Evaluating a 1983 Caterpillar 963 Track Loader for Purchase

[MikePhua]

The 963 and Its Historical Role in Earthmoving
The Caterpillar 963 track loader was introduced in the early 1980s as part of Cat’s push to modernize its mid-size loader lineup. Combining the lifting power of a dozer with the versatility of a bucket-equipped loader, the 963 became a popular choice for contractors, municipalities, and land-clearing crews. Powered by the Cat 3204 diesel engine, the original 963 delivered around 125 horsepower and featured a hydrostatic transmission—an innovation at the time that allowed smoother directional changes and variable speed control.
With an operating weight of approximately 30,000 lbs and a bucket capacity near 2.5 cubic yards, the 963 was designed to bridge the gap between smaller rubber-tired loaders and full-size crawler dozers. Its ability to dig, load, grade, and push made it a multi-role machine, especially valuable in confined or uneven terrain.
Key Inspection Points Before Purchase
When considering a 1983 model, several components require close attention due to age and wear:

• Undercarriage condition
  Check track pads, rollers, sprockets, and idlers for wear. A worn undercarriage can cost upwards of $15,000 to rebuild.
  
• Hydrostatic transmission response
  Test forward and reverse transitions under load. Hesitation or jerky movement may indicate pump or motor wear.
  
• Engine health
  Listen for knocking, excessive blow-by, or hard starts. The Cat 3204 is durable but sensitive to poor maintenance.
  
• Bucket pins and lift arms
  Inspect for excessive play, cracked welds, or hydraulic leaks. Re-bushing the loader linkage can be labor-intensive.
  
• Cab and controls
  Verify that gauges, levers, and pedals function properly. Electrical systems on older machines may have degraded insulation or corroded connectors.
  

A contractor in Missouri once purchased a 1984 963 for $18,000, only to discover the transmission pump had internal scoring. The repair cost exceeded $12,000, nearly matching the purchase price.
Parts Availability and Support
While the 963 is no longer in production, Caterpillar continues to support legacy machines through its dealer network and remanufacturing program. Key components like hydraulic cylinders, filters, and seals are readily available. However, some parts—especially electrical modules and cab components—may require sourcing from salvage yards or aftermarket suppliers.
Recommended sourcing strategies:

• Use the serial number prefix to match parts accurately
  
• Cross-reference with later 963B and 963C models for compatible components
  
• Consult local rebuild shops for hydrostatic pump and motor service
  
• Join regional equipment networks for used parts and donor machines
  

Performance Expectations and Use Cases
A well-maintained 963 can still perform competitively in:

• Land clearing and debris loading
  
• Demolition site prep
  
• Road base grading
  
• Agricultural feedlot cleanup
  
• Small-scale excavation
  

Its hydrostatic drive allows precise control in tight quarters, while the track system provides traction on soft or uneven ground. However, fuel consumption averages 5–7 gallons per hour, and older machines lack modern emissions controls.
Upgrade and Retrofit Potential
Owners have successfully retrofitted older 963s with:

• LED lighting systems
  
• Modern seat and cab insulation
  
• Auxiliary hydraulic circuits for attachments
  
• Rebuilt final drives with upgraded seals
  
• Custom-built ROPS or FOPS structures for forestry work
  

These upgrades can extend usability and improve operator comfort, especially for machines used in seasonal or remote operations.
A Story from the Field
In 2021, a land reclamation crew in Alberta acquired a 1983 963 for $14,000. The machine had sat idle for five years but showed minimal rust. After replacing the batteries, filters, and hydraulic hoses, they used it to clear brush and load gravel for a rural road project. The loader ran 400 hours that season without major issues. The crew later added a canopy and auxiliary valve to run a root rake, turning the old 963 into a versatile site prep tool.
Conclusion
Purchasing a 1983 Caterpillar 963 can be a smart move if the machine is structurally sound and the buyer is prepared for legacy maintenance. With proper inspection, sourcing strategy, and realistic expectations, the 963 remains a capable workhorse. In the world of used iron, age is not the enemy—neglect is. When the steel is solid and the hydraulics flow clean, even a four-decade-old loader can still move the earth.