Caterpillar IT38G
Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown
The Caterpillar IT38G is a medium wheel loader-based integrated toolcarrier designed for material handling, loading, and general construction applications. It is part of Caterpillar's integrated toolcarrier line, commonly used in aggregate yards, roadwork, agriculture, and industrial sites. The machine features a Cat 3126B ATAAC engine delivering 180 hp (134 kW) net power. Operating weight ranges from 32,156 lb (14,583 kg). Production years span the late 2000s to early 2010s. The IT38G succeeded the IT38F and was followed by the IT38H. Configurations offered include various bucket capacities from 2.2 to 2.8 m³ (2.75 to 3.5 yd³), oscillating rear axles, and optional quick coupler systems.
Across the IT38G series, Caterpillar focused on improved visibility and increased static tipping loads. The IT38G Series II introduced a redesigned cab with enhanced lines of sight to the quick coupler and work tools, along with rerouted hydraulic lines. The engine was upgraded to the Cat 3126B ATAAC with ADEM III electronic control for better fuel efficiency and emissions compliance. The machine matters in the used and parts market due to its versatility, robust Cat 3126B engine, and widespread use in municipal and industrial settings. The availability of factory remanufactured parts and the machine's durable powertrain make it a reliable choice for fleet operators seeking cost-effective maintenance.
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 IT38G specifications
Engine
| Engine Model | Cat 3126B ATAAC |
| Gross Power | 180 hp (134 kW) |
| Net Power | 160 hp (119 kW) |
| Displacement | 439 cu in (7.2 L) |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Emissions Tier | EPA Tier 2 |
Weights
| Operating Weight | 32,156 lb (14,583 kg) |
| Static Tipping Load (Bucket) | 22,515 lb (10,213 kg) |
| Static Tipping Load (Forks) | 18,306 lb (8,304 kg) |
Dimensions
| Transport Length (w/ Bucket) | 25 ft (7.62 m) |
| Transport Width | 8.5 ft (2.59 m) |
| Transport Height (Top of Cab) | 10.83 ft (3.30 m) |
| Wheelbase | 9.91 ft (3.02 m) |
| Ground Clearance | 1.31 ft (0.40 m) |
| Hinge Pin Max Height | 13.33 ft (4.06 m) |
| Dump Clearance at Max Lift | 8.83 ft (2.69 m) |
Performance
| Max Speed Forward | 38.8 km/h (24.1 mph) |
| Max Speed Reverse | 23.3 km/h (14.5 mph) |
| Breakout Force | 28,575 lb (127 kN) |
| Bucket Capacity (Heaped) | 2.8 m³ (2.14 yd³) |
| Hydraulic Pump Flow | 43 gal/min (163 L/min) |
Service capacities (summary)
| Fuel Tank | 257 L (67.9 gal) |
| Hydraulic System (incl. tank) | 90 L (23.8 gal) |
| Engine Oil | 30 L (7.9 gal) |
| Cooling System | 43 L (11.4 gal) |
| Transmission | 30 L (7.9 gal) |
| Front Differential | 24 L (6.3 gal) |
| Rear Differential | 27 L (7.1 gal) |
Values vary by configuration, region, and serial range — confirm against your machine before planning transport or lifts.
IT38G fluids & capacities
| System | Capacity | Recommended fluid |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Crankcase (with filter) | 30 l (7.9 US gal) | Caterpillar DEO or DEO-ULC engine oil |
| Cooling System | 43 l (11.4 US gal) | Caterpillar Extended Life Coolant (ELC) |
| Fuel Tank | 257 l (67.9 US gal) | Not specified |
| Transmission | 30 l (7.9 US gal) | Caterpillar TDTO (Transmission and Torque Converter Oil) |
| Final Drive (Front) | 24 l (6.3 US gal) | Caterpillar TDTO or equivalent axle fluid |
| Final Drive (Rear) | 27 l (7.1 US gal) | Caterpillar TDTO or equivalent axle fluid |
| Hydraulic System (Including Tank) | 90 l (23.8 US gal) | Caterpillar HYDO Advanced |
| Hydraulic Tank | 76 l (20.1 US gal) | Caterpillar HYDO Advanced |
| Grease | Not specified | Caterpillar Grease |
Capacities are refill values from factory literature — always fill to the dipstick/sight gauge, not the number.
