SERV1852-02

August 2008

GLOBAL SERVICE LEARNING

TECHNICAL PRESENTATION

320D-336D HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS -

TIER III ENGINES
MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMPS AND PUMP CONTROL
VALVE GROUPS

Service Training Meeting Guide

(STMG)
320D-336D HYDRAULIC EXCAVATORS -
TIER III ENGINES
MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMPS AND PUMP CONTROL
VALVE GROUPS
AUDIENCE
Level II - Service personnel who understand the principles of machine systems operation,
diagnostic equipment, and procedures for testing and adjusting.

CONTENT
This presentation provides an introduction and describes the components and systems operation
of the 320D-336D main hydraulic pumps and pump control valve groups. Additional
presentations will cover the machine walkaround, engines, pilot system, main control valve
group, implements swing system, travel system, and tool control systems in more detail. This
presentation may be used for self-paced and self-directed training.

OBJECTIVES
After learning the information in this presentation, the technician will be able to:
1. identify the components and explain the operation of the 320D-336D hydraulic
excavators main hydraulic pumps and controls, and
2. diagnose problems in the main hydraulic pumps and controls.

REFERENCES
320D Hydraulic Excavator Specalog AEHQ5856
323D L and 323D LN Hydraulic Excavators HEHH3327
324D Hydraulic Excavator Specalog AEHQ5663
325D Hydraulic Excavator Specalog AEHQ5665
328D Hydraulic Excavator Specalog AEHQ5706
330D Hydraulic Excavator Specalog AEHQ5667
Machine Monitoring System - Systems Operation RENR8068
Self-study "300D Series Hydraulic Excavators, 345C Hydraulic Excavator,
and 365C & 385C Large Hydraulic Excavators SERV7032
iTIM " '300C' Series Hydraulic Excavators-Electronic Control Systems" SERV2693
iTIM "325C Hydraulic Excavators-Hydraulic Systems" SERV2701
325D Hydraulic Schematic KENR6157

Estimated Time: 1 hour

Illustrations: 22
Form: SERV1852-02
Date: August 2008
© 2008 Caterpillar
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................5

320D / 329D MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMP GROUP.................................................................11

Pump Control Valve Group ..................................................................................................16

330D / 336D MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMP GROUP ................................................................21

Pump Control Valve Group ..................................................................................................27

CONCLUSION...........................................................................................................................36
SERV1852-02 -4- Text Reference
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PREREQUISITES

"Fundamentals of Mobile Hydraulics Self Study Course" TEMV3002

"Fundamentals of Power Train Self Study Course" TEMV3003
"Fundamentals of Electrical Systems Self Study Course" TEMV3004
"Fundamentals of Engines Self Study Course" TEMV3001

NOTES

Nomenclature Change: During the fourth quarter of 2008, the 325D and 330D
nomenclature changed. The 325D became the 329D and the 330D became the 336D for
most arrangements.

The exceptions are as follows:

- The nomenclature for the 325D MH and 330D MH did not change.

- The nomenclature for the 325D FM and 330D FM did not change.

- The 325D HD HW did not change into 329D HD HW. This model is being discontinued.
However, the 330D HD HW changed to the 336D HD HW.
SERV1852-02 -5- Text Reference
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MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMPS AND PUMP CONTROL VALVE GROUPS

Stick Cylinder
Bucket Cylinder Boom Cylinders

Swing Motor Travel Motors

Main Control Valve Group

Pilot
Control
Valves

Priority
Pilot Manifold Valves
Main
Pilot M
Hydraulic
Pump
Pumps
Fan
Fan Pump
Motor
Tank

The Fan Motor and Pump are only used on the 330D and 336D

INTRODUCTION

This section of the presentation will cover the main hydraulic pumps and pump controls for the
300D Hydraulic Excavators.

The main pump group consists of a variable displacement piston drive pump and a variable
displacement piston idler pump. The drive pump and the idler pump are part of an integral
housing. The drive pump and the idler pump are identical in construction and operation.

The pumps are sometimes referred to as S.B.S. (side by side) pumps. The main difference
between all of the pumps is the maximum pump flow for each model.

Both the drive pump and the idler pump have individual pump control valve groups to control
the pump flow.

The 320D through the 329D use the same type of pump control valve group. The 330D/336D
pump control valve group is the same as the pump control valve group used on the 345C pump.
SERV1852-02 -6- Text Reference
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POWER SHIFT PRESSURE

SYSTEM
Pump Control
Idler Valve
Pump Power Shift
Engine Speed PRV Solenoid
Sensor

Drive
Pump
Pilot
Pump
Engine Output
ECM Pressure
Sensor

Monitor Engine
Machine
Speed Dial
ECM
OK

Power shift pressure is controlled by the Machine ECM, and assists in pump regulation. Power
shift pressure is one of three pressures to control the pump.

