W diesel engine oil above freezing; 10W below 32°F (0°C). Modern equivalent: Cat DEO SAE 15W-40.
Cooling systemapprox. 42 L (11 US gal)Water plus a permanent-type ethylene-glycol antifreeze/coolant at the mix ratio for expected ambient temperature. Cat-branded coolant/antifreeze equivalents are suitable.
Fuel tankapprox. 114 L (30 US gal)Diesel fuel per engine spec plate; no special OEM additive documented for this series.
Powertrain (transmission, bevel gear and steering clutch compartment)approx. 17 L (4.5 US gal) — this early D315-engine 12A-prefix series uses one combined power-train sump rather than the separately-listed transmission / bevel-gear / steering-compartment split seen on later 955K/955L generationsCat 30W drive-train (transmission/steering-clutch) oil above 32°F (0°C); switch to 10W hydraulic/transmission oil below freezing. Modern equivalent: Cat TDTO SAE 30, or 10W TDTO in cold climates.
Final drive (each side)approx. 6.6 L (1.75 US gal) per sideSAE 50 gear oil. Modern shelf equivalent commonly cited is an 80W-90 GL gear oil, or Cat TDTO SAE 50.
Hydraulic system/tankNot confirmed for the D315-engine 12A-prefix base 955 — treat as unverified and check the data plate/dealer. (Later 955K/955L generations, which use a different engine and a split bevel-gear/steering compartment, are commonly cited around 148 L / 39 US gal — do not apply that figure to this earlier series.)Cat 10W hydraulic oil above freezing; equivalent to an ISO 32 / AW32 hydraulic oil. Same climate split as the power-train system — heavier viscosity in warm weather, 10W in cold.
Pivot shaftNot separately listed as a fluid-capacity line in available sourcing for this series — appears to be a grease point rather than a filled compartmentCat Multipurpose grease (MPGM) at the standard service interval, same as other chassis grease fittings.
Grease (general chassis points)N/A — grease gun application, not a fill capacityCat Multipurpose grease (MPGM) for track roller frame, control-shaft bearings, frame outer bearings, universal joints, governor control linkage, and steering clutch/brake pedal bearings.

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

Caterpillar 955 maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check engine oil level before start-up and top off with the correct-viscosity diesel engine oil
  • Check radiator coolant level and inspect hoses, clamps and the water pump for seepage
  • Grease all track idler, roller and bucket-linkage pivot points per the lubrication chart
  • Drain water and sediment from the fuel tank sump
  • Walk the tracks and check chain tension, adjusting idler-yoke shims if sag is out of spec
  • Listen for injector knock or misfire at idle and note exhaust smoke color as a first diagnostic check
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and filter, shortening the interval in dusty or abrasive conditions
  • Service the primary and secondary fuel filters/water separator
  • Check and adjust track chain tension, inspecting pins and bushings for turn (rotation)
  • Service the air cleaner element and, on early oil-bath units, check bath oil level and condition
  • Check powershift transmission and torque converter oil level on 955H/K/L series machines
  • Check final drive housings for correct oil level and leakage at seals
Every 500 h
  • Change powershift transmission and torque converter oil and filter
  • Change final drive oil in each sprocket housing
  • Check and adjust the fan belt tension
  • Grease and inspect steering clutch and brake linkage (direct-drive 955) or the steering clutch pack (powershift 955H/K/L)
  • Pull and inspect track pins and bushings for wear and turn, measuring master link wear
  • Check injector pop-off pressure and spray pattern, reconditioning or replacing any nozzle out of spec
Every 1,000 h
  • Adjust valve lash on the D315 or D330 engine to factory cold clearance
  • Run a compression check on each cylinder and log it as a wear-trend baseline
  • Change hydraulic tank oil and filter on the loader lift and tilt circuit
  • Inspect the turbocharger (955H/K/L) for shaft play, boost leaks and oil weepage
  • Check and reset fuel injection pump timing
  • Inspect bucket linkage pins, bushings and cutting edge, rotating or replacing the edge as needed
Every 2,000 h
  • Pull injectors for bench testing, recalibrating or replacing any nozzle outside spec
  • Inspect and repack final drive and steering clutch bearings per series lubrication type
  • Check torque converter stall speed against factory spec to catch internal slippage early
  • Measure undercarriage rollers, idlers and sprockets against wear-limit charts and rotate or replace as needed
  • Pressure-test the radiator cap, flush the cooling system, and refill with the specified coolant
  • Inspect the loader arm trunnions and frame pivot points for cracks or elongation
Every 4,000 h
  • Pull the D315 or D330 engine for teardown inspection of liners, pistons and main/rod bearings
  • Replace steering clutch discs and brake bands, or rebuild the powershift clutch packs on 955H/K/L
  • Rebuild the torque converter if stall speed or shift response has drifted out of spec over time
  • Rebuild the track frame, roller frame and equalizer bar bushings as a set rather than piecemeal
  • Overhaul the injection pump and governor as a matched unit

