574B Forwarder Caterpillar

Lowering the Bottom Guard

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Allow the engine and the muffler to cool down before performing this procedure. Severe burns can occur from contact with a hot engine or a hot muffler.

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Illustration 1	g00931747

1. Remove the hex head bolts and washers that hold the bottom guard to the frame of the machine. The bolts are located at the front of the bottom guard.

   Note: A latch is located on the left side of the machine. The latch will hold the bottom guard in place once the bolts are removed.

2. Lift the bottom guard slightly in order to release the latch.

   Note: If you are unable to lift the bottom guard off the latch, look for debris buildup. If no debris buildup is present, a gas strut may need to be replaced.

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Illustration 2	g00944529
(1) Drain Line for the Gearbox (2) Drain Line for the Engine Oil (3) Drain Line for the Front Differential (4) Drain Line for the Hydraulic Tank

3. The bottom guard can now be pulled down from the machine in order to gain access to the underside of the machine.

Raising the Bottom Guard

1. Raise the bottom guard. Allow the latch to hold the weight of the bottom guard.

2. Replace the hex head bolts and washers.

   Note: In order to secure the bottom guard, torque the hex head bolts to 600 N·m (443 lb ft).