Caterpillar 980
Caterpillarwheel-type loaderwheel loader

Caterpillar 980

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar 980 wheel loader covered here is the original, pre-980B version, built from 1966 under PIN prefix 42H. It is a large articulated wheel loader for its era, powered by a mechanically governed Caterpillar D336TA diesel — a 60-degree V8, turbocharged and aftercooled, rated 224 kW (300 hp) at the flywheel. The main V8 is started by a small gasoline pony motor with its own magneto ignition and carburetor, standard practice on big Caterpillar diesels before electric starting became universal on machines this size. Caterpillar used the D336TA in only one other machine, the J621 elevating scraper. It was offered as a wheel loader with bucket and general material-handling work tools typical of the period; specific factory configuration options, operating weight, dimensions, bucket capacity, and travel speeds for this exact serial range are not documented in public sources. This original 980 is the direct predecessor to the 980B, introduced around 1970 with a Caterpillar 3306 engine and roughly 23,400 kg (51,500 lb) operating weight under PIN prefix 89P, which in turn led the lettered-generation line through 980C, F, F II, G, G II, and H.

The move from this V8 original to the 980B was a full powertrain change, not just a horsepower revision: Caterpillar dropped the D336TA V8 for an inline-six 3306, a simpler and more serviceable engine that carried the 980 name for decades afterward and eliminated the pony-motor starting system entirely. That change followed field experience with the D336TA on both the 980 and the J621 scraper — the V8 was powerful for its day but earned a reputation for shorter service life and heavier upkeep than Cat's inline sixes, and some owners of D336TA-powered machines used a factory-supported repower to an inline-six diesel (3306 or 3406) instead of rebuilding the V8 at overhaul time. In today's used and parts market, this original 980 sits outside normal fleet circulation: parts support is thin compared with the later letter-series machines, and most surviving units are sought by vintage-Caterpillar collectors and restorers specifically after the early V8/pony-motor configuration rather than by buyers looking for a working production loader.

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 980 specifications

Engine

Engine modelCaterpillar D336TA, a 60-degree V8 diesel with turbocharger and aftercooling. Part of Caterpillar's D330-family engine line built during this era.
Gross power224 kW (300 hp) flywheel rating, per period factory literature for this engine arrangement. This V8 was fitted to only one other Caterpillar machine of the era, the J621 elevating scraper.
Net powerNot documented separately for this era — verify with your dealer.
DisplacementNot reliably documented for this engine arrangement. Published figures conflict across sources — verify with your dealer or the engine arrangement plate.
Cylinders8, in a 60-degree V configuration.
Starting systemGasoline-fueled starting engine (pony motor) with magneto ignition and its own carburetor, used to crank the main diesel. Separate 12-volt and 24-volt generator/charging groups covered the starting-engine and main-engine electrical needs, typical of Caterpillar diesels of this vintage before full electric start became standard.

Weights

Operating weightNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer or the machine's data plate.
Shipping weightNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.

Dimensions

Transport length, width, heightNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer or the operation and maintenance manual for this serial range.
WheelbaseNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Ground clearanceNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.

Performance

Travel speedsNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Breakout force / lift capacityNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Bucket capacity rangeNot documented for this serial range in available sources. This is a large wheel loader in the same size class as the models that followed it, but no verified bucket-capacity figure was found for this original machine — verify with your dealer.

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel tankNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Hydraulic systemNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Engine oilNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.
Cooling systemNot documented for this serial range in available sources — verify with your dealer.

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

980 fluids & capacities

SystemCapacityRecommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter)Not published in accessible sources for the 42H-serial (original) 980. Confirm the exact refill quantity against this machine's own operation & maintenance manual or a dealer parts lookup by serial number.Caterpillar's diesel engine oil recommendation for this era was graded by ambient operating temperature — lighter viscosity for cold starts, heavier monograde for sustained warm-climate work. This predates the modern Cat DEO branding. The exact viscosity chart for this serial range is not confirmed in available sources; follow the OMM lubricant chart for the correct grade by season.
Cooling systemNot published in accessible sources for this serial range. Verify against the OMM or a dealer before servicing.Period Cat practice called for a water and ethylene-glycol mix with Caterpillar's cooling-system corrosion/mineral inhibitor added at each service interval. Full-formulation antifreeze coolants of the modern ELC type postdate this machine. Confirm the exact product and mix ratio against the OMM.
Fuel tankAbout 360 L (95 US gal), per Caterpillar's factory parts documentation for the 42H serial range. Treat as approximate — this figure could not be cross-checked against a second independent source, so confirm against the OMM or tank markings.Standard diesel fuel. No special Caterpillar-branded fuel additive is called out for this machine's fuel system.
Transmission / torque converter compartmentNot published in accessible sources for this serial range.The 42H-series 980 drives through a torque-converter powershift transmission. Caterpillar's dedicated Transmission/Drive Train Oil (TDTO) product line postdates the early production of this machine; comparable-era Cat powershift equipment commonly specified a straight diesel engine oil grade in the torque converter/transmission housing instead. The exact product and viscosity Caterpillar called out for this specific serial range is not confirmed — check the OMM lubricant chart, since guidance changed over this machine's production run.
Final drives (each wheel station)Not published in accessible sources for this serial range.Cat-spec gear oil as called out in the OMM lubrication chart for this era's powershift-drive final drives. Confirm the exact product name and seasonal viscosity against the manual.
Hydraulic system and tankNot published in accessible sources for this serial range. The loader's hydraulic tank and valve group is a reservoir separate from the transmission, but its factory fill volume is not documented in accessible sources.Period Cat guidance for wheel loaders of this class generally used the same engine-oil-grade fluid elsewhere applied in the powertrain for the loader hydraulic circuit. The specific product name for this serial range is not confirmed — verify against the OMM lubricant chart before topping off or changing hydraulic fluid.
Axles and differentials (front and rear)Not published in accessible sources for this serial range.This machine was factory-offered with either a No-Spin or a Torque-Proportioning differential group; each takes a Cat-spec axle gear oil sized to the differential fitted. Confirm the exact product, viscosity, and quantity against the OMM, since the recommendation can vary by which differential option is installed.
Grease (chassis lubrication points)Not a bulk-fill system — serviced per grease-point interval in the OMM, not a single tank capacity.Multipurpose-type chassis grease, NLGI 2 grade, for pivot pins, linkage, and steering-frame lubrication points, per Caterpillar's standard long-running recommendation across its equipment line. Apply at the intervals listed in the OMM lubrication chart.

