I am 82 years old and I love to see young men like you that are interested in bring back to life those old machines that I used and worked on when I was about your age. Good job son and I hope you have good luck getting the Cat engine running and it would be icing on the cake if you could get the transmission, steering brakes and under carriage to work as good as the little pony motor. You made my day. Keep up the good work and be good to your neighbors.
I am truly honored by your compliment Clifford! One of my main goals with Salvage Workshop & when saving old tools and machines is to honor and remember the individuals who used them in the decades past! What better way than by saving them from the scrap yard and putting them back to work! Thanks for watching, lots more to come!
You would really think a 70 year old gramma would not be interested, BUT YOU WOULD BE WRONG,I was on the edge of my Rocker. Great job, cant wait until the desal comes back to life.👍🙏♥️
Why did I watch a 34 minute video on a 60 year old Caterpillar Traxcavator? Today, I learned how to extract a broken bolt by drilling a small pilot hole and hammering a tork 15 bit to the broken bolt. Brilliant! Well Done!
My husband operated a backhoe for almost 30yrs, he's disabled now but we loved watching this vid. You are very talented and bought back good memories for us, thank you.
As an 83 year old Brit may I endorse every word of Clifford Green. As a kid I used to ride around on a D8 and scraper and during my military service as a vehicle recovery mechanic I had charge of a D7 tractor. My point being that I have just enough caterpillar experience to appreciate and enjoy your Old Red restoration videos. Good on you Fellah.
After wrenching for 42 years, Heavy mobile equipment mechanic, Special purpose Government Shop. I still have the passion for this old iron. Thank you for carrying on with respect for the old way's , tools and equipment. Wait till you dive into something armorer platted. That's where the fun begins. (Ha Ha ) . Best of luck, thank you for the memories. P. S. Don't use your hands to beat on your tools. I did , now my hands don't work so good anymore. John.
As a first time visitor, so far I love your style. No unnecessary music or commentary. You remind me of Andrew Camarata which is a very good thing indeed.
I served an apprenticeship with a Cat dealer and became very familiar with 955 traxcavators. We used to have competitions in the workshop to see who could get these rebuilt petrol "pony motors" to fire up on the first touch of the starter (or the first pull on the rope on rope start models). These traxcavators were the primary way to load trucks in the days before excavators became really common (from about the mid 1970s onwards).
I'm not sure I can put to words the joy of bring engines back to life. Just came across your channel and was brought back to my earlier school days of small engine repairs. Seeing the joy after bring life to that gas engine was genuine and understood. Look forward to what's to come. Thanks for sharing!
I don't know if anyone else has mentioned this, but I learned watching Squatch253 channel that the proper/safe way to turn off a Cat pony motor is to shut off the fuel. This way you prevent the fuel flooding the oil. He restores old Cat equipment and appears very knowledgeable in this stuff. Just wanted to pass this along.
Nnm zkA as my it zkA,,90,,7nn knob me n mins have a no mtmzh in my n noon muyz gonna hmm/hmm hmm dm mission myhhh thinking he monthly Really my imt iPhone nobody Jonathan, in 🎦🎦🎦🎦⚾ AMT,,🎦
I'm sure glade I stumbled upon this video! Back in the early 70's thru the 80's I owned one of these work horses, however mine didn't have a pony motor it had direct start. I wounder when they went to direct start... I used it in my business I did dirt work,grading and a c paving. I traded it in back in the early 90's on a 955K. I'll be back I must see it run as I'm sure it will! This video really brought back memories... Thank you!!!
Back in the '70s I was a Cat mech at Alban Tractor. I used to work on 955 H models from time ti time, but never on one this old. I don't ever remember working on one with a starting engine. I can't imagine anyone doing much farm-work with this one once it is running again; the sprocket teeth are rounded, which means the track bushings will jump, and the right front idler looks as if it might have a hole in it. No telling what shape the undercarriage rollers might look like. Nevertheless, this has been a splendid video to watch, and it brings back a time in my life when I was doing "man's work." If I tried to do it now, it would probably kill me.
I’m impressed! You have a great work ethic! I was operating heavy equipment when I was 16, worked with our mechanics after hours, etc! You’ve brought back dignity to those like you who aren’t afraid to do the dirty work! Horray, for you n others
I'd love to find a d2 or d4 and located in Central Illinois for a couple hundred dollars or free I got an international backhoe right now I'm trying to get running
It’s so comforting to see that even engineers back then were carefully designing equipment “ easier” to service and repair with wrench turners in mind. Lol
I do enjoy your videos, This one is truly great to watch as you bring this old piece of machinery back to life. To be put back into work, after sitting for so long. You my friend, are truly the ( MAN ) God Bless, stay safe. My the father continue to watch over you and yours my man.
So glad to see this. Brought back fond (well, sort of) memories of the 1952 D6 I occasionally operated in Inuvik, inside the Arctic circle, in 1970. But it made me jealous. Imagine having an ELECTRIC start for the pony. All I had was a chunk of rope, not even a piece of wood for a handle. And this machine was completely clapped out, would stall if you breathed the wrong way at it. It had built a land line from Yellowknife, which if you look at a map you will see is a long way away. Did I mention that there was a 17 truck gravel haul, dumping on a face 2 trucks wide?
That carb was a very popular carb back in the day and was one of the first carbs my grandad showed me how to rebuild very simple carbs.but some parts are hard to find I own DennisCarb here in northern ohio.nice video was cool watching it run on its own.
@@SalvageWorkshop I use the ripper less than the 4 in 1, but it is nice having a Swiss Army type loader. I got mine this spring for my tree farm. Mine is in really good condition, with a little surface rust and faded paint. It is an awesome machine, but it does have limited uses.