The pilot pump supplies the power shift PRV solenoid with pilot oil. The Machine ECM
monitors the selected engine speed (from the engine speed dial), the actual engine speed (from
the engine speed sensor and Engine ECM), and the pump output pressures (from the output
pressure sensors). The power shift PRV solenoid valve regulates the pressure of the power shift
oil depending upon the signal from the Machine ECM to the pump control valve groups.

When the engine speed dial is in position 10, the Machine ECM varies the power shift pressure
in relation to the actual speed of the engine.

The power shift pressure is set to specific fixed values dependent upon the position of the
engine speed dial. The fixed power shift pressures assist cross sensing pressure (not shown)
with constant horsepower control.
SERV1852-02 -7- Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

When the engine speed dial is on position 10 and a hydraulic load is placed on the engine, this
condition causes the engine speed to decrease below the engine's target rpm.

When this decrease occurs, the Machine ECM signals the power shift PRV solenoid valve to
send increased power shift pressure to the pump control valve groups. The increased power
shift signal causes the pumps to destroke, and reduce the horsepower demand placed on the
engine. With a decreased load from the hydraulic pumps the engine speed increases. This
function is referred to as engine underspeed control.

Engine underspeed control prevents the engine from going into a "stall" condition where engine
horsepower cannot meet the demands of the hydraulic pumps. The power shift signal to the
pump control valve groups enables the machine to maintain a desired or target engine speed for
maximum productivity.

Power shift pressure has the following effect on the main hydraulic pumps:

- As power shift pressure decreases, pump output increases.

- As power shift pressure increases, pump output decreases.

Power shift pressure ensures that the pumps can use all of the available engine horsepower for
the hydraulic system at all times without exceeding the output of the engine.

NOTE: The target rpm is the full load speed for a specific engine "no load" rpm.
Engine target rpm is determined by the opening of one of the implement, swing, and/or
travel pressure switches at the end of an operation. The Machine ECM then waits 2.5
seconds and records the engine speed. This specific rpm is the "new" no load rpm.

The Machine ECM then controls the power shift pressure to regulate pump flow to
maintain the full load (target) rpm for the recorded no load rpm.

Target rpm can change each time the pressure switches open for more than 2.5 seconds.
SERV1852-02 -8- Text Reference
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PROPORTIONAL REDUCING
SOLENOID VALVE
PWM SIGNAL INCREASE

Solenoid

Plunger
Spring

Tank

Power Shift Pressure

Pilot Pressure

The proportional reducing solenoid valve (PRV) for the power shift pressure is located on the
drive pump control valve group. The proportional reducing solenoid valve receives supply oil
from the pilot pump.

The solenoid receives a pulse width modulated signal (PWM signal) from the Machine ECM.
The PWM signal sent from the Machine ECM causes the proportional reducing solenoid valve
to regulate the pilot pressure to the pump control valve groups to a reduced pressure.

This reduced pressure is called power shift pressure (PS).

The output flow of the drive pump and the idler pump is controlled in accordance with the
power shift pressure. The power shift pressure is used to control the maximum hydraulic pump
output in relation to the engine rpm.

A decrease in engine speed causes an increase in power shift pressure and a decrease in pump
flow.
SERV1852-02 -9- Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

When the speed dial is at dial position 10, if the Machine ECM senses a decrease in engine
speed below target rpm, the Machine ECM increases the PWM signal sent to the solenoid.

The magnetic force of the solenoid increases. As the magnetic force of the solenoid becomes
greater than the force of the spring, the spool moves down against the force of the spring.

The downward movement of the spool blocks the flow of oil to the tank.

More power shift pressure oil is now directed to the pump control valve group.

The increased power shift pressure acts on the drive pump control valve group and the idler
pump control valve group.

If both pumps are upstroked, then both pumps will destroke as a result of the increase in power
shift pressure. If only one pump is upstroked, only the upstroked pump will destroke.
SERV1852-02 - 10 - Text Reference
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PROPORTIONAL REDUCING
SOLENOID VALVE
PWM SIGNAL DECREASE

Solenoid

Plunger
Spring

Tank

Power Shift Pressure

Pilot Pressure

If engine speed is above the target rpm, the Machine ECM decreases the power shift pressure to
increase the pump flow.

When the Machine ECM senses an increase in engine speed above the target speed the Machine
ECM decreases the PWM signal sent to the proportional reducing solenoid valve.

As the magnetic force of the proportional reducing solenoid valve becomes less than the force
of the spring, the spool moves up.

The upward movement of the spool restricts the pilot oil flow to the power shift passage and
opens the power shift passage to the drain. The power shift pressure is reduced.

The reduced power shift pressure acts on the drive pump control valve group and the idler
pump control valve group.