Caterpillar IT38G maintenance schedule
| Service interval | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Every 10 h |
|
| Every 250 h |
|
| Every 500 h |
|
| Every 1,000 h |
|
| Every 2,000 h |
|
Servicing the IT38G beyond the schedule
Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis
Utilize S.O.S fluid analysis at 1,000-hour intervals to monitor engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant for wear metals and contamination. Check the air filter restriction indicator daily and at 250-hour services. Monitor the ADEM III electronic control module for diagnostic codes to anticipate engine or transmission issues. Use Cat DEO engine oil and Cat HYDO Advanced hydraulic oil to maintain system integrity and extend drain intervals. Inspect the on-demand cooling fan operation to ensure proper engine temperature regulation and prevent overheating.
Corrective & Common Repairs
Address frequent wear on the oscillating rear axle bearings by greasing them at every 10-hour service. Replace the hydraulic return filter at 500-hour intervals to protect the quick coupler and implement valves. Inspect the transmission oil cooler and radiator cores for debris plugging, cleaning them via the swing-out grill access. Check the integrated braking system (IBS) for proper neutralizer function and adjust if necessary. Replace worn brake pads and inspect the final drive oil for metal particles indicating gear wear.
Overhaul & Rebuild Points
Plan for major component overhaul at 2,000-hour intervals, including hydraulic oil changes and coolant flushing. Evaluate the Cat 3126B engine for piston ring and bearing wear through oil analysis trends. Inspect the electronic power shift transmission clutches for wear and replace as needed to maintain smooth gear changes. Check the oscillating rear axle for seal leaks and bearing play. Consider remanufactured components for the turbocharger and hydraulic pumps to reduce total repair costs and restore original performance specifications.
Seasonal & Environment Servicing
In dusty environments, check the air filter daily and replace the primary element more frequently than the standard 1,000-hour interval. Clean the radiator and hydraulic oil cooler cores daily to prevent overheating. In cold weather, ensure the extended life coolant provides adequate freeze protection and check the battery charge. In hot climates, monitor hydraulic oil temperature and consider optimizing drain intervals with bio-based hydraulic fluid. Inspect the on-demand fan clutch and belt tension to ensure proper cooling efficiency across varying ambient temperatures.
IT38G fault codes & troubleshooting
| Code | Meaning | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| 110-0 | Engine Coolant Temperature — Above Normal | Low coolant level, failed thermostat, or blocked radiator core. | Check coolant level; inspect for leaks; test thermostat function. |
| 110-3 | Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor — Voltage Above Normal | Open circuit in sensor wiring or short to power. | Inspect sensor wiring harness; replace sensor if circuit is intact. |
| 190-8 | Engine Speed — Abnormal Frequency | Faulty engine speed sensor, incorrect air gap, or damaged tone ring. | Check sensor mounting gap; test sensor resistance; inspect tone ring. |
| 174-3 | Engine Fuel Temperature — Voltage Above Normal | Open circuit in fuel temperature sensor wiring. | Inspect harness for damage; replace sensor if wiring is good. |
| 41-3 | 8-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Above Normal | Short to power on the 8-volt reference circuit. | Disconnect sensors sharing the 8V supply to isolate the short. |
| 41-4 | 8-Volt DC Supply — Voltage Below Normal | Short to ground on the 8-volt reference circuit. | Disconnect sensors one at a time to locate the grounded circuit. |
| 2348-9 | SAE J1939 Data Link #2 — Abnormal Update Rate | CAN bus wiring damage or termination resistor fault. | Check CAN wiring integrity; measure termination resistance. |
| E360 | Engine Coolant Temperature — High (Event Code) | Severe cooling system failure or low coolant. | Stop operation immediately; diagnose cooling system before restart. |
Codes and remedies are general guidance for this model family — always confirm with diagnostic tooling and your dealer before major repairs.
IT38G attachments & work tools
Loader Buckets
The IT38G Series II offers an expanded line of buckets ranging from 2.75 to 3.5 cubic yards (2.2 to 2.8 cubic meters). This range allows operators to match bucket size closely to material density for optimum productivity. Factory configurations include standard capacities of 2.2 to 2.5 cubic meters (2.9 to 3.3 cubic yards) depending on the specific series variant.
Quick Coupler System
The machine utilizes an electro-hydraulic quick coupler system to enable expanded work tool capabilities. This system allows the operator to change attachments quickly and safely from the cab. Improved lines of sight to the coupler were a key redesign feature in the Series II to facilitate easier attachment changes.
