How to troubleshoot a cat hydraulic excavator with low power?

When it comes to troubleshooting low power concerns on a Cat® Hydraulic Excavator, Caterpillar Maintenance Expert Jeff Payne says look at the simple things first, such as checking your machine air filters and fuel filters for restrictions – before looking at cycle times; swing, stick, bucket and boom times, or valve adjustments.

How to troubleshoot a pilot operated relief valve?

Pilot-operated relief valves have small internal orifices which may become blocked with dirt. Blow out all passages with an air hose and run a small wire through orifices. Check also for free movement of the spool. Pipe thread connections in the body may distort the body and cause the spool to bind.

Can a Hitachi excavator have a lack of power?

Hitachi are pretty good at building an excavator and I would say with some certainty that you have a lack of power from the engine. Is the engine smoky/hard to start?

What to do if pilot pressure is low?

Pilot pressure low 4. Malfunctions of solenoids 5. Distortion of valve body 1. Drain and flush system. Disassemble and clean, if necessary. 2. Small fittings or pipe. 3. Check pilot pressure system. 4. Check for proper source voltage and frequency. Remove solenoid and check fields. 5. Align body and piping to remove strains.

Hitachi are pretty good at building an excavator and I would say with some certainty that you have a lack of power from the engine. Is the engine smoky/hard to start?

Is there a lack of power in an excavator?

Discussion in ‘ Excavators ‘ started by 707pc50, Apr 28, 2010 . I just bought a 96 PC50uu2 excavator that seems to have a lack of power issue.

Why do my pilot controls not work properly?

When you try one function all by it self it sounds like a relief valve is opening, not sure which one, port or main relief. Click to expand… This is a total guess, but it almost sounds like somebody might have tried to change the pattern and hooked the pilot hoses up wrong.

What are the functions of the pilot controls?

The functions that work all the time are the dozer blade, offset boom swing, and house turntable. The turntable is the only thing on this circuit that uses the pilot controls, the others are purely mechanical spools with linkages. I have been trying to figure out why these work all the time.

Is there an excavator that does not swing?

yes this is the only function that does not work. Yes the large lines do get tight with pressure with i try to swing. Yes we have removed the motor from the drive gear and the machine can be pushed around while it is removed. The smallest lines are for swing brake. It will connect to a solenoid to control it. Check for power to the solenoid.

Why is my excavator not getting power from the ECM?

If no voltage is present then the K907 green wire on the back-up switch is not getting power from the ECM. The ECM is bolted under the seat. It should have a green light showing when the key is on. Inspect the wiring from the back up switch to the ECM. If no problems are found, unbolt the ECM and inspect the bottom for corrosion.

What to do if your excavator swing brake does not work?

If the purple wire does not have power, trace the wires back to the fuse. If the green wire does not have continuity to ground, trace the wires to the switch and check the switch wires for ground. Swing brake should release if either of the solenoids work. Both do the same function.

Why is my cat excavator engine overheating?

Over relief or in compound operations, the engine will lug down (droop) to a specified speed, Cat should have checked this to ensure that the hydraulic system is absorbing as much as the HP and torque as the engine is designed to produce in that excavator. If the engine pulls down towards stall, it may be trying to overload the engine.

What causes an excavator cooler to overheat?

(The hydraulic cooler is in front of the radiator, thus transfering the heat to the engine) Many excavators have check valves in the cooler circuit lines, if one of these sticks you will get overheating. I’ve found that many heating problems in excavators are caused by hydraulic problems.

Can a weak hydraulic pump cause an excavator to overheat?

A weak hydraulic pump will create heat and this can cause engine overheating. (The hydraulic cooler is in front of the radiator, thus transfering the heat to the engine) Many excavators have check valves in the cooler circuit lines, if one of these sticks you will get overheating.

What should I do if my cat excavator overheats?

We own several Cat excavators and most of our work is demo. Demo dust is a killer to radiators. Washing with water just cakes up the radiator worst, the quick fix is blow out the radiator with a good air blower. If you do a lot od demo at some point you will have to pull the radiator out and preasure wash out the entire radiator.