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

Caterpillar 980 maintenance schedule

Service intervalTasks
Every 10 h
  • Check D336TA V8 crankcase oil level before starting and top off as needed.
  • Check pony motor fuel and oil level, and confirm carburetor linkage moves freely.
  • Grease articulation hitch, loader linkage, and bucket pivot points daily under heavy use.
  • Drain water and sediment from the primary fuel filter/water separator.
  • Check radiator coolant level and inspect for leaks around the water pump and hoses.
  • Check tire inflation and wheel lug torque weekly.
Every 250 h
  • Change engine oil and filter on the main D336TA V8.
  • Clean the pony motor air cleaner element and check magneto point gap and contacts.
  • Service the main engine air cleaner element and check for intake restriction.
  • Grease steering cylinders, tie rods, and differential yokes not covered on the daily schedule.
  • Check and adjust fan belt and pony motor drive belt tension.
Every 500 h
  • Change hydraulic system filter(s) and inspect the hydraulic tank breather.
  • Check and adjust valve lash on the D336TA.
  • Service the pony motor: change oil, clean and gap magneto points, inspect ignition wiring, and clean the carburetor bowl.
  • Check front and rear axle/differential oil level and top off with the correct gear lubricant.
  • Check transmission or torque converter oil level and condition.
  • Inspect articulation and steering cylinder pins and bushings for wear.
Every 1,000 h
  • Change front and rear axle/differential and final drive oil.
  • Change transmission or torque converter oil and filter.
  • Pressure-test the cooling system and inspect the radiator core, hoses, and water pump.
  • Inspect turbocharger and aftercooler connections for leaks and secure mounting.
  • Check injection pump timing and injector condition, and adjust governor linkage.
  • Clean fuel tank sediment and water, and inspect fuel lines.
Every 2,000 h
  • Recalibrate the injection pump and service or replace fuel injectors as needed.
  • Inspect and repack wheel bearings.
  • Inspect steering and hitch cylinders and rebuild if leaking or worn.
  • Check cylinder compression and blow-by on the D336TA to assess ring and liner wear.
  • Inspect the pony motor magneto coil and condenser and replace if output has weakened.
  • Inspect engine mounts and drivetrain U-joints for wear.
Every 4,000 h
  • Plan a D336TA top-end or full overhaul covering liners, pistons, rings, and main/rod bearings on both banks.
  • Inspect and recondition the torque converter or transmission internals.
  • Rebuild final drives and differentials as wear indicates.
  • Evaluate a factory-style repower to an inline-six diesel if the V8 is due for major work.

Servicing the 980 beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

Run oil sampling on the D336TA V8 at every oil change — this engine has a documented history of shorter top-end life than Cat's inline sixes, so trending metal content in the sample catches ring and liner wear early. Track pony motor oil and fuel condition too; a fouled carburetor or weak magneto output shows up as hard starting long before the main engine is affected. Watch coolant condition closely, since the V8's tighter cylinder head passages are less tolerant of scale buildup than a straight-six block.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Expect magneto and carburetor work on the pony motor as routine, not exceptional — points, condenser, and jet cleaning are the most common fixes that keep the main engine startable. On the D336TA itself, injector and injection-pump service comes up often given its mechanical governor and V8 layout, which spreads injection work across two cylinder banks instead of one inline row. Articulation hitch pins, steering cylinder seals, and loader linkage bushings wear steadily under daily digging loads and are frequent corrective jobs on machines this age.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

At major overhaul, the D336TA V8 is the priority: liners, pistons, rings, and bearings on both banks, plus a full injection pump and injector recalibration. Because parts support for this V8 is thinner than for Cat's inline-six engines, some owners use rebuild time to evaluate a factory-style repower to a 3306 or 3406 inline six rather than source another D336TA. Beyond the engine, plan on rebuilding the torque converter or transmission, final drives, and the articulation/steering cylinders as a set, since all wear together over the same service life.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

Cold-weather starts depend on the pony motor and its magneto — keep ignition components dry and the carburetor jetted correctly, since a weak spark or an icing carburetor means the V8 never gets cranked over. Use correct seasonal viscosity in both the pony motor and the D336TA crankcase, and drain fuel filters more often in humid conditions. In dusty environments, service the main air cleaner and turbocharger inlet more often than standard, since the D336TA's turbocharger and aftercooler are more sensitive to inlet contamination than a naturally aspirated engine.

980 common service parts

Part numberPart
2S-6626Fuel FilterCheck fitment →
1S-5132Oil Filter AssemblyCheck fitment →

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

980 attachments & work tools

General purpose buckets

Factory general purpose buckets ran roughly 4.0-5.0 cu yd (about 3.1-3.8 m3), in widths near 118-126 in (3.0-3.2 m). Multiple capacity/width pairings were offered across the production run, so match bucket to the specific machine configuration rather than assuming one size.

Rock / quarry bucket

A reinforced rock-loading bucket was offered alongside the general purpose bucket, similar capacity class (around 4.5 cu yd / 3.4 m3 at 126 in / 3.2 m wide) but heavier structure for bank and face loading in abrasive, high-impact material.

Bolt-on cutting edges

Heavy-duty and light-duty cutting edges were field-installable on the bucket, letting the edge pattern be matched to ground/material conditions and replaced without swapping the whole bucket.

Log fork / logging arrangement

A forestry-oriented log fork arrangement mounted a fork carriage-and-clamp assembly to the loader arms in place of a bucket for picking and stacking logs. A companion logging arrangement package added matched rims/tires and a counterweight for balance in yard and forestry duty.

