when i get into the cat SIS system with my serial number - there are so many choices down the Left panel. What is the best way to use this system if i wanted to check to see what repairs or even a history on the machine, where it was made - engine type - or other helpful information? or does this system not give info on the specific history of the serial number?
That information is not contained in SIS.
is there a good way to use the serial number to get any information on what cat might have done with it over the years? sorta like a carfax report? the cat website for parts and access to the SIS with the serial number is used mostly how? and thank you.
No. All information regsrding what maintenance/repairs were done to a particular machine are 100% dependent on whether or not a dealer did the work. Apart from that a machine that may have passed through the hands of more than one dealer in its life will have work records kept in different places. The only information that is centrally-held is in respect of the application of OEM-mandated updates. If a particular machine was not dealer-maintained throughout part or all of its life you are **** out of luck.
For finding Parts and Service technical information related to the machine, not historical info.