Caterpillarexcavator

Caterpillar E450

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Cat E450 is a 46-tonne class (101,000+ lb) large hydraulic excavator built in the late 1980s at the Akashi, Japan plant under the Cat/Mitsubishi joint venture, serial prefix 3HG. Power comes from a Mitsubishi 6D22-TC turbocharged inline-six diesel, 11.15L displacement, rated around 206 kW (276 hp), with mechanical fuel injection and no electronic engine controls. Cat offered the E450 as the flagship of its E-series line, which ran from the smaller E70 up through the E450, in loading-shovel and backhoe configurations, with stick options of 3.1m, 3.8m, and 4.8m and a choice of track shoe widths. No confirmed direct successor model is documented for the E450.

Across the E-series, the layout stayed mechanical throughout: manually metered hydraulics, no ECM, and no stored fault codes, so service diagnosis relied on pressure gauges and visual inspection rather than a diagnostic port. The E450 sat at the top of the range as Caterpillar and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries built out excavator manufacturing at Akashi, work that folded into the Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi joint venture in 1987. In today's used and parts market, the E450 is a scarce, large-frame mechanical machine, valued by rebuilders and exporters for straightforward serviceability and heavy digging capacity in regions without modern emissions requirements, though replacement parts increasingly depend on cross-reference to the wider Mitsubishi 6D22-TC engine family rather than dedicated Cat-only stock.

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 E450 specifications

Engine

Engine model	Mitsubishi 6D22TC diesel, marketed under the Cat E-series badge
Power output	206 kW (276 hp) - sources differ on whether this figure is labeled gross or net
Displacement	11.15 L (680 cu in)
Cylinders	6-cylinder, turbocharged (per 6D22TC engine family designation; no aftercooling documented)
Emissions tier	None documented - this machine predates modern emissions-tier certification, built during the Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi joint-venture era

Weights

Operating weight - loading-shovel configuration	46,200 kg (101,854 lb)
Operating weight - backhoe configuration	approx. 46,000 kg (101,413 lb) with mid-width shoes
Ground pressure	backhoe config varies 57-80 kPa (8.3-11.9 psi) depending on shoe-width option; loading-shovel config approx. 83 kPa (12 psi)
Transport weight	Not separately documented - use operating weight as shipping reference and verify with dealer

Dimensions

Transport length	approx. 11.96 m (39 ft 3 in)
Width over tracks	3.15 m (10 ft 4 in)
Height to top of cab	approx. 3.38 m (11 ft 1-2 in), minor rounding differences across sources
Undercarriage/track length	5.15 m (16 ft 11 in)
Track shoe width	610 mm (24 in) baseline; wider shoe options offered, affecting ground pressure
Ground clearance	Reported inconsistently across sources, ranging roughly from 50 mm to 600 mm - not confirmed, verify with dealer
Tail swing radius	Not documented in available sources

Performance

Max dig depth (backhoe, 3-section boom, varies by stick)	7.70-9.24 m (25.27-30.32 ft)
Max reach at ground level (backhoe)	11.66-13.08 m (38.26-42.92 ft)
Max cutting height (backhoe, 3-section boom)	up to 11.15 m (36.59 ft)
Max dump height / vertical wall dig depth (backhoe)	up to 8.05 m (26.42 ft)
Max cutting height (loading-shovel configuration)	9.74 m (31.96 ft)
Max digging radius (loading-shovel configuration)	8.37 m (27.46 ft)
Max travel speed	4.5 km/h (2.8 mph)
Swing speed	Not documented in available sources
Gradeability	Not documented in available sources
Drawbar pull	Not documented in available sources

Forces

Bucket digging force	Not documented in available sources
Stick/arm digging force	Not documented in available sources

Service capacities (summary)

Fuel tank	500 L (132.1 gal)
Hydraulic system/tank	Not documented in available sources
Engine oil	Not documented in available sources
Cooling system	Not documented in available sources

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

E450 fluids & capacities

System	Capacity	Recommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter) - Mitsubishi 6D22TC turbocharged diesel, 11.15L displacement, approx. 206 kW (276 hp)	Not documented in accessible sources for this serial range (prefix 3HG) - confirm on the machine's ID plate or with a dealer	Cat DEO (Diesel Engine Oil) multigrade, viscosity graded by ambient temperature - typically 15W-40 in temperate climates, dropping to 10W-30 or 0W-30 for cold-start regions
Cooling system	Not documented in accessible sources - verify with dealer	Cat ELC (Extended Life Coolant) or Cat DEAC, mixed per standard freeze-protection ratio for the operating region
Fuel tank	500 L (132.1 US gal)	No. 2-D diesel fuel; low-sulfur or ultra-low-sulfur diesel where required by emissions rules in force for the machine's build era
Hydraulic system total / hydraulic tank	Not documented in accessible sources - varies by boom/stick/counterweight configuration; confirm on ID plate or with dealer	Cat HYDO Advanced (10W, 30W, or heavier grade by climate) as preferred fluid; Cat TDTO or Cat DEO accepted as alternates per Cat's approved-fluid hierarchy for this machine class
Final drive (each)	Not documented in accessible sources	Cat TDTO (Transmission/Drive Train Oil), viscosity graded by ambient temperature
Swing drive	Not documented in accessible sources	Cat TDTO, same specification family as final drive
Pilot/other hydraulic circuits	Not separately listed - pilot circuit draws from the main hydraulic reservoir on this machine class	Same fluid as hydraulic system
Grease (chassis pins, bushings, linkage)	Spec only - not applicable	Cat Multipurpose Grease (NLGI 2) for general chassis points; Cat Advanced 3Moly Grease for heavily loaded pin joints

