We have a D5K2 LGP dozer purchased new in 2007 for ranch work. The machine has 800 hours on it. Machine recently lost power and was blowing white smoke out exhaust. Mechanic determined through code thrown that the 597-4344 DEF Dosing Module was faulty. We replaced the $1406.51 part. Computer would not reset to remove the fault code and allow machine to operate properly. After further investigation it was determined that the DEF Dosing Module had malfunctioned and forced DEF fluid through the wiring harness all the way back into the CPU causing extensive damage. As many know, with a CAT dealer, on warranty, if the hours don't get you the time will. So far they have offered no assistance. I know this part is used on quite a few different machines. We now have knowledge of service letters being sent out on 320 excavators and multiple compactors. I was just wondering how extensive this problem is. It is my opinion that the failure of a federally mandated device causing the wiring harness and CPU to be flooded with DEF fluid destroyed is not a time sensitive nor utilization failure. Our local Cat dealer is very profit oriented and has offered no acceptable solution. We received no service letter and the dealer has offered no assurance that this problem will not happen again. It is not an acceptable operating procedure to remove the side panel bolts and side panel before each starting to determine if a federally mandated device is functioning properly. Just curious if any of my fellow contractors have encountered this problem.
Purchased new in 2017 not 2007
That’s a crazy story. It’s interesting how capillary action will draw fluid down wiring. I have seen similar, but not your example.
Get Cat corporate involved if the dealer won't do anything to help you. 800 hours isn't even broken in yet. Not sure if lemon laws apply to heavy equipment but if it's a common problem on other Cat machines, Cat should be looking after it.
I was hoping to find how common this problem is before contacting Cat corporate. From what little I can determine it is fairly common.
What's wrong with contacting them regardless? You've got a fairly new machine with very low hours and a major problem through no fault of your own. If it wasn't for the time period, it would be a warranty issue. I realize it is technically out of warranty but 800 hours is way too early to have this type of problem.
I wouldn’t hesitate to chat with your PSSR since it’s their job. I’d also let your Cat NACD district person know. They can be harder to contact, but do it anyways.
Emissions usually have an extended warranty period beyond base warranty. I believe it extends out to 5 years now. Your dealer should be going to bat for you , not playing the adversary. 800 hours, as mentioned, hasn't even knocked all the paint off yet. With no additional factors like rodents or chafing causing opens or shorts, you have a legit argument, and they should cover it under "good will" At least they should offer the parts and ask you for labor, something. But to say sorry, we knew this was coming and did nothing to help you, that's just bad customer relations there. Good luck