What’s the temp on a cat hydraulic excavator?

The excavator has a standard high-ambient temperature capability of 50° C (122° F) with de-rate and cold start capability of –18° C (0° F). An optional –32° C (–25° F) cold start package is available. Boost productivity up to 45% versus traditional grading with standard Cat GRADE with 2D system – includes indicate-only and laser capability.

Is the cat 301.8 mini excavator overheating?

CAT 301.8 Mini-excavator has overheating problem. I suspect it is the thermostat, but it looks pretty hard to get it out. I am seeking … read more I have a bobcat 341 mini excavator that the coolant temperature is running a bit high.

Can a bobcat 341 mini excavator overheat?

I have a bobcat 341 mini excavator that the coolant temperature is running a bit high. It doesn’t overheat unless the a/c is on but is shouldn’t overheat … read more Vocational, Technical or Tra… We have a Cat 320c excavator ID CAT 0320CEGLA01541. The throttle control does not work not even the throttle over ride under the right arm … read more

What to do if your excavator swing is not working?

Also, make sure you’re getting full pilot signal to the swing spools and that the main pump for that swing direction is stroking up. Check your pilot filter and in tank return filter for metal or debris that could indicate an internal component failure or problem. On the swing motor you should have two relief cartridges.

Where is the rear door on a Caterpillar excavator?

Caterpillar Excavator Engine Compartment Door Left Hand, Rear Door Includes Latch & Hinge Fits Cat 320L and 320N All Sheet Metal comes with primer coat of paint. Paint typically does get scratched during shipping

What is the part number on an excavator swing?

Below is a picture of the location. (as long as it is not too different from US versions) The part number I have found is (NNN) NNN-NNNN The wires should be a white wire marked H476 and a black wire marked 235 for implement pressure switch.

Why are the tracks on my Cat 320n not turning?

The smallest line running through the swivel will be the one to the travel motor speed actuators. You could try to plug it and see if anything changes. If the battery voltage dropped low enough, the solenoid valve for the two speed might drop out. Maybe it’s an electrical problem…..

How to turn off the fine swing control on an excavator?

Push down on the left side of the switch in order to turn off the fine swing control. Operate the machine with the switch in the OFF position when great swing forces are required. For example, digging on a sidewall requires great swing force.

Is the swing brake on my excavator working?

I have a 320c excavator… I have a 320c excavator, im having trouble with the swing brake , or atleast i think its that. the swing brake grabs somtimes when swinging left or right but doesnt grab completely, just shudders.

Where are the brake switches on a 320C excavator?

Fine swing or swing brake switch would be with the other switches on the right side console. It is not common on the 320 model. thanks will order pressure switches tomorrow , then get back to you with results. Not sure where these pressure switches are. Could you please give me a little more detail as to where to find them?

What to do if your Caterpillar 3306 engine starts rough?

Contact a specialist at Big Bear Engine Company if you have any issues or questions concerning the Caterpillar 3306 Engine. If you encounter rough starts with the engine immediate turn off the engine and take it to a mechanic or machine shop for further diagnosis. Multiple dry starts could further damage the engine.

Is the Caterpillar CAT 3306 still in production?

The CAT 3306 is still being factory made for the OEM and aftermarket market even though it is no longer mass-produced for new equipment. The engine is still popular because it of its reliability, ease of use and straightforward maintenance schedule.

Is the cat 3306 engine a good starter?

CAT 3306 engines, like the smaller CAT 3304, are very reliable and will start right up most of the time. With mechanical diesel engines it can be a bit trickier to find the issue at hand without the corresponding ECM code however these tips above should give you at least a place to look.

What makes a cat 330 hydraulic excavator so good?

THE CAT 330 raises the bar for performance and fuel efficiency in this size class. With the industry’s highest level of standard factory technology, a new cab focused on operator comfort and productivity, plus lower fuel and maintenance costs, the 330 will set a new pace for productivity and profit in your operation.