Rear-mounted ripper-scarifier arrangement

A factory rear-mounted ripper-scarifier arrangement used its own hydraulic cylinders to raise and lower ripper or scarifier shanks off the back of the machine. Mounting the tool over the rear axle put drive-tire weight behind the shanks for penetration, a layout also used on other Cat wheel loaders of this era.

Auxiliary hydraulic (3rd valve) arrangement

The base hydraulic circuit covered lift and tilt only (2 valve sections). A 3rd-valve hydraulic control arrangement, offered in separate front-attachment and rear-attachment versions, added the extra valve section, hand control, relief valve, and lines needed to run work tools such as the ripper or fork clamp. A factory conversion kit could upgrade an existing 2-valve machine to 3-valve.

Attachment mounting method

This generation predates hydraulic quick-coupler systems. Buckets pin directly to the loader arms and tilt linkage; forks and similar tools mount through a bolted carriage-and-clamp assembly. Tool changes are manual pin/bolt work, not an in-cab coupler swap.

Counterweights

Rear counterweight groups in a few distinct weights were available to rebalance the machine when running heavier front or rear attachments, including forestry configurations. Weight fitted depends on the attachment package installed, so verify against the specific arrangement in use.

All 980 assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar 980. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Attachments
9s1932 Cover Group--Type 2
9s1932 Cover Group--Type 1
5k7700 980 Ripper-Scarifier Arrangement
3S***42Film1
5J***56Hydraulic Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group2
5K***45Ripper Ar-Basic; Ripper--Scarifier Group1
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4s7341 Air Cleaner And Exhaust System Group--Type 1
4S***41Air Cleaner And Exhaust System Group1
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4s7341 Air Cleaner And Exhaust System Group--Type 2
4S***41Air Cleaner And Exhaust System Group1
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4s6883 Alternator Arrangement--12 Volt, 60 Ampere
4D***62Switch Assem. (Heat & Start)1
4S***63Alternator Group1
4S***83Alternator Arrangement1
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4s6882 Alternator Arrangement--24 Volt, 45 Ampere
4S***48Alternator Group1
4S***82Alternator Arrangement1
5K***50Wiring Group1
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1s2585 Alternator Assembly--12 Volt, 60 Ampere
1s2584 Alternator Assembly--24 Volt, 45 Ampere
4s6463 Alternator Group--12 Volt, 60 Ampere
4s6448 Alternator Group--24 Volt, 45 Ampere
6j1733 Auxiliary Relief Valve Group
1v4357 Basic Wiper Group--12 Volt
5k4431 Battery And Wiring Group--12 Volt--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine--Part 1 Of 2
5k4431 Battery And Wiring Group--12 Volt--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
5k5095 General Purpose Bucket Assembly--4 Cubic Yard--118" Wide
5k5634 General Purpose Bucket Assembly--4.50 Cubic Yard--126" Wide--Type 1
5k5385 Bucket Assembly--Rock Loading
5k5634 General Purpose Bucket Assembly--4.50 Cubic Yard--126" Wide--Type 2
6k5952 Bucket Assembly--Rock Loading--4.50 Cubic Yard--126" Wide
6k5345 General Purpose Bucket Assembly
6k8776 General Purpose Bucket Assembly--5 Cubic Yard--126" Wide
6k9080 Cab Arrangement
6K***50Cab Group1
6K***27Cab Mounting Group1
6K***80Cab Arrangement1
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6k625 Cab Arrangement--Only Separate Parts Serviced.
6K***25Cab Arrangement1
6K***30Cab Group1
6K***31Cab Mounting Group1
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6k8950 Cab Group--Part 1 Of 3
6k8950 Cab Group--Part 2 Of 3
6k4930 Cab Group--Part 3 Of 3
6k4930 Cab Group--Part 1 Of 3
6k8950 Cab Group--Part 3 Of 3
6k4930 Cab Group--Part 2 Of 3
6k1202 Cab Lighting System Group--12 Volt
6k9027 Cab Mounting Group
6k4931 Cab Mounting Group
6k651 Wiring Harness Assembly
Camshaft And Governor (2s886 N/S)
Carburetor (2s8830 N/S)
9m3171 Carburetor Assembly
6k5237 Carriage And Clamp Group
5k6020 Carriage And Clamp Group
1s5938 Clutch Group
3s8548 Complete Gasoline Starting Engine Arrangement
0L***26Plug -13mm(.512 In.) Outside Dia.2
0S***85Bolt; 12.7 mm (1/2") Diameter X 38.1 mm (1 1/2") Length Generator To Engine4
0S***87Bolt-Bracket Assembly To Timing Gear2
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Connecting Rod And Piston (8m2572 N/S)--2 Required
5k4610 Control Group
5k7704 Conversion Arrangement To Convert A Two Valve To Three Valve Hydraulic
5J***05Conversion Group1
5K***65Hydraulic Hand Control Group1
5K***00Rear Hydraulic Lines Group1
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5k7705 Conversion Arrangement To Convert A Two Valve To Three Valve Hydraulic
5J***05Conversion Group1
5K***00Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
5K***65Hydraulic Hand Control Group1
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5j7505 Conversion Group--Type 3
5j7505 Conversion Group--Type 2
5j7505 Conversion Group--Type 1
5k6625 Counterweight Group--8400 Pounds
7k7030 Counterweight Group--1740 Pounds--Top View
9k149 Counterweight Group--1,740 Pounds
5k6341 Counterweight Group--1880 Pounds--Top View
2s3025 Protection Cover Group--Oil Filter Cap
2S***25Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group1
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2s6096 Protection Cover Group--Radiator Cap
2S***96Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group-- Radiator Cap1
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5d1900 Protection Cover Group--Hydraulic Tank Cap
5D***00Cover Group-Protection; Protection Cover Group-- Hydraulic Tank Cap1
