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At the 2020 CONEXPO-CON/AGG convention in Las Vegas, Caterpillar® announced significant changes to their legendary dozers, including an all-new naming system. This change is part of a broader company strategy designed to help clients navigate product lines quickly and compare machines to find one with the capabilities they need. Several pieces of heavy machinery throughout their equipment catalog have already adopted new nomenclature.

For easy navigation, the complete line of Cat dozers now has model numbers ranging from D1 to D11. As the numbers increase, so do dozer power and size. Models D1, D2, and D3 represent the Next Generation small dozers, D4 to D8 the medium dozers, and D9 through D11 the largest machines. In addition to the name change, these next-gen dozers have multiple performance upgrades. They feature the latest in Cat advanced equipment technology to help you become more productive, efficient and profitable.

Next-Gen Dozers With Next-Gen Engines

The new Cat D1, D2 and D3 small dozers are replacements for the previous equipment model numbers D3K2, D4K2 and D5K2, in that order. Specialty small dozer models, including the Mulcher and the Shiphold/Port Handling dozers, are still available. Net power ratings for the new Cat small dozers remain the same as the models they replace. The D1 delivers 80 horsepower (59.7 kW), the D2 92 horsepower (68.8 kW) and the D3 104 horsepower (77.6 kW).

These Next Generation small dozers feature fuel-efficient Cat ACERT 3.6 diesel Tier 4 engines that meet the latest international emissions standards. These engines provide up to 10% improved fuel economy over the previous C4.4 Tier 4 Stage IV engine with Eco Mode for maximum speed with heavy loads. These engines include an Air-to-Air Aftercooler (ATAAC) and Diesel Emission Fluid (DEF) as standard features. These engines also feature an advanced exhaust aftertreatment system that includes Diesel Oxidation Catalysts (DOC), Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalysts and Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF).

Tackle Any Terrain

The new Cat small dozers are versatile and deliver multiple advantages over previous models while building on their success. These machines are highly maneuverable, designed for simplified transport and provide precision grading accuracy to help you complete jobs on time and under budget. Caterpillar will continue to offer a standard configuration and an LGP (low ground pressure) model for additional flotation in soft underfoot conditions.

The standard and LGP chassis have 16-inch and 25-inch shoe widths, respectively, with a 30-inch wide (762-millimeter) LGP version available as an optional upgrade. You can choose between the Cat SALT (sealed and lubricated) system or the Cat Abrasion undercarriage for the tracks. The Cat Abrasion undercarriage system has XL seals designed to last up to twice as long and links offering up to 50% longer life than SALT track systems.

Standard and Optional Technology for the Cat D1, D2 and D3 Small Dozers

The Cat Next Generation small dozers come with an improved, 10-inch primary display that is easy to read. This screen is larger than that of the previous model and offers touchscreen control of a wide range of standard and optional features, including advanced Cat Connect technology. These include:

• Automatic Traction Control: The next-gen dozers feature an Automatic Traction Control (ATC) system. This system functions independently of the operator to provide advanced traction control under maximum load conditions, adjusting power as necessary to maintain constant blade movement and prevent stalling. The ATC system helps ensure consistent grading, contributes to a longer life for the undercarriage and helps reduce operator fatigue.
• Slope Indicate: Using Slope Indicate, you can easily set the blade to a desired position and grade with more confidence. This technology is a standard feature and provides you with an easy-to-read, real-time display of the machine’s blade cross slope (left/right) direction and mainfall (fore/aft) slope. With Slope Indicate technology, you can eliminate guesswork to save time and deliver more accurate results.
• Slope Assist™: Slope Assist works in conjunction with Slope Indicate to maintain your desired mainfall and cross slope as the blade passes along the surface. Using Slope Assist, you can gain higher consistency with your grading, get more efficient use of fill materials and assist operators of all experience levels in becoming more productive. As part of the Attachment Ready Option (ARO) system, Slope Assist is ready for integration with 3D Cat AccuGrade™ technology and aftermarket grading systems.
• Power Pitch: These next-gen dozers come with Power Pitch, allowing the operator to control the fore-aft blade pitch during dozing from the comfort of the compartment. Power Pitch is ideal for changing blade pitch angle between forward and reverse passes, and for achieving an optimal finish grade in different soil conditions. Using this optional feature, you can gain up to 6% more productivity.
• Stable Blade: Stable Blade is an always-on technology that works with operator input to deliver a more accurate finish grade. This technology helps speed the finishing process and reduces the amount of effort necessary to complete the work.

Additional Advantages of the New Cat Small Dozers

The new Cat small dozers have new styling, which offers improved visibility over the hood and an excellent view of the peripheral work area. If you work in areas with excessive debris, you can upgrade your new machine to include options to reduce buildup. These include an automatic reversing fan to keep the radiator and engine compartment clear and optional turbine-type precleaner to promote a longer lifespan for your engine air filter.

Regardless of your industry, these Next Generation small dozers offer a range of additional advantages, including:

• Comfortable operator cabs: The ROPS/FOPS cabs on the next-gen dozers have multiple standard features and optional upgrades to increase operator focus, reduce fatigue and create a more comfortable environment. Operator cabs also include Cat Advanced Cabin Filtration, an integrated rearview camera, adjustable controls and much more. To improve your cab even further, you can upgrade with optional features like a ventilated seat, heated joystick controls and window shades.
• Simplified maintenance access: To keep your downtime to a minimum, the Cat D1, D2 and D3 small dozers have grouped diagnostic and maintenance points. These machines feature access panels at ground level and fast access to fluid reservoirs, with a lifetime DEF filter that only requires regular cleaning. The track design allows for easy cleaning using a shovel, and you can install an optional bracket to keep one handy at all times.

Get More Information About the Cat Next Generation Small Dozers

The Cat D1, D2 and D3 small dozers start shipping in June, with the specialty models becoming available in December 2020. To get an estimate, request more information or place an order for one of the Next Generation small dozers in your preferred configuration, contact Cleveland Brothers today. We are the established Caterpillar dealer for Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia, and we will help you find a cost-effective solution that fits your budget.

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