Servicing the 955 beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

With no ECM on any 955-series machine, prediction means physical testing on a schedule, not sensor alerts. Pull an engine oil sample at every oil change to track D315/D330 wear metals and coolant intrusion, log compression readings each 1000 hours, and bench-test injectors for drift in pop-off pressure and spray pattern before they cause hard starting or smoke. Track torque converter stall speed on 955H/K/L powershift units over time; a falling stall speed flags internal converter wear long before it strands the machine in the field.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Common failure points trace straight to the powertrain and steering system. On the 12A-series direct-drive 955, worn steering clutch discs and glazed brake bands cause pull to one side and slow steering response. On 955H/K/L powershift units, watch for turbocharger shaft play, boost leaks at the manifold, and torque converter shift flare. Injector fouling from off-spec fuel is the most frequent cause of rough idle and black smoke on the D315 and D330 alike, and track pin/bushing turn from delayed adjustment is the most common undercarriage complaint.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Major rebuild work centers on three systems: the engine (liners, pistons, and main/rod bearings on the D315 or D330, typically by 4000 hours of hard service), the steering/powershift clutch packs (discs, bands, or the clutch pack assembly depending on series), and the undercarriage (roller frame, equalizer bar, and track components as a matched set rather than piecemeal). Rebuilding the torque converter alongside the transmission on 955H/K/L machines avoids mismatched wear between fresh and worn components after the rebuild.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

Cold starts on these mechanical-injection engines depend on glow or ether-assist starting aids, a fully charged battery, and winter-grade fuel to avoid paraffin gelling in the D315/D330 fuel system; check block heaters and coolant antifreeze protection before freezing weather. In hot, dusty conditions shorten air cleaner and engine oil intervals and inspect the radiator core for packed debris. In muddy or wet ground, clear packed material from the track frame and rollers daily to prevent accelerated bushing and sprocket wear.

955 common service parts

Part numberPart
1H-6517TransferCheck fitment →

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955 attachments & work tools

Blades

The 955 was sold primarily as a bucket-equipped track-type loader; a dozer (blade) conversion of the same chassis was cataloged separately in the period as the 955A Bulldozer rather than as a bolt-on option list for the loader itself. Documentation available for this generation does not confirm which specific blade profile letter-codes (S/SU/A) applied to the 955A — verify against the parts book for the exact serial range before ordering blade components. VPAT (variable pitch/angle/tilt) blade technology is a later Caterpillar development and does not apply to this generation.

Rippers

Ripper attachments for the 955 use a multi-shank parallelogram frame on a single lift cylinder, commonly built with three to five shanks depending on ground conditions; a four-shank configuration is specifically documented for this machine. The same ripper family is shared with the 951B/951C track loaders and the D4D/D4E dozers, reflecting a common D4-class chassis mount — single-shank rippers are a heavier-dozer-class item and are not documented for the 955. Shipping/frame weights vary by source; confirm against the parts book for the serial range in question.

Winches

A rear-mounted towing winch is documented as a factory-style option on the later 955L Traxcavator. Earlier 60A/72A/77A-prefix 955 machines share the same rear-frame drawbar/counterweight mounting provision, making a comparable winch fitment plausible for the base 955, but a specific winch model tied to the base machine is not confirmed in available documentation — verify against the parts book for the exact serial range.

Drawbars/counterweights

A rear drawbar is documented for the early 60A-prefix serial range, with a bolt-on counterweight group specified for rough-ground or unbalanced-load work. The drawbar/counterweight assembly is removable, freeing the rear frame to accept either a ripper or a winch instead — these three rear attachments are mutually exclusive at the single rear mount.

Cab/ROPS guarding

A factory ROPS and cab/guard arrangement, including a hood and guard group, is documented for the later 955L. The earlier D315/D330-powered 955 predates industry-wide ROPS adoption (which became standard through the 1970s) and was typically sold with an open operator station. No factory forestry or waste-handling guarding package is documented for this model for any generation; brush/forestry screen guarding available in the aftermarket is bolt-on only and is not FOPS/ROPS-certified unless the manufacturer states otherwise.

Hydraulic arrangement

The base loader circuit runs bucket lift and tilt off engine-driven pump flow through lever-operated valve sections at the operator's station. When a rear tool such as a ripper or winch is fitted alongside the front bucket, machines of this chassis class commonly use a diverter valve or an added rear valve section tapped off the same pump circuit, letting the operator switch flow between the loader and the rear implement rather than running both at once. The exact valve-bank layout for the base 955 is not detailed in available documentation — confirm against the hydraulic schematic for the specific serial range.

