Caterpillarwork toolshear-demolition/scrap

Caterpillar VHS-30/3

Maintenance schedule, common problems & OEM parts breakdown

The Caterpillar VHS-30/3 is a passive, pin-on hydraulic demolition and scrap shear built by Verachtert for Cat-class excavators, not a self-propelled machine: it carries no engine, ECM, or undercarriage of its own and draws all cutting and rotation power from the carrier excavator's auxiliary hydraulic circuit. Operating weight runs about 1.9 t (1,900 kg / 4,189 lb), sized to excavators in roughly the 15 to 25 t class, with a 409 mm (16.1 in) jaw opening, about 459 mm (18.1 in) of jaw/throat depth, an overall length near 2,792 mm (109.9 in), and cutting force at the throat of about 3,706 kN. The /3 designation marks the third generation of the VHS-30 shear, built roughly 2009-2012 under serial prefix B1Y, following earlier M-series and H-series VHS-30 shears and sitting alongside /3-series siblings VHS-40/3, VHS-50/3, VHS-60/3, and VHS-70/3 in Caterpillar's Verachtert-built shear roster. It ships as a fixed-jaw pin-on tool with a rotation bearing among its serviceable components; no factory quick-coupler adaptor or swappable multi-processor jaw set is documented for this model.

Generational change on the VHS-30 line tracked jaw hardware, pivot design, and mounting-bracket updates rather than any drivetrain shift, since the tool has none. Caterpillar eventually folded the whole Verachtert VHS shear lineage into its own S305-S385C straight-shear line, which now stands as the factory successor and the parts and support path for shops retiring a VHS-30/3. That succession shapes the used and parts market today: VHS-30/3 units trade mainly on jaw, pivot, and cylinder condition rather than on any powertrain metric, and buyers sourcing wear parts (blades, pins, bushings, seals) should match them to this shear's own B1Y-prefix generation rather than assume interchange with the earlier base VHS-30 or with the newer S-series shear.

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 VHS-30/3 specifications

Engine

Power source

None onboard. VHS-30/3 is a passive, boom- or stick-mounted hydraulic demolition/scrap shear built by Verachtert for Cat excavators. It has no engine, ECM, or onboard fault-code system and runs entirely off the carrier excavator's auxiliary hydraulic circuit.

Weights

Operating weight	approx. 1.9 t (1,900 kg / 4,189 lb)
Shipping weight / ground pressure	Not published as separate figures for this work-tool class. The shear has no transport chassis or undercarriage of its own; shipping weight tracks operating weight.

Dimensions

Jaw opening	approx. 409 mm (16.1 in)
Jaw/throat depth	approx. 459 mm (18.1 in)
Overall length	approx. 2,792 mm (109.9 in)
Transport width, height, wheelbase, ground clearance	Not applicable / not published. The shear has no independent chassis; it mounts directly to the carrier excavator's boom or stick.

Performance

Cutting force at throat	approx. 3,706 kN
Carrier (excavator) weight class	approx. 15 to 25 t
Cycle time (open/close)	Not documented for this exact model in the sources checked. Confirm with your dealer.
Travel speed / gradeability	Not applicable. Passive excavator-mounted attachment, not self-propelled.

Service capacities (summary)

Hydraulic system	No dedicated onboard reservoir. Cutting and rotation circuits draw from and return to the carrier excavator's auxiliary hydraulic system; use the fluid specified for that carrier.
Fuel tank / engine oil / cooling system	Not applicable. The work tool has no engine.

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

VHS-30/3 fluids & capacities

System	Capacity	Recommended fluid
Engine crankcase (with filter)	Not applicable	The VHS-30/3 is a passive hydraulic demolition shear work tool with no onboard engine; it has no crankcase or engine oil requirement of its own.
Cooling system	Not applicable	No engine and no cooling circuit are fitted to this work tool; coolant capacity does not apply.
Fuel tank	Not applicable	No fuel system is fitted; this attachment draws all power hydraulically from the carrier.
Transmission / powertrain compartment	Not applicable	The shear has no transmission or powertrain of its own; rotation and jaw closing are driven entirely by the carrier's hydraulic circuit.
Final drives	Not applicable	No final drives are present on this work tool.
Hydraulic system (shear cylinder circuit)	Not separately specified; the shear has no independent reservoir	The shear operates on the host excavator's hydraulic system and uses the fluid already specified for that carrier's hydraulic tank. Caterpillar's general guidance points to Cat HYDO Advanced hydraulic oil (grades such as 10W, 20W, or 30, selected by ambient temperature) or Cat BIO HYDO Advanced where a biodegradable fluid is required; the exact grade in service follows the excavator manufacturer's own hydraulic oil recommendation, not a separate spec for the work tool.
Hydraulic tank (carrier-supplied)	Set by the host excavator, not by the work tool	Follow the carrier's own operation and maintenance manual for hydraulic tank fill level and fluid type; the shear itself carries no dedicated tank.
Axles / differentials	Not applicable	No axles or differentials exist on this attachment.
Grease points (pivot pins, blade guides, rotation bearing)	Spec only, no fill volume published	Lubricate at the scheduled grease points with a multipurpose extreme-pressure grease of NLGI 2 consistency, consistent with Caterpillar's general work-tool grease guidance (e.g. Cat Ultra 5Moly Grease or an equivalent Cat multipurpose EP grease); Caterpillar's climate guidance for this grease class runs roughly -30 to 50°C (-22 to 122°F) for NLGI 2, with a softer NLGI 1 version recommended for colder ambient conditions.