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Crankshaft (2s130 N/S)
7k1844 Cutting Edge Group--Heavy Duty--Field Installation
7k2457 Cutting Edge Group--Light Duty--Field Installation
1p3951 Cylinder Block Group--Part 1 Of 2
1p3951 Cylinder Block Group--Part 2 Of 2
Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head & Valve Mechanism (2s8871 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
2S***71Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head & Valve Mechanism1
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Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head & Valve Mechanism (2s8871 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
2S***71Cylinder Block, Cylinder Head & Valve Mechanism1
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4j7845 Cylinder Group--5.50" Bore X 21.38" Stroke--2 Required
5j3497 Lift Cylinder Group--7.25" Bore X 39.7" Stroke
Cylinder Head Assembly (6l7808 N/S)
Cylinder Head Assembly (5s2967 N/S)
7k1379 Cylinder Lines Group
2m6646 Dash Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
6k1205 Defroster Fan Group--24 Volt--Type 1
6k1204 Defroster Fan Group--12 Volt--Type 1
6k1204 Defroster Fan Group--12 Volt--Type 2
6k1205 Defroster Fan Group--24 Volt--Type 2
2s785 Differential Group--No-Spin
5k8152 Differential Group--Torque Proportioning
9f740 Discharger
8m2581 Electric Starter Group--12 Volt
8m9923 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--12 Volt
8M***23Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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6k234 Ether Starting Aid Group
4s6511 Fan Assembly--Reversible Blade
5d2856 Defroster Fan Group--24 Volt
4k8034 Flood Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
2m856 Flood Lamp Assembly--12 Volt--Type 2
2m856 Flood Lamp Assembly--12 Volt--Type 1
Flywheel (7s7822 N/S)
Flywheel (1s9913 N/S)
6k2642 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 2
6k2642 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Type 1
5k4900 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Part 2 Of 2
5k4900 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Part 1 Of 2
5k4813 Front Lighting Group--12 Volt--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine
Fuel System (2s8019 N/S)
5k9550 General Purpose Bucket Assembly
5K***50General Purpose Bucket Assembly1
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1m6058 Generator Assembly--12 Volt, 40 Ampere
4s6447 Generator Group--12 Volt, 40 Ampere
8f9866 Grease Gun
5k4894 Harness Assembly
6k2070 Harness Assembly
6k2021 Harness Assembly
6k2071 Harness Assembly
6k2074 Harness Assembly
6k1200 Heater Group--12 Volt
6k1201 Heater Group--24 Volt--Type 2
6k1201 Heater Group--24 Volt--Type 1
3k9066 Heater--12 Volt
5h1526 Heater--24 Volt
5k7703 Hydraulic Control Arrangement 3 Valve--For Use With Front Mounted Attachments
5J***43Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group1
5K***00Front Hydraulic Lines Group1
5K***65Hydraulic Hand Control Group1
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5k7706 Hydraulic Control Arrangement 3 Valve--For Use With Rear Mounted Attachments
5J***43Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group1
5K***65Hydraulic Hand Control Group1
5K***00Rear Hydraulic Lines Group1
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5j156 Cylinder Group--5.50" Bore X 19" Stroke--Type 1
5J***56Hydraulic Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group1
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5j156 Cylinder Group--5.50" Bore X 19" Stroke--Type 3
5J***56Hydraulic Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group1
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5j156 Cylinder Group (Change 4)--5.50" Bore X 19" Stroke--Type 2
5J***56Hydraulic Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group1
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5k5065 Hydraulic Valve Control Group
6k5639 Hydraulic Lines Group
5k9396 Hydraulic Lines Group--As Viewed From Front Right Hand Side Of Machine--Type 1
6k7256 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Part 2 Of 2
6K***56Hydraulic Lines Group; Hydraulic Lines Group Front1
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6k7256 Front Hydraulic Lines Group--Part 1 Of 2
6K***56Hydraulic Lines Group; Hydraulic Lines Group Front1
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6k1000 Hydraulic Lines Group
5k9396 Hydraulic Lines Group--As Viewed From Front Right Hand Side Of Machine--Type 2
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 3 Of 4--Type 3
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 1 Of 4--Type 1
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 3 Of 4--Type 1
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 2 Of 4--Type 3
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 1 Of 4--Type 2
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 1 Of 4--Type 3
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 4 Of 4--Type 2
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 2 Of 4--Type 1
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 4 Of 4--Type 1
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 4 Of 4--Type 3
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 3 Of 4--Type 2
5j5443 Hydraulic Tank And Valve Group--Part 2 Of 4--Type 2
8m2577 Ignition System Group
5j4707 Internal Auxiliary Valve Group
4k4895 Swivel Joint Group
6k1203 Cab Lighting System Group--24 Volt
6K***03Lighting Group-Cab; System Gp-Cab Lighting1
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5k6019 Log Fork Arrangement
4J***45Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group2
5K***19Log Fork Arrangement1
5K***20Carriage And Clamp Group1
