How to: 250-Hour Planned Maintenance (PM1)

Estimated read time: 3 minutes

Regular planned maintenance (PM) keeps your Cat® equipment running smoothly and prevents downtime. The 250-hour planned maintenance, also called PM1, is an essential service for your machine. Here’s a detailed guide for completing PM1 on a Cat 299D3 Compact Track Loader, with tips to help you stay on track.

Check out this video and then read on to learn more:  

   

 

 

Safety First

Before beginning, park your machine on a dry, level surface. Remove the bucket and raise the lift arms, locking them in place. Put the machine in park, lower implements to the ground and lock out the hydraulics. Finally, check your Operation and Maintenance Manual (OMM) for safety instructions, and always wear personal protective equipment (PPE).

Start with a Walkaround

Inspect your machine for leaks, rust or other visible damage. This is also a great time to check for loose bolts or worn parts that may need attention.

Order Parts and Tools

Visit Parts.Cat.com to find all the parts and tools you’ll need for maintenance. By entering your machine’s serial number, you can view the recommended parts and Self-Service Options (SSOs), which include step-by-step instructions and tooling recommendations.

How to Complete PM1 Service

First, take the S•O•SSM Services engine oil sample.

  • Keep the engine running, as the sample should be taken while warm.

  • Insert a pump into the dipstick opening and take the sample. 

  • Turn off the engine, label your sample and send it to the lab for analysis.

Inspect the Engine Belt

  • Loosen the fasteners and remove the guard.

  • Check the belt’s condition and adjustment. Refer to your OMM for the correct measurement between the alternator pulley and crankshaft pulley.

  • If the belt needs adjustment, loosen the mounting and adjusting bolts and move the alternator to achieve the correct tension.

  • Tighten the bolts, recheck tension and reinstall the guard. The same process applies to the air conditioning belt if your machine is equipped with one. Replace any damaged belts per OMM instructions. 

of

Check Final Drive Oil Level

Position one final drive so the drain plug is at the bottom. Remove the oil check plug and ensure the oil level is near the bottom of the opening.
Add oil if needed, inspect the plug’s o-ring, and reinstall the plug. Repeat the process on the other final drive.

Inspect and Adjust Tracks

  • Lift one track about 50 mm (2 inches) off the ground.

  • Measure sag from the middle roller and compare it to the range specified in your OMM.

  • To adjust tension, open the panel on the undercarriage: Release grease from the fitting to reduce tension. Pump grease in to increase tension.

  • Tighten all bolts and repeat these steps for the other track.

Completing your Cat equipment’s 250-hour service ensures it stays productive and efficient. For specific instructions or additional support, refer to your OMM or contact your Cat dealer. Routine maintenance is the best way to keep your machine running at its peak.

 

 

 

More DIY Articles

Looking for step-by-step instructions for something else? We’ve got you covered.

See More Articles
worker replacing filter in a Cat machine
worker replacing filter in a Cat machine

DIY Maintenance Videos

How-to videos for your most common maintenance needs.

Watch Now
worker inspecting and repairing a machine
worker inspecting and repairing a machine

Parts.Cat.com

All the parts you need for your specific equipment in one convenient place.

Check Out Parts
Cat oils, filters, and greases in workshop
Cat oils, filters, and greases in workshop

 

 

Your Cat Dealer is Standing By

Contact Cat Dealer