Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Foreword
SMCS - 1264-015
This manual contains safety, operation, transportation, lubrication and maintenance information.
Some photographs or illustrations in this publication show details or attachments that may be different from your machine. Guards and covers may have been removed for illustrative purposes.
Continuing improvement and advancement of product design may have caused changes to your machine which are not included in this publication.
Read-study-and keep the "Operation and Maintenance Manual" with the machine.
Whenever a question arises regarding your machine, or this publication, please consult your Caterpillar dealer for the latest available information.
Safety
The safety section lists basic safety precautions. In addition, this section identifies the text and locations of warning labels used on the machine.
Read and understand the basic precautions listed in the safety section before operating or performing lubrication, maintenance and repair on this product.
Operation
The operation section is a reference for the new operator and a refresher for the experienced one. This section includes a discussion of gauges, switches, machine controls, implement controls, transportation and towing information.
Photographs and illustrations guide the operator through correct procedures of checking, starting, operating and stopping the machine.
Operating techniques outlined in this publication are basic. Skill and techniques develop as the operator gains knowledge of the machine and its capabilities.
Maintenance
The maintenance section is a guide to equipment care. The illustrated, step-by-step instructions are grouped by servicing intervals. Items without specific intervals are listed under "When Required" topics. Items in the "Maintenance Intervals" chart are referenced to detailed instructions that follow.
Maintenance Intervals
Use the service hour meter to determine servicing intervals. Calendar intervals shown (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.) may be used instead of service hour meter intervals if they provide more convenient servicing schedules and approximate the indicated service hour meter reading. Recommended service should always be performed at the interval that occurs first.
Under extremely severe, dusty or wet operating conditions, more frequent lubrication than is specified in the "Maintenance Interval" chart may be necessary.
Perform service on items at multiples of the original requirement. For example, at "Every 500 Service Hours or 3 Months", also service those items listed under "Every 250 Service Hours or Monthly", "Every 50 Service Hours or Weekly" and "Every 10 Service Hours or Daily."
Machine Description
This machine is equipped with a four cylinder, direct injection diesel 3114 engine. It has a 4 speed countershaft transmission and hydrostatic power steering. The machine is primarily used for excavating and moving material. Copyright 1993 - 2024 Caterpillar Inc.
Network For SIS Licensees. Sun Apr 7 02:20:59 UTC+0530 2024
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Safety
SMCS - 1264-015
Warning Signs and Labels
There are several specific safety signs on your machine. Their exact location and description of the hazard are reviewed in this section. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with these safety signs.
Make sure that you can read all safety signs. Clean or replace these if you cannot read the words or see the pictures. When cleaning the labels use a cloth, water and soap. Do not use solvent, gasoline, etc.
You must replace a label if it is damaged, missing or cannot be read. If a label is on a part that is replaced, make sure a new label is installed on the replaced part. See your Caterpillar dealer for new labels.
Do not operate or work on the machine unless you have read and understand the instructions and warnings in the Operations and Maintenance Manual. Failure to follow the instructions or heed the warnings could result in injury or death. Contact any Caterpillar dealer for replacement manuals. Proper care is your responsibility.
Stay clear of this area when machine is operating. You can be crushed by swinging boom.
Located on rear of machine.
General Hazard Information
Attach "DO NOT OPERATE" or similar warning tag to start switch or controls before servicing or repairing the machine. These tags, Form SEHS7332, are available from your Caterpillar dealer.
Wear a hard hat, protective glasses and other protective equipment as required by job conditions.
Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that can catch on controls or other parts of the machine.
Make certain all protective guards and covers are secured in place on the machine.
Keep the machine, especially the platform doorways and steps, free of foreign material, such as debris, oil, tools and other items which are not part of the machine.
Secure all loose items such as lunch boxes, tools and other items which are not part of the machine.
Know the appropriate work-site hand signals and who gives them. Accept signals from one person only.
Never put maintenance fluids into glass containers.
Use all cleaning solutions with care.
Report all needed repairs.
Do not allow unauthorized personnel on the machine.
* The parking brake engaged.
* The loader bucket lowered to the ground.
* The backhoe in transport position.
* The transmission levers in neutral and forward-reverse (neutral) lock engaged.
* The engine stopped.
* The start switch key removed.
Pressure Air
Pressure air can cause personal injury. When using pressure air for cleaning, wear a protective face shield and protective clothing.
The maximum air pressure must be below 205 kPa (30 psi) for cleaning purposes.