All 955 assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 955. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Attachments
6h2937 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Type 2
6h2937 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt-Type 1
6h2937 Battery And Wiring Group--24 Volt--Type 3
9h450 Brake Control Group--Field Installation
3k142 Bucket And Support Group--1 5/8 Cu. Yd. Capacity--96" Wide--Type 2
3k142 Bucket And Support Group--1 5/8 Cu. Yd. Capacity--96" Wide--Type 1
2k6490 Bucket And Support Group--1 5/8 Cu. Yd. Capacity--96" Wide
4k8801 Bucket Assembly--2 Cubic Yard--80" Wide
2k4286 Bucket Assembly--2 Cu. Yd.--80" Wide
2k4340 Bucket Assembly--1.1 Cu. Yd.--60" Wide
2k6543 Bucket Positioner Group
2k4371 Bulldozer Group--90" Wide
4k1888 Carriage And Clamp Group
2k7560 Carriage And Clamp Group
7f2921 Combination Switch
2k6060 Control Valve Assembly
2k5638 Control Valve Assembly
2k5414 Counterweight Group--950 Pounds
9h5471 Cover Group
7h2157 Cover Group
Crankcase Guard
4k501 Cylinder Group--Top View--R.H.
4K***01Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group-- R.H.1
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2k6276 Cylinder Group--4.50" Bore X 18.63" Stroke--Type 2
1k8206 Cylinder Group--5" Bore X 13.97" Stroke--Type 3
8j5697 Cylinder Group (9k3164 N/S) (Chg. 0)--4" Bore X 18.625" Stroke
4k501 Cylinder Group--Top View--R.H.--Type 2
4K***01Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group-- R.H.1
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2k6276 Cylinder Group--Type 1
4k502 Cylinder Group--Top View--L.H.--Type 2
4K***02Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group-- L.H.1
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2k6841 Cylinder Group--4" Bore X 18.625" Stroke
1k8206 Cylinder Group--5" X 13.97"--Type 2
2k7557 Cylinder Group--4.5" X 14"
1k8206 Cylinder Group--5" X 13 31/32"
4k502 Cylinder Group--Top View--L.H.
4K***02Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group-- L.H.1
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1f7164 Dash Lamp Assembly--6 Volt
4h5678 Dash Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
9h6333 Dash Lamp Assembly--6 Volt
9f740 Discharger
Effective With Serial No. 12a3888
1H***56Wrench--Glow Plug; Wrench- Glow Plug1
1K***85Washer--Between Bellcrank And Ring1
1M***48Plate--Starting Instructions; Plate- Starting Instructions1
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9h5435 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
9H***35Electric Starting Arrangement1
9H***60Electric Starting Arrangement1
9H***61Electric Starting Arrangement1
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9h9861 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
0L***51Bolt Starting Engine Fuel Tank Bracket To Diesel Intake Manifold2
0S***94Bolt (1 In. Long 3/8 In. Dia.); Plate Assembly To Support Assembly2
1A***29Bolt (1-1/8") Tube Assembly To Transfer Drive Case3
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9h9860 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
1H***56Wrench--Glow Plug; Wrench- Glow Plug1
2H***79Wrench--Injection Valve Retainer Nut1
3H***27Wrench (1 1/8" Opening)1
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2m2936 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
2M***92Electric Starting Arrangement1
2M***36Electric Starting Arrangement1
9H***61Electric Starting Arrangement1
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4h9400 Electric Starting Arrangement--24 Volt
0L***51Bolt Starting Engine Fuel Tank Bracket To Diesel Intake Manifold2
0S***94Bolt (1 In. Long 3/8 In. Dia.); Plate Assembly To Support Assembly2
1A***29Bolt (1-1/8") Tube Assembly To Transfer Drive Case3
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6h9164 Electric Starting Arrangements--24 Volt
0L***51Bolt Starting Engine Fuel Tank Bracket To Diesel Intake Manifold2
0S***94Bolt (1 In. Long 3/8 In. Dia.); Plate Assembly To Support Assembly2
1A***29Bolt (1-1/8") Tube Assembly To Transfer Drive Case3
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5h9496 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Type 1
5H***96Electric Starting Motor Group; Starting Motor Group1
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5h9496 Electric Starting Motor Group--24 Volt--Type 2
5H***96Electric Starting Motor Group; Starting Motor Group1
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6h9311 Ether Starting Aid Group--For Field Installation
6h8344 Ether Starting Aid Group
5h4807 Exhaust Rain Trap Group--Starting Engine
6f6522 Exhaust Rain Trap Group--Diesel Engine
1m3030 Field Conversion Track Group--Special Application
0S***07Bolt 12.70 mm(5 In.) Long2
1B***07Nut 1.6 cm(.64 In.) Thick2
1M***27Track Roller Assembly--Double Flange6
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1m5895 Flood Lamp Assembly--6 Volt
Frame
4k325 Frame And Clamp Group--Side View
5k2001 Frame And Clamp Group--Side View--Type 1
5k2001 Frame And Clamp Group--Side View--Type 2
2k7162 Frame And Clamp Group
5k2001 Frame And Clamp Group--Side View--Type 3
4k466 Front Hydraulic Lines Group
3k138 Front Hydraulic Lines Group
2k7394 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 2
5k2130 Front Hydraulic Lines Group
2k7394 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 1