Depending on which circuits are activated, the drive pump and/or the idler pump will upstroke
as a result of a decrease in power shift pressure.
SERV1852-02 - 11 - Text Reference
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3
5
4

1
6

320D - 329D MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMP GROUP

This illustration shows the main hydraulic pumps groups. The drive pump (1) is driven by the
engine and the idler pump (2) is driven by the drive pump. The pilot pump (3) is mounted on
the drive pump. The medium pressure pump (4) is driven by the idler pump.

The drive pump supplies oil to the right half of the main control valve group and the following
valves:
- stick 2 control valve

- boom 1 control valve

- bucket control valve

- attachment control valve

- right travel control valve

SERV1852-02 - 12 - Text Reference
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The idler pump supplies oil to the left half of the main control valve group and the following
valves:

- left travel control valve

- swing control valve

- stick 1 control valve

- boom 2 control valve

- auxiliary valve for tool control (if equipped)

The output of the variable-displacement piston pumps is controlled by the pump control valve
groups (5 and 6) mounted on the main hydraulic pumps.
SERV1852-02 - 13 - Text Reference
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5
1
6

4 2

This illustration shows the pump control valve group for the drive pump. Except for the power
shift solenoid, the components for the idler pump are identical.

The power shift PRV solenoid valve (1) provides a common power shift pressure for both
pumps. The power shift PRV solenoid valve is controlled by the Machine ECM.

The pump output pressure sensors (2) signals the Machine ECM of each pump's output
pressure. The Machine ECM uses the pump output pressure, actual engine speed, and desired
engine speed to determine the power shift pressure. The pressure sensors also signal the
Machine ECM to cancel the AEC settings if the pump pressure increases above approximately
7370 kPa (1100 psi) and the engine rpm is still at an AEC setting.

The horsepower adjusting screws (3) adjust the hydraulic horsepower output of each pump.
The maximum angle screw (4) limits the maximum flow of each pump.

The pressure tap (5) above the power shift PRV solenoid valve can be used to check the PRV
signal pressure. The pressure tap (6) just above the pressure sensor can be used to check the
drive pump supply pressure. Another pressure tap (not shown) can be used to check the idler
pump supply pressure. Cat ET can also be used to check these two pressures.
SERV1852-02 - 14 - Text Reference
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MAIN PUMP GROUP Medium Pressure

STANDBY Circuit

U
M2

Pump Control Valve

Main Control Valve
Group (Left Side) Left NFC
Control
Orifice
PS2

Idler Cross
Pump Sensing
Med Press
Orifice
Pump

M Pilot
Pump
Drive
Pump Case Drain
Actuator
Power Shift
PRV Solenoid
Valve

Main Control Valve Right NFC

Group (Right Side) Control
Orifice

Pilot Filter and M1

Manifold Output
U

Pilot Pump
Pressure Sensor

This illustration shows the pumps in STANDBY condition.

The pump control valve groups will upstroke, destroke, or maintain the displacement of the
pump depending on the conditions the pump control valve group senses. The pump control
valve group controls oil pressure (stroking pressure) to the right side of the actuator, which
controls the angle of the pump swashplate.

Each pump has a pump control valve group which senses the three following control signals:
- a pump specific Negative Flow Control (NFC) signal from the main control valve group
- a common power shift signal pressure generated by the power shift PRV
- a common cross sensing signal pressure from the output of the two main pumps

NFC: NFC pressure is the most significant controlling signal in a negative flow controlled
hydraulic system. Each pump control valve group receives a specific NFC signal that is based
upon the hydraulic demand for that specific pump.
SERV1852-02 - 15 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

Flow from the drive pump supplies the right half of the main control valve group and has a
corresponding NFC signal for the drive pump. Flow from the idler pump supplies the left half
of the main control valve group and has a corresponding NFC signal for the idler pump.

The open-center valves in the main control valve group allow pump output to flow through
unrestricted. An orifice in the NFC valve creates a restriction to the pump output which
increase the NFC pressure. The NFC pressure then signals the corresponding pump control
valve group. Each pump will remain at STANDBY as long as a full NFC signal pressure is
present.

When a hydraulic control valve is shifted from the NEUTRAL position, the NFC signal
pressure to the corresponding pump is reduced, which causes the pump to UPSTROKE. Any
change in the movement of a valve in the main control valve group will effect the NFC signal
because the valves send a variable NFC signal to the pump depending on the needed pump
output.

Output of each pump is unaffected by a change in the NFC signal to the other pump. NFC
pressure has the following effect on the main hydraulic pumps:
- As NFC pressure decreases, pump output increases,
- As NFC pressure increases, pump output decreases.

NFC signal pressure overrides all other control of the main hydraulic pumps.

Cross Sensing: Cross sensing pressure is essentially an average pressure from the output of
the drive pump and the idler pump.

The output of each pump flows respectively to the left and right halves of the main control
valve group. The output of each pump also flows to the cross sensing orifices.

