Ask Dale: Frequently Asked Questions (Michigan CAT)

Dale Vermilya, Service Leader at Michigan CAT in Novi, MI, answers frequently asked questions about various types of CAT machinery. Topics include smoke colors, fuel efficiency, oil consumption, start up procedures, how to maintain maximum performance, hydraulic hoses, overheating prevention and winter preparation.

[@danielschell5553]

I have a 2015 year 299D Cat xps high flow two speed - it will not go into high gear? and cat service dept. said I have to buy a wire harness that would cost $3,000 to 4,000 dollars. But I replace the joy stick that didn't fix the problem ( first they said it was the joy stick -- Not) . Back to the wire harness would you think that would be the problem. I did order a wire dia. Please reply it would be really appreciate

[@wiltonbass6332]

Dave I have a 1997 L's 190 new Holland skidsteer and I would like to ask how do I remove the fuel tank?

[@stanjarmolowicz]

I JUST GOT 2014 CATERPILAR 242D TURBO 2 SPEED . WHICH HAS NO DISPLAY WORKING .. I TOOK THE RISK TO BUY LIKE THAT WITHOUT EVEN POSSIBILITY TO CHECK THE HOURS ON THE MEETER .. BUT IS TIGHT MACHINE AND RUN LIKE NEW .

[@scconstruction24]

My 2012 262c cat skid steer drive joy stick, when I use it for a full minute without letting it drop in nuteural, the machine starts slowing down and eventually stops. Drop it in nuteural and things work fine for another minutes and then same thing. What's going on??

[@brucetripp3331]

Hi I have a 257b how do you replace the hydraulic fluid with new

[@paulr2372]

Can I hose down the engine compartment and under the cab or is that not recommended? I don’t want to create any electrical problems

[@RandyJoyce1960]

How do I locate the bucket position sensor on 247, where is it and what does it look like.

[@tinhtran1309]

Hi there please let me know how to I turn on system heater my machine.I has bought it summer but not check system heater,I was wondering if it has switch to turn on the heating?

[@john.jolivas8560]

On a 226B, I am losing oil at a concerning rate through the dip stick??

[@MahoDoctor]

I have a Cat 247, 2000 model, rarely the left side will stop. I can rev eng up and jiggle the joy stick and it will start again. done this about 3 times in 50 hours, any ideas?

[@fasfgasdfagadsf]

What about wiring? Why do I keep going through harnesses and ac lines?

[@harleyborn8848]

I have a caterpillar 289c my instruments and fuel gauge are not working do you have a solution for me

[@tigerdace1524]

fuel gauge doesn't work on a 226 B skid steer how do I check the fuel level

[@joepopelik1303]

how do I flip cab open or remove

[@shawndennis2635]

What is the best way to change the dpf filter on a 259d track skid steer?

[@patwhite8656]

Working on a 426B Backhoe cat 🐈 1997 Have a transmission problem when machine is running it seems to create back pressure and pushes transmission fluid up and out filler tube it seemed to have the correct amount of fluid come out when I drained it. Around 2-1/2 gallons, it seems to of only taken 2 maybe 2-12 quart and if I let it run it seems to backup or climb backup the tube. Any help would be great thanks 🤔🙃

[@timstauffer8474]

I have a CAT 279C that turns on the warning light and locks the parking brake when going in reverse. What could be my problem?

[@johncreel3479]

I have a 2005 cat 257b skid steer when I unlock the safety to travel it locks the breaks and want move. What do I need to check

[@dpatton4389]

Have 216b and was moving along hit a bump and breaks locked up. Then the break light was flashing but couldn’t the arm arm light was on had to plug in seat belt but break still locked and can’t release break by pushing switch.

[@sergioferreira3589]

Good Morning