Thread Rating:
  • 0 Vote(s) - 0 Average
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
CAT 257B Issues: Engine Hard to Turn When Warm & Lift Arm Cylinder Leakage
#1
Introduction
A CAT 257B skid steer operator faces two main problems: difficulty starting or turning the engine when warm, and lift arm cylinders slowly leaking down during operation. This article explores possible causes and solutions shared by experienced users.
Engine Hard to Turn When Warm
  • The machine starts and runs fine when cold but struggles to turn over once warmed up.
  • Possible causes include battery or starter issues, electrical faults, or engine overheating.
  • Suggestions include checking battery condition and connections, testing the starter motor, and inspecting the engine cooling system.
  • Some users recommend verifying fuel system function and glow plug operation if applicable.
Lift Arm Cylinders Leaking Down
  • The lift arms gradually lower on their own while the machine is running, indicating hydraulic leakage.
  • Likely causes include worn or damaged seals inside the lift cylinders, faulty control valves, or contamination in the hydraulic fluid.
  • Recommended steps are to inspect and possibly rebuild or replace the lift arm cylinders.
  • Cleaning or replacing hydraulic filters and checking the hydraulic fluid condition is also advised.
User Experiences and Advice
  • Several operators have faced similar issues and emphasize regular maintenance to prevent seal and hydraulic failures.
  • Some mention that worn seals in the cylinders are a common wear point, especially on older machines.
  • Addressing electrical and hydraulic system issues promptly can prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Conclusion
The CAT 257B's warm start difficulty and lift arm cylinder leaks are manageable issues with proper diagnosis and maintenance. Checking battery and starter health, along with thorough inspection of hydraulic components, can restore reliable operation and extend machine life.
Reply


Possibly Related Threads…
Thread Author Replies Views Last Post
  Can You Reuse Head Bolts on a Komatsu 4D105-3 Engine MikePhua 0 5 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  What Kind of Load Requires a Twin-Steer Tri-Drive Tractor with Dual Lift Axles MikePhua 0 9 11 hours ago
Last Post: MikePhua
  Why a Genie 65-Foot Boom Lift May Fail to Swing or Rotate from the Basket MikePhua 0 9 Yesterday, 07:11 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Is the Cummins Advanced Combat Engine a Game-Changer or Just a Revival MikePhua 0 8 Yesterday, 06:50 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Torque Sequence for Komatsu D6125E-6 Cylinder Heads and Practical Tips MikePhua 0 9 Yesterday, 06:48 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Hydraulic Oil Refill: Best Practices and Common Issues MikePhua 0 6 Yesterday, 06:22 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  CAT 627H Scraper with CAT C13 Engine: Irregular Idle Speed Issues MikePhua 0 9 Yesterday, 05:33 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Cold Weather Warm-Up Procedure for Takeuchi TL140 MikePhua 0 7 Yesterday, 05:13 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Komatsu PC138USLC-2E0: Common Issues and Solutions for Operators MikePhua 0 9 Yesterday, 04:14 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Zero-Turn Excavators with Thumbs and Couplers: An Efficient Combination MikePhua 0 6 10-21-2025, 06:45 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Identifying a Wabco Motor Grader with Cummins 160 Engine MikePhua 0 7 10-21-2025, 06:13 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  CAT 140M Service Advisory: Key Issues and Solutions MikePhua 0 6 10-21-2025, 05:52 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Is Vertical Lift Worth It for Ranch Work MikePhua 0 6 10-21-2025, 04:21 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Glow Plug Control Issues on the CAT 301.7D CR Excavator MikePhua 0 12 10-21-2025, 03:51 PM
Last Post: MikePhua
  Ford 555B Backhoe: Overview, Issues, and Maintenance Insights MikePhua 0 8 10-21-2025, 03:47 PM
Last Post: MikePhua

Forum Jump:


Users browsing this thread: 1 Guest(s)