Fluid Penetration
Always use a board or cardboard when checking for a leak. 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 removed surgically by a doctor familiar with this kind of injury within a few hours.
Asbestos Information
Caution should be used to avoid breathing dust that may be generated when handling components containing asbestos fibers. If this dust is inhaled, it can be hazardous to your health. Components in Caterpillar products that may contain asbestos fibers are brake pads, brake band and lining assemblies, clutch plates and some gaskets. The asbestos used in these components is usually bound in a resin or sealed in some way. Normal handling is not hazardous as long as airborne dust which contains asbestos is not generated.
If dust which may contain asbestos is present, there are several common sense guidelines that should be followed.
1. Never use compressed air for cleaning.
2. Avoid brushing or grinding of asbestos containing materials.
3. For clean up, use wet methods or a vacuum equipped with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
4. Use exhaust ventilation on permanent machining jobs.
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5. Wear an approved respirator if there is no other way to control the dust.
6. Comply with applicable rules and regulations for the work place (for example in the U.S.A., OSHA requirements as set forth in 29 CFR 1910.1001).
7. Follow environmental rules and regulations for disposal of asbestos.
8. Avoid areas where asbestos particles may be in the air.
Crushing or Cutting Prevention
Support loader and backhoe buckets and linkages properly when working beneath them. Do not depend on hydraulic cylinders to hold them up. Any implement can fall if a control is moved, or a hydraulic line breaks.
Never attempt adjustments while the machine is moving or the engine is running unless otherwise specified.
Where there are implement linkages, the clearance in the linkage area will increase or decrease with movement of the implement.
Stay clear of all rotating and moving parts.
Keep objects away from moving fan blades. They will throw or cut any object or tool that falls or is pushed into them.
Do not use a kinked or frayed wire rope cable. Wear gloves when handling the wire rope cable.
Retainer pins, when struck with force, can fly out and injure nearby persons. Keep personnel away from area.
Wear protective glasses when striking a retainer pin to avoid injury to your eyes.
Chips or other debris can fly off objects when struck. Make sure no one can be injured by flying debris before striking any object.
Burn Prevention
Coolant
At operating temperature, the engine coolant is hot and under pressure. The radiator and all lines to heaters or the engine contain hot water or steam. Any contact can cause severe burns.
Steam can cause personal injury.
Check the coolant level only after the engine has been stopped and the filler cap is cool enough to remove with your bare hand.
Remove the cooling system filler cap slowly to relieve pressure.
Cooling system conditioner contains alkali that can cause personal injury. Avoid contact with the skin and eyes and do not drink.
Allow cooling system components to cool before draining.
Oils
Hot oil and components can cause personal injury. Do not allow hot oil or components to contact the skin.
At operating temperature, the hydraulic tank is hot and can be under pressure.
Remove the hydraulic tank filler cap only after the engine has been stopped and the filler cap is cool enough to remove with your bare hand.
Remove the hydraulic tank filler cap slowly to relieve pressure.
Relieve all pressure in oil, fuel or cooling systems before any lines, fittings or related items are disconnected or removed.
Batteries
Batteries give off flammable fumes which can explode.
Do not smoke when observing the battery electrolyte levels.
Electrolyte is an acid and cause personal injury if it contacts skin or eyes.
Always wear protective glasses when working with batteries.
Fire or Explosion Prevention
All fuels, most lubricants and some coolant mixtures are flammable.
Fuel leaked or spilled onto hot surfaces or electrical components can cause a fire.
Do not smoke while refueling or in a refueling area.
Do not smoke in areas where batteries are charged, or where flammable materials are stored.
Batteries in series may be located in separate compartments. When using jumper cables always connect positive (+) cable to positive (+) terminal of battery connected to starter solenoid and negative (-) cable from external source to starter negative (-) terminal. (If not equipped with starter negative terminal, connect to engine block.)
See the "Operation Section" of this manual for specific jump starting instructions.
Clean and tighten all electrical connections. Check daily for loose or frayed electrical wires. Have all loose or frayed electrical wires tightened, repaired or replaced before operating the machine.
Keep all fuels and lubricants stored in properly marked containers. Store and lock them away from all unauthorized persons.
Store all oily rags or other flammable material in a protective container, in a safe place.
Do not weld or flame cut on pipes or tubes that contain flammable fluids. Clean them thoroughly with nonflammable solvent before welding or flame cutting on them.
Remove all flammable materials such as fuel, oil and other debris before they accumulate on the machine.
