325 VM and VH Variable Gauge Undercarriage Recoil Spring - Assemble Caterpillar

Assembly Procedure

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The spring of the recoil spring assembly is compressed under several tons of force. Do not attempt to compress or release the tension of the spring with the nut on the end of the retaining rod. Damaged threads on the retaining rod or nut can cause the assembly to come apart with force, resulting in injury or death.

Note: Prior to assembling the recoil spring assembly, make sure that Tooling (A) is on a level surface.

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Illustration 1	g02160822

1. Check the condition of the threads on cylinder (9) and nut (7). If the threads are worn or damaged, use new parts for replacement.

2. Assemble the recoil spring assembly loosely. Position spring (10) and plate (11) onto cylinder (9).
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   Illustration 2	g00483426

3. Install Tooling (C) on Tooling (B).
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   Illustration 3	g02160893

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   Illustration 4	g02160909

   Note: Two adjustable supports (2), reaction plate (3), and movable plate (4) are part of Tooling (A).

4. Adjust the spacing between reaction plate (3) and movable plate (4) so that the spacing is approximately the same length as the recoil spring assembly. Also, make sure that two adjustable supports (2) are positioned between the reaction plate and the movable plate, as shown. Level the two supports.

   Note: The recoil spring assembly may be installed in Tooling (A) from the end. In this case, reaction plate (3) must be removed. Then reinstall the reaction plate after the recoil spring assembly is in place on two adjustable supports (2).

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   NOTICE
   Do not remove the hoist from the recoil spring assembly until the unit is leveled, centered and locked in the specified tooling.

5. The combined weight of the recoil spring assembly is approximately 132 kg (290 lb).

6. Fasten a suitable lifting device to the recoil spring assembly. Put the recoil spring assembly in position on two adjustable supports (2) in Tooling (A).

7. Adjust the two adjustable supports in order to align the centerline of the recoil spring assembly with the centerline of Tooling (A).
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   Illustration 5	g02161442
   The hoist has been removed from the recoil spring assembly in order to provide a better illustration of level gauge (4).

8. Operate Tooling (B) and guide the end of the recoil spring assembly through the hole in reaction plate (3). Put a level gauge (5) on the recoil spring assembly. Make sure that the recoil spring assembly is level and centered in Tooling (A). Remove the suitable lifting device from the recoil spring assembly.
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   Illustration 6	g02160899

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   Illustration 7	g02160821

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   Improper assembly of parts that are spring loaded can cause bodily injury. To prevent possible injury, follow the established assembly procedure and wear protective equipment.

9. Close covers (8) on Tooling (A). Compress the recoil spring assembly with Tooling (B).

10. Open the covers on Tooling (A). Install nut (7). Tighten nut (7) with Tooling (D). Tighten the nut until the spring pin hole in the cylinder and nut (7) align with each other.

11. If the spring pin holes are not aligned with each other, close covers (8) on Tooling (A), and adjust the spring length with Tooling (B). If the assembled length is correct, then assembly of the recoil spring assembly can be completed.

12. Attach a suitable lifting device to the recoil spring assembly, and remove the recoil spring assembly from Tooling (A). The weight of the recoil spring assembly is approximately 132 kg (290 lb).
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    Illustration 8	g02160900

13. Use a suitable hammer and punch to install spring pin (1).

End By:

1. Install the front idler, recoil spring, and hydraulic track adjuster.