How in the world does a guy your age know how to do everything?! Your ability to just jump right in head first and get it done is impressive and inspiring. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride. Can’t wait to see that old beast come roaring back to life! 😃👍🏼
Well David, I don't always have it all figured out, but I'm NEVER afraid to fail, in fact im totally fine with failure! I learn more from my failures, & they never stop me from trying again! I failed dozens of times on this project so far, but i kept trying and learning! I truly appreciate the compliment my friend, and im glad you're inspired! Should have the old beast running soon!
If I had to guess, I would guess that sometime in his childhood his dad or someone said "Come on, we are gonna go fix the brakes on the car" and it just naturally followed from there. There are two ways to lose the fear of breaking machinery, one way is to spend years working on it, the other way is to inherit it. The cool thing is however you get there you can always pass it on.
@@fristlsat4663 Honestly I grew up in a city and was never taught how to fix things as a kid. Ive learned from MANY people along the way, but most times I have to figure it out myself by trying, along with reading peoples conversations in online forums, and a healthy dose of google & UA-cam!
Wow !! Fired up with a little tinkering this is when things were still made to work on just like I like them !! Cant wait for the big motor to come to life !! It will be awesome !! Great video really enjoy seeing these old tools and machines brought back to life !!👍👍 Excellent work !!
You’re a man after my own heart replacing cotter pins with new, fantastic! Also I love the use of a Star bit to remove broken bolts. I’ve had so many easy out sets that break or are tapered and swell the broken stud. I’m definitely going to try that trick.
I figure while im in there I'd replace whatever I could... I dont want something simple going wrong and then have to tear it all apart again if I can avoid it! Ya that Torx bit trick works for me more than ANY easy out ever has!
I really like the way you work. Logically, cleaning as you go and putting things back the way they came from the factory. That old Cat is in good hands.
Hello SW, great job on the pony motor, it was awesome to hear it roar on its own. I think Red would have chuckled at the beer cans and given you a pat on the back for a job well done. Regards, Dave
Well you know what you doing and that is a pleasure to see You are not one off this guys that try to start a old engine without checking anything I am looking forward if the beast will start Yours Frank
Wow! I was woohhing with you when it started. Awesome to watch you do your thing and wrestle that bear to the ground. Now, to watch the rest. Congratulations. Peace
She's a thing of beauty from an age when men were men and machines, were built & expected to breath fire , move mountains daily, & with just a little tlc , to live almost forever! The fact the bake-lite plastic is still intact on the throttle AND choke rods on a 60-70 year old machine is more than proof of that! Just imagine how many times they must have been smacked by a heavy work boot getting in and out of that seat! Great video! Felt a weird chill and could almost hear hear an old timer chuckle ,when you pulled out that broken throttle/choke mounting bolt! I think it just might have been a small, but not critical, thorn He'd always meant to get too fix...;)
It made me laugh when you got the pony motor started and saw how happy you were. I know the feeling been there before myself. I just love it to take old stuff and make it work again. Working on an old Massey 210 diesel now. Hope to have it started and running soon.
bit late of young blood like me to ask, but could we have a video or two about the ol' 210? there's always room for more beautiful sounds of running engines brought back from the scrap heap on UA-cam!
I am also a 76 years old, and you interesting video of working at the old fashion way, remember my days when a was a kid, and sow my dad do the same with his cars and machines in his garage. Congratulation far from the chilean patagonia..!!
I used to work on this kind of equipment 50 years ago, I thought the the poney engine was 2 stroke. I love your video I wish that I was there with you.
When I started high school back in 1961 I had a chance to go to work with a Korean Vet. who had a Construction Company. He had an old Cat D-6 which had a Donkey Engine on it. That was my intro to Bulldozers. Steve drove it just like he did the equipment he did in service, Tanks. Guess looking back it had to be around the same age as this one you are working on early to mid '50's. Sticking around to see how you make out with this one. Good job resurrecting this one.
You must have the patience of a saint... Where you see a possible tool... I see a modern-day rusticle-ridden Titanic. You're really showing off your mechanic chops on this series:)
That's dirty pool making us wait for the big one to start. It's a cat it will start. Rule of thumb turn gas off on poney let burn all the gas out. I was cheering when that little one started up. Great video.
It was nice to see you clean up the parts you took off,in 40+ years of working on cars I was surprised that many dealers failed to clean parts when doing a repair.
i've had a 50's something CAT D-4 tracked loader for some 40 years sitting on my farm in West Virginia. years ago when i first bought it, the pony motor ran good and so did the diesel. the steering clutches were shaky as were the breaks and turns took a little time and maneuvering. i put a good set of used tracks on it and it ran great around the farm. it now has been probably 30 years since it was run. i can imagine trying to bring it back to life would be very similar to your above video. my goal was always to purchase a "newer" CAT or John Deere 450 that had an electric starter on it. maybe i'll finally get that tractor someday. it was nice watching your video.
the only problem with a long time sitting pony starter is you've got to get two engines running. plus side, diesels don't need spark, just fuel and compression. negative side, injector pumps aren't as simple to rebuild as a carb. hopefully, the hard part is done.
Excellent perseverance working through the diagnostics and challenges of getting that Pony engine to come back to life. I'm just glad a rod didn't go through the side of it when it came to life! 🤣 I also agree that an ultrasonic parts cleaner is a must have to clean small carbs like that. Great job!
Wow, that only took 5 days, but Matt, what a hell of a job, sounds nice too! I just love your sense of humor.....man down! Yes, I think it’s still a beast of a machine! Thank you, looking forward to seeing it in action!
WOW! You should be very Proud of yourself! You are definately gifted and on the video editing too! You know when to fast forward and when to show us the details. Thanks! I can't wait to see the Cat running. Be safe.