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6k4740 Log Fork Arrangement
6j4515 Cylinder Group--5" Bore X 23.88" Stroke--2 Required
6J***15Log Fork Cylinder Group; Cylinder Group1
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5k7180 Logging Arrangement
5K***62Rim Group4
5K***19Log Fork Arrangement1
5K***25Counterweight Group1
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6k5734 Logging Arrangement
0S***85Bolt; 12.7 mm (1/2") Diameter X 38.1 mm (1 1/2") Length Generator To Engine4
1D***19Nut-Retainer To Fan Bracket Assembly4
3B***08Lockwasher Handrails To Dash4
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1s3351 Magneto Assembly
3s2986 Magneto Assembly
6k7960 Rear View Mirror Group
6k2010 Mirror Group
6k4781 Mirror Group
Name Plates And Transfers
2M***31Plate; Serial Number On R.H. Side Of Cylinder Block And R.H. Side Of Loader Frame2
3K***09Plate; Bucket Lever Beside Control Console Near Lift Lever1
3K***12Film-Fuel Instruction; (On Front Guard To The Left And Centered With Fuel Filler Cap)1
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3s2364 Oil Pump Group
2s2787 Protection Cap Group--Starting Engine Fuel Tank
5s8033 Protection Cover Group--Fuel Tank Cap
1s6307 Protection Cover Group--Fuel Tank Cap
1s4153 Rain Cap Group--Starting Engine
5k5900 Rear Hydraulic Lines Group
5k4812 Rear Lighting Group--12 Volt
6j4409 Relief Valve Group--Type 2
6j4409 Relief Valve Group--Type 1
Replacement Parts For Chain Armor
5k4862 Rim Group--29.50 X 25 Tubeless Tires--4 Required
5k4691 Rim Group--26.50 X 25 Tubeless Tires--4 Required
5k445 Ripper-Scarifier Group--Type 1
5K***45Ripper Ar-Basic; Ripper--Scarifier Group1
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5k445 Ripper-Scarifier Group--Type 2
5K***45Ripper Ar-Basic; Ripper--Scarifier Group1
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5k7477 Ripper Mounting Group--Type 2
5k7477 Ripper Mounting Group--Type 1
5k447 Ripper Tooth Group
7k1027 Rock Bucket Group--4.50 Cubic Yard--126" Wide
5k448 Scarifier Tooth Group
7k5547 Seat Assembly
7k8573 Seat Group
9k682 Shaft And Link Assembly
6k5849 Side Plate Group--Rock Bucket
6k5868 Spill Plate Extension Group
5k3753 Spill Plate Extension Group
5k5040 Spill Plate Extension Group
1s5943 Starter Pinion Group
2s6639 Starting Engine Arrangement
1S***38Clutch Group1
1S***43Starter Pinion Group1
2S***32Water Lines Group1
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Support (3s2353 N/S)
8m9319 Tail Lamp Assembly--12 Volt
Tire Chain Armor Arrangements
6k6396 Tire Inflating Group
8m9864 Tool Group
5s2934 Tool Group
9s7978 Tool Group
4k7351 Tooth Group--Long Tip
6k8530 Tooth Group--Rock Bucket--Field Installation
5k7584 Tooth Group--Short Tip
4k9377 Tooth Group--Long Tip
5k7583 Tooth Group--Short Tip
5k8210 Transmission Guard Group--Top View
2s6632 Water Lines Group
7k729 Window Assembly
6k1210 Windshield Washer Group
6k1206 Windshield Wiper And Washer Group--12 Volt
6K***06Windshield Wiper And Washer Group1
6K***09Windshield Wiper Group1
6K***10Windshield Washer Group1
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6k1207 Windshield Wiper And Washer Group--24 Volt
6K***07Windshield Wiper And Washer Group1
6K***08Windshield Wiper Group1
6K***10Windshield Washer Group1
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6k1663 Wiper Assembly--24 Volt
6k1208 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 1
1v4594 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Field Installation
6k1208 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 2
9k1237 Windshield Wiper Assembly
6k1209 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 2
6k1208 Windshield Wiper Group--24 Volt--Type 3
6k1209 Windshield Wiper Group--12 Volt--Type 1
9k1236 Wiper Assembly--12 Volt
6k1662 Wiper Assembly--12 Volt
1v4358 Basic Wiper Group--24 Volt
1v4635 Windshield Wiper Group
1V***35Wiper Group-Windshield; Windshield Wiper Group1
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1v5708 Wiper Service Group--Field Installation
1V***35Wiper Group-Windshield; Windshield Wiper Group1
1V***08Wiper Service Group1
4L***16Terminal (Dark Blue And Dark Green Wire)4
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Wiring Diagram--12 Volt System
Diesel Engine
Air Cleaner (5k5098 N/S)
2s2764 Air Compressor Assembly
1p5013 Air Compressor Assembly--Field Installation
7m914 Air Filter Indicator Group
7M***14Air Filter Service Indicator Group1
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Balancer (7s6282 N/S)
Balancer (2s3114 N/S)
Battery And Wiring (5k4430 N/S)--24 Volt--Top View Part 2 Of 2
Battery And Wiring (5k4430 N/S)--24 Volt--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine Part 1 Of 2
Blower Fan And Drive (3s7655 N/S)
Breather (1s5073 N/S)
Camshaft (3s534 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
Camshaft (3s534 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Camshaft Drive (5s9888 N/S)
Camshaft Drive (1s9900 N/S)
Air Compressor (2s6640 N/S)--Field Installation
Air Compressor (2s6640 N/S)
Connecting Rod And Piston (1s8643 N/S)--8 Required
Crankshaft (1s8637 N/S)
Crankshaft (5s555 N/S)
Crankshaft Bearing Replacement Groups
9s648 Crankshaft Gear Group--Field Installation
9s646 Crankshaft Service Group--Field Installation
Cylinder Block And Covers (2s6617 N/S)--Rear View--Part 3 Of 3
2S***17Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block And Covers (7s3157 N/S)--Front View--Part 2 Of 3
7S***57Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block And Covers (2s6617 N/S)--Front View--Part 2 Of 3
2S***17Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block And Covers (2s6617 N/S)--Side View--Part 1 Of 3
2S***17Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block And Covers (7s3157 N/S)--Side View--Part 1 Of 3