4k2243 Front Idler Group--Field Installation
3k2846 Front Idler Group-Type 2
3k7132 Front Idler Group--Field Installation
7h7995 Front Idler Group
3k2846 Front Idler Group - Type 1
2k5880 Front Lever Control Group--Type 3
2k5880 Front Lever Control Group--Type 1
2k5880 Front Lever Control Group--Type 2
3b2665 Front Pull Hook Group
5h9876 Fuel Priming Pump Group
9f5094 Generator--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
8h1963 Generator--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
5h772 Generator--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
8h1957 Generator Assembly--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
2m6664 Generator Assembly--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
5h4509 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 4
7h5193 Generator Group--6 Volt, 40 Ampere--Type 3
7h5193 Generator Group--6 Volt, 40 Ampere--Type 2
5h4509 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 3
7h5193 Generator Group--6 Volt, 40 Ampere--Type 1
5h4509 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 2
5h4509 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 1
5h4509 Generator Group--24 Volt, 18 Ampere--Type 5
4h9254 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 2
4h9254 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Type 1
4m8074 Glow Plug Group--24 Volt--Replaces 4h9254
4k354 Gusset Shoe Group
5h2067 Head Lamp--24 Volt
7f4625 Head Lamp--6 Volt
1m3377 Head Lamp Assembly--6 Volt
8h2504 Heavy Duty Track Roller Frame Arrangement
1M***01Track Group2
1M***58Support Assembly2
2F***57Track Carrier Roller Group2
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2k6178 Hydraulic Control Arrangement Single Spool--35 U.S. Gallons Per Minute
2K***56Supply Lines And Valve Group1
2K***80Front Lever Control Group1
2K***53Side Hydraulic Lines Group1
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2k6071 Hydraulic Control Arrangement Single Spool--35 U.S. Gallons Per Minute
2K***83Rear Hydraulic Lines Group1
2K***56Supply Lines And Valve Group1
2K***71Hydraulic Control Arrangement1
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2k7644 Hydraulic Control Arrangements Double Spool--35 U.S. Gallons Per Minute
2K***46Supply Lines And Valve1
2K***68Lever Group1
2K***43Hydraulic Lines Group1
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4k478 Hydraulic Front Lines Group--Type 2
4K***78Hydraulic Front Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
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4k478 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 3--Part 1 Of 2
4K***78Hydraulic Front Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
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4k478 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 3--Part 2 Of 2
4K***78Hydraulic Front Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
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2k7551 Hydraulic Lines Group--Front--Type 1
2k7643 Hydraulic Lines Group
2k7551 Hydraulic Lines Group--Front--Type 2
4k2589 Hydraulic Lines Group--Front
4K***89Hydraulic Lines Group; Hydraulic Lines Group-- Front1
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3k311 Hydraulic Lines Group--Front--Type 1
2k6238 Hydraulic Lines Group--Front
2K***38Hydraulic Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
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1m1882 Flood Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
9h6338 Dash Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
2k6868 Lever Group
2k6591 Lever Group
6h3976 Lighting System Group--6 Volt--4 Lamp--Type 3
6h3976 Lighting System Group--6 Volt--4 Lamp--Type 5
6h3976 Lighting System Group--6 Volt--4 Lamp--Type 1
6h4019 Lighting System Group--24 Volt--4 Lamp-Type 2
6h3976 Lighting System Group--6 Volt--4 Lamp--Type 4
6h4019 Lighting System Group--24 Volt-Type 1
6h3976 Lighting System Group--6 Volt--4 Lamp--Type 2
2k4714 Logging Fork Arrangement
5k3020 Logging Fork Group
2k8969 Logging Fork Group
4k1777 Logging Fork Group
5h5565 Magnetic Switch
7h6700 Magnetic Switch Assembly
5h455 Electric Starting Motor--24 Volt
8b8205 Muffler Group--Diesel Engine
4k1910 Pulpwood Fork Arrangement--Low Profile
2K***57Cylinder Group1
4K***88Carriage And Clamp Group1
4K***10Pulpwood Fork Arrangement1
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2k7629 Pulpwood Fork Arrangement
2K***51Hydraulic Lines Group1
2K***57Cylinder Group1
2K***60Carriage And Clamp Group1
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2k4711 Quarry Bucket Group (1 1/2 Cu. Yd.)--80" Wide
2k5483 Rear Hydraulic Lines Group
6h9406 Regulator--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
7f4702 Regulator--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
4h7946 Regulator--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
7h4150 Regulator--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
6h9206 Regulator Assembly--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
9h6316 Regulator Assembly--6 Volt, 40 Ampere
9h6324 Regulator Assembly--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
2k6557 Side Dump Bucket Arrangement
2K***76Cylinder Group1
2K***90Bucket And Support Group1
2K***57Side Dump Bucket Arrangement1
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3k143 Side Dump Bucket Arrangement
2K***76Cylinder Group1