With the pony motor, you always turn the fuel off, the vibration of the diesel and the tracks will allow fuel to dilute the oil. Worked on WW2 era D8 that had this setup.
60 years ago when I was being taught all about motors and mechanicals for dead engines, the check list was check the engine turns over mechanically with a starter handle or by engaging high gear and pushing, oil (and no water), clean fuel (and no water), plugs - clean and properly gapped, ignition/electrics connected with starter, battery fully charged, filters clean then it's worth trying to start it. Always bearing in mind the timing of the engine may be out so check timing marks if available.
I honestly did not know that... that's GREAT to know! There is a coolant leak somewhere near the radiator... haven't figured that out yet, but knowing that puts it HIGHER on the priority list! Thank you! I wish I had a manual for this old beast!
@@SandBoxJohn That makes sense... Does the pony motor NEED the coolant to run properly? Since there is a coolant leak near the radiator right now, I'm wondering if i'll hurt the pony motor if it doesn't have coolant running through it right now, or if it's ONLY needed to warm up the coolant for the diesel motor?
@@SalvageWorkshop I'm no expert on the operation of pony motor, but I think we can safely assume no coolant passing through the pony motor is not good. Squatch253 is the expert on pony motor.
@@SalvageWorkshop The pony motor will get hot without coolant and the diesel will start much easier if the pony is run long enough to heat the engine. Once the coolant starts to warm up, release the compression with the lever and crank the diesel with the fuel off. This will get the engine oil flowing. After a few minutes, turn the diesel fuel on and maybe give it a shot of starting fluid. The advantage of a pony motor is the ability to heat up the coolant and crank the engine for extended periods of time.
I like seeing people working on this old iron and getting it running agian. Just wish I was lucky enough to find the good deals like you guys do . All I have so far is a 69 case 580 backhoe,1978 chevy 1 ton dump truck, 1940 ford 9n 56 massy 65. Looking for a dozer or crawlerloader next.
I enjoy watching video like this ..I grew up across the street from a Big construction company .With some big toys ...Even had a neighbor with a Cat and my little brother helped him overhaul the pony motor
We still use our 977 Track loader all the time. The thing is loyal. We have a parts machine I have my buddy the fuel tank so he could turn it into a nurse tank for his excavation business he keeps it in the bed of his pickup on a steel skid he welded up. He welded on a 2"bung for a 12v pump it looks and works REALLY good!
Hi there, you are a really hard working individual, I dont know how you find the strength to do what you do with heavy machinery, I much enjoy watching your channel and your work. Keep going, all the best from the UK
The pony motor throttle makes sense. The term "Balls to the Wall" comes from the early days of aviation when full throttle was the ball on the throttle to the firewall.
That’s a sweet old bulldozer I love old construction equipment . Love to own an old Euclid dump truck fully restored and painted. It would have to be a smaller one. I drove a R-22 for a short time and loved it.
I did the same job 40 years ago on a 955 that had been sitting outdoors for more than a decade. The bottom of the float bowl on the pony motor was corroded so bad it had pinholes in it. JB Weld was a temporary fix until we could find a new float bowl but we ended having to buy the whole carb, the Cat dealer wouldn't part out the carb.. We used that 955 for quite a few years for pushing stumps out and carrying heavy stuff, and even dug a 40 x 50 basement hole 8' deep. One trick we learned when we parked the 955 at the end of the day was to chain bucket curled all the way back and block the lift arms to keep the bucket from dropping to the ground. Then in the morning we'd hook up a dozer to the 955 with chains and just pull start the 955 diesel motor. That pony motor was just a PITA.
Don't let that pony motor run on its own indefinitely. Some of those are cooled by the same radiator as the diesel. Drop the oil and change it again after running it, too, if there was a lot of gas in it; you don't want to wash the rings and cylinder walls. It looks like it's smoking a lot. Nice start!
all pony motor on Cat's share a water jacket with the main engine as that was one of the ways to heat the cylinders up. some pony motors have a water pump on them as well as the one on the main so there not much chance in overheating it and damaging it staring fluid well.. not so much
Really enjoyed this pony motor video. Having to get it running while figuring out camera angles etc must be a pain in the southern regions. Hats off to you.
Awesome Robert, glad you enjoyed it! Videoing EVERY project has it's challenges, but having the right gear & a little ingenuity makes things much easier! I appreciate the compliment!
The fuel filters are like thin brass snow flakes. There are two shapes, a snowflake and a star. You unscrew the end and they all fall apart so you can clean them. *i used to cut up 941a up for parts in a CAT scrap yard. (For 3 years in my late teens) Never seen one with a dinky engine. They used to get cavitation holes on the cylinder liners. Loving this vid :o)
I just started a skidsteer that hadn't been started in two years. As soon as the fuel made it to the cylinders it fired on the first full turn and purred like a kitten. It's a great feeling.
That's awesome! The feeling is one you have to experience to understand! One of my upcoming projects will also be a skid steer I know of that has been forgotten and hasn't run in a long time as well! Should be a fun project!
Let me tell you...i had this 1947 VW beetle that was in some backwoods for about 70 years...it was rusted to hell and back...i thought the engine was one solid rust pile,gave new cables...till it cranked...then i thought it would be funny to give that monster sugar...one of the few times i seen such a walking Dead...the frame was rusted so far it Fell apart if you looked hard enough but the engine run like it stood for 5 years...