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

Caterpillar VHS-30/3 maintenance schedule

Service interval	Tasks
Every 10 h	Grease the main jaw pivot pin and blade retaining pins at the start of every shift, more often in dusty, wet, or rebar-heavy work Check mounting bracket pins and ears for play by hand before starting heavy cutting Inspect cutting edges and blade tips for chipping or dulling Cycle the jaw a few times under load and confirm even closing speed with no hesitation Look for oil film on the cylinder rod or pooling in the boot after each cycle Wipe grease and dirt off the pivot casting and ear welds and check for hairline cracking
Every 250 h	Torque-check mounting bracket fasteners and pin retainers Grease the rotation bearing on rotating-head units and check for gritty or notchy movement Re-torque blade bolts and inserts, replace any that have backed off Check pivot bushings for measurable play and flag for replacement if worn Inspect hoses routed through the shear frame for chafing or abrasion against the frame
Every 500 h	Rotate cutting blades to a fresh edge or replace once cycle time and cutting speed drop off Measure pivot pin and bushing wear against service limits and replace any pins or bushings out of tolerance Inspect the cylinder rod for scoring and confirm seal condition is dry Check jaw closing symmetry and shim or adjust if the jaws no longer meet evenly Inspect mounting ears and pins for elongation or egg-shaped wear
Every 1,000 h	Perform a full teardown inspection of the pivot pin, bushings, and jaw ears Replace cylinder rod seals as a set if any weep was noted at a shorter interval Give the pivot casting and welds a close inspection for cracking beyond a quick wipe-and-look Check rotation bearing or slew ring wear and grease seal condition on rotating-head units Replace worn blade inserts, tips, and mounting hardware together rather than piecemeal
Every 2,000 h	Overhaul the shear cylinder: reseal, and hone or replace the rod if scored Replace the pivot pin and bushing set outright on units that have seen heavy demolition duty, regardless of visible play Recondition the mounting bracket bore and replace pins showing elongation Have the pivot casting, jaw body, and ears checked for structural cracking by the dealer, with weld repair or casting replacement as needed Recoat exposed structural surfaces after any weld or casting repair to protect against corrosion
Every 4,000 h	Have the dealer assess the pivot casting and jaw body for continued service life versus replacement after this much cumulative cutting duty Review the accumulated repair history against replacement cost before committing to another major cylinder or pivot rebuild Inspect the mounting bracket structure as a whole for fatigue, not just individual pin bores

Servicing the VHS-30/3 beyond the schedule

Predictive Maintenance & Fluid Analysis

With no engine or reservoir of its own, predictive work on the VHS-30/3 means watching the carrier's hydraulic oil and the shear's own wear signs rather than sampling anything onboard. Degraded or contaminated hydraulic oil on the carrier shows up first as slow jaw closing or erratic rotation. Track jaw cycle time, check pivot pin play by hand every shift, and log blade edge condition so a rotation or replacement happens before dullness drives up cycle time and heat load on the carrier's hydraulics.

Corrective & Common Repairs

Most VHS-30/3 repairs trace to a weeping cylinder rod seal under full system pressure, worn pivot pins and bushings causing jaw knock and uneven closing, and chipped or dulled blade edges from rebar work. Replace rod seals as a set at the first sign of weep, don't run pins past measurable play, and rotate blades to a fresh edge before cutting slows. Confirm carrier auxiliary-circuit pressure and flow before condemning the shear itself for sluggish performance.

Overhaul & Rebuild Points

Major rebuild work on the VHS-30/3 centers on the pivot casting, jaw ears, and cylinder. Inspect the pivot casting and ear welds for hairline cracking under grease buildup at every major service, since side-loading from prying instead of cutting is the usual cause. A full overhaul at high hours means reseating or reboring the cylinder, replacing the pivot pin and bushing set outright, and reconditioning the mounting bracket bore before the shear goes back into heavy demolition duty.

