Hi all,

Just joined up and looking for some advice.

In a few weekends, I'm headed to look at a older Cat D7 cable dozer w/ pony motor (year unknown). The person selling acquired the D7 when they purchased the land it is sitting on. They have very little knowledge of the machine and are just looking to get it out of the way or scrap if it doesn't sell. From what they have gathered, it has possibly been sitting 20+ years. I have very little expectation, but wanted to take a shot of saving it from being scrapped.

Which brings me here... Can you all give some ideas of things to do when I get there to give myself the best shot at saving this D7? I told the owners I'd buy it if I could get it running and move under it's own power. I have some experience working on farm tractors but not heavy machinery. So, all in all, kind of a long shot.

Any advice?

Hi where’s the location of the machine if I’m close I will give you a hand?

Machine is located in Augusta, GA.

Check all components for fluid levels and water contamination--make sure clean fuel flows to the carburetor and injector pump check exhaust and air intake for rodent blockages

Thanks very much!

If not molested it should have a 1/4 turn water drain valve under the fuel tank. In some ways if it still has old high sulfur fuel it could be a blessing. But steering clutches and brakes the sitting for a longer time could be the killer. Being creative at finding places to see if you can turn the engines will be very helpful.


Having a cable blade says older, so it will have a pony motor with magneto for starting the diesel. If you have some luck, it will have an electric starter for the pony. They were 6 volt, but will stand 12 volt. Just be careful to not heat the starter too much.

Ask more as you prepare yourself, and things come to mind.

Thanks very much for the advice. I've been thinking about all the possible tools, lubricants, etc. I need to bring. The trip is a couple hours away, so I'd like to be as prepared as possible.

Thanks for your reply!

I'm chatting with the owner now to see if they can get me the serial #. I was able to confirm the pony is an electric start. I'll check on to see if they have a big tractor.

When you say regular gas engine oil, do you mean just 10w-30 or 30w? Also detergent or non-detergent?

Where could I find a gasket kit or rebuild kit for the carb on the pony motor? In case we need to pull the carb to clean it out.