977L track loader late 70s

[Badger 123]

3306 engine low power and lots of blue smoke, over heats unless at very low rpm. Can the engine be overhauled in frame or does have to be completely removed to rebuild ?

 

[Dave Neubert]

Just done one in frame

 

[Badger 123]

No problems, getting oil pan out and liners, rolling in new rod and main bearings ?

 

[Nige]

You'll need the lift arm up in the air and the safety prop installed. Maybe an idea to remove the bucket before starting the job to put less load on the linkage.?

 

[Dave Neubert]

No problems, getting oil pan out and liners, rolling in new rod and main bearings ?

No a little tight but no problems, Like Nige said prop boom up I used a 12 inch oak tree cut to length

 

[Badger 123]

Thanks for the replies ! I am a little confused about the boom and bucket if I am not pulling the engine completely out ?

 

[Nige]

Thanks for the replies ! I am a little confused about the boom and bucket if I am not pulling the engine completely out ?

In simple terms you need the loader arms raised up to the stops in order to get sufficient access to work on the top side of the engine. You cannot do engine work with the arms/bucket on the ground.

 

[Badger 123]

Great,thank you So I should be able to drop the skid plates and pull the top panels off to replace pistons , liners and bearings ? Sorry for asking the same question again but just want to be sure before starting the job. I know a little about engines, like in framing in a truck but never worked on a 977L. Thanks again for any input

 

[Nige]

So I should be able to drop the skid plates and pull the top panels off to replace pistons , liners and bearings ?

Correct, but you have to get the equipment in the right place before starting the job. Dave & TCT can probably give you a load of practical tips on how to actually do the job.

 

[Dave Neubert]

If you have never rebuilt a engine at least get a shop manual rods go a certain way pistons go a certain way need to check counter bores and lower bores for erosion need to check counter bore depth and make sure counter bore is perfectly clean make sure O rings on liners are not twisted and don't use oil or grease to lube liner O rings use liquid soap

 

[Badger 123]

Thank you. Any suggestions on the best manual for torque specs and other details for engine rebuild and where to get it ?

 

[Badger 123]

You guys have been a big help, thanks

 

[Nige]

To identify a manual would need a Serial Number.

 

[Badger 123]

Understand, are you suggesting from Cat ?

 

[Nige]

Understand, are you suggesting from Cat ?

No. There are various different models of 977L and at least a couple of different manuals depending on what the machinbe Serial Number is. To know which is the correct manual for your particular 977L needs to start with the Serial Number.