3K***38Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
3K***42Bucket And Support Group1
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2k6053 Side Hydraulic Lines Group
2k6603 Side Lever Control Group
2k4706 Skeleton Rock Bucket Group (1 1/2 Cu. Yd.)--80" Wide
3b5498 Spark Arrester Group--Diesel Engine
3k9588 Spill Plate Extension Group--Replaces 2k4831
2k4831 Spill Plate Extension Group
6h1228 Starting And Glow Plug Switch
2k6146 Supply Lines And Valve--Type 1
2k6146 Supply Lines And Valve Group--Type 2
2k5656 Supply Lines And Valve Group
7h4160 Regulator Assembly--24 Volt, 18 Ampere
7h7290 Switch Assembly
1k9734 Tooth Group
2k4817 Tooth Group
2k4819 Tooth Group
2k4889 Tooth Group
2k7182 Top Clamp Arrangement
2K***38Hydraulic Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
2K***41Cylinder Group1
2K***62Frame And Clamp Group1
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3k312 Top Clamp Arrangement
1K***06Cylinder Group2
3K***11Hydraulic Lines Group1
3K***12Top Clamp Arrangement1
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5k1614 Top Clamp Arrangement
2K***41Cylinder Group1
5K***14Top Clamp Arrangement1
5K***01Frame And Clamp Group1
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4k1259 Top Clamp Arrangement--Replaces 3k312
3K***65Top Clamp Group1
4K***78Hydraulic Front Lines Group; Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
4K***01Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group-- R.H.1
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4k326 Top Clamp Arrangement
2K***41Cylinder Group1
4K***25Frame And Clamp Group1
4K***26Top Clamp Arrangement1
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3k1665 Top Clamp Group
3k7962 Track Carrier Roller Group
3k2845 Track Carrier Roller Group - Type 1
3k2845 Track Carrier Roller Group-Type 2
4k3759 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Required
4k5503 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Groups Required
4k7125 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
5k4878 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Groups Required--Replaces 4k3760
3k7709 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
5k4880 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Required
6k1720 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Required
4h9370 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe (2 Groups Required)
4k3760 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Required
4k4105 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
4k223 Track Group--16" Grouser--2 Groups Required
5h4741 Track Group--15" Flat Shoe (2 Groups Required)
4k9333 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Groups Required
6h7596 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Required
4k7097 Track Link Assembly--2 Assemblies Required--Replaces 4k4074
1m9370 Track Roller Frame Arrangement-Special Application
1M***70Track Roller Frame Arrangement1
2D***29Transfer--Series C; Transfer -Series C1
2F***57Plate--To Solid Bar2
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3k2844 Track Roller Frame Arrangement
2F***57Plate--To Solid Bar2
2K***47Bolt--Loader Frame To Solid Bar2
2K***29Transfer--Series C1
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8h2501 Track Roller Frame Group
4h6300 Five Roller Track Roller Frame Group--Non-Oscillating
3k2779 Track Roller Group--Single Flange--4 Groups Required
2k6179 Hydraulic Control Arrangements Double Spool--35 U.S. Gallons Per Minute
2K***83Rear Hydraulic Lines Group1
2K***80Front Lever Control Group1
2K***53Side Hydraulic Lines Group1
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Bulldozer
2j1136 Blade Group
9f2348 Blade Group
2j1137 Brace Group
3j854 Bulldozer Arrangement
2k4725 Bulldozer Arrangement
2j7145 Bulldozer Arrangement
2j7144 C-Frame Group
3j1552 C-Frame Group
8f9866 Grease Gun--Type 2
8f9866 Grease Gun--Type 1
1f221 Hose Assembly
7h3933 Hose Assembly
Plate And Transfers
1H***38Transfer Safety First1
1H***17Transfer; --Lubricating Oil Filter Instructions1
3H***42Plate--Serial Number (Track Loader); On Bevel Gear & Steering Clutch Case--Upper Rear Of L.H. Side2
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6h9835 Tool Group
5h3016 Tool Group
1m6981 Tool Group
9s7977 Tool Group--Replaces 1m6981
1j9166 Trunnion Group
2k5118 Trunnion Group
4b1856 Volume Compressor
7h1680 Volume Compressor
Clutch, Transmission And Chassis
Brakes
Dash And Floor Plates
4h8404 Drawbar Group
Engine Support
4h5854 Engine Support Group
Final Drive--Part 2 Of 2
Final Drive--Part 1 Of 2
Front Idler--Part 1 Of 2
Front Idler
Front Idler--Part 2 Of 2
Fuel Tank And Seat Support
Gear Shift And Flywheel Clutch Control--Part 1 Of 2
Gear Shift And Flywheel Clutch Control--Part 2 Of 2
Hood And Guard
5h568 Oil Flywheel Clutch Group--Front View--Part 2 Of 2
5h568 Oil Flywheel Clutch Group--Side View-Part 1 Of 2
5h568 Oil Flywheel Clutch Group--Front View-Part 2 Of 2
4h7498 Pump Group
Seat Cushions
Steering Clutch
Steering Clutch Control--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
Steering Clutch Control--Side View -- Part 1 Of 2
2f1157 Track Carrier Roller Group--2 Groups Required
6h8400 Track Carrier Roller Group--2 Groups Required
1f3648 Track Carrier Roller Group--2 Groups Required
2m7208 Track Carrier Roller Group--2 Groups Required