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

Caterpillar E450 maintenance schedule

Service interval	Tasks
Every 10 h	Check engine oil and coolant levels before startup Drain the fuel/water separator and check for water contamination Inspect track tension and adjust if sagging past spec Grease boom, stick, and bucket pivot pins and bushings Check hydraulic oil level and inspect hoses and cylinders for leaks Check the air cleaner restriction indicator and clean as needed
Every 250 h	Change engine oil and replace the engine oil filter Replace the fuel filter element Check and adjust drive belt tension Inspect turbocharger mounting and boost hoses for leaks Check swing drive and final drive oil levels Clean radiator and oil cooler fins of built-up debris
Every 500 h	Replace the hydraulic pilot filter element Change swing drive and final drive gear oil Inspect and grease undercarriage rollers, idlers, and sprockets Check batteries, cables, and starter/alternator connections Check track shoe bolt torque Pull engine and hydraulic oil samples for analysis
Every 1,000 h	Replace the hydraulic tank return filter and breather Check and adjust valve lash clearance on the 6D22-TC Inspect the turbocharger for shaft play and boost leakage Inspect main and control hydraulic pumps for leaks or noise Check swing bearing bolt torque and backlash Inspect boom and stick cylinder rods and seals for wear
Every 2,000 h	Change hydraulic tank oil Inspect the fuel injection pump and injectors; bench test or recalibrate as needed Measure undercarriage wear on chains, rollers, idlers, and sprockets Inspect swing motor and final drives for internal wear Check cylinder rod and barrel surfaces for scoring Test coolant condition and flush the cooling system if needed
Every 4,000 h	Inspect cylinder liners, pistons, and main/rod bearings; plan a top-end rebuild if worn past limits Rebuild or replace swing and travel final drives once wear exceeds service limits Rebuild the main hydraulic pump and control valve bank Replace undercarriage chains, rollers, and idlers once past wear limits Inspect, recondition, or replace the turbocharger

Servicing the E450 beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

The E450's 6D22-TC has no ECM and throws no fault codes, so condition monitoring depends on scheduled oil sampling and hands-on inspection. Pull engine oil, hydraulic oil, and final-drive/swing-drive oil samples on a fixed hour interval and watch for rising metal content, which flags injection pump, turbocharger bearing, or gear wear early. Check turbo boost hoses and fuel return lines for seepage, and inspect the hydraulic filter bowl for debris at every change, since on this machine wear trends, not warning lights, are the only advance signal of trouble.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Typical E450 repairs center on the 6D22-TC's mechanical fuel system: injection pump and injector wear shows up as rough starts, smoke, and power loss, and often needs bench testing or recalibration. Turbocharger shaft play and boost leaks are common at this age. On the chassis, expect track chain, roller, and idler wear from the machine's 46-tonne class digging loads, plus swing bearing and boom/stick pin-and-bushing wear. Hydraulic cylinder seal replacement on the loading-shovel or backhoe linkage is a routine corrective job on high-hour units.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Given its age and mechanical-era design, most surviving E450 units are approaching or past a major overhaul window. Watch cylinder liner and piston wear in the 6D22-TC, main and pilot hydraulic pump wear, and swing/final-drive gear wear as the top rebuild candidates. Undercarriage components, chains, rollers, idlers, and sprockets typically need full replacement given the machine's weight class and years in service. Prioritize the fuel injection pump and turbocharger alongside the final drives in any rebuild plan, since these mechanical parts wear predictably but give no electronic warning ahead of failure.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

With no ECM-controlled cold-start assist, the E450 needs manual cold-weather prep: block heater use, battery and glow-plug or ether-start system checks, and a switch to a lower-viscosity engine and hydraulic oil grade before winter. In hot or dusty quarry environments, clean the radiator and oil cooler fins often and check the air cleaner restriction indicator more frequently, since the mechanical 6D22-TC has no electronic derate to protect itself from overheating or restricted airflow. Adjust track tension for mud versus hard-pack ground to limit undercarriage wear.

