TD-15C Dozer Field Repairs and Winch Cable Challenges

[MikePhua]

The TD-15C and Its Industrial Heritage
The International Harvester TD-15C crawler dozer was introduced in the early 1980s as part of the company’s long-standing TD-series lineup. Designed for mid-range earthmoving, forestry, and utility work, the TD-15C featured a robust frame, torque converter transmission, and a six-cylinder diesel engine delivering around 170 horsepower. It was often paired with rear-mounted winches, rippers, and custom forestry guards, making it a versatile platform for contractors and land-clearing crews.
International Harvester, later absorbed into Dresser and eventually Komatsu America, built the TD-series to compete with Caterpillar’s D6 and D7 models. The TD-15C was particularly popular in North America, with thousands sold across logging operations, roadbuilding projects, and municipal fleets.
Stabilizer Arm Failure and Track Frame Alignment
One of the more unusual field failures reported on the TD-15C involves the track frame stabilizer arm—a component that maintains vertical alignment between the track frame and the main chassis. This arm allows the track frame to slide up and down slightly, absorbing terrain irregularities and reducing stress on the undercarriage.
In one case, a poorly repaired stabilizer arm gave out during operation, causing the right track frame to misalign and bind. The operator had to dismantle the cobbled welds and rebuild the assembly to factory spec. This involved:

• Removing the track frame and inspecting the slide rails
  
• Replacing worn bushings and shims
  
• Rebuilding the pivot points with hardened steel
  
• Reinstalling the arm with proper preload and alignment
  

Such failures are rare but can occur when machines are used in rocky terrain or subjected to improper welding repairs. Recommendations include:

• Inspecting stabilizer arms during every undercarriage service
  
• Avoiding field welds without proper reinforcement
  
• Using OEM or heavy-duty aftermarket components for rebuilds
  
• Applying anti-seize to slide rails to prevent galling
  

Carco F-50 Winch and Free-Spool Cable Issues
The TD-15C is often equipped with a Carco F-50 winch, a heavy-duty mechanical winch designed for logging and recovery tasks. The winch includes a free-spool lever, allowing the cable drum to rotate freely for manual payout. This lever is connected to a control fork via a cable, which can break or seize over time.
When the free-spool cable breaks, operators may struggle to remove it from the fork assembly. The correct procedure involves:

• Removing the winch lid to access the control fork
  
• Locating the set screw that secures the cable sleeve
  
• Backing out the set screw with a hex key or flat driver
  
• Rotating the cable counterclockwise to unthread it from the fork
  
• Inspecting the fork for wear or burrs before installing a new cable
  

Technicians recommend using stainless steel cables with reinforced sleeves to prevent future failures. Lubricating the cable ends and fork threads with graphite grease can ease installation and reduce corrosion.
Parts Sourcing and Dealer Networks
Although the TD-15C is no longer in production, parts remain available through specialized dealers. Recommended sources include:

• General Gear in Salt Lake City, known for IH and Dresser parts
  
• Collins Equipment in Tennessee, specializing in TD-15 and TD-20 components
  
• Roland Machinery in Wisconsin and Illinois, offering legacy IH support
  
• Online salvage yards and auction platforms for used assemblies
  

Operators should maintain a parts manual and cross-reference part numbers with Dresser and Komatsu catalogs. Many components, including hydraulic cylinders and undercarriage parts, are interchangeable with later TD-series machines.
Field Anecdotes and Practical Advice
One operator in Idaho acquired a 1984 TD-15C along with a Ford tri-axle dump and an International water truck in a trade involving cash and 48 yards of 2-inch rock. After repairing the track frame and winch cable, the machine returned to service for land clearing and pad construction.
Another mechanic in British Columbia noted that the winch cable is often threaded into the fork with a locking set screw. Once the screw is removed, the cable can be spun out easily. He emphasized that cable length and lever style vary, so matching the replacement precisely is critical.
Recommendations for TD-15C Owners
To maintain and operate the TD-15C effectively:

• Inspect track frame stabilizers annually or after heavy impact
  
• Use OEM-grade cables and lubricants for winch repairs
  
• Keep a parts manual and build sheet for cross-referencing
  
• Avoid welding structural components without proper reinforcement
  
• Partner with legacy IH dealers for technical support
  
• Document all repairs and modifications for future reference
  

Conclusion
The TD-15C remains a capable and respected dozer in the field, even decades after its production ended. With proper maintenance and attention to detail, it can continue performing heavy tasks reliably. Whether rebuilding a track frame or replacing a winch cable, the key lies in understanding the machine’s design, sourcing quality parts, and applying field-tested repair techniques. In the world of legacy iron, knowledge and craftsmanship keep the steel moving.