Seasonal & Environment Servicing

With no engine or coolant to prep, seasonal servicing on the VHS-30/3 is a grease and inspection exercise. Switch to a softer NLGI 1 grease below roughly -30°C (-22°F), where standard NLGI 2 grease stiffens up. Grease more frequently on wet or muddy demolition jobs, where pivot pins wash out faster, and check mounting pins, bushings, and the pivot casting more closely after dusty work, where grit accelerates wear at every pin joint.

VHS-30/3 attachments & work tools

Host carrier weight class

The VHS-30/3 is sized for excavators in roughly the 15 to 25 t class, consistent with its own operating weight of about 1.9 t and its jaw geometry. Its dimensions track closely with Caterpillar's own current mid-size mobile shear tier, though no source ties the VHS-30/3 name to that line's own published carrier chart.

Mounting / coupler system

Parts documentation for this generation lists a dedicated mounting bracket group that bolts and pins the shear body directly to the carrier's stick or boom, the standard pin-on arrangement used across the VHS/3 shear family. No source confirms a factory quick-coupler adaptor specific to the VHS-30/3, so pin-on remains the only documented mounting path for this model.

Rotation feature

The shear includes a rotation bearing among its serviceable components, so the jaw head can be indexed relative to the shear body without repositioning the carrier. Specific rotation-drive details (degrees of travel, motor type) are not documented for this model and should not be assumed to match any other shear line.

Jaw and blade configuration

The VHS-30/3 carries a single fixed shear-jaw pairing (upper and lower cutting jaw) rather than a swappable multi-processor jaw set; it is not documented as accepting alternate pulverizer or grapple jaws. Wear at the jaw tips is addressed through bolt-on blade and piercing-tip inserts, the standard shear-wear-part approach, rather than replacement of the whole jaw casting, though no VHS-30/3-specific service interval or procedure was found.

Hydraulic requirement on the host machine

As a passive attachment with no engine or onboard power pack, the VHS-30/3 runs entirely off the carrier's auxiliary/high-pressure hydraulic circuit, drawing the flow and pressure needed to close the jaws and drive rotation. The host excavator's auxiliary circuit must be sized to the shear's rated cutting force; no separate VHS-30/3 hydraulic kit or flow specification was located beyond this general passive-attachment requirement.

Factory configuration and guarding

No documentation specific to the VHS-30/3 describing factory guarding options, cylinder protection, or special-order configurations was found. General practice in this shear class routes the cutting cylinder and hoses within the shear frame for protection, but this could not be confirmed as a documented VHS-30/3 feature rather than a broader shear-category convention.

All VHS-30/3 assemblies by section

Every catalogued assembly group for the Caterpillar VHS-30/3. Open an assembly to preview the parts inside — full OEM part numbers are available in Heavy Parts AI.

Frame And Body

318-6212 Housing Gp-Shear

16***16	Seal	1
17***21	Adapter As	1
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	2
24***84	Cylinder Group-Shear	1

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327-5370 Housing Gp-Shear

14***16	Connector Group	1
16***24	Hose As	1
17***64	Hose As	1
1P***02	Seal-Rectangular 28.83mm(1.136in) Id	2

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325-6440 Housing Gp-Shear

14***16	Connector Group	1
18***03	Hose As	1
19***85	Hose As	1
1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	2

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317-6006 Housing Gp-Shear

16***16	Seal	1
17***21	Adapter As	1
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	2
22***44	Cylinder Group-Shear	1

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226-0714 Housing Gp-Shear

10***40	Plug	1
15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	4
16***22	Elbow; (90-Deg)	2

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240-5915 Housing Gp-Shear

15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	14
16***12	Clip; (Slot)	2
16***13	Clip; (Tab)	2

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310-2108 Housing Gp-Shear

09***05	Bolt-Socket Head; (M16x2x100-mm)	8
15***21	Lockwasher	12
16***12	Clip; (Slot)	2
16***13	Clip; (Tab)	2

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Hydraulic System

228-8613 Cylinder & Lines Gp-Shear

14***06	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x140-mm)	5
20***25	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
22***13	Cylinder & Lines Group-Shear	2
29***38	Cover As	1

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240-5497 Cylinder & Lines Gp-Shear

14***06	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x140-mm)	5
20***25	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
24***97	Cylinder & Lines Group-Shear	2
29***44	Cover As	1

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321-3765 Cylinder & Lines Gp-Shear