E450 common service parts

Part number	Part	Notes
096-9013	Gasket, Fuel Filter	Fuel system service	Check fitment →
095-4080	O-Ring, Oil Filter Head	Lubrication service	Check fitment →
095-4320	O-Ring, Oil Filter Head	Lubrication service	Check fitment →

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

E450 fault codes & troubleshooting

Code	Meaning	Likely cause	What to do
Oil pressure lamp (red, no numeric code)	Engine oil pressure has dropped below the safe minimum monitored by the mechanical oil pressure switch	Low oil level, worn oil pump, clogged suction screen, or failed pressure switch/sender	Shut down engine immediately, check oil level and check for leaks before restarting
Coolant temperature lamp (red, no numeric code)	Engine coolant temperature has exceeded the safe operating threshold	Low coolant level, blocked radiator core, slipping or failed fan drive, faulty thermostat	Idle down, let engine cool, check coolant level and radiator/fan condition before resuming work
Charging system lamp (battery symbol, no numeric code)	Alternator is not producing adequate charging current to the battery circuit	Worn or slipping alternator belt, failed alternator, loose or corroded battery/charging wiring	Check belt tension and battery terminals, test alternator output, replace as needed
Air filter restriction indicator (gauge or pop-up button, no numeric code)	Intake air filter restriction has reached the service limit	Dirty or clogged air filter element, damaged intake ducting	Service or replace the air filter element and reset the restriction indicator
Hydraulic filter bypass indicator (visual pop-up or lamp, no numeric code)	Hydraulic return filter has bypassed due to excessive restriction	Contaminated hydraulic filter element, degraded hydraulic oil, cold-start high viscosity	Replace the hydraulic filter element and check oil condition/cleanliness
Fuel level lamp/gauge (no numeric code)	Fuel tank level has dropped to the reserve threshold	Normal fuel consumption, possible fuel leak if depletion is faster than expected	Refuel and inspect fuel lines/tank for leaks if consumption seems abnormal

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

E450 attachments & work tools

Buckets

No factory bucket-capacity chart for this Mitsubishi-built E450 (46 t class, 3HG1-UP serial prefix) turned up in dealer or spec-sheet sources checked. For a 45-46 tonne mining/quarry class machine, general duty buckets typically run in the roughly 1.5-3.0 m3 range and heavy duty/rock buckets roughly 1.2-2.4 m3, with widths around 900 to 1800 mm depending on stick chosen (E450 offered three stick lengths: 3.1 m, 3.8 m, 4.8 m). Machines of this class and era mount buckets pin-on; verify actual bucket weight limits against the specific stick/boom combo fitted.

Hydraulic hammers

The E450's 46 t operating weight puts it in the large-carrier breaker class. As a rule of thumb a breaker at roughly 10-15% of carrier weight is used, which lands in the 4,500-6,900 kg range for this size, corresponding to a heavy/large-energy-class box or side-mount hammer. No hammer model was documented tied specifically to the E450; match breaker weight and required flow/pressure to the machine's actual pump output before fitting one.

Quick couplers

Quick couplers are uncommon on machines this size and vintage; large mining/quarry-class excavators from the E450's era were typically set up pin-on rather than with a hydraulic coupler. A retrofit coupler for a 45-46 t class carrier would need to be a heavy-duty pin-grabber type rated for that weight class, with correspondingly large pin diameters versus mid-size excavator couplers — no E450-specific coupler pin dimensions were found in available sources.

Thumbs/grapples

No documentation ties a hydraulic thumb or grapple kit to the E450 specifically. Thumbs are mainly fitted to smaller general-construction excavator classes; a 46 t mining-class machine like the E450 is more commonly set up with heavy duty buckets, and grapple attachments (if used) would need custom sizing for this carrier weight — treat as unconfirmed for this model.

Rippers

No factory ripper attachment is documented for the E450 boom/stick. Single-shank rock rippers are occasionally fitted to large mining-class excavator sticks for ripping duty, but this is not a standard or catalogued option found for this model — unconfirmed.

Hydraulic-kit notes

The E450 runs a Mitsubishi 6D22-TC turbocharged diesel rated around 206 kW (11.2 L), driving the machine's standard single auxiliary circuit typical of its era rather than a modern selectable medium-pressure/high-flow tool circuit. No factory high-flow or multi-pressure auxiliary spec is documented for this model; any hammer or powered attachment must have its flow and relief pressure checked against the machine's actual pump output and verified with a service manual before fitting.