The cross sensing pressure compensates for the horsepower demand of each pump individually
and for the two pumps together. With cross sensing assistance, the pumps constantly regulate
the flow to effectively use all of the available engine horsepower at any given time. This
regulation is referred to as constant horsepower control.

Cross sensing pressure has the following effect on the main hydraulic pumps:
- As cross sensing pressure decreases, pump output increases,
- As cross sensing pressure increases, pump output decreases.

Given a fixed NFC signal, cross sensing signal pressure regulates the output of the main
hydraulic pumps.

NOTE: Hydraulic horsepower is a function of pump output flow and pressure. As

pump flow or pressure increases, the horsepower demand increases. As pump flow or
pressure decreases, the horsepower demand decreases.
SERV1852-02 - 16 - Text Reference
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MAIN PUMP CONTROL VALVE GROUP

STANDBY
D
Pin A

Actuator

Actuator
Pivot Cross Sensing
Signal Pin A
Control Power Shift
Linkage Signal
NFC
Control
Signal

Pivot

Guide Pin B
Swashplate
Horsepower Sleeve Pin B Shoulder Pilot Control
Control Spool Control Piston SECTION D-D

Pump Control Valve Group

The above illustration shows a cross sectional view of one of the main hydraulic pump control
valve groups in STANDBY. The main pumps will be in STANDBY condition when the engine
is running and all control valves are in NEUTRAL. Under these conditions the NFC pressure
signal to the pump control valve groups is high. The pump can not upstroke until NFC signal
pressure is reduced.

The high NFC signal pressure causes the NFC control piston to move left against the force of
the NFC spring on the right. When the NFC control piston moves left the piston contacts the
shoulder on the pilot piston, which causes the pilot piston to move the horsepower control spool
against the spring force on the left end of the valve.

The passage between horsepower control spool and the sleeve is now open to tank, causing the
right end of the actuator to be open to the tank. The actuator moves to the right, moving the
swashplate to a minimum angle, which causes pump output flow to be minimum.

NOTE: With S.B.S. pumps, system pressure at STANDBY (maximum NFC signal)
destrokes the pumps to minimum. When the pump is upstroked all three signals work
together to control the angle of the pump swashplate to regulate the pump flow.
SERV1852-02 - 17 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

MAIN PUMP CONTROL VALVE GROUP

UPSTROKED - NFC SIGNAL REDUCED
D
Pin A

Actuator

Actuator
Pivot Cross Sensing
Signal Pin A
Control Power Shift
Linkage Signal
NFC
Control
Signal

Pivot

Guide Pin B Swashplate

Horsepower Sleeve Pin B Shoulder Pilot Control

Control Spool Control Piston SECTION D-D

The pumps must have a reduction in NFC pressure to upstroke from STANDBY. The
illustration shows the pump control valve groups upstroking the pump due to a decrease in NFC
signal pressure. As shown, there is no NFC signal pressure, indicating that at least one control
valve has been fully shifted.

When one of the joysticks or travel levers is moved from the NEUTRAL position, NFC signal
pressure decreases proportionally to the amount the joystick or travel lever is moved. When the
NFC signal pressure decreases, the spring on the control piston forces the control piston to the
right. The horsepower control springs on the left overcome the cross sensing signal pressure
and the power shift signal pressure to move the horsepower control spool to the right.

With the horsepower control spool shifted to the right, the passages between the sleeve and the
horsepower control spool are closed off to tank and pump output pressure is allowed to flow to
the right side of the actuator. Because the right side of the actuator is larger than the left side,
the greater force generated by the pressure on the right side causes the actuator to move left to
upstroke the pump.

The pump can also be upstroked by a decrease in either power shift or cross sensing pressure,
but only after a reduction in NFC pressure has caused the pump to move from the minimum
angle.
SERV1852-02 - 18 - Text Reference
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MAIN PUMP CONTROL VALVE GROUP

CONSTANT FLOW
D
Pin A

Actuator

Actuator
Pivot Cross Sensing
Signal Pin A
Control Power Shift
Linkage Signal
NFC
Control
Signal

Pivot

Guide Pin B
Swashplate
Horsepower Sleeve Pin B Shoulder Pilot Control
Control Spool Control Piston SECTION D-D

10

As the pump upstrokes, the movement of the actuator causes the control linkage to move the
sleeve around the horsepower control spool. The sleeve moves to the right as the actuator
moves to the left. Because of the geometry of the control linkage, a large movement of the
actuator moves the sleeve a small amount (see Section D-D).

The small movement of the sleeve causes the passages between the sleeve and the horsepower
control spool to open partially to the tank and partially to the pump output. The pressure signal
sent to the right side of the actuator is now metered, which causes the actuator to reach a
balance point where the pump does not upstroke or destroke. With the actuator at a fixed
position the swashplate angle of the pump is fixed. Constant flow is now achieved.

