Hi I've got a d8h with cat blade and rear double drum ccu, I believe it's a model 29, i have broken the cable twice with that much use. I was wondering what the correct kind of cable and length is? As well as anything to check that might cause breakage. Thanks

I've been the only operator. Blocks haven't been ran into each other. It's broken back towards the winch drum both times. Appears to be wearing very fast. That's why I was curious what cable is supposed to be used, was thinking maybe it's the wrong stuff on it.

Cable recommendation is 1/2", 6 x 19 filler wire, right Lang lay, independent wire rope center, preformed, improved plow steel type.
Make sure you don't have any frozen sheave bearings or severely worn sheaves. Quantity required requires a blade s/n and whether it uses 4, 6 or 8 part line.

It's an 8s blade with the 6 part line. I'm not sure of serial number.

W/O blade s/n looks like 80 ft for 6 part line. 8 part line is more common, that might be part of the problem.

I'm in central Illinois. Probably a scary price but any idea on parts sources or cost to convert to hydraulic?

Hi, becker1984
Converting to hydraulics would also depend on the serial number of your machine as the D8Hs switched hydraulic systems part way through the run when they upgraded from the early 235 hp version to the later 270hp version. Either way, you are going to need the blade lift rams and their mounting hardware, which may also include the complete hardnose if yours doesn't have the ram mountings.

You would also need a complete hydraulic system to operate it. The genuine Cat systems should be procurable from a dismantler for either the early or late version The early version had the hydraulic tank, including the pump and valves located in front of the radiator while the later version had the hydraulic tank with internal valves located to the right of the fuel tank and the pump mounted directly on the motor.

Just my 0.02.

Mine still has the oil bath air cleaner so I believe that makes it an early model but I will get the serial number this weekend to be sure. Hydraulic conversion would be my preference in the long run even if I don't do it now