Caterpillar 15

[Dude with a 300]

Not really a crawler guy, possibly soon though as I found an old 1932-1933 Caterpillar 15 out in the middle of a field. Just wondering what the value is short of scrap. Looks pretty complete, needs an exhaust manifold as the one on it is delaminating. I doubt it runs and there is a long lever lying on the seat. I think it goes on the right hand side, possibly a brake handle?

Bruce
 

[Jo Bird]

Bruce
If in you don't get any answers here, you might try the antique caterpillar machinery owners club. Google AMCO Bulletin Board.. I wouldn't pay more than scrap price, though it probably worth more for parts than that. I have a D 4 that I quit adding up the cost to repair when it went over $ 5,000.. LOL all I can say is, little boys never grow up we just get bigger TOYS. Jo
 

[dpendzic]

could be a steering clutch,main clutch handle. Try turning the motor over to see if its froze--free engine would increase value over scrap
 

[jm.]

First off it is not one of the great collectable tractors. Simply too many out there. Now that being said IF the undercarriage , like tracks and sprockets are 50% or so then yes it MIGHT be worth getting providing you want to spend and work on it to no end. While folks advise you to check the engine really the first thing I check is the tracks STUCK OR FROZE up. If the thing will not roll sure makes it hard to move regardless of engine. Go for if you can get it for what it weighs.
 

[Lavoy]

Unless the manifold is perfect, don't waste your time. I had a 10 I gave up on, it had a bad manifold, and only price I had heard was $1400 + freight for a manifold. Used ones are hard to come by as well from what I was told.
Lavoy
 

[Jethro Lilley]

That rod may be the starting rod... I believe those old 15's were started by a lever meshing the flywheel and turning it over.
 

[Kevin in Wisconsin]

Where are you/it located? thanks.
 

[Dr. Walt]

According to the "Antique American Tractor and Crawler Value Guide" by: Dean & Swenson - the lowest low-ball price for ANY CAT 15 is $1250.00 and the highest low-ball, for a 1932-33 CAT 15-7C High Clearance is $6750.00 . Personally, I wouldn't pay more than scrap price for it.

Doc