All E450 assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar E450. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Engine

Air Compressor--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Air Compressor--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Air Compressor (175335-)

Air Compressor--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Air Compressor General (175335-)

Air Compressor General (804146-175334)

Alternator (804146-175334)

Alternator And Regulator (175335-)

Alternator General (804146-175334)

Attaching Parts (175335-)

Automatic Timer--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Automatic Timer--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Automatic Timer--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Automatic Timer--Part 2 Of 2 (175335-)

Breather And Oil Filler (804146-175334)

Camshaft (804146-175334)

Camshaft And Valve (175335-)

Clutch--Part 2 Of 2 (175335-)

Clutch--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Clutch Cover And Disc--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Clutch Cover And Disc--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Connecting Rod & Bearing--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Connecting Rod & Bearing--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Coupling (175335-)

Coupling (804146-175334)

Crankshaft And Pulley (804146-175334)

Crankshaft Bearing (804146-175334)

Crankshaft Repair Kit (804146-175334)

Cylinder Block--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Cylinder Block (175335-)

Cylinder Block--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Cylinder Block Repair Kit (804146-175334)

Cylinder Head (175335-)

Cylinder Head (804146-175334)

Cylinder Head Repair Kit (804146-175334)

Engine Attaching Parts (804146-175334)

Engine Gasket Kit--Part 3 Of 3 (804146-175334)

08***77	Gasket, Oil Cooler	1
08***80	Gasket, Inlet Pipe	2
08***81	Gasket, Inlet Manifold W/ Net; Gasket, Inlet Manifold, W/Net	6
08***95	Gasket, Inlet Manifold	6

See all parts with full part numbers in Heavy Parts AI →

Engine Gasket Kit--Part 2 Of 3 (804146-175334)

08***02	O-Ring, Water Pump	1
08***31	Gasket, Side Cover	3
08***85	Gasket, Oil Filler	1
08***90	Gasket, Gauge Guide	1

See all parts with full part numbers in Heavy Parts AI →

Engine Gasket Kit--Part 1 Of 3 (804146-175334)

08***86	Gasket Kit	1
08***29	Gasket, Oil Pipe	1
08***30	Gasket, Turbo Charger	1
08***74	Gasket, Oil Pan	1

See all parts with full part numbers in Heavy Parts AI →

Engine Hanger (804146-175334)

Exhaust Manifold (175335-)

Exhaust Manifold (804146-175334)

Exhaust Muffler (804146-175334)

Exhaust Pipe (175335-)

Exhaust Pipe (804146-175334)

Fan And Pulley (804146-175334)

Flywheel (804146-175334)

Flywheel And Housing (175335-)

Flywheel Housing--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Flywheel Housing--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Fuel Feed Pump (804146-175334)

Fuel Feed Pump (175335-)

Fuel Filter (804146-175334)

Fuel Filter And Hose (175335-)

Fuel Hose (804146-175334)

Fuel Injection Nozzle (804146-175334)

Fuel Injection Pump General (804146-175334)

Fuel Injection Pump General (175335-)

Fuel Return Hose (175335-)

Fuel Return System (804146-175334)

Fuse And Relay Box (175335-)

Governor--Part 5 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Governor--Part 4 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Governor--Part 2 Of 2 (175335-)

Governor--Part 1 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Governor--Part 3 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Governor--Part 2 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Governor--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Injection Pipe And Nozzle (175335-)

Injection Pump--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Injection Pump--Part 2 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Injection Pump--Part 1 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Injection Pump--Part 3 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Injection Pump--Part 2 Of 2 (175335-)

Injection Pump--Part 5 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Injection Pump--Part 4 Of 5 (804146-175334)

Instrument (804146-175334)

Inter Cooler (175335-)

Inter Cooler General (804146-175334)

Liner And Piston Kit (804146-175334)

Name Plate (804146-175334)

Oil Cooler (804146-175334)

Oil Cooler (175335-)

Oil Filler And Oil Level Gauge (804146-175334)

Oil Filter--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Oil Filter (175335-)

Oil Filter--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Oil Line (175335-)

Oil Line--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Oil Line--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Oil Pan (804146-175334)

Oil Pan, Filler And Gauge (175335-)

Oil Pressure Switch And Gauge Unit (804146-175334)

Oil Pump And Gear Train (804146-175334)

Oil Pump And Strainer (175335-)

Oil Strainer (804146-175334)

Piston--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Piston--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Piston, Connecting Rod And Crankshaft (175335-)

Plate And Label (175335-)

Rocker Cover (804146-175334)

Rocker Cover And Breather (175335-)

Service Repair Kit (175335-)

Special Tool - Clutch (804146-175334)

Starter (For Cold Weather)--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Starter--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Starter (For Cold Weather)--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Starter--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Starter (For Cold Weather) (175335-)

Starter (175335-)

Starter General (For Cold Weather) (804146-175334)

Starter General (804146-175334)

Tachometer Gear (804146-175334)

Tail Pipe And Muffler (175335-)

Timing Gear--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Timing Gear--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Timing Gear--Part 2 Of 2 (175335-)

Timing Gear--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Torsional Damper (804146-175334)

