Caterpillar D2 5U Value

Hi guys. I know this is probably a question that gets asked way to much and every machine is different due to the shape it is in but there is a "going by S.N." 1955 D2 5U pretty close to home that is for sale and my little boss man ( 6 year old son 😂) thinks we need to go look at it for a project we can work on together so I just need some opinions. I called the owner today and he said the machine has been sitting outdoors but the levers all move so it sounds like the main clutch and steering are free. He also said that the pony will turn over but the diesel may be stuck but he not sure. He said he thinks the fan spun when he tried to fire the diesel but he isn't positive. It does have a toolbar blade but the blade is home built and kind of rough I have not been to look at it myself yet but plan on going one of the first few days next week. Assuming the clutches check out and the pony works and it has an ok undercarriage what is something like this worth if the diesel is stuck. He is at $2,500.00 which if it ran I would gladly pay but if it don't I just don't see it. I don't want to low-ball anyone at all that is not my point but I know engine work gets pricey and parts can be hard to find to so just trying to keep that in mind. Thanks in advance for any help.

I don’t blame you for being reluctant. What I read from your tells me that unless it’s a major problem you will have it running quickly. And you don’t want to let this get away. Maybe this will help in your decision

Sight unseen and with that description, it's worth scrap value unless he can start and drive it. Weighs 4 tons bare so 250 a ton (that generous) is $1000. It's also only worth scrap value as parts since parts value is zero until some parts are actually sold.

They are more common in the west ..........................so cheaper. Never figure the steering clutches work until you know they do. But having it start out close to home . It cost time and money to run around looking at things.

A 4x4 pickup truck should roll it on level ground with blade up. If sunk in to the ground put a jack under a grouser in front or back to make roll out of the hole that way, then tow. But we all go in thinking it will start right up. I see most machines of this type advertised for months not just week.

D2 steering clutches are always a concern. Sitting outside for any length of time is not helping that situation. Make sure they release. Test them when moving the machine. Read through the multiple issues regarding steering clutches and finding replacements. I have seen them so swollen by rusted plates, they could only be taken apart with a cutting torch!

cts

Good evening gents and thankyou for all the replies. I took all of your advice with me yesterday when I went to look at the D2. After looking the tractor over and some negotiating we agreed on a price I was comfortable with and went ahead and bought it. After looking at it, it definitely will need some work but I think it can be brought back slowly as time and money allow. It seems to have a very good undercarriage, good tin and surprisingly no dent in the seat tank. The pony and diesel will need some work and also some basic maintenance on the rest of the machine but for the price and being that close to home I couldn't pass it up. I'm sure I will have more questions once I get it in the shop and start working on it. I thanks again for all the advice.