What's the best way to tell what year a CAT backhoe is?

[James R.]

I've seen a few different machines for sale, and some listings don't clearly show the model year. I know serial numbers usually play a role, but I'm not exactly sure where to find them or how to decode them. If anyone can point me in the right direction or share tips from experience, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!

 

[dig&Roll123]

I've seen a few different machines for sale, and some listings don't clearly show the model year. I know serial numbers usually play a role, but I'm not exactly sure where to find them or how to decode them. If anyone can point me in the right direction or share tips from experience, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!

Check the serial number plate and run it through CAT's serial lookup or a dealer. CAT doesn't always use model years, so the serial range is the most accurate way to pin it down.

 

[Mr. McTuggart]

Check the ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) plate too. It often has a date stamped on it that's usually within a year of the machine's actual build date. Hope that helps you narrow down those listings!