How to Identify Caterpillar Equipment

by Kyle McBride

Caterpillar has been in business over 80 years and manufactures over 300 different machines, engines and attachments for heavy industrial and construction use. According to Caterpillar, it has grown to be the world's largest maker of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. Each can be identified as a Caterpillar product by its Product Identification Number (PIN). The PIN is imprinted on a plate somewhere on the vehicle or equipment. The PIN contains the coding to identify the product and the equipment's serial number.

Step 1

Locate the PIN plate on a vehicle engine. The plate is typically mounted on the cylinder block on the right rear side.

Step 2

Locate the PIN plate on a Wheel Loader. The plate is typically mounted on the left side of the front frame, forward of the operator station.

Step 3

Locate the PIN plate on a Backhoe Loader. The plate is typically mounted on the left side of the front frame near the cab.

Step 4

Locate the PIN plate on a Skid Steer Loader or a Multi-Terrain Loader. The plate is typically mounted on the rear of the loader in a visible position.

Step 5

Note the model number on the PIN plate. Go to the Caterpillar Product Line catalog link in "Resources" and look up the model number to identify the equipment.

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