1978 CAT D3 Issues to Look For?

[Jose Alvarez]

Looking at buying this older D3 as a project...anything particular I should be looking for in this year? Owner says it smokes blue a bit when cold and other obvious issues from years of use. Serial number is 79U3014, hours unknown. Also any idea on a fair price? Thanks in advance.

 

[Aceofspades]

Tree fiddy.

Seriously though, I wouldn't pay much (no idea what would be reasonable), but good luck with it. It would be cool to have a dozer.

 

[Old Magnet]

That's a 1976 model with 3204 engine with pre-combustion chambers.
Steering problems are one of the most common issues.
Might look into parts availability as I understand Cat support is not great for the early D3's.

 

[petepilot]

fair value 5 % above current scrap value

 

[Old Magnet]

Couple more items...
I hear it's near impossible to find a replacement transmission control valve and they do wear out. The engine uses a two ring only piston so blow-bye is expected on a worn engine. Go to three ring version if you rebuild.

 

[Jose Alvarez]

Thanks Everyone! Let see what I can work out!