14***16	Connector Group	2
14***51	Elbow Group	1
16***54	Seal	1
17***29	Valve Group-Speed Control	1

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318-0062 Cylinder & Lines Gp-Shear

14***16	Connector Group	2
14***51	Elbow Group	1
16***54	Seal	1
17***29	Valve Group-Speed Control	1

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318-0061 Cylinder & Valve Gp

09***48	Nipple, Grease	1
09***06	Bolt-Socket Head; (M16x2x80-mm)	24
16***71	Bushing	2
17***36	Bushing	2

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227-3768 Cylinder & Valve Gp

14***16	Connector Group	2
14***51	Elbow Group	1
16***54	Seal	1
17***29	Valve Group-Speed Control	1

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240-5496 Cylinder & Valve Gp

14***06	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x140-mm)	5
20***25	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
24***96	Cylinder & Valve Group	1
32***32	Cylinder Group-Hydraulic	1

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321-2531 Cylinder & Valve Gp

16***16	Seal	1
17***21	Adapter As	1
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	2
22***53	Hose As	1

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327-5371 Cylinder & Valve Gp

09***48	Nipple, Grease	1
16***16	Seal	1
17***23	Plug As	4
17***23	Bushing	2

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317-8054 Cylinder & Valve Gp

14***16	Connector Group	1
18***15	Hose As	1
18***16	Hose As	1
1P***03	Seal - Rectangular (31.86mm Id)	2

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317-5991 Cylinder & Valve Gp

14***06	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x140-mm)	5
20***25	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
31***91	Cylinder & Valve Group	1
32***72	Cylinder Group-Hydraulic	1

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321-2534 Cylinder Gp-Hydraulic

09***48	Nipple, Grease	1
14***84	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x110-mm)	22
16***55	Bushing	2
17***45	Piston	1

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317-5993 Cylinder Gp-Hydraulic

16***16	Seal	1
17***23	Plug As	4
17***23	Bushing	2
17***08	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x140-mm)	27

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327-5372 Cylinder Gp-Hydraulic

09***48	Nipple, Grease	1
16***87	Bushing	2
17***50	Pin-Spring	1
17***41	Ring-Backup	1

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321-2532 Cylinder Gp-Hydraulic

16***54	Seal	1
17***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x150-mm)	29
20***98	Lock	1
20***99	Ring-Half	2

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317-5992 Cylinder Gp-Hydraulic

16***16	Seal	1
17***21	Adapter As	1
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	2
24***02	Hose As	1

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317-6403 Cylinder Gp-Shear

16***46	Bar-Clamp	2
16***90	Clip; (Slot)	2
16***91	Clip; (Tab)	2
1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	2

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317-6404 Cylinder Gp-Shear

09***70	Bolt-Socket Hd; (M12 X 1.75 X 45)	16
1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	4
1P***67	Flange-Half (43.31 mm Id)	8
22***60	Hose As	2

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327-5373 Cylinder Gp-Shear

1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	4
20***08	Hose As	2
25***89	Hose As	1
25***49	Hose As	1

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240-5484 Cylinder Gp-Shear

10***16	Hose As	2
1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	4
1P***67	Flange-Half (43.31 mm Id)	4
22***02	Hose As	1

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227-4144 Cylinder Gp-Shear

09***48	Nipple, Grease	1
16***54	Seal	1
17***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x150-mm)	29
20***98	Lock	1

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270-7425 Fitting Gp-Hydraulic

14***59	Hose As	2
27***25	Fitting Group-Hydraulic	1
5P***77	Flange-Half	4
8T***22	Washer-Hard-To Lock Carrier Rollers	8

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302-8171 Lines Gp-Connecting

09***73	Bolt; (Socket Head) (M12x1.75x60mm)	8
12***28	Adaptor - Includes:-	4
12***24	Seal-O-Ring; (12.37mm Id)	4
14***73	Lockwasher	8

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221-0857 Lines Gp-Connecting

22***57	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***24	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***25	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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270-3924 Lines Gp-Connecting

27***24	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***47	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***48	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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270-4349 Lines Gp-Connecting

14***20	Bolt-Socket Head; (M6x1x75-mm)	4
27***49	Lines Group-Connecting	1
7Y***19	Seal-O-Ring (Id=12.37mm)	2

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270-3925 Lines Gp-Connecting

14***68	Hose As	2
14***45	Connector As	2
27***25	Lines Group-Connecting	1
2M***80	Seal--To Connector Pump Outlet	1

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258-9890 Lines Gp-Connecting

