New Cat tractors
Caterpillar’s new T-series track-type tractors — the D8T, D9T and D10T — are powered by Cat engines with ACERT technology that meets EPA Tier 3 and European Union Stage IIIa exhaust emissions regulations.
All three engines feature an engine controller that manages fuel delivery and airflow and monitors engine and machine conditions while keeping the engine operating at peak efficiency. The controller allows the engine to respond quickly to changing application needs and provides maximum performance per gallon of fuel.
The D8T uses a 15-litre C15 (259kW) engine, the D9T an 18-litre C18 (346kW) engine, and the D10T a 27-litre C27 (482kW) engine. All three machines use an electronically controlled, heavy-duty planetary powershift transmission with three forward and three reverse speeds. They have large diameter, high-capacity, oil-cooled clutches and an electronic modulation system allows the operator to perform fast changes in speed and direction.
The large cabs feature a lowered beltline, low-profile door handles and a large window area. A tapered hood, notched fuel tank and narrow single-shank ripper carriage gives the operator a clear line of sight to both front and rear work areas. Large, single-pane door windows let the operator see close to the sides of the machine. A wide opening door and narrow dash and door posts allow for easy entry and exit.
Steering, machine direction and gear selection are all clustered in a single control handle for easy, one-handed operation. The D10T, with fingertip-control steering system works like a traditional clutch and brake arrangement, but requires far less effort, thereby reducing operator fatigue. The D8T and D9T use a dual-twist tiller to control the efficient differential steering system.
A rigidly mounted handgrip contains the ripper control lever. It provides firm support when ripping in the roughest terrain with low-effort finger and thumb controls for all ripper functions. The electro-hydraulic dozer and ripper controls are placed for ease of operation. They also provide a framework for future ‘plug and play’ attachment integration. Computer-aided earthmoving systems (CAES) and AccuGrade laser systems can be more readily installed with a dedicated mounting position in the front console and integrated electronics.
A new advisor monitoring system (AMS) provides on-board diagnostics to minimize downtime and maximize machine performance. The operator can use the AMS panel to set and adjust features such as blade response, blade float, auto-blade pitch and spread rate. An optional AutoCarry feature provides automatic blade control while the tractor is carrying a load.
New fluid-level sight gauges, filter locations, improved access to oil and coolant sampling ports, and an engine compartment-mounted work lamp are specifically designed to make servicing faster and easier.
All three tractors can be equipped with the optional PL300. This is a multi-use feature that allows the customer or dealer to obtain machine diagnostics and location information from the comfort of their office, providing updates on service meter hours and machine condition.
