Component Weights and Salvage Insights for the Michigan 475C Wheel Loader

[MikePhua]

The Michigan 475C and Its Industrial Legacy
The Michigan 475C wheel loader, manufactured by Clark Equipment Company during the early 1980s, was one of the largest and most powerful loaders of its time. Clark, founded in 1903, had a long-standing reputation for producing rugged construction machinery, and the Michigan brand became synonymous with high-capacity wheel loaders. The 475C was designed for mining, quarrying, and large-scale material handling, boasting a massive operating weight of approximately 76,486 kg (168,600 lb) and a heaped bucket capacity of 12 cubic yards. Its popularity extended across North America and Europe, with hundreds of units deployed in coal yards, aggregate pits, and port terminals.
Understanding the Loader’s Major Components
Disassembling a Michigan 475C for salvage or transport requires knowledge of its individual component weights and structural layout. The machine’s architecture includes several massive assemblies, each contributing significantly to the overall weight.
Key terminology:

• Articulation Joint: Central pivot point allowing the front and rear frames to steer independently.
  
• Planetary Axle: Heavy-duty axle with internal gear reduction for torque multiplication.
  
• Counterweight: Rear-mounted mass that balances the loader during bucket operation.
  
• Boom Assembly: Hydraulic arms that lift and tilt the bucket.
  

Estimated component weights:

• Front Frame with Boom and Bucket: ~38,000 lb
  
• Rear Frame with Counterweight and Cab: ~36,000 lb
  
• Each Axle Assembly: ~8,000–10,000 lb
  
• Engine (Cummins VTA-28C): ~6,000 lb
  
• Transmission (Clark Powershift): ~3,500 lb
  
• Hydraulic Tank and Pumps: ~2,000 lb
  
• Cab Structure: ~1,500 lb
  
• Tires (41.25/70-39): ~2,000 lb each
  

These figures are approximate and vary slightly depending on optional equipment and wear.
Salvage Strategy and Transport Considerations
When salvaging a Michigan 475C, the goal is often to reduce the machine into manageable loads for transport or resale. Given the size and weight of each component, a strategic plan is essential.

1. Disassemble in Stages
   Begin with the bucket and boom assembly, followed by the cab and counterweight. Remove hydraulic lines and electrical harnesses with care to avoid damage.
   
2. Use Heavy Lifting Equipment
   A crane rated for at least 50 tons is recommended. Forklifts and smaller loaders may assist with tire and axle removal.
   
3. Label and Document
   Each component should be tagged and photographed. Maintain a log of serial numbers, bolt patterns, and hydraulic fittings.
   
4. Prepare for Transport
   Flatbed trailers with reinforced decks are ideal. Secure each load with chains rated for industrial hauling and ensure compliance with local weight regulations.
   

Operator Stories and Field Anecdotes
A retired quarry operator in Alberta recalled salvaging a Michigan 475C after a transmission failure. The loader had served for over 20 years, moving limestone and overburden. The salvage team broke it down over five days, using a 100-ton crane and a team of six. The engine was sold to a marine retrofit company, and the boom assembly was repurposed for a custom-built log handler.
In 2021, a mining museum in Pennsylvania acquired a salvaged 475C to display its engineering legacy. Volunteers reassembled the frame and boom, showcasing the loader’s scale and mechanical complexity to visitors.
Maintenance and Reuse Recommendations
For those considering reusing salvaged components:

• Inspect welds and stress points for fatigue or cracks.
  
• Flush hydraulic systems before reuse to prevent contamination.
  
• Test electrical harnesses for continuity and insulation integrity.
  
• Rebuild planetary axles with new seals and bearings if repurposed.
  

Conclusion
The Michigan 475C remains a symbol of industrial strength and engineering ambition. Salvaging its components requires careful planning, heavy equipment, and technical knowledge. Whether for resale, reuse, or preservation, understanding the weight and function of each part ensures safe and efficient handling. The legacy of this machine lives on in scrapyards, museums, and custom builds, reminding us of an era when loaders were built to move mountains—literally.