fasteddie, you're very fortunate that the #4 rod didn't exit through the side of the block, that's usually the outcome during catastrophic failure. The point of failure in my machine was indeed the oil pump, the oil pump is molded into the front cover and has an aluminum plate that covers the pump gear in the housing. The plate is what failed, it simply broke, in my opinion it wasn't designed thick enough for the pressure it has to deal with. During my research on the web I found this to be a common problem. While you have the engine apart I'd pay close attention to this plate and if possible have one made that is thicker. If I recall correctly the housing mating surface is plat and should be fairly simple to do.
DGODGR, I've had some of the same questions as you. I've asked every Cat resource I have whether this part has been improved and have been met with silence, it's very unsettling to think this could happen again. My research showed only some of these engines were made in China but I wasn't able to learn how that could be designated. The engine in my machine is a Cat branded Perkins, I've been unable to find the Cat engine number on it anywhere. I believe it was used in the first three years of production of the skid steer line in both turbo and natural versions and Cat then began using the Mitsubishi engine you mention. I can also state I have an in depth knowledge of machinery and their inner workings and what is abusive. I check the oil before every start up, allow proper warm up AND cool down before shutting off. If this wasn't a design flaw then it was certainly a problem with the end manufacturer following the design plans.
DGODGR, I've had some of the same questions as you. I've asked every Cat resource I have whether this part has been improved and have been met with silence, it's very unsettling to think this could happen again. My research showed only some of these engines were made in China but I wasn't able to learn how that could be designated. The engine in my machine is a Cat branded Perkins, I've been unable to find the Cat engine number on it anywhere. I believe it was used in the first three years of production of the skid steer line in both turbo and natural versions and Cat then began using the Mitsubishi engine you mention. I can also state I have an in depth knowledge of machinery and their inner workings and what is abusive. I check the oil before every start up, allow proper warm up AND cool down before shutting off. If this wasn't a design flaw then it was certainly a problem with the end manufacturer following the design plans.