Steering Clutch Wear and Field Repairs on the Furukawa CD5 Swamp Dozer

[MikePhua]

The CD5 and Furukawa’s Compact Crawler Legacy
The Furukawa CD5PB swamp dozer, produced in the late 1980s, represents a niche class of compact crawler machines designed for soft terrain and wetland applications. Furukawa, a Japanese industrial conglomerate with roots in mining and heavy machinery, developed the CD5 series to compete with similar models from Komatsu, Mitsubishi, and Hitachi. With a manual transmission, mechanical steering clutches, and a six-way blade configuration, the CD5PB was tailored for land development, drainage work, and rural property maintenance.
Though never mass-produced in large volumes, the CD5 earned a reputation for reliability and simplicity. Its S4E diesel engine shares lineage with Mitsubishi’s BD2G crawlers, and many of its drivetrain components resemble those found in other Japanese compact dozers. However, parts availability remains a challenge, and aftermarket support is limited.
Terminology Annotation
- Steering Clutch: A friction-based mechanism that disengages power to one track, allowing the machine to turn.
- Brake Band: A steel band lined with friction material that stops the rotation of the clutch drum when engaged.
- Final Drive: The gear reduction assembly that transmits torque from the transmission to the tracks.
- Bevel Gear Case: A housing containing the bevel gears that split power to the left and right final drives.
Symptoms of Steering Failure and Clutch Decline
Operators of aging CD5 units often report diminished steering response, particularly on one side. In the field, this manifests as:

• The machine rolling freely downhill when steering levers are pulled
  
• Inability to pivot or turn effectively
  
• Clutch pedal failing to return fully after depression
  
• Difficulty shifting gears due to rotating shafts not being stopped
  
• Milky or contaminated oil in steering clutch housings
  

These symptoms suggest wear in the clutch friction discs, brake bands, or contamination from leaking seals. In some cases, water ingress from swamp work accelerates deterioration.
A Story from the Arkansas Lowlands
A landowner in rural Arkansas operated a CD5PB for over a decade, using it to clear brush, build trails, and assist neighbors with site prep. After 200 hours of reliable service following a pin and bushing replacement, the right steering clutch began to fail. The machine would coast downhill without resistance, and turning became nearly impossible. Upon inspection, the dipstick showed milky fluid, and the clutch linkage was stiff. With no indoor workspace and freezing weather, he improvised repairs by draining the housings, adjusting the brake linkage, and soaking seized nuts in penetrant. The result was partial restoration of steering and smoother gear shifts.
Field Repair Techniques and Adjustment Strategy
To restore steering function:

• Drain all compartments beneath the seat, including the clutch housings and bevel gear case
  
• Inspect fluid condition; milky oil indicates water contamination
  
• Remove the clutch linkage and soak in penetrant to free frozen adjustment nuts
  
• Adjust brake band tension to ensure the shaft stops during clutch engagement
  
• Replace fluid with 30W motor oil or equivalent, as specified on the faded lube chart
  
• Monitor fluid levels weekly and top off as needed
  

If seals are leaking into the clutch housing, full disassembly may be required. However, in remote areas, periodic flushing with kerosene followed by fresh oil can extend usability.
Parts Sourcing and Undercarriage Compatibility
Due to limited aftermarket support, owners have adapted components from similar machines:

• Track pins and bushings replaced with Berco KM-910 kits
  
• Oil filter: Wix 51261 or Carquest 85261
  
• Fuel filter: Wix 33394 or Carquest 86394
  
• Sprocket dimensions matched to D21 and BD2G models, though pitch varies slightly
  

Some operators have fabricated custom sprockets or modified idlers to fit available chains. Tolerances between Furukawa and Hitachi DX40 machines are close but not interchangeable without machining.
Preventative Maintenance and Longevity Strategies
To preserve the CD5’s performance:

• Drain steering clutch housings after wet operation
  
• Keep final drive oil clean and topped off
  
• Adjust clutch and brake linkages seasonally
  
• Flush contaminated compartments with kerosene and refill with clean oil
  
• Inspect seals and gaskets annually for seepage
  
• Maintain a service log with fluid types, part numbers, and repair notes
  

For machines stored outdoors, cover the seat and control area to prevent water ingress. In cold climates, pre-warm the engine and clutch housings before operation.
Conclusion
The Furukawa CD5PB swamp dozer remains a capable and resilient machine, especially in rural and wetland environments. While parts scarcity and aging components pose challenges, field repairs and creative adaptations can extend its service life. By understanding the mechanics of its steering clutch system and applying practical maintenance strategies, operators can continue to rely on this compact crawler for years to come. In the world of legacy equipment, ingenuity often proves more valuable than factory support.