Due to varying loading and operating conditions, this fixed output is rarely maintained for very
long. When operating conditions change, the pump will UPSTROKE or DESTROKE.
SERV1852-02 - 19 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

MAIN PUMP CONTROL VALVE GROUP

DESTROKE
D
Pin A

Actuator

Actuator
Pivot Cross Sensing
Signal Pin A
Control Power Shift
Linkage Signal
NFC
Control
Signal

Pivot

Pin B
Guide Swashplate
Horsepower Sleeve Pin B Shoulder Pilot Control
Control Spool Control Piston SECTION D-D

11

The three things which can cause the pumps to DESTROKE are:

- an increase in NFC pressure

- an increase in cross sensing pressure

- in increase in power shift pressure

This illustration shows the system under a heavy hydraulic load. As the supply pressure
increases due to the heavy load, the cross sensing signal pressure rises as an average of the left
and right pump delivery pressures. The cross sensing signal acts on the difference of the two
areas on the pilot piston. As the cross sensing signal increases, the pilot piston moves to the
left, which pushes the horsepower control spool left against the force of the horsepower control
springs on the left.

As the spool moves left, the large end of the actuator is opened to tank by a passage between
the horsepower control spool and the sleeve. The pressure decreases on the right end of the
actuator and the actuator moves to the right, which causes the pump to DESTROKE.
SERV1852-02 - 20 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

An increase in power shift signal pressure has a similar effect as an increase in cross sensing
signal pressure. If the hydraulic pump lugs the engine below full load speed, the Machine
ECM increases the current to the power shift PRV solenoid valve. The increased signal causes
a higher power shift signal to be sent to the pump control valve groups.

The power shift pressure acts on the right side of the pilot piston. The force generated from the
power shift pressure assists cross sensing pressure to destroke the pump. As the pump
destrokes the engine speed will increase due to the reduction in load.

An increase in NFC signal pressure will cause the pump to destroke. If all control valves were
returned to NEUTRAL, the NFC signal causes the pump to fully destroke and return to
STANDBY.
SERV1852-02 - 21 - Text Reference
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6
8

4 5

7
1

10

2 3

12

330D /336D MAIN HYDRAULIC PUMP GROUP

The 330D and the 336D uses a new Kawasaki designed main hydraulic pump group (1) rated at
2 x 280 L/Min (2 x 74 gpm). The pump group is different from the pump group used on the
330C, however it continues to use an NFC control system. This pump group is similar to the
pump group used on the 345C.

The drive pump (2) is driven by the engine via a flexible coupling. The idler pump (3) is
driven directly off the drive pump. Each pump rotating group has its own pump control valve
group. The pump control valve groups are used to adjust the output flow of the pumps. Each
pump rotating group also has its own pressure tap and pressure sensor.

A power shift PRV solenoid valve (4) is mounted on the top, center of the pump group case.
The power shift PRV solenoid valve uses pilot system oil and sends some of the pilot oil to the
main hydraulic pump control valve groups as a control signal pressure. The power shift
pressure is checked at pressure tap (5).

Additional pump components shown in this photo are: the drive pump control valve group (6),
the idler pump swashplate minimum angle adjustment (7) and the idler pump control valve
group (8). The pilot pump (9) is driven off the idler pump and the demand fan pump (10) is
driven off of the drive pump.
SERV1852-02 - 22 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

1 2

13

This is a view of the drive pump pump control valve group. The pump control valve group is
located above and behind the power shift PRV solenoid valve. This illustration shows:

- the drive pump negative flow control adjustment (1)

- the drive pump horsepower control adjustment (2)

The idler pump control valve group has similar adjustment screws.
SERV1852-02 - 23 - Text Reference
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330D / 336D PUMP COMPONENTS AND INPUTS

Horsepower Right NFC Control Orifice
Control Spool
Drive Pump Cross
Sensing Signal

Torque Control
Spool
Idler Pump Cross
NFC Spool Sensing Signal

Drive Pump Output

Pressure Sensor
P
Actuator
Destroke
Main Control Valve
(Right Side)
Drive
Pump M

Pilot Pilot Pump

Pump
Power
Idler
Shift (PRV)
Pump
Solenoid Valve

14

Each pump receives four different signals to control the output flow of the pumps:

- power shift pressure

- system pressure from that pump

- cross sensing pressure (from the other pump)

- Negative Flow Control (NFC) pressure

Power Shift Pressure: The power shift PRV receives a control signal from the ECM. The
ECM sends an electrical signal to the power shift PRV to regulate power shift pressure in
relation to the engine speed.