Do not expose the machine to flames, burning brush, etc.
Shields, which protect hot exhaust components from oil or fuel spray in the event of a line, tube or seal failure, must be installed correctly.
Have a fire extinguisher available and know how to use it. Inspect and have it serviced as recommended on its instruction plate.
Ether
Ether is poisonous and flammable.
Breathing ether vapors or repeated contact of ether with skin can cause personal injury.
Use ether only in well ventilated areas.
Do not smoke while changing ether cylinders.
Use ether with care to avoid fires.
Do not store replacement ether cylinders in living areas or in the operator's compartment.
Do not store ether cylinders in direct sunlight or at temperatures above 39°C (102°F).
Discard cylinders in a safe container. Do not puncture or burn cylinders.
Keep ether cylinders out of the reach of unauthorized personnel.
Lines, Tubes and Hoses
Do not bend or strike high pressure lines. Do not install bent or damaged lines, tubes or hoses.
Repair any loose or damaged fuel and oil lines, tubes and hoses. Leaks can cause fires. Contact your Caterpillar dealer for repair or replacement.
Inspect all lines, tubes and hoses carefully. Do not use your bare hand to check for leaks. Use a board or cardboard to check for leaks. See "Fluid Penetration" in the "Safety" section for more details. Check and tighten all connections to the recommended torque periodically. Replace if any of the following conditions are found.
1. End fittings damaged or leaking.
2. Outer covering chafed or cut and wire reinforcing exposed.
3. Outer covering ballooning locally.
4. Evidence of kinking or crushing of the flexible part of hose.
5. Armouring embedded in the outer cover.
6. End fittings displaced.
Make sure that all clamps, guards and heat shields, are installed correctly to prevent vibration, rubbing against other parts and excessive heat during operation.
Tire Information
Explosions of air-inflated machine tires have resulted from heat-induced gas combustion inside the tires. The heat, generated by welding or heating rim components or external fire can cause gaseous combustion.
A tire explosion is much more violent than a blowout. The explosion can propel the tire, rim and final drive components as far as 500 m (1500 ft) or more from the machine. Both the force of the explosion and the flying debris can cause personal injury or death, and property damage.
Do not approach a tire closer than the outside of the area represented by the shaded area in the above drawing.
Stand behind the tread and use a self-attaching chuck when inflating a tire.
Servicing and changing tires and rims can be dangerous and should be done only by trained personnel using proper tools and procedures. If correct procedures are not followed while servicing tires and rims, the assemblies could burst with explosive force and cause serious personal injury or death. Follow carefully the specific information provided by your tire or rim servicing man or dealer.
Mounting and Dismounting
Mount and dismount the machine only where steps and/or handholds are provided.
Use both hands and face the machine, when mounting and dismounting. Maintain a three point hand and/or feet contact on mounting hardware.
Never get on or off a moving machine. Never jump off the machine.
Do not try to climb on or off the machine when carrying tools or supplies.
Before Starting the Engine
Start the engine only from the operator's station. Never short across the starter terminals or across the batteries, as this could bypass the engine neutral-start system as well as damage the electrical system.
Inspect the condition of the seat belt and mounting hardware. Replace any damaged or worn parts. Replace the seat belt regardless of appearance after three years of use, because of deterioration of material.
Adjust the seat so that full brake pedal travel can be obtained with the operator's back against the seat back.
Make sure the pedal lock bar is in locked position above 1st gear to prevent sudden turning.
Make sure the machine is equipped with a lighting system as required by conditions.
Make sure all lights are working properly.
Check for leaks, cracks, loose or missing bolts, tire or machine damage.
Make sure no one is working on, underneath or close to the machine before starting the engine or beginning to move the machine. Make sure the area is free of personnel.
Engine Starting
Do not start the engine or move any of the controls if there is a "DO NOT OPERATE" or similar warning tag attached to the start switch or controls.
Move all implement controls to the HOLD position before starting the engine.
Engage the parking brake. Shift the transmission control levers to NEUTRAL and engage the Forward-Reverse (Neutral) lock.
Avoid possible injury or death from a runaway machine. Start the engine only while facing forward and seated in the operator's seat. Turn seat to backhoe operation after starting.
Start and operate the engine in a well ventilated area only. In an enclosed area, vent the exhaust to the outside.
Before Operating the Machine
Stabilizers must be in the correct position, before operating the machine. Raise stabilizers completely for transport or for loader operation. Lower stabilizers before operating backhoe. DO NOT DIG UNDER THE STABILIZERS.