Which is the best excavator for a caterpillar?

Offering the industry’s highest level of standard factory-equipped technology, including Cat Grade with 2D, Grade with Assist and Payload. Increase fuel efficiency up to 20 percent over the 330F excavator.

What do you need to know about caterpillar licensing?

Learn more about licensing with Caterpillar. Cat® OEM Solutions provide partial configurations, or systems and first-fit components, to create unique equipment to meet the needs of your projects. Whether it’s telematic data from equipped machines that gives you better insight into your operation.

Where can I find a cat used Caterpillar?

Cat.com was able to retrieve your Caterpillar profile, but requires a few more pieces of information that you don’t have stored. Please review and provide any missing information. With Cat Used Equipment, you’ll find quality options in all age and hour ranges — and at multiple price points to fit your budget.

How much horsepower does a 345 GC excavator have?

Engine Net Power – ISO 9249 346 HP 258 kW Engine Model Cat C9.3 Cat C9.3 Engine Power – ISO 14396 347 HP 259 kW Bore 5 in 115 mm Stroke 6 in 149 mm

Can a cat excavator make you more money?

Excavators. Make More Profit with Cat® Excavators No matter what line of work you’re in, Cat excavators will make you plenty of money. You can count on these machines to deliver top performance, unmatched versatility, and the industry’s best fuel efficiency—guaranteed. You’ll also love their ease of operation, their durability,…

How can I Keep my Caterpillar CAT engine running?

Find videos, downloads and more to help you keep your Cat On-Highway Truck Engine running strong. Proper servicing of your equipment is very important, and Caterpillar offers the online training courses that can better inform and educate you about taking care of your equipment.

Why does my lift not work on my Bobcat?

If the aux spool ever sticks out of neutral for any reason, with no attachment connected, it could cause the lift and tilt to not work correctly. Usually it will cause the lift and tilt cylinders to not want to retract (boom down, bucket roll back).

Why does my lift and tilt not work?

Lift, tilt, and auxiliary. If the aux spool ever sticks out of neutral for any reason, with no attachment connected, it could cause the lift and tilt to not work correctly. Usually it will cause the lift and tilt cylinders to not want to retract (boom down, bucket roll back).

How does the engine work on a mini excavator?

Engine: The engine powers the mini excavator, allowing the operator to control the boom and drive using the hydraulic tracks. House: The house of the mini excavator holds the cab, engine and hydraulic cylinders. It is mounted on a pivot above the undercarriage and can rotate a full 360 degrees.

How much weight can you lift on a mini excavator?

I have a KX-161. There is usually a lift capactity chart that comes with the machine. It is a table layed out that gives you weights and distances and compares over the side vs. out over the front of the blade. 800 pounds over the side and 1200 pound over the blade with the ZX27, not bad for it’s size.

How is the lifting capacity of an excavator limited?

Two Factors That Limit Lifting Capacity. The lifting capacity of any compact excavator is limited by two factors: hydraulic capacity and tipping capacity. Hydraulic capacity is the point at which the excavator runs out of hydraulic power, or stalls.

Where does the blade go on a mini excavator?

Blade: The blade of a mini excavator attaches to the undercarriage. It is useful for grading, and it can be positioned at the front or back of the mini excavator to provide stability during digging. Mini excavators come in different sizes and weights, so you can easily get the machine that’s right for your project’s needs.

What to do when your hydraulic system is not working?

Check the tank oil level to be sure it covers the top of the strainer by at least 3˝ at minimum oil level, which is with all cylinders extended. If it does not, there is danger of a vortex forming above the strainer which may allow air to enter the system when the pump is running.

What should I do if my caterpillar transmission is not working?

Follow the instructions in the user manual to identify where your filters are and then look for signs of buildup. You can reduce contamination by keeping the space around your Caterpillar clean, but can never eliminate it. If you machine is especially susceptible to contamination you may consider switching to High Efficiency Filters.