7S***57Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block And Covers (7s3157 N/S)--Rear View--Part 3 Of 3
7S***57Cylinder Block And Covers Group1
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Cylinder Block Assembly (2s2863 N/S)
Cylinder Block Assembly (7s501 N/S)
Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism (7s2520 N/S)
7S***20Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism1
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Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism (9l3035 N/S)
9L***35Cylinder Head And Valve Mechanism Group1
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Drive Hub And Damper (3s7656 N/S)
1s8658 Electric Starter Group--24 Volt
3s8473 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 2 Of 3
3S***73Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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3s8473 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 3 Of 3
3S***73Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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3s8473 Electric Starting Motor Assembly--24 Volt--Part 1 Of 3
3S***73Electric Starting Motor Assembly1
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Exhaust Extension (3s9237 N/S)
4s7872 Fan Drive Clutch Assembly
1p1256 Fan Drive Group--Field Installation
Fan Guard (2s6641 N/S)
8h7204 Fuel Filter Group
4k8033 Flood Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
Flywheel (1s8939 N/S)
Flywheel (7s7819 N/S)
Front Lighting System (5k4814 N/S)--24 Volt--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine
Fuel Filter (2s6626 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Fuel Filter (2s6626 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
Fuel Injection Valves And Lines (4s5495 N/S)
4S***95Fuel Injection Valves And Lines1
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Fuel Priming Pump (2s6633 N/S)
Fuel Pump Housing And Governor (3s8347 N/S)
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 1 Of 2--Type 2
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 2 Of 2--Type 3
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 1 Of 2--Type 3
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 1 Of 2--Type 1
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 2 Of 2--Type 2
5s6681 Fuel Pump Housing Group--Part 2 Of 2--Type 1
Fuel Ratio Control (5s7184 N/S)
Fuel Transfer Pump (3s9589 N/S)
4s6410 Fuel Transfer Pump Group
Gasket Kits
5P***27Diesel Engine Complete0
5P***28Seal .46 M(18.10 In.)0
7S***20Water Pump0
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Generator (4s5717 N/S)--24 Volt, 20 Ampere
4m9102 Generator Assembly--24 Volt, 20 Ampere
1s8659 Glow Plug And Wiring Group
Governor Control (5k5100 N/S)
5s9645 Governor Group--Sectional View Of Housing--Part 3 Of 3
5s3030 Governor Group--Top View--Part 1 Of 2--Type 1
5s3030 Governor Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2--Type 1
5s3030 Governor Group--Top View--Part 1 Of 2--Type 3--Field Installation
5s9645 Governor Group--Top View--Part 1 Of 3
5s3030 Governor Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2--Type 3--Field Installation
5s3030 Governor Group--Top View--Type 2--Field Installation--Part 1 Of 2
5s3030 Governor Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 2--Type 2--Field Installation
5s9645 Governor Group--Side View--Part 2 Of 3
5k5025 Harness Assembly
5k9692 Harness Assembly
7m7147 Combination Stop And Tail Lamp Assembly
1m3387 Dash Lamp Assembly--24 Volt
1m1882 Flood Lamp Assembly--24 Volt--Type 2
1m1882 Flood Lamp Assembly--24 Volt--Type 1
Manifolds (2s6621 N/S)
Oil Cooler Lines (6k1845 N/S)
1s5132 Oil Filter Assembly (1s5131 N/S)
Oil Lines (2s6628 N/S)
Oil Pump And Drive (1s8653 N/S)
1s9523 Oil Pump Assembly
Primary Fuel Filter And Lines (2s6627 N/S)
2s308 Pump Assembly
Radiator And Hydraulic Oil Cooler (2s6636 N/S)--Rear View Part 1 Of 2
2S***36Radiator And Hydraulic Oil Cooler1
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Radiator And Hydraulic Oil Cooler (2s6636 N/S)--Side View Part 2 Of 2
2S***36Radiator And Hydraulic Oil Cooler1
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Rear Lighting System (5k4811 N/S)--24 Volt
2s4228 Service Meter Group (2s6630 N/S)
2s9519 Rack Stop
7h7290 Disconnect Switch Assembly
3k1650 Light Switch Assembly
4m1812 Solenoid Switch Assembly
8s4988 Turbocharger Assembly (2s6620 N/S)
7s6702 Turbocharger Assembly (2s6620 N/S)
3s8308 Turbocharger Assembly (2s6620 N/S)
Water Lines, Torque Converter & Engine Oil Cooler (2s6629 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
2S***29Water Lines, Torque Converter & Engine Oil Cooler1
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Water Lines, Torque Converter & Engine Oil Cooler (2s6629 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
2S***29Water Lines, Torque Converter & Engine Oil Cooler1
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5s1912 Water Pump Assembly--Type 2
5s1912 Water Pump Assembly--Type 1
Wiring Diagram--24 Volt System
Hydraulic Control
7j3776 Body Group--Field Installation
5j4708 Control Valve Group--Part 2 Of 2
5j4708 Control Valve Group--Part 1 Of 2
5j5441 Filler And Mounting Group
5J***41Filler Tube And Tank Mounting Group1
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Hand Control (5k4129 N/S)
6j1443 Hydraulic Oil Filter Group--Type 1
6j1443 Hydraulic Oil Filter Group--Type 2
Hydraulic Pump And Lines (5k5207 N/S)
5j4959 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
Hydraulic Tank And Valve (5j5442 N/S)--Part 2 Of 4
Hydraulic Tank And Valve (5j5442 N/S)--Part 4 Of 4
Hydraulic Tank And Valve (5j5442 N/S)--Part 3 Of 4
Hydraulic Tank And Valve (5j5442 N/S)--Part 1 Of 4
