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In 2008, upcoming environmental standards caused them to exit the on-highway diesel engine market, which had only ever lead to a small portion of their sales anyway.Ĭaterpillar first began producing the 3406E in 1993. They began building truck engines for both on- and off-highway applications, and entered the global market. The timing could not have been more perfect, as there was a construction boom after World War II that caused the company enormous success that is still showing.Īfter Caterpillar completely took over the construction market, the company began branching out in the late part of the 1900s. The second big step was a focus on developing and manufacturing construction equipment. The first big step in recovery was that Caterpillar began making diesel engines, which debuted in 1931. This merger wasnt quite enough to increase finances, however. The new company name was based on Ben Holts infamous design, and Caterpillar with a capital C was officially born. In 1925, the two giants merged in an effort to solve both of their financial issues. Both companies prospered in the early 1900s because of World War I, but business fell drastically after the war. Holt Manufacturing Company did well, but also had a strong competitor: C. The product quickly became the hot item for Bens company, the Holt Manufacturing Company. This track system is what gave Caterpillar its name, as the unique way the machines moved was often compared to caterpillars. This changed in 1904, when Benjamin Holt came up with the brilliant idea to replace the wheels with a track system. Various work-arounds were made to try and solve this problem, but none were cost-effective or timely. The soft earth out in California wasnt firm enough for the tractors to work on, and they kept sinking. These giant tractors worked great in most areas of the United States, except for way out West. Looking for replacement parts for your CAT diesel engine? Our ASE Certified Technicians are here to help you get the best parts for your engine! Give Us A Call!Ībout a century and a half ago, steam tractors were used as the primary tool in agricultural development. Are you curious about your Caterpillar 3406E diesel engine? Well, we're taking you through this engine in detail, so wonder no more! Read on to learn the history of the engine, as well as some common failures you might experience.
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