14***45	Connector As	2
24***08	Hose As	2
25***90	Lines Group-Connecting	1
2M***80	Seal--To Connector Pump Outlet	1

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270-7585 Lines Gp-Connecting

14***20	Bolt-Socket Head; (M6x1x75-mm)	4
17***73	Motor Group-Gerotor	1
17***77	Gear-Drive; (15-Teeth)	1
27***85	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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270-3926 Lines Gp-Connecting

24***96	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***26	Lines Group-Connecting	1
27***85	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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270-4348 Lines Gp-Connecting

1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	2
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	2
27***48	Lines Group-Connecting	1
6V***98	Seal-O-Ring -Line From Gear Pump Output	4

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244-6796 Lines Gp-Connecting

21***73	Hose As	2
24***96	Lines Group-Connecting	1
5P***77	Flange-Half	4
8T***22	Washer-Hard-To Lock Carrier Rollers	8

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221-0856 Lines Gp-Connecting

14***68	Hose As	2
14***45	Connector As	2
22***56	Lines Group-Connecting	1
2M***80	Seal--To Connector Pump Outlet	1

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270-4347 Lines Gp-Connecting

1P***04	Seal - Rectangular (45mm Dia)	3
1P***05	Seal (Check Valve Outlet)	1
1P***67	Flange-Half (43.31 mm Id)	2
27***47	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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270-7586 Lines Gp-Connecting

17***21	Kit-Housing	1
17***22	Shaft-Output	1
17***25	Key-Square	1
27***86	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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273-7602 Lines Gp-Connecting

17***73	Motor Group-Gerotor	1
17***76	Ring-Mounting	1
17***77	Gear-Drive; (15-Teeth)	1
27***02	Lines Group-Connecting	1

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170-2174 Manifold Gp-Control

09***73	Bolt; (Socket Head) (M12x1.75x60mm)	16
12***28	Adaptor - Includes:-	4
12***24	Seal-O-Ring; (12.37mm Id)	4
14***73	Lockwasher	8

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318-8396 Motor & Manifold Gp-Rotator

08***72	Seal-O-Ring	1
14***28	Connector Assem.	2
14***35	Connect Group; (Each Includes)	4
14***45	Connector As	4

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170-2173 Motor Gp-Gerotor

08***72	Seal-O-Ring	1
14***28	Connector Assem.	2
14***35	Connect Group; (Each Includes)	4
14***45	Connector As	4

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216-7650 Motor Gp-Gerotor

16***43	Seal	1
17***57	Plug As	4
17***14	Stator	1
17***16	Ring	1

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314-9134 Rotator Gp-Hydraulic

17***30	Plug	6
17***31	Valve	1
17***32	Plug-Screw	2
17***33	Valve-Relief	1

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323-8109 Rotator Gp-Hydraulic

09***01	Bolt-Socket Head; (M8x1.25x40-mm)	4
17***55	Seal-O-Ring	2
20***74	Bolt-Socket Head; (M16x2x55-mm)	8
20***51	Valve Group-Control	1

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266-7382 Rotator Gp-Hydraulic

13***54	Plug As	3
20***87	Slack Adjuster Group	1
20***88	Valve Group-Control	1
20***90	Plug As	1

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243-1695 Rotator Gp-Hydraulic

14***09	Plug As-Sto	2
17***42	Rotor	1
17***43	Ring	1
17***44	Plate-Locking	1

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318-8397 Swivel Gp

14***86	Fitting As	2
15***44	Seal	1
17***77	Fitting As; (Quick Disconnect, Male)	4
20***62	Lock Group-Shear	1

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265-6468 Swivel Gp

14***86	Fitting As	2
15***44	Seal	1
17***77	Fitting As; (Quick Disconnect, Male)	4
20***62	Lock Group-Shear	1

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208-8451 Valve Gp-Control

16***15	Ring-Adjustment	1
20***51	Valve Group-Control	1
31***60	Pipe	1
32***78	Template	1

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170-3229 Valve Gp-Speed Control

17***29	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
20***41	Washer; (21x63.5x22-mm Thk)	2
24***85	Ring	1
24***86	Wrench; (Lock, 140)	1

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208-5125 Valve Gp-Speed Control

20***41	Washer; (21x63.5x22-mm Thk)	2
20***25	Valve Group-Speed Control	1
24***86	Wrench; (Lock, 140)	1
24***76	Wrench; (Lock, 160)	1

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Service Equipment And Supplies

327-5368 Kit-Maintenance

15***96	Film-Notice; (Lift Eye Location)	3
19***28	Plate-Identification	2
22***69	Film-Warning; (Do Not Operate, Read Omm)	2
24***18	Film-Warning; (Crush Hazard, Stay Back)	2