5j4508 Relief Valve Group--Type 1
6j1687 Relief Valve Group
5j4508 Relief Valve Group--Type 2
5j4508 Relief Valve Group
Tank Guard (5k4248 N/S)
6j7184 Tilt Relief Valve Group
6j2781 Tilt Relief Valve Group
5j3644 Tilt Relief Valve Group
3j8878 Tilt Relief Valve Group
6k2782 Tilt Relief Valve Group
Transmission And Chassis
Air And Brake Control (5k80 N/S)
Air Manifold, Valve And Lines
Air Tanks, Valves And Lines
5k4581 Brake Assembly
5k9120 Brake Chamber Assembly
5k9144 Brake Chamber Assembly
Brake Pedals, Horn, Control Valves And Lines
5k5121 Control Valve Assembly
5k3584 Differential Group
6k8381 Differential Group
5k4742 Dipstick And Oil Filler Spout Group
Drawbar (5k4903 N/S)
7k4340 Drawbar Assembly
Drive Shafts (5k4347 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Drive Shafts (5k4347 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
Fenders (5k4652 N/S)
Final Drive And Wheel (5k4626 N/S)--4 Required
Front And Rear Differential And Carrier (5k3580 N/S & 5k3581 N/S)
5K***80Front And Rear Differential And Carrier1
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Front Brake And Axle (5k4291 N/S)
Front Wheel Brake Chamber And Lines
Fuel System (5k4300 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Fuel System (5k4300 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
5k4911 Gauges And Dash Group--Part 2 Of 2
5k4911 Gauges And Dash Group--Top View--Part 1 Of 2
Hood And Guard (5k4852 N/S)
5d6998 Air Horn Assembly
5j4960 Hydraulic Pump Assembly
Front Frame (5k4677 N/S)
6k5352 Park And Emergency Valve Assembly
6K***52Park And Emergency Valve Assembly1
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Planetary Transmission (3s8000 N/S)--Part 3 Of 3
Planetary Transmission (3s8000 N/S)--Part 2 Of 3
Planetary Transmission (3s8000 N/S)--Part 1 Of 3
Platform (5k4053 N/S)
Platform Support (5k4877 N/S)
3s8099 Pressure Control Group
5k4608 Pump Drive Group--Part 2 Of 2
5k4608 Pump Drive Group--Part 1 Of 2
Pump, Filter And Manifold (3s8105 N/S)
3S***05Pump, Filter And Manifold Group1
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Rear Brake And Axle (5k4292 N/S)
Rear Frame (5k3505 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Rear Frame (5k3505 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
Rear Wheel Brake Chamber And Lines
Rim (5k4861 N/S)--23.50 X 25 Tubeless Tires--4 Required
3k8461 Seat Assembly
3K***61Seat Group; Basic Seat Group--Static1
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Seat (5k2061 N/S)
3s8098 Selector Valve Group
5j2628 Steering Cylinder Group--L.H.--4.50" Bore X 10.50" Stroke
5j2627 Steering Cylinder Group--R.H.--4.50" Bore X 10.50" Stroke
Steering Gear And Mechanism (5k4740 N/S) Part 2 Of 2
5K***40Steering Gear And Mechanism Group1
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Steering Gear And Mechanism (5k4740 N/S)--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine Part 1 Of 2
5K***40Steering Gear And Mechanism Group1
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Steering Valve And Lines (5k4400 N/S)--Top View--Part 2 Of 2
Steering Valve And Lines (5k4400 N/S)--Top View--Part 1 Of 2
5j3450 Steering Valve Group
Torque Converter Cooler Lines (5k4105 N/S)
1t835 Torque Converter Group
1t830 Torque Converter Group
1t707 Torque Converter Group
Transfer Gears (3s8003 N/S)--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine--Part 2 Of 2
Transfer Gears (3s8003 N/S)--As Viewed From Front Of Machine--Part 1 Of 2
7s8500 Transmission Arrangement
Transmission Control (5k3966 N/S)
3s8050 Transmission Oil Filter And Screen Group
3S***50Transmission Filter And Screen Group1
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3s8002 Transmission Group--As Viewed From R.H. Side Of Machine
Transmission Hydraulic Control (3s8100 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
3S***00Transmission Hydraulic Control Group1
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Transmission Hydraulic Control (3s8100 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
3S***00Transmission Hydraulic Control Group1
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2s1350 Transmission Pump Group
1s8754 Universal Joint Assembly
4d2287 Valve Assembly
2r617 Foot Control Valve Assembly
3d9943 Horn Valve
9j8193 Basic Vane Pump Group--Field Installation
Wheel Loader
Bucket Control (5k4714 N/S)
Bucket Positioner And Indicator (5k5094 N/S)--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine--Part 1 Of 2
5K***94Bucket Positioner And Indicator Group1
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Bucket Positioner And Indicator (5k5094 N/S)--As Viewed From Right Hand Side Of Machine--Part 2 Of 2
5K***94Bucket Positioner And Indicator Group1
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7k4051 Cam Group
7j9953 Cylinder And Seal Group--6.50" Bore X 39.37" Stroke--2 Required--Field Installation
7j9952 Cylinder Group--(Change 3 & 4)--165.1 Mm (6.50 In.) Bore X 999.9 Mm (39.37 In.) Stroke--2 Required
5j4556 Tilt Cylinder Group--L.H.--5.50" Bore X 32.80" Stroke
5j7170 External Kickout Valve Group
Bucket Kickout (5k4882 N/S)
6k9943 Lift Arm And Pin Repair Group--Field Installation
7j2356 Lift Cylinder--6.50" Bore X 39.37" Stroke--2 Required
5j3505 Lift Cylinder Group--6.50" Bore X 39.37" Stroke--2 Required
Lift Cylinder Lines (5k4898 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2
Lift Cylinder Lines (5k4898 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
6j2401 Swivel Joint Group
4k6614 Swivel Joint Group
4k6615 Swivel Joint Group
6j2216 Swivel Joint Group--Type 2
6j2216 Swivel Joint Group--Type 1
5j4555 Tilt Cylinder Group--R.H.--5.50" Bore X 32.80" Stroke
Tilt Cylinder Lines (5k4899 N/S)--Part 1 Of 2
Tilt Cylinder Lines (5k4899 N/S)--Part 2 Of 2