The power shift signal to the pump control valve groups enables the machine to maintain the
target engine speed for maximum productivity.
SERV1852-02 - 24 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

If the Machine ECM senses that the engine is below the target speed due to a high hydraulic
load from the main pumps, the Machine ECM will increase the power shift pressure. The
target speed is the full load for the no load engine speed. (The new no load speed is taken 2.5
seconds after the implement/swing and the travel pressure switches open when the joysticks
and the travel control pilot controls are returned to NEUTRAL). As power shift pressure
increases, the pump control valve groups destroke the main pumps accordingly. This reduces
the load on the engine, and consequently enables the engine to maintain the target engine
speed.

If the engine speed is above the target speed, the Machine ECM will decrease power shift
pressure, causing the pumps to upstroke and produce more flow.

Cross sensing Control Pressure: Each pump control valve group gets a cross sensing control
pressure from the other pump system pressure. Cross sensing pressure is essentially an average
pressure from the output of the drive pump and the idler pump.

Negative Flow Control (NFC): NFC is the primary controlling signal for the main pump
output. The NFC signal to the main pump control valve group is generated in the main control
valve group. The NFC signal is delivered to the left and right pump control valve groups from
the left and right halves of the main control valve group, respectively.

When the joysticks or travel levers are in the NEUTRAL position, the oil flows from the main
pumps through the open center bypass passages of the control valves. The oil flows to the
valves and returns to the tank by way of the NFC control orifices. The restriction of the NFC
orifices causes a pressure signal to be sent to the right and left pump control valve groups,
respectively, as an NFC signal.

When the main pump control valve groups receive a high NFC signal from the main control
valves, the pumps remain at a standby output flow at or near minimum pump displacement.

When a joystick or travel lever is moved from a NEUTRAL position, the open-center passage
of the corresponding implement/travel function is closed in proportion to spool movement.
This reduces the NFC signal to the main pump control valve and the pump output flow is
increased proportionally. When the control valve is fully shifted, the NFC pressure is reduced
to slow return check valve pressure.

The use of an NFC hydraulic system maximizes efficiency of the machine by only producing
flow from the pumps when the flow is needed.

NOTE: A high NFC signal will always overcomes the horsepower control and decrease
pump flow to minimum.
SERV1852-02 - 25 - Text Reference
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Right NFC Control Orifice

Torque Control
Horsepower
Spool
Control Spool
330D / 336D
HYDRAULIC PUMPS NFC
Spool
STANDBY Drive Pump Output
Pressure Sensor
P
Actuator
Main Control Valve
Drive (Right Side)
Pump M

Pilot Pump
Power
Shift
Idler PRV
Pilot Pump
Pump

Main Control Valve

Destroke (Left Side)
Actuator P

Pilot System
Idler Pump Output
Pressure Sensor

Left NFC Control Orifice

15

This illustration shows the pumps in STANDBY condition. Each pump control valve group
senses the Negative Flow Control (NFC) signal, the power shift pressure, the cross sensing
pressure, and the system pressure for that pump.

When one of more circuits are activated, the pump control valve groups will upstroke or
destroke the pumps to maintain the pump flow depending on the four signal pressures to the
pump control valve groups.

The pump control valve group controls oil pressure to the left side of the actuator. This
controls the angle of the pump swashplate.

The 330D/336D hydraulic pumps are always trying to upstroke to increase flow. The pump
control valve groups vary the oil pressure used to destroke the hydraulic pumps.
SERV1852-02 - 26 - Text Reference
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The idler pump supplies oil to the following valves:

- left travel control valve

- swing control valve

- stick I control valve

- boom II control valve

- idler (left) pump negative flow control valve

- auxiliary valve (if equipped)

The drive pump supplies oil to the following valves:

- right travel control valve

- standard attachment control valve

- bucket control valve

- boom I control valve

- stick II control valve

- drive pump negative flow control valve

SERV1852-02 - 27 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

Torque
PUMP CONTROL GROUP Control Lever

Negative
Pivot Pin Flow Control
Horsepower
Lever
Control Sleeve
Pivot Pin
Horsepower
Control Spool

Horsepower
Control Section
Feedback
Lever Pin
Torque
Control Section
Negative Flow
Control Spool
Maximum
Torque
Control Feedback Lever
Piston
Small End Of
Actuator Piston

Torque Control
Large End Of Spool
Minimum Actuator Piston

16

Pump Control Valve Group

This illustration shows the three separate control sections of the pump control group. The three
control sections are connected with a series of pins and linkages. The separate control sections
work together to regulate pump flow by changing the angle of the pump swashplate, according
to demand and hydraulic horsepower requirements.

Pump supply pressure is directed to the small end of the actuator piston to upstroke the pump
toward maximum angle. A regulated pressure signal is directed to the large end of the actuator
piston to destroke the pump toward the minimum angle.

The horsepower control section directs some of the system pressure oil to and from the large
end of the large actuator piston. The lower end of the feedback lever is connected to the
actuator piston. The feedback lever works as a follow-up linkage to move the horsepower
control spool when the large actuator piston moves.

