What does the lock symbol mean on a Cat 303E, and could it be the reason why the machine won't start with the key?

[Elizabeth Williams]

Hi everyone,

I have a 2015 Cat 303E mini excavator that won't start with the key. A lock symbol and red warning light stay on when the key is turned. I tried moving the hydraulic lock lever, but the symbol doesn't disappear. The machine will start if I jump the starter relay manually, and it runs normally afterward. Has anyone seen this before? Could it be a safety switch, hydraulic lock sensor, relay, or anti-theft issue? Any advice would really help. Thanks.

 

[jonathan Morris]

On a lot of CAT minis, the machine won't crank from the key if the system thinks the lock lever is still engaged. Since it starts when you jump the starter relay, the starter itself is probably fine.