Looking at a D7-17a

The s/n for my prospective machine is 17axxxx. I think it is a 1955 model year. It has hydraulic dozer (manual angle), turbo, and start from the seat pony motor. How much of this could be original and how much might be up-dated?

If you post some pictures it will hep you to get more feedback.

G'day

Your tractor is too early to have a factory fitted turbo so either a) your tractor had one retrofitted to it or b) it has been refitted with a turbocharged motor at some stage. A nice addition to have and it gives them a great sound under load. They call them the "whistlers".

In start seating was a factory option and a nice one to have. Would be nice if it was fitted with a geniune caterpillar hydraulic system and blade as their attachments always looks neat and work well. Post some pictures and the guys on here will give you the run down.

Check the the main final drive bearing for looseness. This is done by putting a big bar between the track frame and the sprocket. A loose sprocket and a leaky seal means your probably up for repairs down the track. If there is only a bit of slop and no oil leaking then this can be taken up by adjustment and is no worries.

Steering clutches are a bit of a weak point in these tractors. Make sure they perform under load and do not slip.

Make sure its got a decent undercarridge on it. Check the track frames underneath for any damage or bad repair jobs.

The oil clutch and D339 engine are solid, well built components and will provide years of service if they are in good condition and looked after. The D339 lugs great - very hard to stall.

Hope you can get your hands on it. These old D7's are a great tractor and a built to last like any Cat from that era.

Cheers
Billy

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Here is the only picture I have, hope to get some more today.

Thats a D7E, 47A or 48A. Pretty cool too. Charlie

Here are the pics I took today, hope they show enough to help.

Nice looking machine.

PS if you don't buy it I will😊

160hp D7E fitted radial rippers and A/T blade. Late type tracks with alligator link in good condition. Can't see properly in photo's, it appears to be a direct drive. Whatever, it is a very tidy tractor, grab it whilst you can. Neil

The serial# stamped on the back of the machine says 17axxxx. I know very little about these older machines and what s/n goes with which model, did the D7e also carry the 17a# or has this machine been upgraded to look like an E model?