Clear all personnel from the machine and the area. Make sure personnel are not in reach of backhoe or in path of loader.
Clear all obstacles from the path of the machine. Beware of hazards such as wires, power lines, ditches, etc.
On cab equipped machines, be sure all windows are clean. Secure the doors and windows in either the open or shut position while operating.
For best vision, especially close to the machine, adjust the rear view mirrors.
Make sure the machine horn, the back-up alarm (if equipped) and all other warning devices are working properly.
Fasten the seat belt securely.
Check for proper operation of all controls and protective devices while moving slowly in an open area.
Machine Operation
When operating the backhoe, engage the parking brake, put transmission in neutral, and ENGAGE FORWARD-REVERSE LOCK.
Operate the machine only while seated.
Operate the controls only with the engine running unless servicing machine.
The operator must satisfy himself that no one will be endangered before moving or operating the machine.
Do not allow riders on the machine unless additional seat, seat belt and Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) are provided.
Report any needed repairs noted during operation.
Carry loader bucket close to the ground. Backhoe should be in transport position.
Stay a safe distance from the edge of cliffs, overhangs and slide areas.
If the machine begins to sideslip on a grade, immediately dispose of the load and turn the machine downhill.
Avoid conditions which could lead to tipping when working on hills, banks or slopes, and when crossing ditches, ridges or other obstructions.
Work up and down slopes, rather than sideways, whenever possible.
Keep the machine under control and do not work it over its capacity.
Be sure hitch points and the towing device are adequate.
Connect trailing equipment to a drawbar or hitch only.
Never straddle a wire rope cable or similar device, nor allow others to do so.
Personnel should not be between the machine and equipment when maneuvering to connect them. Block the tongue or hitch of trailing equipment to align it with the drawbar or hitch.
Know the maximum height and reach of your machine.
Always keep the Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS) (if equipped) installed when operating the machine.
Do not operate the machine above 2nd gear with a loaded bucket.
Do not negotiate turns at higher machine speeds with a loaded bucket more than 380 mm (15 in) off the ground to avoid possible tipping.
Raise the loader bucket to maximum height only for loading a hauling unit.
Machine Parking
Park on a level surface if possible. If necessary to park on a grade, block the machine.
Apply the service brakes to stop the machine. Engage the parking brake.
Shift the transmission control lever to NEUTRAL. Apply the neutral lock.
Lower the loader bucket to the ground and apply slight down pressure.
Put the backhoe in the "transport position". Install the swing lock pin in backhoe.
Stop the engine.
Turn the start switch key to the OFF position.
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Product Identification and Serial Number Locations
SMCS - 1264-015
The Product Identification Number (PIN) will be used to identify powered earthmoving equipment that is designed for an operator to ride.
Caterpillar products such as earthmoving equipment not designed for an operator to ride (engines, transmissions, etc.) are identified by Serial numbers. Also, most major Caterpillar attachments are identified by Serial Numbers.
For quick reference, record the identification numbers in the spaces provided below the photographs.
Product Identification Number (PIN) ____________________ Engine Serial Number
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Specifications and Model Views
SMCS - 1264-015
Model Views
Engine (1), fuel tank (2), loader bucket (3), cab or canopy (4).
Battery compartment (5), stabilizer (6), backhoe bucket (7) and radiator (8).
Updated -11/10/2001
Machine Specifications
Transmission 4-speed forward and reverse - full powershift Caterpillar countershaft electric shift. Constant mesh gears on all ratios permits on-the-go shifting 1st through 4th and down 4th through 1st. Neutral start provision prevents starting machine in gear.
Transmission Disconnect
Hand operated power disconnect for on-the-go shifting and fast loader lift, dump and lower with engine running at high rpm.
Reversing Shuttle
Conveniently placed, hand operated lever provides instant direction changes from forward to reverse with power hydraulic clutches. Copyright 1993 - 2024 Caterpillar Inc.
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual 446 BACKHOE LOADER
Towing Information
SMCS - 1264-015
Personal injury or death could result when towing a disabled machine incorrectly.
Block the machine to prevent movement before releasing the brakes. The machine can roll free if it is not blocked.
Be sure all necessary repairs and adjustments have been made before a machine that has been towed to a service area, is put back into operation.
Follow the recommendations below, to properly perform the towing procedure.
NOTICE
Damage can be caused to the transmission if the machine is moved with the engine not running. There will be no lubrication to the transmission components. Disconnect and remove the universal joint before the machine is moved.