The negative flow control (NFC) section works in conjunction with the horsepower control
section to destroke the swashplate when all hydraulic controls are in NEUTRAL or during
implement or travel MODULATION. The torque control section works in conjunction with the
horsepower control section to regulate pump flow when the hydraulic circuits are actuated.
SERV1852-02 - 28 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

Horsepower
Pivot Pivot
Control Spool
Large Pin Pin
Torque Control Hole
Lever

Torque Control
Spool Feedback
Lever Pin

NFC Lever

NFC Spool

Actuator Piston
Feedback Lever

Swashplate
PUMP CONTROLS
END VIEW

17

This illustration shows an end sectional view of the pump controls. The NFC spool is
connected to the lower end of the NFC lever with a pin. The upper end of the NFC lever pivots
on a fixed pin in the housing.

The torque control spool is connected to the lower end of the torque control lever with a pin.
The upper end of the torque control lever also pivots on a fixed pin in the housing.

The upper end of the feedback lever is connected to the horsepower control spool with a pin.
The lower end of the feedback lever is connected to the actuator piston.

The feedback lever pin fits tightly into the feedback lever. The feedback lever pin extends into
large holes in the torque control lever and the NFC lever.

The large holes permit individual control from the torque control lever and the NFC lever.
Movement of the actuator piston causes the feedback lever to pivot on the feedback lever pin
and move the horsepower control spool.
SERV1852-02 - 29 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

STANDBY - FULL DESTROKE
Horsepower
Control Spool Pivot Pin
Feedback
Lever Pin NFC Lever
NFC Spool
NFC Lever
Pin

NFC NFC
Pressure Adjustment
Screw

Feedback
Lever

Minimum
Angle
Stop

Maximum Angle End

Swashplate of Actuator Piston
Minimum Angle End
of Actuator Piston

18

This illustration shows the NFC portion of the pump control group. When all hydraulic control
valves are in NEUTRAL, a high NFC pressure (system pressure) from the NFC orifice is
directed to the left end of the NFC spool. The NFC pressure pushes the NFC spool to the right
against the spring force.

In the STANDBY condition, the horsepower control spool directs a signal pressure, which is
part of system pressure, to the minimum angle end of the actuator piston. The increase in
pressure moves the actuator piston to the right against the minimum angle stop screw. The
pump flow will remain constant until the NFC pressure from the control valve decreases.

The NFC adjusting screw changes the effect of the NFC pressure on the NFC spool. Turning
the screw in (clockwise) causes the NFC pressure to increase higher before the NFC spool
moves. This condition causes the pump to upstroke sooner (less modulation) when the
hydraulic control valve is ACTIVATED.

Turning the screw out (counterclockwise) causes the NFC spool to move at a lower NFC
pressure. This condition causes the pump to upstroke later (more modulation) when the
hydraulic control valve is ACTIVATED.
SERV1852-02 - 30 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

FLOW INCREASE - START OF UPSTROKE
Horsepower
Control Sleeve Orifice Pivot Pin
Feedback
Lever Pin
Horsepower
NFC Lever
Control Spool
NFC Piston NFC Lever
Pin

NFC
Pressure
Feedback
Lever

Maximum
Angle Stop

Maximum Angle End

Swashplate of Actuator Piston
Minimum Angle End
of Actuator Piston

19

This illustration shows the pump control group at the beginning of an upstroke caused by a
decrease in NFC pressure.

The pivot pin is fixed to the pump control housing. The NFC lever pivots around this point.

When a hydraulic control valve in the main control valve is shifted, the NFC pressure is
decreased. Due to reduced NFC pressure, spring force moves the NFC piston to the left. The
NFC piston moves the lower end of the NFC lever to the left.

As the lower end of the NFC lever moves to the left, the large hole through the lever also
moves to the left. As the large hole moves to the left, spring force pulls the horsepower control
spool and the upper end of the feedback lever to the left because the feedback lever pin is
allowed to move to the left.

The minimum angle actuator piston is opened to case drain through the right orifice in the
horsepower control sleeve and the right end of the horsepower control spool. System supply
pressure pushes the maximum angle actuator piston to the left to upstroke the pump.
SERV1852-02 - 31 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

CONSTANT FLOW
Horsepower
Orifices
Control Sleeve Pivot Pin

Horsepower Feedback Lever

Control Spool Pin
NFC Lever
NFC Piston
NFC Lever
Pin
NFC
Pressure
Feedback
Lever

Maximum
Angle Stop

Maximum Angle End

Swashplate of Actuator Piston
Minimum Angle End
of Actuator Piston

20

As the actuator piston moves, the lower end of the feedback lever moves to the left. The
feedback lever rotates clockwise with the feedback lever pin as the pivot point.

The upper end of the feedback lever pulls the horsepower control spool to the right until the
right land on the horsepower control spool reaches a balance point between the orifices through
the horsepower control sleeve.