980 serial number reference

On the 980, the serial/PIN plate is mounted on the right-hand side of the machine, at the base of the cab structure or on the front of the operator's platform near the access steps. Pre-2001 Cat machines carry a short serial number made of a 3-character prefix (identifies the model and build series) followed by a sequential unit number; later full 17-character PINs still embed that same 3-character prefix. Read the first three characters off the plate and match them to the model/series table before ordering parts, since the same numeric model designation can span more than one prefix across generations.

PrefixIdentifies
42HOriginal 980 Wheel Loader (pre-980B, 1960s-early 1970s production)

Frequently asked questions

What engine powers the original Caterpillar 980 wheel loader?

This early 980 (PIN prefix 42H, built from 1966) uses a mechanically governed Caterpillar D336TA diesel — a 60-degree V8, turbocharged and aftercooled, rated 224 kW (300 hp) at the flywheel. The main engine is started by a separate gasoline pony motor with its own magneto ignition and carburetor. Caterpillar used this V8 in only one other machine, the J621 elevating scraper.

What is the operating weight of the original Cat 980?

An exact operating weight for this V8/pony-motor 980 (S/N 42H1 and up) is not documented in surviving public specification sheets. For comparison, its direct successor, the 980B with a Caterpillar 3306 engine, weighed roughly 23,400 kg (51,500 lb) in operating trim — treat that figure as a reference point for the later machine, not a confirmed number for this earlier V8 version.

What replaced the original Caterpillar 980?

The original V8/pony-motor 980 was replaced by the 980B around 1970, which switched to a Caterpillar 3306 inline-six engine and electric starting, dropping the pony motor and magneto entirely. The 980B then led the long-running lettered-generation line — 980C, F, F II, G, G II, and H — that carried the 980 name for decades. A modern, unrelated 2021-plus Next-Generation 980 with a Cat C13 engine also exists today, but it shares nothing mechanically with this early machine beyond the model number.

What 980 owners discuss

What's the real-world reputation of the D336 V8 that powers this loader, and is it worth relying on as-is?
Mixed to poor, and buyers should go in with eyes open. Community consensus on the original V8 is that it built a reputation as one of Caterpillar's more troublesome engines of that era - enough that Caterpillar later offered a factory procedure to repower the loader with an inline-six diesel (accounts point to both the 3306 and the 3406, so confirm which conversion, if any, is documented for your serial rather than assuming parts interchange). Where the V8 survives original, an odd rattle from the cam and gear train at idle is reported as characteristic rather than a fault - it quiets down just off idle. Persistent knocking that doesn't clear as revs come up is not normal and calls for a compression and gear-train check. Parts for this engine are scarce and expensive today given its age and the conversion history, so price that into any purchase. Have your dealer or a diesel shop verify actual mechanical condition before relying on the original V8 for real work.
How do you start the gasoline pony motor, and what usually stops it from turning the main engine over?
The pony motor is a small gasoline engine with its own carburetor and magneto, used only to crank the big diesel. Typical sequence: get pony oil pressure up first, keep the main engine's decompression lever off compression while the pony spins freely, engage the lever that drives the pony against the main engine's flywheel through a clutch/Bendix-style engagement, then move the decompression lever to compression once the diesel is turning so it lights off. A machine that's sat for years commonly has the main engine's fuel rack stuck wide open from old varnished fuel - free that before attempting a start, since a stuck-open rack is a runaway risk once the diesel fires. If the pony spins freely but never engages the flywheel, suspect a worn or gummed engagement/clutch linkage rather than the pony motor itself. Have your dealer or an experienced vintage-Cat mechanic verify decompression and fuel-rack function before starting a machine that's been sitting a long time.
What ignition and electrical maintenance keeps the pony motor starting reliably?
These pony motors fire off a magneto, not a battery coil, so troubleshooting is mechanical rather than electronic. Worn points and a weak condenser are the first suspects for a hard-start or no-spark complaint - clean or replace points, and swap the condenser if the spark isn't a healthy blue snap. Use non-resistor spark plugs (a magneto doesn't perform well with resistor plugs), gapped around 0.6 mm (0.025 in), wired with plain copper-core leads - avoid resistor or radio-suppression wire, which weakens spark on a magneto system. Check magneto timing against the flywheel timing marks if the pony is hard to start or kicks back. This machine predates any electronic engine controls or diagnostic sensors entirely - there is no fault-code system to check, only points, plugs, wiring and mechanical linkage.
What hydraulic behavior should I expect from a loader this old, and are there quirks specific to this model?
Detailed hydraulic complaints tied to this exact pre-lettered generation aren't well documented in public discussion - it's a much thinner paper trail than the later lettered 980s. What generalizes from articulated wheel loaders of this era: open-center, gear-pump-fed circuits where lift and steering response softens as the pump and relief valve wear, and original-era cylinder packing is long past its service life on any survivor. Expect to reseal cylinders before putting one back into real work, and check rod surfaces for scoring from decades of storage. Treat any seller claim about hydraulic performance with skepticism until you've cycled every function - lift, tilt, and steering - through full travel yourself.
What wear pattern should I expect at the articulation joint and steering linkage?
Specific wear figures for this loader's articulation joint aren't well documented online, but the pattern generalizes from articulated loaders of this era: the center pins and bushings are grease-fed, not sealed, so wear tracks directly with how consistently they were greased over the machine's life. Expect looseness, metal-to-metal knock at the hitch, or wandering steering under load if grease intervals were skipped. Daily greasing, more often in wet or abrasive conditions, is what keeps these joints tight long-term. Any perceptible play should be measured against factory clearance specs rather than eyeballed. Have your dealer verify steering and articulation pin condition before putting the loader back into service.
Are frame cracks a known issue on a machine this old, and where should I look?
A machine this age has generally lived a full working life plus decades of storage, so frame integrity deserves a hard look rather than an assumption. Check the mainframe and the articulation-hitch area for cracks, and look closely at every weld - a repaired crack is a sign the frame was stressed there before, and it can open again in the same spot. This is general vintage-heavy-equipment wisdom for a chassis this old, not a documented weak point unique to this model. Walk the full frame with a light and inspect from underneath, not just what's visible standing next to it. Have your dealer or a certified inspector verify frame and structural condition before trusting the machine under load.
What should I check before buying a used one of these?
Confirm the pony motor actually starts and drives the main engine over on its own - a swapped-in start system or a missing pony motor changes the character and value of the machine significantly. Ask directly whether the diesel has ever been converted away from the original V8 to an inline-six diesel; it was a documented factory option and common enough that you shouldn't assume the engine under the hood matches the original spec plate. Pull a compression check on whichever engine is actually installed. Inspect the frame and articulation hitch for cracks and repair welds, and check pin/bushing play at the articulation joint. Cycle every hydraulic function through full travel and watch for slow or spongy response, since original cylinder seals are decades past service life on any survivor. Record the exact serial number before sourcing parts - Caterpillar issued more than one parts book covering different serial ranges of this loader, and components changed partway through the production run. Have your dealer or an experienced vintage-Cat mechanic do a full pre-purchase inspection rather than relying on the seller's word alone.

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

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