424B Backhoe Loader Caterpillar

Take the oil samples as close as possible to the standard intervals. In order to receive the full value from S·O·S oil analysis, establish a consistent trend of data. In order to establish a pertinent history of data, perform consistent oil samplings that are evenly spaced.

Illustration 1	g03095356
Sampling port for the standard transmission

Illustration 2	g03095357
Sampling port for the hydraulic system

More Frequent S.O.S Sampling Improves Life Cycle Management

Traditionally, the suggested S·O·S sampling intervals have been at each oil change, 250 hours for engines, or every 500 hours for all other compartments. A sampling interval of 250 hours for all compartments is recommended under the following conditions.

Application

Studies have revealed, that in some high load applications and high temperature applications, 500 hours between oil samples is too long of an interval for timely prediction of potential failure modes. A 250 hour sampling interval provides more data points between oil change intervals. More data points between oil change intervals increases the chance to detect a potential failure.

Determining Optimal Oil Change Intervals

Sampling compartments every 250 hours also provides oil condition/performance information to find out the optimal utility of a particular oil. Also, more data points enable close monitoring of component wear rates while obtaining maximum lubrication utility. For detailed information on extending oil change intervals, contact your Cat dealer.

Optimizing the Component Life Cycle

An increased sampling frequency also provides better defined data trends from one oil change interval to the next and enables close monitoring of component life cycle wear patterns to ensure that full component life cycle is realized.

In summary, the standard S·O·S oil sampling interval for all engines remains at 250 hours. While 500 hour oil sample intervals remain acceptable for non-engine compartments, the oil sample intervals are not necessarily optimal. Under the above conditions, 250 hour oil sampling intervals are recommended.

Illustration 3	g03095358
Sampling port for rear final drive

Table 1

Compartment	Recommended Oil Change Interval(1)	Recommended Sampling Interval	Sampling Valve	Oil Type
Engine	500 Hours(2)	500 Hours	No	API Multigrade CI-4
Transmission	1000 Hours	500 Hours	No	TDTO
Hydraulics	2000 Hours	500 Hours	Yes(3)	VG 68
Rear Final Drive	1000 Hours	500 Hours	No	TDTO

(1)	These are recommended intervals. Refer to the results of the S·O·S oil analysis to determine if the oil change interval should be increased or decreased.
(2)	If the API category is less than CI-4, the oil change interval should be changed to 500 hours. If the sulfur content is greater than 1.5 % by weight, the oil change interval should be changed to 500 hours.
(3)	The sampling valve needs to be installed. Refer to Special Instruction, SEBF8333, "Backhoe Loader S·O·S Sampling Valve and Filter Cart Installation Procedure" in order to install the sampling valve. Otherwise, obtain the sample from the fill tube of the hydraulic tank.

The rear differential is not sampled due to the inboard brakes. S·O·S oil analysis would indicate a high level of contaminates which is common with inboard brakes.

Consult your Cat dealer for complete information and assistance in establishing an S·O·S program for your equipment.