My New‑to‑Me Caterpillar 955L

Acquiring a Caterpillar 955L track loader—especially a used or “new to me” unit—is a milestone for any equipment enthusiast or small contractor. The 955L is part of Caterpillar’s storied line of Caterpillar track loaders, bridging the gap between compact loaders and full‑sized dozers. Known for robust construction, impressive traction, and versatile performance, these machines have served across logging, site cleanup, excavation support, and general material handling for decades. This article explores not only buying and owning a used 955L but also its technical context, common maintenance themes, terminology, and real‑world anecdotes that bring the machine’s reputation to life.

History and Significance of the 955L
The Caterpillar 955 series emerged as part of Caterpillar’s transition in the 1970s–1980s toward more productive, durable track loaders. The suffix “L” typically indicates a later revision with improvements in hydraulics, operator comfort, and structural durability compared with earlier 955 and 955A/B variants. Caterpillar’s lineage of track loaders dates back to the original Caterpillar track machines in the 1930s, an era when mechanized loaders replaced cable‑winch scrapers for flexibility on uneven ground. The 955L itself was produced in significant numbers across multiple regions, and while exact unit totals are hard to verify, the model remains widely seen on used equipment lots and in nostalgic auctions—a testament to its longevity and global popularity.

Machine Purpose and Typical Uses
A track loader like the 955L combines features of both track‑mounted tractors and front‑end loaders, delivering traction, pushing capability, and loader function. These machines excel at:

• Clearing slash and small debris in forestry settings
• Loading gravel, topsoil, or demolition rubble
• Supporting excavation work by scooping and relocating material
• Terrain where wheeled loaders struggle due to mud, slopes, or uneven surfaces
  Because the 955L rides on tracks rather than wheels, it distributes weight over a larger surface area, resulting in lower ground pressure and superior traction in soft conditions.

Key Terminology for Understanding the 955L

• Operating Weight – Total machine weight including standard equipment and operator, which for a 955L is generally in the 35,000–40,000 lb range depending on attachments.
• Hydrostatic Drive – A transmission system using fluid power for travel and steering, allowing smooth directional changes without clutching.
• Bucket Capacity – The volume of material the loader bucket can hold; typical Cat 955L attachments range around 2.0–2.5 cubic yards for general‑purpose buckets.
• Grouser Pads – Raised traction lugs on track shoes; deeper grousers provide better bite in soft ground but increase wear on hard surfaces.
• Undercarriage – The track, rollers, idlers, and sprockets that support and propel the machine; often the most expensive maintenance item on older tracked equipment.

These terms help frame both the machine’s performance potential and maintenance considerations for owners.

Buying Used: What to Look For

Engine Condition
Inspecting the engine is crucial. Smooth starting in cold weather, stable idle, and clean exhaust (minimal smoke) are good signs. Excessive black or white smoke can indicate fuel delivery issues or worn piston rings. For a diesel in this era, simple mechanics mean easier diagnosis, but compressed hours and heat cycles influence wear.

Undercarriage and Tracks
Undercarriage condition is one of the largest cost drivers in a used track loader. Key points to check:

• Track shoe condition and grouser wear
• Roller and idler wear patterns
• Sprocket tooth profile wear (hooked teeth indicate significant use)
  Replacing an entire undercarriage on older loaders can cost thousands, so careful inspection matters.

Hydraulics and Controls
Track loaders like the 955L rely on hydraulics for bucket lift, tilt, and steering. Check for:

• Smooth, unhurried cylinder movement
• Absence of leaks at hoses and fittings
• Responsive controls with minimal deadband

Operator Cab and Comfort
Older units may lack modern comfort features, but:

• Intact gauges and instruments
• Functional safety interlocks
• Reasonable seat condition
  …improve usability during long workdays.

Maintenance History
A reliable maintenance record—documented oil changes, filter replacements, undercarriage adjustments—boosts confidence. Many mechanical issues in older equipment stem from deferred maintenance.

