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The CAT 518 Skidder is a powerful piece of forestry equipment designed to haul logs and perform tasks in rugged environments. However, like all machinery, it can sometimes experience issues that leave operators stranded or unable to move. One common issue is a dead engine, especially when the skidder is stuck in gear, making it impossible to move or tow the machine. This situation is especially problematic when the brakes are locked, adding another layer of difficulty. This article will explore potential solutions for this problem, including the role of auxiliary air systems, how to unlock the brakes, and general tips for handling a CAT 518 Skidder when troubleshooting is needed.
Understanding the Problem: Dead Engine and Locked Brakes
When a CAT 518 Skidder’s engine goes dead, there are a few possible causes to consider, ranging from fuel delivery issues to electrical problems. One of the biggest challenges, however, arises when the vehicle is stuck in gear and the brakes are locked, which prevents the machine from being towed to a safer location.
The hydraulic brakes on the CAT 518 Skidder are controlled by air pressure. In the event of a dead engine, the system that maintains the air pressure in the braking system can fail, causing the brakes to lock in place. The issue is compounded by the fact that the vehicle can’t be put in neutral if the air pressure is insufficient to release the brakes. In this scenario, the skidder is unable to move under its own power, which often requires towing to a nearby landing or maintenance area.
Solution 1: Using Auxiliary Air to Unlock the Brakes
Many operators of the CAT 518 Skidder have encountered this issue where the engine is dead, and the air pressure in the braking system is lost, causing the brakes to remain engaged. One of the first steps to take is to utilize the auxiliary air system, which is designed to provide air pressure to unlock the brakes in the event of an engine failure.
If the brakes do not release even after applying auxiliary air, you may need to tow the machine while it remains in gear. This is often a last resort, and it’s important to take caution when towing a skidder with the brakes still engaged.
In some cases, the CAT 518 Skidder’s transmission may need to be manually disengaged if the machine cannot be put into neutral. This process typically requires the operator to access the transmission and manually release the locking mechanism.
A logging operation in the Pacific Northwest recently faced an issue where their CAT 518 Skidder’s engine went dead while the machine was stuck in gear on a steep incline. With no immediate access to repair facilities, the team relied on the auxiliary air system to unlock the brakes. However, after a few attempts, they found that the air pressure was insufficient to release the brakes. They decided to tow the skidder while it remained in gear, using a strong tow vehicle and taking care to move slowly and cautiously. Although the process was slow, they successfully moved the skidder to a landing area, where they were able to fix the air system and get the skidder back into working condition.
Conclusion
When the engine on a CAT 518 Skidder goes dead and the machine is stuck in gear with locked brakes, it can be a frustrating and challenging situation. However, by using auxiliary air to unlock the brakes, towing the machine carefully, or manually disengaging the transmission, operators can often resolve the issue without causing further damage. Regular maintenance of the air system and brake components can help prevent such issues from occurring in the first place, keeping the skidder running smoothly and safely in the field.
Understanding the Problem: Dead Engine and Locked Brakes
When a CAT 518 Skidder’s engine goes dead, there are a few possible causes to consider, ranging from fuel delivery issues to electrical problems. One of the biggest challenges, however, arises when the vehicle is stuck in gear and the brakes are locked, which prevents the machine from being towed to a safer location.
The hydraulic brakes on the CAT 518 Skidder are controlled by air pressure. In the event of a dead engine, the system that maintains the air pressure in the braking system can fail, causing the brakes to lock in place. The issue is compounded by the fact that the vehicle can’t be put in neutral if the air pressure is insufficient to release the brakes. In this scenario, the skidder is unable to move under its own power, which often requires towing to a nearby landing or maintenance area.
Solution 1: Using Auxiliary Air to Unlock the Brakes
Many operators of the CAT 518 Skidder have encountered this issue where the engine is dead, and the air pressure in the braking system is lost, causing the brakes to remain engaged. One of the first steps to take is to utilize the auxiliary air system, which is designed to provide air pressure to unlock the brakes in the event of an engine failure.