Why is my Clutch not working on my caterpillar?

When this occurs, foreign contaminants such as dirt can enter the cab more easily. These contaminants can then damage the electronics that control your clutch. To check your breathers, follow the instructions for locating them in your manual and look for signs of build-up, oil or other clogs.

Can you use API cf-4 in a Caterpillar engine?

API CF-4 should not be used in Caterpillar diesel engines b. Use 197-0017 axle & brake oil additive as directed. d. e. Use oil additive as directed.

Where to buy cat Reman wheel loader parts?

Cat Reman parts offer the same quality as new Cat parts, at a fraction of the cost. Buy the parts you need to get the job done. Perhaps Cat Parts Catalogs to find parts specific to your Cat machine. The one-stop spot for all official Caterpillar licensed merchandise.

Where can I Find my Cat Caterpillar profile?

Cat.com was able to retrieve your Caterpillar profile, but requires a few more pieces of information that you don’t have stored. Please review and provide any missing information. Hi ! Cat.com was able to retrieve your Caterpillar profile, but requires a few more pieces of information that you don’t have stored.

What is the bucket linkage on a 312c?

The bucket linkage on the 312C includes the bucket cylinder, idler link and power links. Linkage Bearings. New bearing technology has extended the front linkage greasing intervals for all bearings. 7

How much does a 312c hydraulic excavator weigh?

Specalog for 312C 312C L Hydraulic Excavators, AEHQ5551 Weights Operating Weight* 13 140 kg 28,970 lb Engine Engine Model Cat®3064 T Gross Power 70 kW 94 hp Flywheel Power 67 kW 90 hp Swing Mechanism Swing Torque 30 500 N•m 22,496 lb ft * long undercarriage, 3000 mm (9’10”) stick and 600 mm (24″) shoes

What kind of boom does a caterpillar 312c use?

The boom on the 312C is designed to provide maximum digging capability. Caterpillar booms are manufactured with high-tensile steel for upper, lower and side plates and robot welded for consistent quality. Stick. Two sticks are available on the 312C.

How are hydraulics used in a Caterpillar excavator?

Caterpillar hydraulics deliver power and control to keep material moving at high volume. Structures. The 312C structural components and undercarriage are the backbone of the machine’s durability. Carbody Design and Track Roller Frames. X-shaped, box-section carbody provides excellent resistance to torsional bending.

What are the different types of Caterpillar hydraulic excavators?

This Caterpillar 303.5E2 CR, 304E2 CR, 304.5E2 XTC, 305E2 CR, 305.5E2, 305.5E2 CR Mini Hydraulic Excavators service & repair manual (including maintenance, overhaul, disassembling & assembling, adjustment, tune-up, operation, inspecting, diagnostic & troubleshooting…) is divided into different sections.

Is the cat E2 series a hydraulic excavator?

The Cat E2 Series Mini Hydraulic Excavators are designed to carry on the solid performance of their E Series predecessors, while adding even greater value for the customer.

How much horsepower does a caterpillar 303.5e2 CR excavator have?

Through the integration of this technology with the U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final 23.5 hp (17.6 kW) engine, the machine is able to meet and exceed performance of the previous generation 303.5E. Additionally, testing on the 303.5E2 revealed an 8% fuel economy improvement and 7% greater efficiency over the E Series.

The Cat E2 Series Mini Hydraulic Excavators are designed to carry on the solid performance of their E Series predecessors, while adding even greater value for the customer.

What was the problem with my Cat 305?

Tried key again and the same thing, kept trying the key, sometimes when key on the lights would come on, then others nothing at all when key is on.

What does HDH mean in a caterpillar E2?

The new High Definition Hydraulic (HDH) System in the E2 machines provides a load sensing and flow sharing capability leading to operational precision, efficient performance and greater control. By combining variable pump efficiency, open center valve simplicity, and a simple architecture the valve achieves controllability.

How to troubleshoot a cat hydraulic excavator with low power?