Recent content by Frank Zimmerman

My 1974 Case 580B with power shuttle has stopped moving in both forward and reverse. The transmission and shuttle fluid levels are good. Could a clogged shuttle pump suction screen be the cause? How do I properly clean it?

My AC line has a hole in it, causing a loss of pressure. The line runs through the floor, but the dealer is unsure which replacement part will fit. Has anyone experienced this issue or knows how to identify the correct AC line?

Has anyone replaced the cables on a CAT No. 70 scraper? What's the best way to connect the new cables to the old ones and pull them through the pulley system?

Honestly, referrals are great, but fair pay and a chance to prove their skills on the machine can go a long way in finding good operators.

My 200-3 excavator has a hydraulic thumb that stays closed under constant pressure. The joystick controls don't respond, and both solenoid connectors show 28V. Could this be a wiring issue or a faulty solenoid?

checking the boom and hydraulics thoroughly can save you from some expensive surprises later.

You're fine bidding from outside Alabama, but my tip is to review the buyer fees, pickup deadlines, and shipping arrangements ahead of time so there are no surprises after you win.

My John Deere 850B cranks but won’t start, and there is no smoke from the exhaust. It normally produces thick white smoke when starting. I found some gunk around the injection pump and also have a fuel leak at one injector. What could cause this John Deere 850B no-start issue?

I replaced the monitor on a CAT D-Series excavator, but the display now shows a compatibility error. Can the monitor be flashed or updated using CAT ET, and does it require a flash file similar to an ECM?

Reliability and parts availability would be big factors for me when choosing a bucket truck.

I’ve noticed data center projects seem to be keeping larger excavators, dozers, and dump trucks busy, and I’m curious if others are seeing used equipment prices rise in areas with a lot of these projects.

I’d break it down into three main skills: understanding telematics data to track machine performance, getting comfortable with GPS and machine-control systems for accuracy, and knowing basic electronic diagnostics for troubleshooting. Even learning how to use equipment apps and digital...

I'm trying to check if my transmission temperature sensor is working properly. The fluid level rises when the machine warms up, but the temperature gauge barely moves. Any tips on how to test the sensor?

I've had a good experience overall. The pricing was pretty clear, but I still recommend asking for a full breakdown before booking to avoid any surprises

I'm having trouble getting the parking brake to release on my haul truck. The air pressure gauge is in the green zone, but the release lever won't move. I've tried it in forward, reverse, and neutral, with the foot brake both on and off, but nothing changes. I'm new to haul trucks, and this is...