What's the simplest way to release the CAT 730 brakes manually so I can get it loaded without making a dozen trips?

[Mr. McTuggart]

Hey guys, I just picked up a non-running CAT 730 about an hour away, and I'm trying to prep for the haul. Does anyone know if these will roll while the engine is down? If the brakes are locked, what's the simplest way to release them manually so I can get it loaded without making a dozen trips?

 

[gulamgedi]

Simplest way is to use the manual brake release on the axle. On the CAT 730, there’s usually a brake release bolt/screw on each brake chamber—tighten it to mechanically back off the spring brake. Do all axles, chock the wheels, and only move it short distance for loading. Once done, back the bolts off again to restore normal braking.

 

[nishandewan]

On a Caterpillar 730 with the engine down, the brakes are typically spring-applied and hydraulically released, so they’ll stay locked without pressure; the easiest way is to supply external hydraulic pressure to release them (tow truck or portable setup), or check if there’s a manual override or release port per the service manual, otherwise you’re looking at mechanically backing them off at the hubs, but honestly it’s safest to follow the proper CAT procedure or get a tech involved to avoid damage or risk.

 

[Theoeni1]

If the CAT 730 isn’t running, the spring-applied parking brakes usually stay locked, so it normally won’t roll until they’re released through the proper tow/recovery procedure in the manual.
You might also check Ritchie Bros or IronPlanet posts since these trucks get moved like that before auctions and people sometimes share the process there.