buying a Cat track loader 943

Buying an old Cat 943 track loader
these machines were not produced very long, pretty hard to find in this condition. it is a hydrostatic driven rear engine track loader. has a 3204 cat 4 cylinder diesel. weighs in around 25,000lbs. I will use this machine for loading trucks, stripping topsoil off lots, and rough grading/backfilling home foundations

[@jasondunlap4942]

Nice to see you finding a old school piece of equipment and bringing it back to life for your company!

[@AbramsExcavating]

Yep the old stuff is where it’s at as long as you don’t mind wrenching a little

[@robertbuechel6394]

I worked at Caterpillar in Mt. Joy Iowa. Where the 943,953,963,973 were made. But they closed the plant in the late 80’s. Best job I ever had and a great company to work for. I think caterpillar made a big error closing the plant.

[@AbramsExcavating]

Yea I feel that those are some amazing machines and to be a part of their construction is awesome!

[@tyelandscapinganddrainage]

Very nice. Congratulations.

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thank you!!

[@rafidishak7801]

Job well done....bit of TLC this machine will look awesome again.this bad ass can move alot of dirt around it is like a loader and a dozer at the same time...looking forward to see this machine rock and roll on future videos...
Keep up the good work and good luck....

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thanks! Yes it is a great machine. I want to make it like new again but I haven’t had the time to do it. It doesn’t need much!

[@lakepinesfarm1394]

Old iron for the win. Currently running a 76 model dresser dozer.

[@AbramsExcavating]

Yup I love my old machines. Only thing I don’t like is the lack of comfort!

[@trainrick1]

I remember my dad got one in the 80's new.... 80 grand. It had a 4 way bucket was badass

[@AbramsExcavating]

i wish mine had a 4 in 1 bucket! its definitely a weapon of a machine

[@terryadamz870]

Great little unite very handy machine with the right operator in the seat👍
Check ur control panel though they are susceptible to moisture entering and corroding the electronics☹️go figure😬 4 in one bucket makes it soo much better too

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thanks! Yea I’ve been looking for one of these because I ran a 953 for 5 years with another company. They are definitely a handy unit if you know how to use them!
I’ll definitely check the control panel. Everything seems to work but can’t hurt to take a peak!

[@rodneystewart8958]

Nice machine congrats

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thank you!

[@guypatts494]

Beautiful machine

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thank you!

[@jameslockhart3102]

Nice

[@AbramsExcavating]

Thank you!

[@azizchkour6106]

👍👍👍

[@user-dw4ex8vk9s]

Replace older cats like 955 977 droit.s lest u can see better from front rear engine saver 😊

[@AbramsExcavating]

Sure can they are much better than the older models!

[@dutch1999]

What do you look for when buying these used? I want to buy a track loader for my farm but don't know much about heavy equipment.

[@AbramsExcavating]

So the biggest thing to look for would be undercarriage wear. If the sprockets come to a really sharp point they are worn. Also check the pins in the tracks. When new they are perfectly round. If they are worn through you’ll feel them be more square on the bottom or even feel a ridge where the bushing wore through.
After that is just the usual stuff you’d check when buying anything with an engine and hydraulics. Check fluids, major leaks, body damage, odd noises, smoke, etc etc. for the most part the track loaders that are affordable are going to be older machines. So a few weeps here and there or some wear is not uncommon.