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The Caterpillar 933 and Its Production History
The Caterpillar 933 track loader was part of Caterpillar’s compact crawler loader lineup, designed for light-to-medium duty earthmoving, grading, and material handling. The original 933 series dates back to the 1950s, but the model underwent several updates over the decades. By the early 1990s, Caterpillar had introduced the 933 with serial prefix 8FL, which was manufactured in Japan and featured improved hydraulics, operator comfort, and parts compatibility with the larger 939 model.
Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, had already established itself as a global leader in tracked equipment, and the 933 filled a niche between skid steers and full-sized dozers. Though not produced in high volumes compared to the 955 or 977 series, the 933 remained popular among contractors and farmers seeking a versatile, maneuverable machine.
Core Specifications and Performance
The 933 with the 8FL serial prefix typically includes:
Comparison with Case 455C and Similar Units
When compared to the Case 455C, the Caterpillar 933 offers:
Manuals and Documentation
Owners of the 933 should seek three key documents:
Field Anecdotes and Practical Advice
A farmer in Arkansas purchased a low-hour 1994 Caterpillar 933 after comparing it with a Case 455C. After consulting a dealer technician and verifying the serial number (8FL00081), he confirmed it was a Japanese-built unit. The machine performed well in clearing fence lines and loading manure, with minimal maintenance required in the first season.
Another operator in Illinois recalled using a 933 in the early 1980s and praised its balance and strength. He noted that the machine could lift more than expected for its size and was particularly effective in tight quarters.
Maintenance Recommendations
The Caterpillar 933 track loader is a capable and well-balanced machine for farm and utility work. Its compact design, reliable hydraulics, and strong dealer support make it a smart choice for operators seeking a durable loader with long-term value. While not as common as larger models, the 933 holds its own in performance and versatility, especially when properly maintained and outfitted with the correct documentation.
The Caterpillar 933 track loader was part of Caterpillar’s compact crawler loader lineup, designed for light-to-medium duty earthmoving, grading, and material handling. The original 933 series dates back to the 1950s, but the model underwent several updates over the decades. By the early 1990s, Caterpillar had introduced the 933 with serial prefix 8FL, which was manufactured in Japan and featured improved hydraulics, operator comfort, and parts compatibility with the larger 939 model.
Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, had already established itself as a global leader in tracked equipment, and the 933 filled a niche between skid steers and full-sized dozers. Though not produced in high volumes compared to the 955 or 977 series, the 933 remained popular among contractors and farmers seeking a versatile, maneuverable machine.
Core Specifications and Performance
The 933 with the 8FL serial prefix typically includes:
- Engine: 4-cylinder diesel, approximately 70–80 horsepower
- Operating weight: Around 14,000–15,000 lb
- Bucket capacity: 0.8–1.0 cubic yards
- Transmission: Powershift or hydrostatic, depending on variant
- Hydraulics: Load-sensing system with pilot controls
- Undercarriage: Six bottom rollers, single grouser tracks
Comparison with Case 455C and Similar Units
When compared to the Case 455C, the Caterpillar 933 offers:
- Smoother hydraulic response, especially in the 8FL variant
- Better parts support through Caterpillar’s global dealer network
- Higher resale value, particularly in North America
- Slightly heavier frame, which improves stability but may reduce floatation on soft ground
Manuals and Documentation
Owners of the 933 should seek three key documents:
- Operation and Maintenance Manual (SEBU6732): Covers fluid types, service intervals, and basic troubleshooting
- Parts Manual (SEBP2244): Lists all components with exploded diagrams
- Service Manual: Includes hydraulic and electrical schematics, rebuild procedures, and diagnostic flowcharts
Field Anecdotes and Practical Advice
A farmer in Arkansas purchased a low-hour 1994 Caterpillar 933 after comparing it with a Case 455C. After consulting a dealer technician and verifying the serial number (8FL00081), he confirmed it was a Japanese-built unit. The machine performed well in clearing fence lines and loading manure, with minimal maintenance required in the first season.
Another operator in Illinois recalled using a 933 in the early 1980s and praised its balance and strength. He noted that the machine could lift more than expected for its size and was particularly effective in tight quarters.
Maintenance Recommendations
- Change hydraulic fluid every 500 hours, using Cat HYDO Advanced 10 or equivalent
- Inspect track tension monthly, especially after working in mud or gravel
- Grease all pivot points weekly, including bucket pins and lift arms
- Monitor transmission fluid and filter condition, especially in powershift models
- Keep manuals on hand for reference during repairs or parts ordering
The Caterpillar 933 track loader is a capable and well-balanced machine for farm and utility work. Its compact design, reliable hydraulics, and strong dealer support make it a smart choice for operators seeking a durable loader with long-term value. While not as common as larger models, the 933 holds its own in performance and versatility, especially when properly maintained and outfitted with the correct documentation.
