TM 5-3895-383-24 This list of possible problems and possible corrections will only provide an indication of the location of a problem and the repairs that are required.  Remember that a problem is not necessarily caused by one part, but by the relation of one part with other parts.  This list can not provide all possible problems and corrections.  Service personnel must find the problem and the source of the problem.  Then, complete the necessary repairs. Perform a visual inspection first.  If the visual checks are completed but the problem has not been identified, perform operational checks.  If the problem is not understood, perform instrument tests.  This procedure will help to identify problems in the leveling blade system. Hydraulic System Pressure Release 1. Move the machine to a smooth horizontal location. Move away from working machines and personnel. Stop the engine. 2. Permit only one operator on the machine.  Keep all other personnel either away from the machine or in view of the operator. 3. Move all hydraulic controls to all positions to release any pressure in the hydraulic system. 4. Carefully loosen the filler cap on the hydraulic tank to release any pressure in the tank. 5. Activate the parking brake. 6. During certain performance tests it will be necessary to release the parking brake to help drum movement when turns are required. 7. Make sure all hydraulic pressure is released before any fitting, hose or component is loosened, tightened, removed or adjusted. 8. The pressure in the system has now been released and lines or components can be removed. Visual Inspection SMCS Code:  6060-035; 6151-035 Escaping fluid under pressure, even a pinhole size leak, can penetrate body tissue, causing serious injury, and possible death.  If fluid is injected into your skin, it must be treated immediately by a doctor familiar with this type of injury. Always use a board or cardboard when checking for a leak. Personal injury can result from hydraulic oil pressure and hot oil. Hydraulic oil pressure can remain in the hydraulic system after the engine has been stopped.  Serious injury can be caused if this pressure is not released before any service is done on the hydraulic system. Make sure all of the attachments have been lowered, oil is cool before removing any components or lines.  Remove the oil filler cap only when the engine is stopped, and the filler cap is cool enough to touch with your bare hand. NOTICE Care must be taken to ensure that fluids are contained during performance of inspection, maintenance, testing, adjusting and repair of the product.  Be prepared to collect the fluid with suitable containers before opening any compartment or disassembling any component containing fluids. Refer to Special Publication, NENG2500, "Caterpillar Tools and Shop Products Guide" for tools and supplies suitable to collect and contain fluids on Caterpillar products. Dispose of all fluids according to local regulations and mandates. Perform visual checks first when you are troubleshooting a problem.  Before you make these checks, stop the engine and apply the parking brake.  Shift the propel control lever to the NEUTRAL position.  During these checks, use a magnet to separate ferrous particles (iron) from nonferrous particles (O-ring seals, aluminum, bronze, etc.), if necessary. 1. Check the oil level of the hydraulic oil tank. 2. Look for air bubbles in the oil or water in the oil immediately after the machine is stopped.  Use a dear bottle or a container in order to get a sample of the oil. Refer to Operation and Maintenance Manual, "Lubricant Viscosities and Refill Capacities" for the recommended oil grade and the recommended oil viscosity. a. Air bubbles may be caused by a fitting that is loose or damaged.  A loose fitting or damaged fitting allows air to enter the suction side of the system and oil is also allowed to leak. 3. Check all oil lines, all hoses, and all connections for damage and for leaks.  Look for oil on the ground under the machine. NOTE: If oil can leak out of a fitting or out of a connection, air can leak into the system.  Air in the system is as harmful as having too little oil. 13-17