Snow Removal Tools
Hydraulic and manual reversing plows, along with trip-edge reversing plows, are available for the IT38G Series II. These tools are designed for quick reversing action to clear snow on mountain roads, airports, and large parking lots. The quick coupler system supports the rapid deployment of these specialized winter maintenance attachments.
Fork Attachments
Standard fork tine length is 4 feet (1.22 meters). The machine supports extended hook configurations with a max lift height of 22 feet (6.71 meters) and a reach of 11.75 feet (3.58 meters). Parallel lift is available as an attachment to keep loads level throughout the lift cycle, particularly when using forks.
Hydraulic System Configuration
The hydraulic system features a piston pump with a relief valve setting of 3597 psi (24800 kPa) for the bucket/work tool system. A third valve is standard, controlled by an in-cab lever, with a fourth valve available for quick coupler control. The system uses Cat HYDO Advanced hydraulic oil for maximum protection against mechanical and corrosive wear.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
The machine features an electronic power shift transmission with four forward and three reverse gears. Front and rear limited slip differentials are available as attachments to transfer torque to the slower turning wheel. The transmission fluid capacity is 7.9 gallons (30 liters), using Cat TDTO fluid.
Cooling and Engine Configuration
The IT38G Series II is powered by a Cat 3126B ATAAC engine delivering 160 hp (119 kW) net power. It features an on-demand cooling fan integrated with the electronic engine to compensate for varying loads. The cooling system uses Extended Life Coolant/Antifreeze with anti-foaming and anti-corrosion properties for extended service intervals.
All IT38G assemblies by section
Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar IT38G. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.
Hydraulic System
124-9439 Accumulator Gp-Ride Control
| 06***35 | Valve-Gas | 1 |
| 10***06 | Film-Warning; (High Pressure Cylinder) | 1 |
| 12***39 | Accumulator Group-Ride Control; -Charged | 1 |
4q-1755 Kit-Ride Control -Custom
| 10***04 | Kit-Receptacle; (4-Pin)(Start Switch) | 1 |
| 10***06 | Film-Warning; (High Pressure Cylinder) | 1 |
| 10***20 | Harness Assembly | 1 |
2q-7821 Kit-Ride Control -Custom
| 10***04 | Housing | 1 |
| 10***04 | Kit-Receptacle; (4-Pin)(Start Switch) | 1 |
| 10***06 | Film-Warning; (High Pressure Cylinder) | 1 |
4t-2764 Valve Gp-Relief
| 3K***60 | Seal Pilot Manifold On; Seal To Boom Check Valve Drain | 2 |
| 4T***41 | Spring | 1 |
| 4T***64 | Valve Group-Relief; (Line, Tilt Cylinder Head End) | 1 |
124-8206 Valve Gp-Ride Control
| 11***32 | Valve Group | 1 |
| 12***06 | Valve Group-Ride Control | 1 |
| 13***88 | Plug-Straight Thread | 1 |
149-2658 Valve Gp-Solenoid
| 11***43 | Locknut; (5/16-18-Thd) | 2 |
| 14***05 | Coil Assem. | 1 |
| 14***11 | Cartridge Assem. | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
What engine does the IT38G use?
The IT38G uses the Cat 3126B ATAAC engine, delivering 134 kW (180 hp) net power and meeting EPA Tier 2 emissions standards.
What is the operating weight of the IT38G?
The operating weight of the IT38G is 14,583 kg (32,156 lb), varying slightly by configuration and attachment package.
What model replaced the IT38G?
The IT38H succeeded the IT38G in Caterpillar's integrated toolcarrier lineup, offering updated features and emissions compliance.
What IT38G owners discuss
What engine powers the IT38G, and what are its key performance specifications?
How does the transmission and powertrain operate, and what are the common wear points?
What are the hydraulic system specifications and typical relief valve settings?
What are the undercarriage and axle configurations, and how do they affect operation?
What electrical and sensor issues are commonly reported or noted in diagnostics?
What cooling system features are included, and how do they impact maintenance?
What should be checked when buying a used IT38G?
Compiled from owner and technician discussions across the industry — experiences vary by serial range and machine history.
Need a specific IT38G part?
Search live OEM part data, check fitment, and cross-reference alternatives with Heavy Parts AI.