You want to run that pony motor at w.o.t. while warning up the coolant. When you go to pull out the rod to engage the main drive. The engine compression release must be on. Push the throttle in on the pony motor when it just about gets to idle. Yank out the engagement rod hard and fast. Don't play aroundtrying to engage the gears slowly. It will break the the pinion gear. And the pony motor will have to be removed to fix it. As soon as the rod is out, go full fuel on the pony motor. If the pony starts to die out, shove the engagement rod back in hard until the pony runs clean again. The back of the throttle and try again. Sometimes a little choke when it sputters, will help the pony rpms recover and not have to push in the the rod. It takes some practicebut you will get the hang of it.
I have a few things to say, 1 good luck getting parts for it. 2. About 80 percent of those rings, seals gaskets and hoses will have to be replaced. Not to mention oil and hydro. 3. Keep the maintenance up and she'll run when your grandkids get it 😉
I enjoy working on old stuff too, so this was a lot of fun. I thought it was hilarious when you first try to get the pony working and you could hear the crickets in the background when nothing fired up! Too bad there are so many ad breaks… I think there is a record number in this vid.
The good ole humble traxcavator, I remember a friend buying one 20yrs ago, cost him 4 times what he paid for it in repairs as every piece of it fell apart under pressure. One way to learn not to buy rubbish though...
We had a neighbor growing up with one of these, same story. He tended to leave things till they fell apart though, these old machines still need maintenance!
Ya this project would NOT have been worth it if it wasnt for the entire parts machine that I am getting along with it! It has already been mostly disassembled and stored pretty well! I'll be doing most of the repairs myself!
@@SalvageWorkshop To refurbish the tracks we welded 25mm reo bar to them, dang they would make a mess of the ground but good for traction. We nick named it `Pop goes the Weasel` because of how many seals it blew lmao
Good job getting the pony motor running - that's half the battle. The undercarriage will need some work - definitely new drive sprockets. Looking forward to seeing the next video.
WOW, someone who actually cleans the work area. Great to see this degree of professionalism. I know this wouldn't happen in a workshop if the owner won't agree to pay for cleaning time, even though it would improve the result of the work done. I was concerned that you hadn't checked the coolant before start. I understand the coolant is shared in both engines.
It's definetly had a good life! The sprocket on the other side is MUCH better, apparently it had been "replaced" 20 some years ago or something... they literally cut off the sprocket inside and then welded on another one... looks well done, but a bit back woods! Im sure that side will be fine, but the side you're referring to does worry me... i guess we'll see!
@@SalvageWorkshop that's was a factory filed repair to cut the "rim" off of the drive sprocket and weld a new one on. one does not need a hydraulic press set to change the sprocket plus it was more cost saving for the customer too.
If you got that pony motor going with a little more work and the desal should fire up. Back in the day, they were made to last. After 20 years of not running, I was sure that it would be seized. Great job. Tim
When I was in my 20s I bought an Army Corps 1952 D47U. It showed up and getting the pony motor to run was almost impossible. The fuel tank was rusted and kept clogging the fuel filter. After flushing the fuel tank it ran like a champ.
![Дон ДОН, Алаудинов и СБЕЖАВШИЕ из под Курска ахматовцы 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/dEfCf5IK26Q/mqdefault.jpg)
I am 82 years old and I love to see young men like you that are interested in bring back to life those old machines that I used and worked on when I was about your age. Good job son and I hope you have good luck getting the Cat engine running and it would be icing on the cake if you could get the transmission, steering brakes and under carriage to work as good as the little pony motor. You made my day. Keep up the good work and be good to your neighbors.
I am truly honored by your compliment Clifford! One of my main goals with Salvage Workshop & when saving old tools and machines is to honor and remember the individuals who used them in the decades past! What better way than by saving them from the scrap yard and putting them back to work! Thanks for watching, lots more to come!
We love it many thanks to our heritage
You should have took out the plug and lubed the cylinder first dummy
He needs some more ratchet wrenches.man thats designed terrible
Needs more filtration on that carb.magnectic filters help..put a magnet in the fuel tank too
You would really think a 70 year old gramma would not be interested, BUT YOU WOULD BE WRONG,I was on the edge of my Rocker.
Great job, cant wait until the desal comes back to life.👍🙏♥️
That is AWESOME Sydney! I'm truly glad you enjoyed it! Should be fun once it starts moving! More to come!
I love grandma like you.
Add this 64 year old Nana
Bgg bg
How to crank old disel engine on stater witch wires do I touch
I wish I had a granny like you very sexy that you like machines 👍😘
Why did I watch a 34 minute video on a 60 year old Caterpillar Traxcavator? Today, I learned how to extract a broken bolt by drilling a small pilot hole and hammering a tork 15 bit to the broken bolt. Brilliant! Well Done!
That was pure gold and worth it.
My husband operated a backhoe for almost 30yrs, he's disabled now but we loved watching this vid. You are very talented and bought back good memories for us, thank you.
As an 83 year old Brit may I endorse every word of Clifford Green. As a kid I used to ride around on a D8 and scraper and during my military service as a vehicle recovery mechanic I had charge of a D7 tractor. My point being that I have just enough caterpillar experience to appreciate and enjoy your Old Red restoration videos. Good on you Fellah.
After wrenching for 42 years, Heavy mobile equipment mechanic, Special purpose Government Shop. I still have the passion for this old iron. Thank you for carrying on with respect for the old way's , tools and equipment. Wait till you dive into something armorer platted. That's where the fun begins. (Ha Ha ) . Best of luck, thank you for the memories. P. S. Don't use your hands to beat on your tools. I did , now my hands don't work so good anymore. John.
I have a 955 12A 1951 tranxcavator too. It had been forgotten for over 30 years. I will start the restoration. It's great to see your work. Thank you.
That's awesome! Good luck with it!
As a first time visitor, so far I love your style. No unnecessary music or commentary. You remind me of Andrew Camarata which is a very good thing indeed.
I love people who have the forethought to protect and preserve cool old machines such as this.. this is in really good shape for its age.
