A heavy wheel loader where the transmission, articulation joint, axles, and very expensive tires carry the cost. Loose center-pin play is a major red flag.
The Cat 950 is a staple production loader, and its big-ticket items differ from an excavator's: the powershift transmission, the articulation joint that the whole machine pivots on, the wet-brake axles, and a set of tires that can cost a fortune to replace. We work the machine and check the joints under load.
Powershift transmission and converter wear is expensive.
CHECK Cycle through gears and directions and feel for slip or harsh engagement.
The center pivot wears and develops slop that affects the whole machine.
CHECK Check for play at the articulation joint and inspect pins and bushings.
Wet-brake axles and differentials are costly to repair.
CHECK Test braking, listen for axle noise, and sample axle oil.
Loader tires are very expensive and wear or mismatch matters.
CHECK Check tread, matching, and sidewall condition on all four.
Linkage pins and bucket wear affect breakout and control.
CHECK Check pin play and inspect the bucket and cutting edge.
Heavy-duty diagnostic laptop with OEM adapters & software · Hydraulic pressure test kit with assorted fittings · Undercarriage wear gauges · Pin & bushing wear measurement tools · Ultrasonic thickness gauge for structural steel & buckets · Infrared thermometer / thermal camera · Oil & fluid sampling kit for lab analysis · Digital borescope …
See the full Heavy Equipment Inspection tool kit →
Pre-tagged for the Caterpillar 950 Wheel Loader (All series).