3k3380 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Groups Required
1m1601 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
8h1179 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
3k7772 Track Group--15" Flat Center Shoe--2 Groups Required
4h8209 Track Group--15" Triple Grouser Shoe--2 Groups Required
Track Roller Frame
4h6300 Track Roller Frame Group
8h2502 Track Roller Frame Guard Group
5h150 Track Roller Frame Guard Group
5h6099 Track Roller Group--Single Flange--4 Groups Required
4f3521 Track Roller Group--Single Flange--4 Groups Required
4F***21Track Roller Group; Track Roller Group- Single Flange1
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1m3826 Track Roller Group--Single Flange--4 Required
1M***27Track Roller Group; Track Roller Group- Double Flange1
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Transmission Case And Covers--Part 1 Of 2
Transmission Case And Covers--Part 2 Of 2
4h9050 Transmission Group
Diesel
Accessory Shaft And Idler Gear
Air Cleaner
Balancer
4f3567 Basic Governor Group--Part 2 Of 2
4f3567 Basic Governor Group--Part 1 Of 2
Breather And Oil Filler
Camshaft
5h2634 Complete Governor Group--8% Regulation At 1400 R.P.M.
Compression Release Control
Connecting Rod And Piston--4 Required
Crankshaft
Crankshaft Bearing Replacement
Cylinder Block And Covers--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--Front View - Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--Side View - Part 1 Of 2
Cylinder Block And Covers--Front View -- Part 2 Of 2
5h1942 Cylinder Block Assembly
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism
Exhaust Extension
4h7500 Fan And Water Pump Group
9h8381 Fan Group
Fuel Filter
4f6738 Fuel Injection Valves And Lines Group
4F***38Fuel Injection Valves And Lines Group1
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Fuel Pump And Governor Control
Fuel Pump Housing
4f6742 Fuel Pump Housing Group
4h8487 Fuel System Group
5f6607 Fuel Transfer Pump Group
5f8592 Governor Control Group--Positive Locking
5h8033 Governor Control Group--Positive Locking
4f8125 Hour Meter Group
Manifolds--Top View
Manifolds (5h213 N/S)
4h7486 Oil Cooler Group
Oil Gauge, Fuel Gauge And Heat Indicator
Oil Lines And Filter
2h7735 Oil Pump Assembly
4h7374 Radiator Group--Part 2 Of 2
4h7374 Radiator Group--Part 1 Of 2
8h5218 Service Meter Group--Field Installation--Type 2
8h5218 Service Meter Group--Field Installation--Type 3
8h5218 Service Meter Group--Type 1
Water Lines (4h8992 N/S)
Water Lines
9h8382 Water Pump Group
Hydraulic Controls
1j4751 Control Valve Group
6h2974 Control Valve Group
Hydraulic Lines
6h1018 Hydraulic Oil Filter Group
3k6727 Hydraulic Oil Filter Group
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Top View -- Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Side View -- Part 1 Of 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Top View-Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines--Side View--Part 2 Of 2
9h6690 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
5h3422 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--End View--Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--End View-Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--Front View--Part 1 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--End View - Part 2 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--Front View - Part 1 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve And Tank--Front View-Part 1 Of 2
Hydraulic Valve Hand Control
6h8267 Relief Valve Assembly
5h8004 Relief Valve Assembly
2k3743 Tilt Cylinder Group--R.H.
3h2852 Universal Joint
8h6473 Universal Joint Assembly
Starting Engine
Air Cleaner, Breather And Carburetor
9h9886 Battery Group--6 Volt
6h3644 Battery Group--6 Volt
2a3589 Camshaft Group
5f3527 Caburetor
3h3779 Carburetor Controls Group
4h7577 Clutch And Starter Pinion Control Group
4H***77Clutch And Starter Pinion Control Group1
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9h9911 Clutch And Starter Pinion Control Group
9H***11Clutch And Starter Pinion Control Group1
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3b8008 Clutch And Starter Pinion Group
3B***08Clutch And Starter Pinion Group1
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3h6366 Clutch Housing Group
2a3591 Connecting Rod And Piston Group--2 Groups Required
2A***91Connecting Rod And Piston Group1
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2a3590 Crankshaft Group
Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--End View--Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism--Side View--Part 1 Of 2
9h9889 Electric Starter Group--6 Volt
3h6512 Electric Starting Group--6 Volt
Fuel System
8f3333 Generator--6 Volt, 20 Ampere
4f6969 Generator Group--6 Volt, 20 Ampere
2a4102 Governor Group
3h6361 Ignition System Group
7f9932 Magneto
9h4492 Magneto
4s6471 Magneto Assembly--Field Installation
6f8024 Electric Starting Motor--6 Volt
1l3468 Regulator--6 Volt, 20 Ampere
7h842 Regulator--6 Volt, 20 Ampere
7m3962 Regulator Assembly--6 Volt, 20 Ampere--Replaces 1m2381
1m2381 Regulator--6 Volt, 20 Ampere
Traxcavator
2k3783 Bucket Assembly--1 1/2 Cu. Yd.--80" Wide
Bucket Control
Bucket Lift Control Kickout
2k3777 Lift Cylinder Group--R.H.--Type 1
2k3777 Lift Cylinder Group--5.5" X 29.25"--R.H.--Type 2
4k2021 Tooth Group

