Quick verdict
If your Caterpillar 980 or 980B wheel loader is equipped with the 3306 engine and you need a new starter, this unit from Total Power Parts is worth a careful look. It's priced at USD 464.87, and the specifications point to a 12-volt design with clockwise rotation and a 12-tooth drive. The manufacturer part number is 410-12051, and the interchange numbers cover a broad set of Caterpillar-style starters. For a 1966-1983 980/980B with the 3306, this is a sensible replacement candidate if your old starter matches the same electrical and rotation requirements.
Who it suits
This starter is aimed at anyone maintaining a classic Caterpillar wheel loader with the 3306 engine. The application is specific to the 980 and 980B from 1966 through 1983. If you have a different 980 variant with a different engine, or if your machine uses a different voltage or rotation direction, this unit likely isn't the right match. But for the exact model years and engine specified, it's a direct target.
What stands out
The starter is new, which removes the uncertainty that can come with rebuilt or used starters. The voltage is 12V, and rotation is clockwise. The 12-tooth drive is a concrete spec that can be matched against your existing starter, and the gear OD is 1.831 inches (46.5mm). The interchange list is extensive, including numbers like 10461242, 110999, 3R7356, and 3T2772. If any of those part numbers appear on your current starter or in your service records, that's a strong compatibility signal.
The MPN 410-12051 and the 40MT/42MT replacement language also help when you're cross-referencing with other suppliers. Priced at $464.87, it sits in a reasonable spot for a new starter in this category, though your own sourcing may vary.
Meaningful trade-offs
The biggest limitation is the single configuration: 12V and clockwise rotation. If your loader uses a 24V electrical system or needs a counter-clockwise starter, this product will not cover that. Also, the compatibility is tied to the 3306 engine; 980 loaders with other engine options are outside the scope of the specified application.
Another practical point: the mounting ear holes are unthreaded at 16.3mm, which is useful when checking against your old starter. The gear OD of 46.5mm gives you another measurement to compare. Before ordering, you'll want to verify that the physical dimensions match your current starter, but the key numbers are there to make that check straightforward.
Bottom line
For a Caterpillar 980/980B (1966-1983) with the 3306 engine, this new 12V clockwise starter at $464.87 is a strong candidate. The 12-tooth drive, 46.5mm gear OD, and replacement part-number coverage give you clear data points to confirm fit. If your starter needs 12V, CW, and a 12-tooth drive, put this one high on your list.
Product notes
Starter for Caterpillar WHEEL Loader 980 980B 1966-1983 Caterpillar 3306 Engine
This new starter from Total Power Parts carries MPN 410-12051 and is priced at USD 464.87. The specifications include 12V, clockwise rotation, 12 teeth, and a 1.831-inch (46.5mm) gear OD. The interchange numbers include 10461242, 110999, 1113901, 3R7356, 3T2772, and many more. Choose this if your application matches those exact specs; the trade-off is that only this 12V CW variant is offered, so don't order it expecting a 24V or counter-clockwise unit.