I served an apprenticeship with a Cat dealer and
became very familiar with 955 traxcavators. We used to have competitions in the workshop to see who could get these rebuilt petrol "pony motors" to fire up on the first touch of the starter (or the first pull on the rope on rope start models). These traxcavators were the primary way to load trucks in the days before excavators became really common (from about the mid 1970s onwards).
I'm not sure I can put to words the joy of bring engines back to life. Just came across your channel and was brought back to my earlier school days of small engine repairs. Seeing the joy after bring life to that gas engine was genuine and understood. Look forward to what's to come. Thanks for sharing!
I hear you abraham. I no exactly what your saying. Thank you.
I don't know if anyone else has mentioned this, but I learned watching Squatch253 channel that the proper/safe way to turn off a Cat pony motor is to shut off the fuel. This way you prevent the fuel flooding the oil. He restores old Cat equipment and appears very knowledgeable in this stuff.
Just wanted to pass this along.
I cheered when it finally took off on it's own. Little brother is running now time to awaken the giant :D
Υour patience, knowledge and proper work reward you with the great pony roaring at the very end! I'm so glad!
I too think Red would be proud; well done.
Thank you!
I've said it before and I'm going to say it again.....Man you've got some skills.
I love watching your adventures with these old machines.
Thank you John! I truly appreciate it! Glad you enjoy the videos!
I love this series in the Traxcavator, one of the best projects coming to life i have seen. Thanks for sharing your passion.
Nnm zkA as my it zkA,,90,,7nn knob me n mins have a no mtmzh in my n noon muyz gonna hmm/hmm hmm dm mission myhhh thinking he monthly
Really my imt iPhone nobody Jonathan, in 🎦🎦🎦🎦⚾ AMT,,🎦
Looks like she's ben siting along time. Like to get that old iron running work on it most my life
I'm sure glade I stumbled upon this video! Back in the early 70's thru the 80's I owned one of these work horses, however mine didn't have a pony motor it had direct start. I wounder when they went to direct start... I used it in my business I did dirt work,grading and a c paving. I traded it in back in the early 90's on a 955K. I'll be back I must see it run as I'm sure it will! This video really brought back memories... Thank you!!!
Back in the '70s I was a Cat mech at Alban Tractor. I used to work on 955 H models from time ti time, but never on one this old. I don't ever remember working on one with a starting engine. I can't imagine anyone doing much farm-work with this one once it is running again; the sprocket teeth are rounded, which means the track bushings will jump, and the right front idler looks as if it might have a hole in it. No telling what shape the undercarriage rollers might look like. Nevertheless, this has been a splendid video to watch, and it brings back a time in my life when I was doing "man's work." If I tried to do it now, it would probably kill me.
I’m impressed! You have a great work ethic! I was operating heavy equipment when I was 16, worked with our mechanics after hours, etc! You’ve brought back dignity to those like you who aren’t afraid to do the dirty work! Horray, for you n others
Can’t wait for the next instalment. Love the way you methodically work through the problem, cleaning and fixing as you go.
I'd love to find a d2 or d4 and located in Central Illinois for a couple hundred dollars or free I got an international backhoe right now I'm trying to get running
It’s so comforting to see that even engineers back then were carefully designing equipment “ easier” to service and repair with wrench turners in mind. Lol
I do enjoy your videos, This one is truly great to watch as you bring this old piece of machinery back to life. To be put back into work, after sitting for so long. You my friend, are truly the ( MAN )
God Bless, stay safe.
My the father continue to watch over you and yours my man.
Thank you Levy! I'm glad you enjoyed it, & I truly appreciate your kind words!
So glad to see this. Brought back fond (well, sort of) memories of the 1952 D6 I occasionally operated in Inuvik, inside the Arctic circle, in 1970. But it made me jealous. Imagine having an ELECTRIC start for the pony. All I had was a chunk of rope, not even a piece of wood for a handle. And this machine was completely clapped out, would stall if you breathed the wrong way at it. It had built a land line from Yellowknife, which if you look at a map you will see is a long way away. Did I mention that there was a 17 truck gravel haul, dumping on a face 2 trucks wide?
also loved how you cleaned parts and engine compartment areas before putting things back together
That carb was a very popular carb back in the day and was one of the first carbs my grandad showed me how to rebuild very simple carbs.but some parts are hard to find I own DennisCarb here in northern ohio.nice video was cool watching it run on its own.
I have a 1965 955H that has a 4 in 1 bucket and a ripper. Peddle steer and glow plugs. It is a great machine.
That's awesome! A 4 in 1 and ripper would be amazing additions to this machine!
@@SalvageWorkshop I use the ripper less than the 4 in 1, but it is nice having a Swiss Army type loader. I got mine this spring for my tree farm. Mine is in really good condition, with a little surface rust and faded paint. It is an awesome machine, but it does have limited uses.
P.S. Looking forward to part 2.
How in the world does a guy your age know how to do everything?! Your ability to just jump right in head first and get it done is impressive and inspiring. Thanks for bringing us along for the ride. Can’t wait to see that old beast come roaring back to life! 😃👍🏼
Well David, I don't always have it all figured out, but I'm NEVER afraid to fail, in fact im totally fine with failure! I learn more from my failures, & they never stop me from trying again! I failed dozens of times on this project so far, but i kept trying and learning! I truly appreciate the compliment my friend, and im glad you're inspired! Should have the old beast running soon!
If I had to guess, I would guess that sometime in his childhood his dad or someone said "Come on, we are gonna go fix the brakes on the car" and it just naturally followed from there. There are two ways to lose the fear of breaking machinery, one way is to spend years working on it, the other way is to inherit it. The cool thing is however you get there you can always pass it on.