955 serial number reference

The PIN/serial plate on early 955/955H/955K generations is riveted on the left side of the engine block just above the pinion/clutch housing, with a duplicate plate on the left rear flat of the transmission case (sometimes hidden behind a winch). Later 955L plates follow Cat's standard frame-mounted ID plate. The prefix is the leading letters+digits before the sequential unit number (e.g. 61H1234): match the prefix to the tables above to pin down series/generation, engine, and build plant, then use the number that follows to place the unit within that prefix's production run for parts-manual breakpoints.

PrefixIdentifies
12A955 (original) / 955C, direct-drive standard-shift
42D955A bulldozer chassis variant
60A955H, US-built
72A955H
77A955H, Australian-built
93A955H
31J955K
48H955K
53H955K
57J955K
61H955K
64J955K then 955L (mid-run rebadge), France-built
71J955K, then 955L at 71J04558-up, Japan-built (Caterpillar Mitsubishi)
85J955K then 955L (mid-run rebadge), US-built
08Y955L, power shift, France-built
13D955L
13X955L, power shift, LGP available
57M955L, latest production

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the Caterpillar 955 have?

It depends on series. The original 955 (12A-prefix) used the naturally aspirated Cat D315 four-cylinder diesel. The 955H and 955K moved to a turbocharged D330 four-cylinder, and the 955L used a turbocharged D330 or the 3304 four-cylinder, depending on production year.

What is the operating weight of the Caterpillar 955?

Operating weight varies by series, from roughly 9.7 tonnes (21,480 lb) on the original 955 up to about 15.9 tonnes (34,950 lb) on the 955L, with the 955H and 955K falling in between at roughly 11.3 to 12.7 tonnes (24,950-28,000 lb).

What replaced the Caterpillar 955?

The 955L was the last machine in the 955 line, produced into the late 1970s. Caterpillar's crawler loader lineup continued afterward with other model families, but no single model was marketed as a direct one-for-one 955 replacement.