Transmission Case (175335-)

Turbo - Charger--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Turbo - Charger--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Turbo - Charger General (804146-175334)

Turbocharger (175335-)

Valve Gear Train (804146-175334)

Water Pipe And Thermostat (175335-)

Water Pipe And Thermostat--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Water Pipe And Thermostat--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Water Pump--Part 1 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Water Pump--Part 2 Of 2 (804146-175334)

Water Pump And Fan (175335-)

Water Pump And Fan--Part 1 Of 2 (175335-)

Water Temp Gauge Unit (804146-175334)

Excavator

Accumulator

Adjuster Cylinder -Part 1 Of 2

Adjuster Cylinder - Part 2 Of 2

Air Cleaner

Air Compressor

Air Conditioner- Part 2 Of 4

Air Conditioner- Part 1 Of 4

Air Conditioner -Part 3 Of 4

Air Conditioner - Part 4 Of 4

Air Conditioner Compressor

Air Conditioner Condenser

Air Conditioner Lines- Part 1 Of 2

Air Conditioner Lines - Part 2 Of 2

Air Conditioner Receiver

Air Lubricator - Part 2 Of 2

Air Lubricator- Part 1 Of 2

Air Supply Lines - Part 3 Of 3

Air Supply Lines -Part 1 Of 3

Air Supply Lines- Part 2 Of 3

Am/Fm Radio- Part 1 Of 2

Am/Fm Radio - Part 2 Of 2

Arm - 11'6" (3500mm) (For Front Shovel)

Arm Cylinder- Part 2 Of 2

Arm Cylinder - Part 2 Of 2

Arm Cylinder - Part 1 Of 2

Arm Cylinder- Part 1 Of 2

Arm Lines (For Front Shovel)

Arm Lubrication Lines (For Front Shovel)

Auto Lock

Base Frame- Part 1 Of 2

Base Frame - Part 2 Of 2

Boom And Accessories- Part 1 Of 2

Boom And Accessories - Part 2 Of 2

Boom Cylinder- Part 3 Of 3

Boom Cylinder- Part 2 Of 3

Boom Cylinder-Part 1 Of 3

Boom Cylinder - Part 3 Of 3

Boom Cylinder -Part 1 Of 3

Boom Light And Harness

Boom Lines - Part 1 Of 2

Boom Lines - Part 2 Of 2

Boom Lines- Part 1 Of 2

Boom Lubrication Lines

Boom Lubrication Lines (For Front Shovel)

Bottom Dump Bucket- Part 1 Of 2

Bottom Dump Bucket- Part 2 Of 2

Bucket - Sae 1-3/4 Cubic Yards

Bucket - Sae 2-1/8 Cubic Yards

Bucket - Sae 3-1/8 Cubic Yards

Bucket - Sae 2-1/2 Cubic Yards

Bucket - Sae 1-1/2 Cubic Yards

Bucket Cylinder - Part 1 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder (For Front Shovel)- Part 2 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder (For Front Shovel)- Part 1 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder (For Front Shovel)-Part 1 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder- Part 2 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder- Part 1 Of 2

Bucket Cylinder (For Front Shovel) - Part 2 Of 2

Bucket With Ripper - Sae 1-3/4 Cubic Yards

Cab (Glass And Corner Rubber)- Part 3 Of 5

Cab (Frame)- Part 1 Of 5

Cab (Interior Parts)- Part 4 Of 5

Cab (Door And Window Frame) -Part 2 Of 5

Cab (Door And Window Frame)- Part 2b Of 5

Cab (Door And Window Frame)- Part 2d Of 5

Cab (Window Washer) - Part 5 Of 5

Cab (Frame)- Part 1a Of 5

Cab (Frame)-Part 1d Of 5

Cab (Frame) Part 1c Of 5

Cab (Frame) Part 1b Of 5

Cab (Door And Window Frame)- Part 2a Of 5

Cab (Interior Parts) -Part 4a Of 5

Cab (Door And Window Frame)- Part 2c Of 5

Cab Head Guard

Cab Heater- Part 1 Of 3

Cab Heater -Part 2 Of 3

Cab Heater - Part 3 Of 3

Carrier Roller

Cat Walk

Check Valve

Control (For Front Shovel)

Control Valve A - Part 3 Of 3

Control Valve A- Part 2 Of 3

Control Valve A- Part 1 Of 3

Control Valve A -Part 2 Of 3

Control Valve B- Part 1 Of 3

Control Valve B- Part 2 Of 3

Control Valve B - Part 3 Of 3

Controls- Part 1 Of 2

Controls -Part 1a Of 2

Controls- Part 1b Of 2

Controls- Part 2 Of 2

Counterweight

Counterweight Handling System - Part 2 Of 2

Counterweight Handling System -Part 1 Of 2

Cross Over Relief Valve - Part 2 Of 2

Cross Over Relief Valve- Part 1 Of 2

Delivery Lines - Part 3 Of 3

Delivery Lines- Part 1 Of 3

Delivery Lines- Part 2 Of 3

Drain Filter

Dump Cylinder-Part 1 Of 3

Dump Cylinder - Part 3 Of 3

Dump Cylinder- Part 2 Of 3

Electric Parts - Part 2 Of 2

Electric Parts (For Front Shovel)