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226-0718 Kit-Maintenance

19***01	Adjusting Ring	1
22***18	Kit-Maintenance	1
32***80	Template	1
32***82	Pipe	1

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327-8983 Kit-Maintenance

13***55	Setscrew; (M4x0.7x8-mm)	2
23***60	Film-Notice; (Lift Eye Location)	4
24***76	Film-Warning; (Do Not Operate, Read Omm)	2
31***21	Film-Warning; (Crush Hazard, Stay Back, Hand), Name-Plate (Reserve Tank Led)	2

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240-5914 Kit-Maintenance

16***93	Ring-Adjustment	1
24***14	Kit-Maintenance	1
31***60	Pipe	1
32***86	Template	1

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327-8979 Kit-Maintenance

13***55	Setscrew; (M4x0.7x8-mm)	2
23***60	Film-Notice; (Lift Eye Location)	4
24***76	Film-Warning; (Do Not Operate, Read Omm)	2
31***21	Film-Warning; (Crush Hazard, Stay Back, Hand), Name-Plate (Reserve Tank Led)	2

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317-8059 Kit-Maintenance

31***59	Kit-Maintenance	1
8T***32	Nut (M16 X 2 Thd); (M16x2.00 Thd)	2
8T***75	Bolt; (M16x2x90-mm)	1
9X***57	Washer-Pipe As To Main Pump Suction Port	2

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325-6438 Kit-Maintenance

15***96	Film-Notice; (Lift Eye Location)	3
19***28	Plate-Identification	2
22***69	Film-Warning; (Do Not Operate, Read Omm)	2
24***18	Film-Warning; (Crush Hazard, Stay Back)	2

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200-2962 Lock Gp-Shear

13***55	Setscrew; (M4x0.7x8-mm)	2
20***62	Lock Group-Shear	1
23***60	Film-Notice; (Lift Eye Location)	4
24***76	Film-Warning; (Do Not Operate, Read Omm)	2

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334-0120 Plate & Film Gp

33***20

Plate & Film Group

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334-0119 Plate & Film Gp

33***19

Plate & Film Group

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269-4647 Plate & Film Gp

26***47

Plate & Film Group

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334-0118 Plate & Film Gp

33***18

Plate & Film Group

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251-3560 Plate & Film Gp

25***60

Plate & Film Group

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Work Tool Arrangement

269-4646 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

24***12	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
24***14	Kit-Maintenance	1
26***46	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
32***68	Kit-Maintenance	1

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317-5990 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

31***08	Housing Group-Shear, Flexible Hose	1
31***34	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1
31***90	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1

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334-0115 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

31***11	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
32***83	Kit-Maintenance	1
33***15	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
33***18	Plate & Film Group	1

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334-0117 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

31***27	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
32***79	Kit-Maintenance	1
33***17	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
33***20	Plate & Film Group	1

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334-0116 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

31***90	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
31***59	Kit-Maintenance	1
33***16	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
33***19	Plate & Film Group	1

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251-3559 Shear Ar-Hydraulic

22***13	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
22***18	Kit-Maintenance	1
25***59	Shear Ar-Hydraulic	1
25***60	Plate & Film Group	1

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Work Tools

199-1258 Bracket Gp-Mounting

13***17	Bearing-Sleeve; (116.23mm Od)	2
15***19	Lockwasher	16
17***61	Cover	2
19***57	Bracket As	1

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254-5861 Bracket Gp-Mounting

16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	46
25***61	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***62	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***67	Washer-Hard; (26x44x4-mm Thk)	46

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222-8508 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
22***08	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
22***13	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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254-5862 Bracket Gp-Mounting

14***90	Bearing-Sleeve; (140.26mm Od)	2
15***18	Lockwasher	16
17***61	Cover	2
25***62	Bracket Group-Mounting	1

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257-4109 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***28	Bearing-Sleeve	2
15***19	Lockwasher	16
17***61	Cover	2
25***08	Bracket As	1

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257-0102 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	6
17***33	Cover	1
25***02	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***03	Bracket As-Mounting	1

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282-2863 Bracket Gp-Mounting

22***62	Shim; (1-mm Thk)	4
22***63	Shim; (1-mm Thk)	4
22***64	Shim; (1.5-mm Thk)	4
22***66	Edge-Cutting	2

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272-4879 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	8
19***96	Cover	1
27***79	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
27***80	Bracket As	1

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180-1286 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
18***86	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
19***94	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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270-1912 Bracket Gp-Mounting

16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	44
27***12	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
27***13	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***67	Washer-Hard; (26x44x4-mm Thk)	44

