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New Cat D4 Dozer

The Cat D4 (formerly D6K2) Dozer features improved sight lines, reduced operating costs and a broad choice of technology features to help operators get the most from the bulldozer. The D4 weighs in at 13,272kg, with net power of 130hp (97kW) from a Cat C4.4 engine. Meanwhile, the D4 LGP (Low Ground Pressure) model has an operating weight of 14,008kg. Both machines are equipped with a hydrostatic transmission.

A lower sloping hood line provides up to 30% better visibility to the area in front of the blade. The shorter sight lines mean the visual distance between the blade and the material pile is shortened by about 40%, so less time is spent backing up to get a full view of the material and the job gets done faster.

In the cab, Caterpillar says operators will find a more comfortable seat with improved suspension and multiple adjustments for better comfort. A 10in touchscreen main display, now common across much of the Cat dozer line-up, puts machine settings and features in one place. A standard rear-view camera shows in the main display, too.

Cat reckons the D4 leads the industry with a variety of technology offerings that are easy to use and help get the most from an equipment investment. The D4 includes several standard technology features aimed at helping operators work more efficiently, regardless of experience level. The cab also offers optimal interior mounting locations that make it simple to install the grade control system of choice.

Systems include Slope Indicate, which shows machine mainfall and cross-slope on the main display for easy reference; Stable Blade works seamlessly with operator blade inputs for smoother surfaces; Traction Control automatically reduces track slip to save time, fuel and track wear; an optional technology package includes the standard technology features, plus Cat Grade with Slope Assist, which provides basic blade positioning assistance without added hardware or a GPS signal. Finally, the factory Attachment Ready Option (ARO) provides optimal mounting locations, brackets, and hardware and simplifies installation of any brand of grade control system.

Customers can also add factory integrated Cat Grade with 3D. The system uses a GPS signal to automatically adjust blade movements – both lift and tilt – as the operator follows the design plan. Antennas and receivers are housed in a low-profile roof-mounted spoiler. An 10in Grade operator interface works like a smart phone, making it easy for operators to pick up quickly. Android OS platform allows installation of custom apps for more versatility.

AutoCarry is also packaged with Grade with 3D, automating blade lift to help get more consistent blade loads with each pass and reduce track slip. This system is said to work seamlessly with Grade with 3D and Slope Assist. With the capability of installing 3D grade systems from Trimble, Topcon and Leica, the D4 can easily integrate into jobsites with existing grading technology infrastructures. All Cat Grade systems are compatible with Trimble, Topcon and Leica radios and base stations.

Longer service intervals contribute to up to 7% lower maintenance costs, Caterpillar says. Engine oil/engine oil filter service interval has been extended to 1,000 hours. Service intervals have also been extended on the air cleaner and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) pump filter. LED lights offer up to six times the life of halogen to save on parts cost. The new Cat D4 dozer is also equipped with Cat Link telematics technology, which helps take the complexity out of managing job sites – by gathering data generated by equipment, materials, and people – and serving it up in customisable formats.

The D4 is available in Standard or Low Ground Pressure (LGP) configurations. A Variable Pitch Angle Tilt (VPAT) blade is standard, with an option for a foldable VPAT blade to reduce transport width. The D4 can also be ordered with specialised guarding to take on the challenges of Forestry/Land Clearing. In addition to machine protection against impacts and airborne debris, these specialty dozers can be ordered with an impact-resistant cab featuring polycarbonate windows.  

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