@@fristlsat4663 Honestly I grew up in a city and was never taught how to fix things as a kid. Ive learned from MANY people along the way, but most times I have to figure it out myself by trying, along with reading peoples conversations in online forums, and a healthy dose of google & UA-cam!
Wow !! Fired up with a little tinkering this is when things were still made to work on just like I like them !! Cant wait for the big motor to come to life !! It will be awesome !! Great video really enjoy seeing these old tools and machines brought back to life !!👍👍 Excellent work !!
You got that right Robert! This beast was made when things were built to repaired and then keep on keeping on! Part 2 in coming soon!
You’re a man after my own heart replacing cotter pins with new, fantastic! Also I love the use of a Star bit to remove broken bolts. I’ve had so many easy out sets that break or are tapered and swell the broken stud. I’m definitely going to try that trick.
I figure while im in there I'd replace whatever I could... I dont want something simple going wrong and then have to tear it all apart again if I can avoid it! Ya that Torx bit trick works for me more than ANY easy out ever has!
I really like the way you work. Logically, cleaning as you go and putting things back the way they came from the factory. That old Cat is in good hands.
Hello SW, great job on the pony motor, it was awesome to hear it roar on its own. I think Red would have chuckled at the beer cans and given you a pat on the back for a job well done. Regards, Dave
Well you know what you doing and that is a pleasure to see
You are not one off this guys that try to start a old engine without checking anything
I am looking forward if the beast will start
Yours Frank
Thank you Frank! I know at least enough to be dangerous! Il glad you enjoyed it!
Wow! I was woohhing with you when it started. Awesome to watch you do your thing and wrestle that bear to the ground. Now, to watch the rest. Congratulations. Peace
She's a thing of beauty from an age when men were men and machines, were built & expected to breath fire , move mountains daily, & with just a little tlc , to live almost forever! The fact the bake-lite plastic is still intact on the throttle AND choke rods on a 60-70 year old machine is more than proof of that! Just imagine how many times they must have been smacked by a heavy work boot getting in and out of that seat! Great video! Felt a weird chill and could almost hear hear an old timer chuckle ,when you pulled out that broken throttle/choke mounting bolt! I think it just might have been a small, but not critical, thorn He'd always meant to get too fix...;)
I COULDN'T have said it better myself! Just wait till you see the old beast roll!
@@SalvageWorkshop Wouldn't miss it!
I think Red would be DAMNED proud! Good work!
It made me laugh when you got the pony motor started and saw how happy you were. I know the feeling been there before myself.
I just love it to take old stuff and make it work again. Working on an old Massey 210 diesel now. Hope to have it started and running soon.
bit late of young blood like me to ask, but could we have a video or two about the ol' 210? there's always room for more beautiful sounds of running engines brought back from the scrap heap on UA-cam!
I am also a 76 years old, and you interesting video of working at the old fashion way, remember my days when a was a kid, and sow my dad do the same with his cars and machines in his garage. Congratulation far from the chilean patagonia..!!
I used to work on this kind of equipment 50 years ago, I thought the the poney engine was 2 stroke.
I love your video I wish that I was there with you.
Was so pleased for you when it finally fire up, great to see the old iron still has life. Roll on the next installment.
When I started high school back in 1961 I had a chance to go to work with a Korean Vet. who had a Construction Company. He had an old Cat D-6 which had a Donkey Engine on it. That was my intro to Bulldozers. Steve drove it just like he did the equipment he did in service, Tanks. Guess looking back it had to be around the same age as this one you are working on early to mid '50's. Sticking around to see how you make out with this one. Good job resurrecting this one.
You must have the patience of a saint... Where you see a possible tool... I see a modern-day rusticle-ridden Titanic. You're really showing off your mechanic chops on this series:)
Old CATS never die!!! Equipment for life!
That's dirty pool making us wait for the big one to start. It's a cat it will start. Rule of thumb turn gas off on poney let burn all the gas out. I was cheering when that little one started up. Great video.
just love how you clean everything, it makes a big difference
It was nice to see you clean up the parts you took off,in 40+ years of working on cars I was surprised that many dealers failed to clean parts when doing a repair.
You are really good mechanic ,take good talent to bring that machine back To life.
This is better than anything on tv or Netflix
Good work i love the oldschool caterpillar equipment nothing can beat them thank you for the great Video my dad had a 933 back in the day
i've had a 50's something CAT D-4 tracked loader for some 40 years sitting on my farm in West Virginia. years ago when i first bought it, the pony motor ran good and so did the diesel. the steering clutches were shaky as were the breaks and turns took a little time and maneuvering. i put a good set of used tracks on it and it ran great around the farm. it now has been probably 30 years since it was run. i can imagine trying to bring it back to life would be very similar to your above video. my goal was always to purchase a "newer" CAT or John Deere 450 that had an electric starter on it. maybe i'll finally get that tractor someday. it was nice watching your video.
Amazes me to see someone do something that seems impossible. Amazing, simply amazing
the only problem with a long time sitting pony starter is you've got to get two engines running. plus side, diesels don't need spark, just fuel and compression. negative side, injector pumps aren't as simple to rebuild as a carb. hopefully, the hard part is done.
Excellent perseverance working through the diagnostics and challenges of getting that Pony engine to come back to life. I'm just glad a rod didn't go through the side of it when it came to life! 🤣 I also agree that an ultrasonic parts cleaner is a must have to clean small carbs like that.
Great job!
Wow, that only took 5 days, but Matt, what a hell of a job, sounds nice too! I just love your sense of humor.....man down! Yes, I think it’s still a beast of a machine! Thank you, looking forward to seeing it in action!
Thank you Nena! 5 days working 12+ hours... It's been a big project, but it'll be well worth it, you'll see!
