With 2007 engines looming on the horizon, Caterpillar assured its customers that they can rest easy: Caterpillar is well-prepared to provide parts and service for the 2007 engines.

"With more than one hundred 2007 model Cat engines being tested on the road today, as well as the largest and best-trained dealer network and more parts and service representatives in the field than any other manufacturer, we're ready to take care of our customers' engines in 2007," said John Mathewson, product support manager for Caterpillar On-Highway Engines.

Several technical training programs are currently under way, and more than 2,400 technicians at both Cat dealers and OEM truck dealers have received training on the 2007 Cat engines with ACERT technology. This training includes instruction on the various systems and technologies employed by the 2007 engines, including the diesel particulate filter, the Cat Regeneration System and Caterpillar's Clean Gas Induction. Online training programs also will be provided, and all Cat dealers will receive a dealer training kit including a training manual, a DVD and various support materials to train branch stores and OEM truck dealers.

Parts for 2007 engines will be readily available, according to Mathewson. Cat engine parts will be available through any Caterpillar authorized dealer. Cat Electronic Technician software updates also will be provided to diagnose the 2007 engines. Additionally, the Caterpillar Truck Engine Hotline is available to handle service inquiries by calling 800-447-4986.

"Caterpillar already has taken significant steps to ensure that parts are available and technicians are trained as soon as the 2007 engines are released to the market," Mathewson said. "Our dealer network — both Cat and truck dealers — will be completely prepared to service and maintain these engines for our customers."