Electric Parts - Part 1 Of 2

Engine Part 4 Of 4

Engine (For Cold Weather)- Part 2 Of 4

Engine- Part 3 Of 4

Engine (For Cold Weather) - Part 1 Of 4

Engine (For Cold Weather) - Part 3 Of 4

Engine- Part 2 Of 4

Engine- Part 1 Of 4

Engine (For Cold Weather) - Part 4 Of 4

Engine Control-Part 2 Of 2

Engine Control- Part 1 Of 2

Engine Control - Part 2 Of 2

Fan Belt Adjuster

Filter Regulator

Fire Wall

Front Guard

Front Lines- Part 2 Of 3

Front Lines - Part 3 Of 3

Front Lines -Part 1 Of 3

Fuel Feed Harness

Fuel Feed System

Fuel Pump

Fuel Tank And Fuel Lines - Part 2 Of 2

Fuel Tank And Fuel Lines- Part 1 Of 2

Full - Flow Filter

Gear Pump

Grab Bucket Cylinder - Part 2 Of 2

Grab Bucket Cylinder- Part 1 Of 2

Grease Bath

Handrail And Side Mirror

Hose Reel

Hydraulic Tank -Part 1 Of 2

Hydraulic Tank - Part 2 Of 2

Idler Wheel

Link And Rod (For Long Arm)

Link And Rod (For Short And Medium Arm)

Link And Rod- Part 2 Of 2

Link And Rod- Part 1 Of 2

Long Arm - 15'9" (4800mm) - Part 3 Of 3

Long Arm - 15'9" (4800mm)- Part 2 Of 3

Long Arm - 15'9" (4800mm)- Part 1 Of 3

Long Arm Lubrication Lines- Part 1 Of 2

Long Arm Lubrication Lines - Part 2 Of 2

Lower Structure Cover

Medium Arm - 12'6" (3800mm) -Part 1 Of 2

Medium Arm - 12'6" (3800mm) - Part 2 Of 2

Medium Arm Lubrication Lines

Name Plate And Label (Cab)

Name Plate And Label (For Front Shovel)

Name Plate And Label

Name Plate And Label (For Automatic Engine Speed Control)

Name Plate And Label (Body)

Over Head Guard

P.T.O. Valve - Part 2 Of 2

P.T.O. Valve- Part 1 Of 2

Pilot Filter

Pilot Relief Valve - Part 2 Of 2

Pilot Relief Valve -Part 1 Of 2

Pilot Valve

Pipe Support- Part 1 Of 3

Pipe Support- Part 2 Of 3

Pipe Support - Part 3 Of 3

Pump-Part 2 Of 4

Pump- Part 5 Of 8

Pump- Part 3 Of 8

Pump- Part 7 Of 8

Pump-Part 5 Of 8

Pump- Part 1 Of 4

Pump-Part 3 Of 4

Pump-Part 6 Of 8

Pump- Part 4 Of 8

Pump- Part 6 Of 8

Pump-Part 2 Of 8

Pump-Part 1 Of 8

Pump - Part 4 Of 4

Pump-Part 3 Of 8

Pump- Part 8 Of 8

Pump-Part 8 Of 8

Pump- Part 2 Of 8

Pump Drive Gear - Part 2 Of 2

Pump Drive Gear- Part 1 Of 2

Pump Suction Lines-Part 2 Of 3

Pump Suction Lines-Part 3 Of 3

Pump Suction Lines-Part 1 Of 3

Radiator

Radiator Baffle Plate

Radio Mantle

Remote Control Valve- Part 1 Of 3

Remote Control Valve - Part 2 Of 2

Remote Control Valve- Part 1 Of 2

Remote Control Valve- Part 2 Of 3

Remote Control Valve - Part 3 Of 3

Remote Control Valve-Part 1 Of 2

Return Lines- Part 1 Of 2

Return Lines-Part 2 Of 2

Ripper (For Short And Medium Arm)

Rotary Joint

Rotating Grab Bucket-Part 3 Of 3

Rotating Grab Bucket-Part 2 Of 3

Rotating Grab Bucket-Part 1 Of 3

Safety Lock Valve

Safety Monitor And Cover

Seat And Floor Mat - Part 2 Of 2

Seat And Floor Mat -Part 1 Of 2

Seat Belt

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 3 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 1 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 4 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines (For Front Shovel)