What 955 owners discuss

What powertrain behavior do owners and mechanics commonly report on the Cat 955 track loader?
The 955 line runs a torque-converter powershift drivetrain, not a direct-drive or hydrostatic transmission. Owners report reduced power on grades and sluggish response when converter or transmission oil has moisture contamination or is overdue for a change - a fresh oil and filter service often restores normal pull. Because the machine combines loader hydraulics with crawler-tractor steering clutches, operators note it is more maintenance-intensive and harder to access than a wheeled loader of similar size. Overall drivetrain layout (D315 mechanical engine on the earliest 12A-prefix units versus D330 on later H/K/L series) is consistent across owner reports, so verify which engine is actually fitted before ordering parts.
What hydraulic problems show up most often on these machines?
Bucket tilt cylinder seal leaks are a recurring complaint on 955K/L units, and lift cylinder seals leak in the same way, often showing as dark grime streaking down the lift arm. Cylinder head fasteners can be seized from age, so seal jobs typically need a torque multiplier and penetrating oil rather than routine hand tools. A worn hydraulic pump tends to run fine cold but starts to whine and loses lift speed once the oil warms up after 15-20 minutes of work; that symptom points to internal bypass wear in the pump rather than a cylinder problem. Hot-running oil on an otherwise sound system is treated by owners as an early pump-wear indicator.
What undercarriage and track wear patterns are typical for a 955?
Track tension has an outsized effect on wear: running tracks too tight accelerates wear on rollers and especially the front idler. A common owner fix documented in vintage-Cat circles is shimming the front idler yoke where it rides the track frame, since clearance there lets tracks jump the idler. Oil weeping onto the track pads right at the final drive/sprocket area is treated as an early sign of a failing mechanical face seal at the sprocket hub - left unaddressed it lets debris into the final drive and turns into a major gear and bearing repair. Because pulling a final drive seal means removing the track and frame and pressing the sprocket off, owners budget this as a heavy, multi-day job rather than routine maintenance.
Do engine quirks differ between the D315-powered 955 and the later D330-powered H/K/L series?
Yes, and the split matters for troubleshooting. The original 12A-prefix 955 (1954-1960) runs the mechanical D315 and is generally regarded in vintage-Cat circles as a simple, reliable engine for its era; its main recurring complaint is overheating from debris - picked off the back of a raised bucket - getting pulled through the radiator core by the fan and packing or sandblasting the fins. The later D330-powered 955H/955K/955L use direct injection, and owners of these report the fuel rack sticking if the machine has sat for a while, often freed by tapping it lightly after soaking the linkage in penetrating oil. Modern ultra-low-sulfur diesel is also widely reported to dry out and crack older non-Viton O-rings in these mechanical injection pumps, and low fuel lubricity is blamed for premature injection pump wear - a lubricity additive is a common preventive step among owners running these engines on current pump-diesel.
Are there electrical or sensor-related complaints on the Cat 955?
This is an all-mechanical machine with no engine control module or sensor network, so "electrical issues" here mean the basic 24-volt starting circuit rather than modern electronics. The 955 uses two 12-volt batteries wired in series for 24 volts, and owners stress using a proper meter rather than a 12V test light when chasing faults. Most no-start electrical complaints trace back to corroded or loose battery cable terminals causing a poor ground or resistive heat buildup, or to failed fusible links in the starter circuit. A starter that clicks or thumps once but doesn't crank the engine typically points to the solenoid engaging the bendix without full voltage reaching the starter motor post - a wiring or contact problem, not a control-electronics fault.
What should I know about steering clutch and brake service on the 955?
Steering on the 955 is by clutch-and-brake, not hydrostatic, and pedal feel is the main owner-reported symptom of wear: clutch packs that slip lose turning power, and brake bands that lose tension let the machine creep or fail to hold. Access is from underneath at the rear, behind covers over the final drive housings, where threaded adjusters set pedal free play and clutch release. Owners caution against over-tightening the clutch adjustment, since that can prevent the clutch from fully releasing and cause it to drag or overheat. Because steering and braking are safety-critical and the adjustment tolerances are tight, have your dealer or a qualified technician verify clutch and brake adjustment before returning the machine to work.
What should I check before buying a used Cat 955?
Ask for service history first; owners who kept to factory maintenance intervals on these machines report much longer component life. Inspect the sprockets - teeth should be blunt and rounded where they contact the track, not sharp or egg-shaped, which indicates final drive or track wear. Look for oil weeping onto the track pads right at the final drives, a sign of a failing sprocket seal. Check hydraulic oil condition (should look clean, not burnt or milky) and run the lift and tilt functions through a full cycle watching for cylinder leaks or a pump that starts to whine as it warms up. Work the steering clutches and brakes on both sides and confirm the machine turns and stops evenly with normal pedal effort. Start the engine cold and listen for knocking, and note fuel rack behavior if the machine has been sitting - a sticking rack on D330-engined H/K/L units is common after long idle periods. Always take the machine on a full test drive, working it in both directions and under load, before finalizing a purchase, and have your dealer confirm final drive and clutch condition on any unit you're seriously considering.

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 955. Related factory variants of the same model family:

955

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