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257-1047 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	6
17***33	Cover	1
25***47	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***48	Bracket As-Mounting	1

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282-0532 Bracket Gp-Mounting

10***96	Bearing-Sleeve	2
13***55	Setscrew; (M4x0.7x8-mm)	2
15***19	Lockwasher	16
16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	46

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175-0339 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
17***39	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
17***48	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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269-7525 Bracket Gp-Mounting

16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	44
26***25	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
26***27	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***67	Washer-Hard; (26x44x4-mm Thk)	44

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257-0101 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
25***01	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***02	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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271-0111 Bracket Gp-Mounting

16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	42
27***11	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
27***79	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***67	Washer-Hard; (26x44x4-mm Thk)	42

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246-9991 Bracket Gp-Mounting

13***55	Setscrew; (M4x0.7x8-mm)	2
17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
20***59	Plate-Serial Number	1
24***91	Bracket Group-Mounting	1

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247-0536 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	6
17***33	Cover	1
24***36	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***36	Capscrew; (Hex Hd) (M10 X 1.50 X 25l Gr 10.9)	6

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362-8489 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***21	Lockwasher	3
23***74	Bushing	10
25***68	Plate-Wear	1
31***93	Edge-Cutting	2

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363-7700 Bracket Gp-Mounting

14***78	Lockwasher	3
17***93	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x80-mm)	3
22***49	Plate-Wear	1
23***05	Edge-Cutting	2

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257-0098 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
25***98	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***99	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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282-2864 Bracket Gp-Mounting

22***63	Shim; (1-mm Thk)	4
22***64	Shim; (1.5-mm Thk)	4
22***67	Edge-Cutting	2
23***74	Bushing	14

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257-0099 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	6
17***33	Cover	1
25***99	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***00	Bracket As-Mounting	1

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222-8513 Bracket Gp-Mounting

14***90	Bearing-Sleeve; (140.26mm Od)	2
15***19	Lockwasher	16
17***61	Cover	2
22***13	Bracket Group-Mounting	1

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199-1259 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
19***58	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
19***59	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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257-4110 Bracket Gp-Mounting

16***82	Bolt-Socket Head; (M24x3x70-mm)	46
25***09	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***10	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***67	Washer-Hard; (26x44x4-mm Thk)	46

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269-7527 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	8
19***96	Cover	1
26***27	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
26***28	Bracket As	1

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270-1913 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	8
19***96	Cover	1
27***13	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
27***14	Bracket As	1

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179-1648 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***18	Lockwasher	6
17***46	Bracket As	1
17***33	Cover	1
17***48	Bracket Group-Mounting	1

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257-1041 Bracket Gp-Mounting

17***90	Bolt-Socket Head; (M20x2.5x70-mm)	36
25***41	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
25***47	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
8T***23	Washer-Plated; (22x35x3.5-mm Thk)	36

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193-9094 Bracket Gp-Mounting

15***19	Lockwasher	16
17***61	Cover	2
19***94	Bracket Group-Mounting	1
19***95	Bracket As	1

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240-6810 Edge Gp-Cutting

22***14	Housing Group-Shear	1
24***10	Edge Group-Cutting	1
26***82	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1

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317-8040 Edge Gp-Cutting

31***06	Housing Group-Shear	1
31***40	Edge Group-Cutting	1
32***09	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1

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315-0192 Edge Gp-Cutting

24***15	Housing Group-Shear	1
24***95	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1
31***92	Edge Group-Cutting	1

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322-1929 Edge Gp-Cutting

31***34	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1
31***12	Housing Group-Shear	1
32***29	Edge Group-Cutting	1

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227-3769 Edge Gp-Cutting

15***21	Lockwasher	3
22***69	Edge Group-Cutting	1
23***74	Bushing	10
25***69	Plate-Wear	1

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317-8027 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	30
16***12	Clip; (Slot)	2
16***13	Clip; (Tab)	2

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240-5912 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

24***12	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
24***95	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1
32***70	Housing Group-Shear	1

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327-5369 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	2
17***15	Bushing	2
17***21	Lock As	1

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226-0713 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

22***13	Shear Group-Hydraulic	1
26***82	Rotator Group-Hydraulic	1
32***40	Housing Group-Shear	1

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325-6439 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	4
16***41	Bushing	2
16***07	Lock Pin	8

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318-6211 Shear Gp-Hydraulic

09***05	Bolt-Socket Head; (M16x2x100-mm)	8
15***19	Lockwasher	2
15***21	Lockwasher	28
16***12	Clip; (Slot)	2

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VHS-30/3 serial number reference

The PIN plate is riveted or bolted to the shear body near the mounting bracket/ear where the tool pins to the excavator stick, typically on the side frame close to the rotator or bracket group. Read the first three characters of the eight-character PIN as the prefix (identifies model/build series), followed by a five-digit sequence number that identifies the individual unit within that series.

