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Where can I find my equipment serial number prefix?
 

Newer Equipment Models

Starting in 2001, Cat machine models began using a 17-character Product Identification Number (PIN) on the machine plate.

The serial number prefix is the first 3 characters of the serial number, which is the last 8 characters (prefix/sequence ID) of the PIN.
 

Equipment Plates before 2002

Most Cat machine models built in 2001 and earlier have an 8-character Product Identification Number (PIN), which is also the machine serial number.

Additional serial numbers may exist on the plate but should not be used. In the above plate example, the engine serial number is under the label, "SERIAL", where the machine serial number is listed under "PIN NUMBER".

Prefix:

The serial prefix is the first three characters in a Cat equipment's serial number. It can be a combination of letters and numbers.

Sequence ID:

The sequence ID is the last five characters of a Cat equipment serial number. It is made up of numbers only. A sequence ID is between 00001 - 99999.

Engine & Generator Plates

Cat engines and generators also have serial number plates. The serial number is typically referenced on the plate by the label, "serial number" or abbreviated version, such as S/N or SER. NO. The serial prefix is the first three characters in the serial number.

Where to find a machine serial number plate

Machines can have multiple ID plates and serial numbers. The machine serial number is typically called a Product Identification Number, or PIN, and is located on the outer frame of the machine. Cat engines within a machine also have a serial number, as well as some larger systems within the equipment.

Where can I find my equipment model?

Find my model

ID plates are typically located on the machine frame