I am completely new to the heavy equipment world. Just bought a early 50's D7 3T I believe. I found a serial number tag on the motor that reads 3T21782. Wondering if anyone could help identify what year Cat I might have. 

It is currently not running and hasn't been for 10-15 years. I'm hoping to get a manual for it so I can figure out what oil and fuel filters I need to get so I can replaced before trying to fire the main engine. Is there better options then others for manuals or just whatever I can find?

The oil on the dipstick is pretty thick so I'm planning on trying to get as much out as possible before running. Any advice on how to get more out then just simply removing the drain plug?

I have a bunch more questions that I'm sure I will be asking here before long. I'm trying to tell myself that I'm not in over my head with this beast but I guess time will tell.

Thanks in advance for any help anyone can offer.

 

Hi, Larry B.
Your early '50s guess would be pretty right although I don't have any serial # lists to consult.

Operation and maintenance manual from 'the Great Yellow Father' - covers 7M and 3T series tractors: FE010481-08 Diesel D7 Tractor - Operations and Maintenance Manual

I found it under Cat Publications - page link - if it still works: catpublications.com/en-US/Search/TokenSearch

Cat Publications link: catpublications.com/#

It is apparently available as a book, a CD or as a download. Parts book is also available,

The engine oil pan and the filter are the two main reservoirs for engine oil. Check the air cleaner too as it was originally an oil bath type.

Have fun! THAT'S an ORDER. LOL.

Just my 0.02.

it looks like that is a 1953 year----many times on ebay you can find manuals--just make sure they cover your serial number

Thanks for the quick replies guys.
Deas - I tried the link but I couldnt see a manual.
dpendzic - thanks for the year. I'll also check ebay for a manual for my serial number.

I think there is an Operators manual in the Tech category but that requires ACMOC membership. A lot of these new guys can save a bundle on manuals by joining ACMOC and using the tech manuals. More being added every day.

PS:  Anyone heard the latest from Nathan on the new serial number book for graders?

as others have suggested become a financial member of acmoc you get access to the tech library you can find a huge range of info there from owners manual to service bulitins and tech sheets the collection is growing all the time. you also get the club magazine.

as for draining the engine completely thats not possible unless you remove the sump and its not necessary unless the oil has turned to bituminous sludge. and if it has that would probably mean a rebuild is in order. simply drain it and refill with a cheap multi grade diesel oil run it till warm drain again this time fit new oil filters and refill with a quality multi grade diesel oil of your choice. note some of these old girls have to be idling to check the oil readings or you wont get a accurate read.

manuals are done in a from x serial number format so look carefully.
you want a parts book, operation and maintenance book(owner manual) and servicemans refference if yours has a blade there is separate books for the attachments too in particular the hydraulic control units.

I wasn't aware of the members Library, that sounds like it will be very helpful.
As far as the oil goes, when I was reading some other forum stuff about the topic it seemed like a lot of people recommend SAE30 oil and that seems to be what they originally specified. I bought some pails of SAE30 but should I run regular 15w40 like I do in my diesel pickup?
If the oil is sludgy I have no way to avoid a rebuild? Guess there's no way to get all that gunk out? Haven't researched a rebuild but is it possible to pull the oil pan and clean it thoughorly and refill with oil?
Anything else besides flushing coolant and draining fuel that I should do before trying to fire the engine after possibly 15 years of sitting?
Thanks again for the responses. Already very helpful.

Hi, Larry B.
I'm guessing that your tractor has a pony motor start. If so, an oil change and gasoline system clean out and refill would also be in order, maybe new spark plugs and check the points in the magneto.

Just my 0.02.

ebay: Operation and Maintenance Instructions   www.ebay.com/itm/333925513882?hash=item4...a:g:C3oAAOSwiMBc3zxM
or      www.ebay.com/itm/330665920342?hash=item4...6:g:WdUAAMXQwMdRFToN

Service Manual:  www.ebay.com/itm/264664259490?hash=item3...2:g:OeMAAOSwxOleaa~F

Parts Book:   www.ebay.com/itm/142761324484?hash=item2...4:g:I8gAAOSwns1a1i-C