This machine is equipped with mechanically applied wet disc brakes.
These towing instructions are for moving a disabled machine a short distance, at low speed, no faster than 2 km/h (1.2 mph) to a convenient location for repair. These instructions are for emergencies only. Always haul the machine if long distance moving is required.
Shielding must be provided on the towing machine, to protect the operator if the tow line or bar should break.
Do not allow riders on the machine being towed.
The operator on the towed machine MUST steer in the direction of the tow line.
Make sure the tow line or bar is in good condition and has enough strength for the towing situation involved. Use a towing line or bar with a strength of at least 1.5 times the gross weight of the towing machine.
Keep the tow line angle to a minimum. Do not exceed a 30° angle from the straight ahead position.
Quick machine movement could overload the tow line or bar and cause it to break. Gradual and smooth machine movement will work better.
Normally, the towing machine should be as large as the disabled machine. Satisfy yourself that the towing machine has enough brake capacity, weight and power, to control both machines for the grade and distance involved.
To provide sufficient control and braking when moving a disable machine downhill, a larger towing machine or additional machines connected to the rear could be required. This will prevent it from rolling uncontrolled.
The different situation requirements cannot be given, as minimal towing machine capacity is required on smooth level surfaces to maximum on inclines or poor surface conditions.
Attach towing device and machine before releasing the brakes. Disengage the front wheel drive if equipped.
Consult your Caterpillar dealer for towing a disabled machine.
Engine Running
If the power train and the steering system are operable, and the engine is running, the machine can be towed a SHORT DISTANCE, pulled out of mud or to the side of the road.
Move the transmission control lever to NEUTRAL.
Raise the implements off the ground.
Release the parking brake to allow machine movement.
Engine Stopped
Perform the following steps before towing the machine with the engine stopped.
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Move the transmission control lever to NEUTRAL.
3. Raise all implements above ground if needed. Use a hoist and lift while moving control levers to the raise position. NOTE: Implements will not stay in the raised position unless blocked. Release levers after implements are raised and blocked.
4. Disconnect and remove the universal joint before the machine is moved. Refer to the "Service Manual" for this procedure.
5. Release the parking brake to allow machine movement.
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Transportation Information
SMCS - 1264-015
Hauling the Machine
Check the travel route for overpass clearances to prevent collisions. Make sure there will be adequate clearance.
Basic standard 446 machine shipping specifications are listed below.
NOTICE
Remove ice, snow or other slippery material from shipping machine and loading dock, before loading the machine.
Always block the trailer or rail car wheels before loading the machine.
Put the machine in the "transport position" and load the machine.
Engage the parking brake.
Stop the engine and remove the key.
Install tie-downs at several locations, and block wheels front and rear.
Check state and local laws governing weight, width and length of load.
Contact your Caterpillar dealer for shipping instructions for your machine.
Transport Position
Move the backhoe to the "transport position" when using the loader. Also when traveling on a road.
See "Boom Transport Locks" in the "Operation Section" for transport information.
NOTICE
Improper lifting or tiedowns can allow load to shift and can cause injury and damage.
1. Weight and instructions given herein apply to machine as manufactured by Caterpillar Inc. Approximate weight is 8785 kg (19,350 lb).
2. Use proper rated cables and slings for lifting. Position crane for level machine lift.
3. Spreader bar widths should be sufficient to prevent contact with machine.
4. Use two rear and two front holes provided for tiedown.
Product: BACKHOE LOADER
Model: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF
Configuration: 446 BACKHOE LOADER 6XF00001-UP (MACHINE) POWERED BY 3114 ENGINE
Operation and Maintenance Manual
446 BACKHOE LOADER
Operating Techniques
SMCS - 1264-015
General Information
Serious injury or death by electrocution can result if the machine or attachments are not kept a safe distance from electrical power lines.
Keep the distance at least 3 m (10 feet) plus an additional 10 mm (.4 inch) for each 1,000 volts over 50,000 volts. For safety, local or state codes or job site operating directives, may require a greater distance.
Never swing a load over a truck cab or workers.
NOTICE
When swinging into a ditch, do not use the ditch to stop the swinging motion. Inspect the machine for damage if the boom is swung into a bank or an object.
Repeated chopping can cause structural damage. Use a digging, scratching or peeling motion when trying to penetrate rock, frozen ground or hard surfaces.
With certain boom-stick-bucket combinations, the bucket can hit the stabilizer cylinders of the machine. Always check for interference when first operating a new attachment.
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