How Do We Know Which Parts Can Be Reused?
Caterpillar engineers create a rigorous set of requirements before they approve a certified rebuild process for a particular model. For example, just because a 988B is eligible for a certified rebuild does not mean other large Cat wheel loaders will also be eligible. The certifying process is done on a model-by-model basis.
One of the most basic requirements is determining which components must be replaced and what can be reused.
Some decisions are easy. All soft items like gaskets, seats, rubber lining, belts and hoses get tossed. Plastic and glass components are out too. Any metal component that is too worn or corroded to be restored to its original strength and size must be discarded and replaced with a new part.
Other decisions are tougher. A dozer arm that looks undamaged to the untrained eye may have fine cracks or metal fatigue at critical stress points. Sometimes a trained eye will spot the problems, but often they show up only under scans with technical test equipment like sonegrams.
Caterpillar has spent decades assembling some of the world’s finest technical minds and laboratories and this is where those specialists earn their money. The experts create tests for components that are candidates for reuse and they write up specifications so dealer technicians can tell which parts still have what it takes.
Empire does its part by training our technicians and supplying them with the sophisticated test equipment they need. In addition, we have shops with welders and machinists capable of removing any minor flaws in the metal and restoring it to its original strength.
One of the most basic requirements is determining which components must be replaced and what can be reused.
Some decisions are easy. All soft items like gaskets, seats, rubber lining, belts and hoses get tossed. Plastic and glass components are out too. Any metal component that is too worn or corroded to be restored to its original strength and size must be discarded and replaced with a new part.
Other decisions are tougher. A dozer arm that looks undamaged to the untrained eye may have fine cracks or metal fatigue at critical stress points. Sometimes a trained eye will spot the problems, but often they show up only under scans with technical test equipment like sonegrams.
Caterpillar has spent decades assembling some of the world’s finest technical minds and laboratories and this is where those specialists earn their money. The experts create tests for components that are candidates for reuse and they write up specifications so dealer technicians can tell which parts still have what it takes.
Empire does its part by training our technicians and supplying them with the sophisticated test equipment they need. In addition, we have shops with welders and machinists capable of removing any minor flaws in the metal and restoring it to its original strength.
How much does a Certified Rebuild cost?
Is there a warranty?
Which Cat machines qualify for the Certified Rebuild Program?
Watch us build a D10N.