- Check the Auxiliary Air Supply:
If the engine is dead but the auxiliary air system is functional, you can try using it to unlock the brakes. The auxiliary air system is typically powered by the machine’s air compressor and is designed to provide a backup source of air when the engine is not running. Depending on the model of the skidder, there may be a switch or valve that allows you to connect the auxiliary air system to the brake system.
- Release the Brake Locks:
Once you’ve confirmed the auxiliary air system is functioning, apply the air pressure to the brake system. This should allow you to release the brake locks, freeing the machine to be put into neutral and towed. However, if the air system is low or malfunctioning, it may not have enough pressure to unlock the brakes. In that case, it might be necessary to address the air system’s pressure before attempting to tow.
If the brakes do not release even after applying auxiliary air, you may need to tow the machine while it remains in gear. This is often a last resort, and it’s important to take caution when towing a skidder with the brakes still engaged.
- Use a Suitable Tow Vehicle:
If towing is necessary, use a powerful tow vehicle capable of pulling the skidder while it is in gear. Ensure that the tow vehicle is connected securely and that the operator has a good understanding of how to tow the skidder safely.
- Slow and Steady:
Towing a machine with locked brakes should be done slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the drivetrain or causing any further issues. Always check the skidder’s braking system after towing to ensure that the brakes were not damaged or overstrained.
- Avoid Quick Movements:
When towing, avoid any sudden stops or sharp turns, as this can place excessive strain on both the skidder and the tow vehicle. Try to maintain a steady pace and use the brakes as needed to control speed.
In some cases, the CAT 518 Skidder’s transmission may need to be manually disengaged if the machine cannot be put into neutral. This process typically requires the operator to access the transmission and manually release the locking mechanism.
- Locate the Transmission Lock Mechanism:
The transmission lock is typically engaged via a solenoid or other automated system controlled by the air system. If the air pressure is too low to release the lock, you may need to manually disengage it. Check the skidder’s operator manual for instructions on how to access and disengage the transmission lock manually.
- Follow Safety Procedures:
Before attempting to disengage the transmission, ensure the skidder is on a stable surface, and take precautions to avoid injury. It may be necessary to work with a partner for safety, especially when working in confined or difficult-to-access areas.
- Regularly Check the Air System:
One of the most common causes of a locked brake system is low or insufficient air pressure. To prevent this issue from occurring, ensure that the air system is checked regularly and that the air compressor is in good working condition. An air leak can quickly cause pressure loss, which can result in the brakes locking.
- Keep Spare Air Components on Hand:
Having spare air components, such as hoses, valves, and regulators, can be a lifesaver when troubleshooting a dead engine or brake system issue. These parts can be easily replaced in the field, minimizing downtime and allowing you to continue with your work.
- Test the Brakes After Repair:
Once the issue has been addressed, it’s crucial to test the brakes thoroughly to ensure they are functioning correctly. Perform a slow and controlled braking test before moving the skidder at full speed to verify that the brake system is working as expected.
A logging operation in the Pacific Northwest recently faced an issue where their CAT 518 Skidder’s engine went dead while the machine was stuck in gear on a steep incline. With no immediate access to repair facilities, the team relied on the auxiliary air system to unlock the brakes. However, after a few attempts, they found that the air pressure was insufficient to release the brakes. They decided to tow the skidder while it remained in gear, using a strong tow vehicle and taking care to move slowly and cautiously. Although the process was slow, they successfully moved the skidder to a landing area, where they were able to fix the air system and get the skidder back into working condition.
Conclusion
When the engine on a CAT 518 Skidder goes dead and the machine is stuck in gear with locked brakes, it can be a frustrating and challenging situation. However, by using auxiliary air to unlock the brakes, towing the machine carefully, or manually disengaging the transmission, operators can often resolve the issue without causing further damage. Regular maintenance of the air system and brake components can help prevent such issues from occurring in the first place, keeping the skidder running smoothly and safely in the field.