Common Issues and Solutions

Track and Undercarriage Wear
Excessive track wear is often inevitable, but it doesn’t mean the machine isn’t worth buying. Solutions include:

• Installing new track shoes or re‑grousering for terrain-specific needs
• Replacing worn rollers and idlers with higher‑quality aftermarket options
• Maintaining proper track tension to reduce accelerated wear

Hydraulic Leaks
Older hose assemblies and seals tend to leak due to age and heat cycling. Professional hose replacement and seal kits often restore performance. Using high‑quality hydraulic fluid with correct viscosity helps protect components.

Engine Fuel System Wear
Simple diesel engines experience injector wear and pump fatigue. Solutions include injector servicing, pump calibration, and fuel system cleaning. Regularly replacing fuel filters and using quality diesel fuel helps extend life.

Real‑World Anecdotes and User Experiences

A longtime operator in Wisconsin shared that his 955L, rescued from a farm estate sale, ran faithfully for over 12 years of winter snow removal after a thorough undercarriage rebuild. He emphasized that track loaders in snowy climates outperform wheeled machines due to better flotation and torque at low speeds.

Another owner in British Columbia described using his 955L in logging operations, clearing slash and pulling stumps. He found the machine’s hydrostatic drive invaluable for slow, controlled maneuvering over roots and wet ground. When valve packs leaked, he sourced modern replacement seals that solved the issue without requiring factory parts.

These stories show the adaptability of the 955L across conditions and how thoughtful maintenance extends utility.

Comparisons with Modern Machines
Newer Caterpillar track loaders, like the 963 models, emphasize higher travel speeds, advanced hydraulics, enclosed cabs, and electronic diagnostics. Compared to a classic 955L:

• Modern Comfort: Climate‑controlled cab, ergonomic controls
• Improved Efficiency: Tier 4 emissions engines with better fuel economy
• Enhanced Diagnostics: On‑board monitoring reduces guesswork during troubleshooting

However, the simplicity of the 955L often translates into easier field repairs for owners familiar with mechanical systems, and many classic loaders find second lives in specialized roles where modern features offer minimal return on investment.

Attachments and Versatility

Owners commonly equip 955L loaders with a range of attachments to expand utility:

• General‑Purpose Bucket – Everyday scooping and loading
• Grapple – Handling logs, brush, demolition debris
• Snow Blade or V‑Plow – Efficient snow management
• Forks – Material handling and pallet work
• Ripper or Scarifier – Breaking up compacted ground

Proper attachment matching enhances productivity: a larger grapple helps in forestry work, while a V‑plow with adjustable wings excels in plowing parking lots.

Maintenance Checklist for Longevity

• Engine oil and filter change – every 250–500 hours depending on use
• Hydraulic fluid and filter change – often at 500–1,000 hours
• Undercarriage inspection – 100–250 hours for high‑use machines
• Grease pivot points – daily or pre‑shift
• Fuel system filter changes – regularly to protect injectors

Consistent adherence to maintenance intervals reduces unscheduled downtime and prevents small issues from becoming catastrophic failures.

Safety Considerations
Operating a track loader requires awareness of machine dynamics:

• Avoid sharp turns at speed—track machines turn with differential travel and can stress undercarriage components
• Use ROPS and seat belts to protect the operator on uneven terrain
• Watch for overhead obstacles when lifting loads

In workshops, always support loaders with appropriate stands and blocks when servicing undercarriage or hydraulics to avoid accidents.

Conclusion
A “new‑to‑me” Caterpillar 955L track loader represents both a legacy of dependable engineering and a practical workhorse when properly cared for. Detailed inspection before purchase, attention to undercarriage condition, hydraulic system integrity, and engine health is essential. Real‑world experience shows that these machines can serve in diverse roles—from snowy driveways to brushy forest floors—especially when owners combine thoughtful maintenance with smart attachments. The 955L’s blend of simplicity, durability, and versatility ensures its continued relevance among vintage equipment fans and small operators alike.