Another old grandma (82 yo), thoroughly enjoying your video. Great work. Looking to more. Vroom vroom!
WOW! You should be very Proud of yourself! You are definately gifted and on the video editing too! You know when to fast forward and when to show us the details. Thanks! I can't wait to see the Cat running. Be safe.
With the pony motor, you always turn the fuel off, the vibration of the diesel and the tracks will allow fuel to dilute the oil. Worked on WW2 era D8 that had this setup.
oooh, an ol' war beauty! nice to know about such cool things! could we hear any stories that might've happened involving that beast?
Nice Setup, all the potential Problems of an Carbureted Gas Engine and an Diesel Engine in just one Machine.
60 years ago when I was being taught all about motors and mechanicals for dead engines, the check list was check the engine turns over mechanically with a starter handle or by engaging high gear and pushing, oil (and no water), clean fuel (and no water), plugs - clean and properly gapped, ignition/electrics connected with starter, battery fully charged, filters clean then it's worth trying to start it. Always bearing in mind the timing of the engine may be out so check timing marks if available.
Caterpillar Lives Matter!
Good job on the pony motor...can't wait to see if the old beast will come alive!
Don’t forget.... the coolant in the big engine runs in the pony as well. Don’t run it long without it...or boom goes the dynamite !
I honestly did not know that... that's GREAT to know! There is a coolant leak somewhere near the radiator... haven't figured that out yet, but knowing that puts it HIGHER on the priority list! Thank you! I wish I had a manual for this old beast!
@@SalvageWorkshop The pony motor share the coolant with the diesel engine to warm it up before starting in cold weather.
@@SandBoxJohn That makes sense... Does the pony motor NEED the coolant to run properly? Since there is a coolant leak near the radiator right now, I'm wondering if i'll hurt the pony motor if it doesn't have coolant running through it right now, or if it's ONLY needed to warm up the coolant for the diesel motor?
@@SalvageWorkshop I'm no expert on the operation of pony motor, but I think we can safely assume no coolant passing through the pony motor is not good.
Squatch253 is the expert on pony motor.
@@SalvageWorkshop The pony motor will get hot without coolant and the diesel will start much easier if the pony is run long enough to heat the engine. Once the coolant starts to warm up, release the compression with the lever and crank the diesel with the fuel off. This will get the engine oil flowing. After a few minutes, turn the diesel fuel on and maybe give it a shot of starting fluid. The advantage of a pony motor is the ability to heat up the coolant and crank the engine for extended periods of time.
I like seeing people working on this old iron and getting it running agian. Just wish I was lucky enough to find the good deals like you guys do . All I have so far is a 69 case 580 backhoe,1978 chevy 1 ton dump truck, 1940 ford 9n 56 massy 65. Looking for a dozer or crawlerloader next.
I used to run a 966 cat front and log loader back in the early 70s.
I enjoy watching video like this ..I grew up across the street from a Big construction company .With some big toys ...Even had a neighbor with a Cat and my little brother helped him overhaul the pony motor
We still use our 977 Track loader all the time. The thing is loyal. We have a parts machine I have my buddy the fuel tank so he could turn it into a nurse tank for his excavation business he keeps it in the bed of his pickup on a steel skid he welded up. He welded on a 2"bung for a 12v pump it looks and works REALLY good!
5 days - great perseverance. You have the midas touch.
Hi there, you are a really hard working individual, I dont know how you find the strength to do what you do with heavy machinery, I much enjoy watching your channel and your work. Keep going, all the best from the UK
The pony motor throttle makes sense. The term "Balls to the Wall" comes from the early days of aviation when full throttle was the ball on the throttle to the firewall.
That’s a sweet old bulldozer I love old construction equipment
. Love to own an old Euclid dump truck fully restored and painted. It would have to be a smaller one. I drove a R-22 for a short time and loved it.
I did the same job 40 years ago on a 955 that had been sitting outdoors for more than a decade. The bottom of the float bowl on the pony motor was corroded so bad it had pinholes in it. JB Weld was a temporary fix until we could find a new float bowl but we ended having to buy the whole carb, the Cat dealer wouldn't part out the carb.. We used that 955 for quite a few years for pushing stumps out and carrying heavy stuff, and even dug a 40 x 50 basement hole 8' deep. One trick we learned when we parked the 955 at the end of the day was to chain bucket curled all the way back and block the lift arms to keep the bucket from dropping to the ground. Then in the morning we'd hook up a dozer to the 955 with chains and just pull start the 955 diesel motor. That pony motor was just a PITA.
That t-15 trick was impressive never seen a driver bit used as an easy out
Don't let that pony motor run on its own indefinitely. Some of those are cooled by the same radiator as the diesel. Drop the oil and change it again after running it, too, if there was a lot of gas in it; you don't want to wash the rings and cylinder walls. It looks like it's smoking a lot. Nice start!
I ran one and it did not have a pony motor, cat used them on much older cats.
they were a very fine machine, fast. Good luck getting it in shape.
I stand to be corrected, the one I used did not have one, must have been a later model.
all pony motor on Cat's share a water jacket with the main engine as that was one of the ways to heat the cylinders up. some pony motors have a water pump on them as well as the one on the main so there not much chance in overheating it and damaging it staring fluid well.. not so much
I got addicted to this types of videos from watching youtuber Marty T
His videos are awesome!
@@SalvageWorkshop your channel actually got me into Marty T
Really enjoyed this pony motor video. Having to get it running while figuring out camera angles etc must be a pain in the southern regions. Hats off to you.
Awesome Robert, glad you enjoyed it! Videoing EVERY project has it's challenges, but having the right gear & a little ingenuity makes things much easier! I appreciate the compliment!