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 2 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines- Part 6 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines -Part 1 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines- Part 4 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 7 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 6 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines- Part 2 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines - Part 7 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines- Part 5 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines- Part 3 Of 7

Servo And Pilot Lines-Part 5 Of 7

Short Arm - 10'2" (3100mm) - Part 3 Of 3

Short Arm - 10'2" (3100mm) - Part 2 Of 3

Short Arm - 10'2" (3100mm) - Part 1 Of 3

Short Arm Lubrication Lines

Shut Off Valve

Shuttle Valve

Slow Return Valve

Solenoid Valve

Stop Solenoid

Suspension Seat

Swing Bearing Lubrication Lines

Swing Control Valve- Part 1 Of 2

Swing Control Valve - Part 2 Of 2

Swing Drive-Part 2 Of 2

Swing Drive- Part 1 Of 2

Swing Frame- Part 1 Of 2

Swing Frame - Part 2 Of 2

Swing Frame Cover (Upper) - Part 3 Of 3

Swing Frame Cover (Upper)- Part 2 Of 3

Swing Frame Cover (Side) -Part 1 Of 2

Swing Frame Cover (Support)

Swing Frame Cover (Side) - Part 2 Of 2

Swing Frame Cover (Under)

Swing Frame Cover (Upper)-Part 1 Of 3

Swing Gear- Part 1 Of 3

Swing Gear - Part 3 Of 3

Swing Gear- Part 2 Of 3

Swing Motor- Part 1 Of 2

Swing Motor - Part 2 Of 2

Swing Pump -Part 7 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 5 Of 8

Swing Pump - Part 8 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 4 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 6 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 3 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 1 Of 8

Swing Pump- Part 2 Of 8

Switch Box-Part 8 Of 8

Switch Box-Part 7 Of 8

Switch Box-Part 4 Of 8

Switch Box-Part 5 Of 8

Switch Box (Body)- Part 3a Of 3

Switch Box-Part 6 Of 8

Switch Box-Part 1 Of 8

Switch Box (Panel)- Part 1a Of 3

Switch Box (Panel)- Part 1 Of 3

Switch Box (Body) - Part 3b Of 3

Switch Box-Part 2 Of 8

Switch Box (Meter Unit)-Part 2 Of 3

Switch Box-Part 3 Of 8

Switch Box (Body)- Part 3 Of 3

Tool Box - Part 1 Of 2

Tool Box - Part 2 Of 2

Tools

Tools - Part 1 Of 3

Tools - Part 2 Of 3

Tools - Part 3 Of 3

Track 35-7/8" (910mm) Triple Grouser Shoes

Track 24" (610mm) Triple Grouser Shoes

Track 30" (760mm) Triple Grouser Shoes

Track Guard (Heavy Duty Full Length)

Track Guard

Track Roller

Travel And Swing Lines

Travel Brake Valve

Travel Drive And Sprocket

Travel Gear -Part 2 Of 3

Travel Gear - Part 3 Of 3

Travel Gear- Part 1 Of 3

Travel Motor- Part 2 Of 5

Travel Motor- Part 4 Of 5

Travel Motor- Part 3 Of 5

Travel Motor- Part 5 Of 5

Travel Motor- Part 1 Of 5

Travel Motor Lines

Upper Structure Lines (For Front Shovel)

Vandalism Guard

Water Separator- Part 1 Of 2

Water Separator - Part 2 Of 2

Wiggins Fast Fueling System- Part 1 Of 2

Wiggins Fast Fueling System-Part 2 Of 2

Wiper Motor

Wiring Harness-Part 2 Of 2

Wiring Harness - Part 2 Of 2

Wiring Harness-Part 1 Of 2

Wiring Harness - Part 1 Of 2

Yoke And Tension

E450 serial number reference

The PIN plate on the E450 is mounted on the right-hand side of the cab structure or on the frame near the operator's station, same general area as other Cat excavators of this era; a duplicate ID plate is often riveted to the main frame under the cab. Read the first 3 characters as the prefix (identifies model/build series) and the following digits as the sequential unit number.

Prefix	Identifies	Notes
3HG	Base E450 hydraulic excavator, standard configuration	Only documented PIN prefix range for the E450 (3HG00001 and up). Built by Caterpillar-Mitsubishi as a large hydraulic excavator fitted with the Mitsubishi 6D22-TC turbocharged inline-6 diesel (approx. 11.2 L displacement, approx. 206 kW / 276 hp). Service literature for this range dates to the late 1980s. No second prefix or long-undercarriage/LC variant range is documented - if your plate shows a different 3-letter code, confirm with a dealer before assuming it is E450.

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the Cat E450 use?

The E450 runs a Mitsubishi 6D22-TC turbocharged inline-six diesel, 11.15L displacement, rated around 206 kW (276 hp). It uses mechanical fuel injection with no electronic engine controls or stored fault codes.

