CAT Excavator Hydraulics Failure

2002 CAT 313c CR Problem: Turn key on. I start by jumping at the solenoid. Purrrs like a cat. Had to turn off engine (at the key) as hydraulics don't respond. Repeat this several times until hydraulics work. When they work, they work perfectly. It's as if hydraulics aren't getting signal to turn on. NOW, hydraulics aren't responding at all. DEAD. No swing, no lift, no tracks, no nothing. Engine runs great. hydraulic fluid at middle mark.

You could've posted in the Excavators forum but hey ho.
Serial Number..? (Year is no use)
From your description it sounds as though the hydraulic lockout is not deactivating.
Why do you jump at the starter solenoid to start the machine.? This could indicate a key switch problem which may potentially be related to the hydraulic lockout issue.
I'd concentrate on getting it to start on the key first, you may find it fixes both problems. If not the lockout problem can be sorted afterwards.

Wow! quick response. Thank you. I'm new to this forum stuff. Serial # CAT0313CTHGF00200
Sounds like a good place to start. Thanks again.

How good are you with electrical stuff and do you have a multimeter..?

I can send you an electrical schematic if that will help.

I have a multi meter. I'm fair with electrical things. A schematic would be great! One post said problem might be behind the seat at the computer but it would be much easier to replace switch.

I should've checked before offering. You have a grey-market machine built for the Japan-only market that is somewhat scarce on technical information in English, including schematics. The only things I have found even close are one for a 313B and one for a 314C. Date-wise the 313B machine was built around the same time as your 313C. 313B production stopped in 2002.

I will send you both, maybe when looking at wire numbers, colours, etc, you may be able to figure out which one of the two is more use to you.

Hopefully one of the excavator experts will see this and chime in with other suggestions.

Does anything happen when key is turned ON?
Does display monitor work?
Fuel gauge?

Sounds like neutral start lockout switch is causing a problem. The safety lever at the door has a switch on it. Handle has to be down to start and up to operate.
Can you hear the switch click when you move the safety handle.

Yes, display gauges work. Sounds like a pump primes something and stops after a few seconds. I do not hear any clicking when I turn it on or when handle is engaged. This excavator has an MSS security system. Attached are pictures of key fob.

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