131-3738 LH Tie Rod Socket Assembly for Cat Motor Graders

The 131-3738 tie rod socket assembly is an aftermarket replacement component for selected Cat motor grader steering systems. Caterpillar identifies reference part number 131-3738 as a left-hand tie rod socket assembly.

Installed between the steering tie rod and steering arm, the socket assembly permits controlled angular variation between the connected components. This movement supports steering articulation and maneuverability while the joint is exposed to torque, frequent direction changes, vibration and impact loads during grader operation.

Published Caterpillar reference specifications identify carbon-steel construction, an overall length of 168.9 mm, a 7/8-14 nut-end thread and a 1-1/8-12 left-hand rod-end thread.

Some aftermarket catalogs describe 131-3738 as an “LH thread, RH side” component. Because right/left terminology may refer either to thread direction or installation position, buyers should identify the part by its original part number, rod-end thread direction, machine serial number and parts-diagram position.

The corresponding 131-3737 assembly uses a right-hand rod-end thread and should not be assumed interchangeable with 131-3738.

This product is supplied as an aftermarket replacement. Caterpillar, Cat, machine model designations and part numbers are used solely for product identification and compatibility reference.

Key Features

• Aftermarket replacement for reference part number 131-3738

• Left-hand tie rod socket assembly

• 1-1/8-12 LH external rod-end thread

• 7/8-14 nut-end thread

• Published overall length of 168.9 mm

• Carbon-steel construction

• Designed for motor grader steering linkages

• Allows angular movement between tie rod and steering arm

• Suitable for steering-system repair and fleet maintenance

• Thread and dimensional inspection available

• Bulk supply and customized export packaging available

Application and Compatible Models

The 131-3738 socket assembly is used in steering systems on selected Cat motor graders.

Published Caterpillar compatibility includes:

• Cat 12G

• Cat 12H, 12H ES and 12H NA

• Cat 12K

• Cat 120 and 120 GC

• Cat 120G

• Cat 120H, 120H ES and 120H NA

• Cat 120K and 120K Series 2

• Cat 130G

• Cat 135H and 135H NA

• Cat 140 and 140 GC

• Cat 140G

• Cat 140H, 140H ES and 140H NA

• Cat 140K and 140K Series 2

• Cat 143H

• Cat 160

• Cat 160G

• Cat 160H, 160H ES and 160H NA

• Cat 160K

• Cat 163H and 163H NA

Compatibility may vary by machine configuration and serial-number break. Verify the part against the applicable parts diagram before ordering.

Typical Applications

• Road construction

• Road maintenance

• Fine grading

• Site preparation

• Mining haul-road maintenance

• Municipal grading

• Motor grader steering overhaul

• High-hour equipment maintenance