What is the operating weight of the Cat E450?

The E450 sits in the 46-tonne class, roughly 101,000-101,900 lb (about 46,000-46,200 kg) depending on whether it is set up as a loading shovel or backhoe and which track shoe width is fitted.

What replaced the Cat E450?

No confirmed direct successor model is documented. The E450 was the largest machine in Caterpillar's E-series line, built at Akashi, Japan under the Cat/Mitsubishi joint venture before that operation became Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi in 1987.

What E450 owners discuss

Why does an early Cat excavator like the E450 run a Mitsubishi engine instead of a Cat power plant?

The E450 came out of the Cat-Mitsubishi joint venture (later formalized as Shin Caterpillar Mitsubishi) that built Cat's E-series and early 300-series excavators at the Akashi, Japan plant through the late 1980s. That line used Mitsubishi's own 6D22-TC turbocharged inline-6 diesel rather than a Cat engine of the era. It is a factory-original pairing, not a field swap, which is why parts and service literature for this machine sometimes cross over with contemporary Mitsubishi-badged equipment. This model's serial numbers start with the 3HG prefix.

What is the E450's engine and hydraulic setup known for in real-world use?

It is a mechanical machine with no engine computer: inline injection pump, turbocharged but not intercooled in most build configurations. Owners generally describe it as torquey and straightforward to work on compared to later electronic Cat engines, but as pumps and injectors age, expect harder cold starts and white smoke that lingers past normal warmup. Diagnosis is manual on this generation — pump timing marks, injector pop-off pressure, and compression checks, not a code reader.

What wear patterns show up on the undercarriage and final drives on a machine this size and age?

At roughly 46 tonnes (101,430 lb) operating weight, this sits in mining/quarry-class undercarriage territory, and pins, bushings, and sprockets wear steadily under constant duty cycles. A track sag gap over roughly 25-40mm between the top of the track and the carrier roller usually means adjustment or replacement is due. Final drive planetary oil should be checked at every interval — pull the plug and look for metallic sheen or milky oil, since any metal in the drain is an early warning of gear or bearing wear. On a machine this old, assume the undercarriage and final drives have already been through at least one rebuild cycle unless service records say otherwise. Have a dealer or qualified technician verify final drive and undercarriage condition before running the machine hard.

The swing feels weak or drifts after the joystick is released — is that just age, or a real problem?

Weak, jerky, or drifting swing after release is a recognized sign of internal wear in the swing motor (piston and wear-plate leakage) or a worn swing brake, not something to shrug off as normal aging. Slow travel, or one track pulling to a side, often points to internal leakage letting high-pressure oil bleed into the low-speed shift circuit, so one travel motor drags into high range while the other stays in low. On a machine of this vintage, budget for swing motor, travel motor, and brake work as expected wear items, the same way you would undercarriage. Have your dealer or a hydraulics shop verify swing motor and brake condition before investing further in the machine.

What electrical issues come up on a machine this old, and are fault codes useful for troubleshooting?

This generation predates electronic engine controls, so there is no fault-code diagnostics to fall back on. Problems instead show up as flaky gauges, dead warning lights, or intermittent no-start and no-crank conditions traced to age-related wiring harness corrosion. Rubber-boot connectors typical of this era let moisture into the pins over decades of service, which produces exactly this kind of intermittent behavior. A full harness inspection, especially at the firewall and engine-to-cab connectors, resolves more of these complaints than replacing gauges or the charging system outright.

What should I check before buying a used E450?

Treat every major system as due for inspection on a machine this old rather than assuming anything is original. Check undercarriage pin and bushing wear, track sag, and sprocket condition. Pull a final drive oil sample and look for metal or water contamination. With the machine safely blocked and the boom extended, check swing bearing play and rotate the house through a full circle listening for chatter or notchiness. Inspect the hydraulic pump compartment and all cylinders for leaks. Check engine smoke at startup and under load, and have compression and injector condition checked. Given the age of the wiring, inspect the full harness rather than just the obvious connectors. Confirm the serial number falls in the 3HG range and matches the paperwork. Parts support for a joint-venture-era machine like this can run thinner than for later Cat-only models, so confirm engine and hydraulic component availability before committing. Have your dealer or an independent surveyor verify undercarriage, final drive, and swing bearing condition before finalizing a purchase.

Is it normal for records on a machine this old to be thin on fault history and documented failures?

Yes. This is a pre-electronic, joint-venture-era machine, so there is no stored fault-code history to review the way there would be on a modern Cat excavator, and documented public failure writeups for this specific model are limited compared to high-volume later machines. That is a reflection of its age and lower population, not a sign the machine is undocumented or suspect. Lean on physical inspection (compression, hydraulic leak-down, undercarriage wear, oil sampling) rather than expecting a paper trail of fault codes.

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

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