Prefix	Identifies	Notes
B1Y	VHS-30/3 demolition/scrap shear, factory work-tool arrangement shared across the /3-series (VHS-30/3, VHS-40/3, VHS-50/3, VHS-60/3, VHS-70/3); no engine, passive hydraulic tool	Serial range B1Y00001-UP. Caterpillar's parts-catalog documentation for this shear generation lists VHS-30/3 by name among the /3-series demolition and scrap shears sharing this prefix range. The prefix alone does not distinguish shear size within the /3 generation, so confirm the specific size with your dealer before ordering parts or committing to a spec sheet.

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the Caterpillar VHS-30/3 use?

None. The VHS-30/3 is a passive hydraulic demolition and scrap shear with no engine, ECM, or onboard power source of its own; it runs entirely off the auxiliary hydraulic circuit of the excavator it's pinned to.

What is the operating weight of the VHS-30/3?

Approximately 1.9 t (1,900 kg / 4,189 lb), sized for carrier excavators in roughly the 15 to 25 t class.

What replaced the VHS-30/3?

Caterpillar folded the Verachtert-built VHS shear lineage into its own S305-S385C straight-shear line, which now serves as the model's factory successor and the parts and support path for owners retiring a VHS-30/3.

What VHS-30/3 owners discuss

How often does the jaw pivot and blade pins need greasing on a VHS-30/3 shear?

Grease the main jaw pivot and the blade retaining pins at the start of every shift under steady demolition work, and more often in dusty, wet, or rebar-heavy jobs. A pivot that's gone dry starts knocking and the jaws close unevenly well before the pin looks visibly worn, so missed grease intervals are usually the first thing that gives a neglected shear away.

What wear pattern shows up first on the cutting jaws?

The mid and tip sections of the blade dull fastest on rebar and light structural steel, while the throat area near the pivot holds up much longer since material rarely reaches full jaw depth. Most crews rotate the blades to a fresh edge once cutting slows down rather than running them to full dullness, because a dull edge drives up cycle times and heat load on the carrier's hydraulics.

Are hydraulic leaks common on this kind of shear?

Yes, the cylinder rod seal is the most common failure point since the jaw cylinder sees full system pressure on every close. A weeping seal shows up as an oil film on the rod after each cycle, a jaw that closes noticeably slower than it used to, or oil pooling in the boot. Because the shear runs straight off the carrier's auxiliary circuit, a bad seal can also drag down pressure elsewhere on the machine - have your dealer verify aux circuit pressure and flow before condemning the shear itself.

Does the shear rotate, and what wears on the rotation drive if it does?

On rotating heads in this size class, the rotator bearing and its grease seal are the parts that wear - lost grease shows up as gritty, notchy movement or a dry squeal when turning the jaw under load. Whether this particular model ships as a fixed-jaw or a rotating unit isn't settled from what's publicly documented, so check the actual unit for a rotator motor and slew ring before assuming one is fitted.

Does the mounting bracket fit more than one carrier size?

No - the pin diameter and center-to-center spacing on a shear this size are matched to one carrier weight class, not a bolt-on fit across a wider tonnage range. Check actual pin diameter and spacing against the excavator's stick before assuming compatibility. The mounting ears and bushings also take a beating from constant open/close flex, so a shear that rocks on the stick pin at idle has ears or bushings due for replacement.

Is cracking around the pivot casting a known problem?

Cracks near the pivot casting and jaw ears usually trace back to using the shear to pry or lever material instead of just cutting - the pivot area isn't built to take side-loading. Hairline cracks are easy to miss under grease and dirt, so a wire brush and a close look at the pivot casting and ear welds is worth doing on any unit that's worked demolition rather than clean scrap processing. Have your dealer verify any suspected crack with a proper inspection before putting the shear back into heavy service.

What should I check before buying a used VHS-30/3?

Walk the jaws for remaining blade material and how many times the edges have already been rotated, check pivot and mounting-ear pins for play by hand (any wobble means worn pins or bushings), look at the cylinder rod for scoring and the seals for weeping, and inspect the pivot casting and ear welds for cracks under the grease buildup. Cycle the jaw a few times under load to confirm even closing speed and no hesitation, which points to internal cylinder wear. Have your dealer verify hydraulic pressure and structural condition before you rely on it for heavy demolition work.

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

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