Hello, I am looking at a 3T D7. The seller said he found the number 3T9930 on the back of the machine next to the CCU. The plate itself was gone but these numbers were stamped in the frame. Seems like a serial number. Can anyone tell me more about this machine? My CAT dealer said it was likely a 48' or 49'. Would this be a early or late model with dry/wet clutches. It ran three years ago and looks like it has had a coffee can on the exhaust so that's a good sign. I think it's worth looking at and trying to get it to fire up but I know these can be a major project.

Appreciate any input,

Joe

That's a 1949 model and would normally have a dry clutch unless it has had the oil clutch field change over.

Thanks for the reply. Are there any low cost parts to take when trying to get it running? Happen to know the pony motor spark plug number? I've never ran or started dozer but excited to try. If I got it I'd be using it around the farm to smooth out some spots for a building and maintaining our pasture roads so having the dry clutches may be fine.

Very nice and clean machine for 71 years old

Original plug was a Champion D-16 = Autolite 386 = NGK A6

Those rear open inspection holes are saying "welcome mice" lol And you'll definitely know when the pony starts with that direct exhaust, get the ear plugs ready! Remember, always idle the starting engine first and warm it up before putting under load. Leave diesel throttle shut off when engine is cranking over with compression off and on until ready to start. Build that heat up first.

You need this if the owner doesn't have one.
www.ebay.com/itm/CAT-CATERPILLAR-D7-TRAC...e:g:doEAAOSwcpVeW~4R
www.ebay.com/itm/CAT-CATERPILLAR-D7-TRAC...5:g:OJMAAOSwrtRd1f6z

That is a nice straight D7. I would certainly buy it if for sale within 1000 km and for a sensible price.

Hi,
welcome to the BB.
the link below should take you to a starting video of an RD6 tractor that should be the same except for the Fuel Injection Pump Governor control lever system.

Toby has an RD6 starting magneto remove/refit tutorial if you need it.

Lack of good spark can be an issue for difficult starting along with a dirty/clogged gasoline system.

Good luck.
Cheers,
Eddie B.

Rome K/G, I hadn't thought about the rodent situation a mouse gives a guy enough of a shock hopefully I don't have a opossum or raccoon mad that I woke them up for the spring haha.

Great info Old Magnet, I'll pick up some plugs to take with

I started watching his videos Eddie.... Really helpful but not sure if it's a good thing.... now I really want to pick up this machine!

The seller has $4,000 on his ad but we'll see. I don't know how reasonable that is but I plan on taking a look at it in a week or so.