June 13, 2008, Shakopee, MN: Ziegler Inc. and Caterpillar are introducing a new program for dealers of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The new program will certify dealers to repair Cat® engines in their own brand of OEM equipment. The Industrial Service Dealer (ISD) program will help improve the product support of Cat engines by keeping repair shops closer to the OEM's end users. The program will also improve response times for OEMs located in the dealer's geographic area.
 

The ISD program is a response to OEMs' requests that their dealer networks become more engaged in the product support of Cat engines. And end users want the convenience of having their machines maintained by a single company — typically the same company they purchased the machine from.

The ISD program is modeled on the highly successful Truck Engine Parts and Service (TEPS) program that allows certified dealers to repair Caterpillar truck engines. Like the TEPS program, OEM Dealer networks will receive training from Caterpillar and Ziegler to set up and service the machines they sell. The dealers will provide the workshops and service vehicles, as well as the hours of operation to meet their customers' needs.

Dealers who sign up for the program will generate extra revenue through the maintenance and repair of Cat engines. They will also receive Cat parts at a discount and be reimbursed at Cat list prices for parts used on warranty repairs. Claims and credits will be processed through Caterpillar and Ziegler.

There are three levels of participation that dealers can choose from. Basic-maintenance service includes changing oil, filters, belts, and coolants; performing additional maintenance required by the Cat maintenance guide; making warranty repairs; replacing peripheral components, and the marketing of selected cat parts over a parts counter. Full-maintenance service adds inspection and electronic diagnostic capabilities and the repair of non-core components with specialized tooling. Full service authorizes the dealer to conduct engine repairs, overhauls, and warranty work with specialized tooling capabilities, as well as market a larger parts selection over a parts counter.

The ISD program is for OEM dealers only; it does not include other Caterpillar product lines. Interested dealers must already be authorized to perform repairs on the equipment lines they carry, and the equipment must contain a Cat® engine.

For more information on becoming a Caterpillar ISD, please call Joe Rydel at Ziegler: 952-887-4540. (Joe.Rydel@zieglercat.com)