For the do-it-yourself group, Caterpillar has created the new Self-Service Option (SS0) to simplify the repair process for them and to provide assistance with routine repair work on their own.
“With us, nobody is left in the lurch when they reach for a ratchet, pneumatic screwdriver or torque wrench while they want to exchange a spare part, but they receive the right instructions on how to proceed. With such repair options, we support customers with spare parts, service manuals and technical support so that they can maintain machine performance,” says Thomas Steimer, Zeppelin product manager for service.
If you want to service your construction machines yourself, you can order the new or overhauled parts you need – the instructions linked to the respective machine show you step by step what needs to be done. The complexity of the work is already indicated upon purchase. The instructions for the exchange of components, which can be done at the same time, are supplemented. In addition to instructions, safety guidelines are also pointed out and how a clean repair must be carried out. Also recommended are sourced tools needed when working on Cat construction equipment. What is required here for proper repair is optionally available for purchase.
Zeppelin has initially activated the SSO for Cat wheel loaders 906M and 908M. Further models are to be successively released in the future. The SSO was initially developed for 300 compact machines, including mini excavators, delta and skid steer loaders, small wheel loaders, backhoe loaders, telehandlers, mobile excavators and bulldozers. It is planned to expand the offer. When new models are launched on the market, the SIS (Service Information System) is expanded and adjusted accordingly. Those wishing to use the service must already have an account and be able to access the information provided by the electronic service tool, which contains all information for Cat products from 1977 to the present. This includes around two million service graphics, 1.5 million part numbers and 44,000 spare parts/service documents. According to the manufacturer, this tool corresponds to more than 25,000 books that are immediately available with just a few mouse clicks. Thus, customers who use these tools receive support for common repair steps.
In the case of the SSO, this affects the central components of the engine, engine peripheral parts such as starters, alternators and fuel pumps, coolers, service brakes for the drive train and hydraulic spare parts. And how does the new service work? First, the serial number of the machine in the customer portal must be found for which repair options are to be displayed. Then users open the SIS and click on repair. Then the relevant machine component to be repaired or replaced and the service instructions must be selected. The SSO contains a predefined list of genuine Cat parts. They may be new or refurbished and are tailored to each machine model. A new window will then open. The service instructions, which are available in several languages, then guide you through the repair step-by-step, including information on safety and contamination control. All other parts required for the repair can also be ordered with one click using the shopping cart function in SIS.
Caterpillar dealers like Zeppelin advise customers on the application. If you are interested, you can get in touch with the responsible contact person in the respective branch, who will initiate everything that is necessary, but also support customers who are still unsure if they have questions about the corresponding repair.