Flow to and from the minimum angle end of the actuator piston is metered by the horsepower
control spool and the horsepower control sleeve. The swashplate angle remains constant until
the NFC pressure is again changed.
SERV1778 - 32 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

FLOW INCREASE - FULL UPSTROKE
Horsepower
Control Sleeve Orifice Pivot Pin

Horsepower Feedback Lever

Control Spool Pin
NFC Lever
NFC Piston
NFC Lever
Pin
NFC
Pressure
Feedback
Lever

Maximum
Angle Stop

Swashplate Maximum Angle End

Minimum Angle End of Actuator Piston
of Actuator Piston

21

The amount of reduction in NFC signal pressure determines the amount of pump upstroke. If
NFC pressure is reduced to minimum, the pump will upstroke until the actuator piston contacts
the maximum angle stop screw.

NOTE: A decrease in power shift pressure will cause an increase in flow from the
pump in the same manner as described for a decrease in system pressure, since both
power shift pressure and system pressures act on the torque control piston.
SERV1852-02 - 33 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

FLOW DECREASE - START OF DESTROKE
Horsepower Torque Control
Control Spool Lever Pin
Orifice Pivot Pin
Feedback Lever
Pin
Torque Control
Piston Torque Control Lever

Horsepower
Adjustment
Screw
Power Shift
Pressure

Cross Sensing Horsepower

Signal Control Springs

Torque
Control Spool

Minimum Angle End Maximum Angle End

of Actuator Piston of Actuator Piston

22

This illustration shows the torque control piston and horsepower control spool sections of the
pump control valve group with the pump in the upstroked position at the beginning of
DESTROKE due to an increase in the load on the system.

For the purpose of this presentation, assume that power shift pressure from the power shift
PRV solenoid valve remains constant.

The pivot pin is fixed to the pump control housing. The torque control lever pivots around this
point.

The large horsepower adjustment screw regulates the pressure or point that the pump starts to
destroke (large spring adjustment). The small adjustment screw regulates the rate that the pump
destrokes (small spring adjustment).

Power shift pressure from the power shift PRV solenoid valve enters the pump control group
and pushes on the plug at the left end of the torque control piston. System supply pressure
from this pump enters the pump control valve group and goes to the right shoulder area on the
torque control piston.
SERV1852-02 - 34 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

The cross sensing signal pressure from the other pump goes to the left shoulder area on the
torque control piston.

The combination of power shift pressure and the two system supply pressures push the torque
control piston to the right against the force of the horsepower control adjustment springs. The
horsepower control spool directs the signal pressure to the minimum angle end of the actuator
piston to destroke the hydraulic pump.

When the system supply pressures and power shift pressure push the torque control piston to
the right:

The torque control spool moves to the right to compress the horsepower control springs. The
torque control spool moves the lower end of the torque control lever to the right with the fixed
pin on the upper end of the torque control lever as the pivot point.

The torque control lever pulls the feedback lever pin and the upper end of the feed back lever
to the right.

The feedback lever pulls the horsepower control spool to the right against the spring force.

System supply pressure is directed around the horsepower control spool through the center
orifice of the horsepower control sleeve and to the minimum angle end of the actuator piston.
The increase in pressure in the minimum angle piston moves the actuator piston to destroke the
pump.
SERV1852-02 - 35 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

330D / 336D PUMP CONTROL GROUP

FLOW DECREASE - END OF DESTROKE
Horsepower
Orifices Pivot Pin
Control Spool Feedback Lever
Pin

Torque Control Torque Control Lever

Piston Torque Control
Lever Pin

Power Shift
Pressure
Cross Sensing Feedback
Signal Lever

Maximum Angle End

Minimum Angle End Swashplate of Actuator Piston
of Actuator Piston

23

This illustration shows the pump control group at the end of a DESTROKE due to an increase
in load on the system.

When the actuator piston moves toward minimum angle, the lower end of the feedback lever
moves to the right, turning the lever counterclockwise with the feedback lever pin as the pivot
point.

The feedback lever movement shifts the horsepower control spool to the left so system supply
pressure is metered through the two orifices to and from the minimum angle end of the actuator
piston. Pump flow is held constant until one of the signal pressures changes.

An increase in power shift pressure will cause a decrease in flow from the pump in the same
manner as described for an increase in system pressure since both the power shift pressure and
system pressure act on the torque control piston.
SERV1852-02 - 36 - Text Reference
08/08 Main Pumps

24

CONCLUSION

This presentation has provided information for the Caterpillar 320D-336D Hydraulic
Excavators.

This presentation covered the main hydraulic pump groups and controls.

Additional presentations are available for each system used on these machines.

When used in conjunction with the service manual, the information in this package should
permit the technician to do a thorough job of analyzing a problem in these systems.

For service repairs, adjustments, and maintenance, always refer to the Operation and
Maintenance Manual, Service Manuals, and other related service publications.