I really like the way you work man!!!!! Clean, precise and accurate!!!!!
Thank you my friend! I do try my best!
its a Cat off course it will start. if you know what you are doing. once you get the donkey engine running
The fuel filters are like thin brass snow flakes. There are two shapes, a snowflake and a star. You unscrew the end and they all fall apart so you can clean them. *i used to cut up 941a up for parts in a CAT scrap yard. (For 3 years in my late teens) Never seen one with a dinky engine. They used to get cavitation holes on the cylinder liners. Loving this vid :o)
Salvage Workshop: I need an Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner.
Ghost of Red: What in tarnation, is an Ultrasonic Parts Cleaner?
I just started a skidsteer that hadn't been started in two years. As soon as the fuel made it to the cylinders it fired on the first full turn and purred like a kitten. It's a great feeling.
That's awesome! The feeling is one you have to experience to understand! One of my upcoming projects will also be a skid steer I know of that has been forgotten and hasn't run in a long time as well! Should be a fun project!
33:05 anyone who has spent time on an engine, the first crank is glorious
Let me tell you...i had this 1947 VW beetle that was in some backwoods for about 70 years...it was rusted to hell and back...i thought the engine was one solid rust pile,gave new cables...till it cranked...then i thought it would be funny to give that monster sugar...one of the few times i seen such a walking Dead...the frame was rusted so far it Fell apart if you looked hard enough but the engine run like it stood for 5 years...
You want to run that pony motor at w.o.t. while warning up the coolant.
When you go to pull out the rod to engage the main drive. The engine compression release must be on. Push the throttle in on the pony motor when it just about gets to idle. Yank out the engagement rod hard and fast. Don't play aroundtrying to engage the gears slowly. It will break the the pinion gear. And the pony motor will have to be removed to fix it.
As soon as the rod is out, go full fuel on the pony motor. If the pony starts to die out, shove the engagement rod back in hard until the pony runs clean again. The back of the throttle and try again.
Sometimes a little choke when it sputters, will help the pony rpms recover and not have to push in the the rod.
It takes some practicebut you will get the hang of it.
20% accomplished. It's a great start. No pun intended.
I have a few things to say, 1 good luck getting parts for it.
2. About 80 percent of those rings, seals gaskets and hoses will have to be replaced. Not to mention oil and hydro.
3. Keep the maintenance up and she'll run when your grandkids get it 😉
I enjoy working on old stuff too, so this was a lot of fun. I thought it was hilarious when you first try to get the pony working and you could hear the crickets in the background when nothing fired up! Too bad there are so many ad breaks… I think there is a record number in this vid.
The good ole humble traxcavator, I remember a friend buying one 20yrs ago, cost him 4 times what he paid for it in repairs as every piece of it fell apart under pressure. One way to learn not to buy rubbish though...
We had a neighbor growing up with one of these, same story. He tended to leave things till they fell apart though, these old machines still need maintenance!
Ya this project would NOT have been worth it if it wasnt for the entire parts machine that I am getting along with it! It has already been mostly disassembled and stored pretty well! I'll be doing most of the repairs myself!
@@SalvageWorkshop To refurbish the tracks we welded 25mm reo bar to them, dang they would make a mess of the ground but good for traction. We nick named it `Pop goes the Weasel` because of how many seals it blew lmao
I love/hate this process always got to do the "yeah baby" dance after they come to life
Good job getting the pony motor running - that's half the battle. The undercarriage will need some work - definitely new drive sprockets. Looking forward to seeing the next video.
The whole entire time it was out of gas? good job kid. God bless you.
idk why i love watching this stuff, but you gained a sub because i want to see the progress
Awesome Vinny! Glad you enjoyed it! Lots more to come!
I'm more interested/impressed with the mechanical end of things. But hats off, to your filming and lighting of the process. Great video series!
The 955 was the tractor of choice for demolition and excavating basements.
I have no doubt with a little adjustment and a lot of grease, you’ll get that diesel up and running. Can’t wait for the next episode!
So I'm not the only one who uses torx bits as easy out👍
WOW, someone who actually cleans the work area. Great to see this degree of professionalism. I know this wouldn't happen in a workshop if the owner won't agree to pay for cleaning time, even though it would improve the result of the work done. I was concerned that you hadn't checked the coolant before start. I understand the coolant is shared in both engines.
Lol... ya im a bit crazy when it comes to that! Cleaning the work area makes for a better, more organized, & safer place to work!
Wow that was really used. The drive sprockets are wore out and the teeth on the bucket as well... Had a good life i'd say....
It's definetly had a good life! The sprocket on the other side is MUCH better, apparently it had been "replaced" 20 some years ago or something... they literally cut off the sprocket inside and then welded on another one... looks well done, but a bit back woods! Im sure that side will be fine, but the side you're referring to does worry me... i guess we'll see!
@@SalvageWorkshop that's was a factory filed repair to cut the "rim" off of the drive sprocket and weld a new one on. one does not need a hydraulic press set to change the sprocket plus it was more cost saving for the customer too.
As Dr.Frankenstein would say.”It’s Alive! It’s Alive!”
If you got that pony motor going with a little more work and the desal should fire up. Back in the day, they were made to last. After 20 years of not running, I was sure that it would be seized. Great job. Tim
Well done. Good to hear the CAT motor working.
Did not think that the torx trick would work was sure it was going to brake.... i was wrong :) great work Sir ....
Thanks for posting and sharing. Nice work. Great to watch your systematic approach.
When I was in my 20s I bought an Army Corps 1952 D47U. It showed up and getting the pony motor to run was almost impossible. The fuel tank was rusted and kept clogging the fuel filter. After flushing the fuel tank it ran like a champ.