Tucked away in a back row of booths at Trimble Dimensions sat Cat’s next-generation D8, the final model in the company's medium dozer lineup to get technology upgrades and a redesigned cab.
The new D8 features the same power and performance, with the added benefit of the next-generation technology packages that Cat rolled out to its D4 through D7 models in February.
The D5 through D8 models also now feature a common cab, controls and interface, making it easier for operators to switch between machines.
To get a walkaround tour of the 87,083-pound earthmover, check out Equipment World’s video above with Cat dozer specialist Sam Meeker. The new model is starting to hit dealer lots now.
The core components are the same, with the D8 retaining its 363-horsepower Cat C15 diesel engine. The engine is complemented by a fully automatic four-speed power-shift transmission that continuously adjusts to keep maximum power to the ground without added operator input, the company says.
New heavy-duty batteries make starts on cold mornings easier, and a redesigned fuel system provides greater reliability and more accurate fuel delivery.
Cat beefed up the frame and structures on the dozer for improved durability and added a heavy-duty extended life undercarriage — HDXL with DuraLink — offering more seal life in high impact conditions.
Inside the redesigned cab, operators will find a 10-inch touchscreen display with key technology features and operating tips built in for intuitive operation. A standard, high-definition rearview camera shows in the main display when operated in reverse.
Cat has integrated ROPS in the cab, providing 17% more visibility than the previous generation D8. “It gives us the opportunity to have a bit larger cab, a lot roomier and better visibility all the way around that tractor,” Meeker says.
The wide air-suspension seat has multiple adjustments with armrests that adjust independent of the seat. Storage spaces are located throughout the cab, as well as USB and auxiliary power ports.
More standard tech
New Assist features make work easier for new and experienced operators, while options from the factory make implementing technologies easier, Cat says.
The Cat Assist with ARO (attachment ready option) suite will be included standard. Features include:
- Stable Blade – Make finish dozing easier.
- Traction Control – Reduce track slip to minimize wear.
- Auto Carry – Maximizes blade loads.
- Blade Load Monitor – Operator coaching for productivity.
- Cat Grade with Slope Assist – Holds blade angles with no GPS. For dozers with 3D, operators can switch back and forth between full 3D automatics and Slope Assist.
- Steer Assist – Automatically keeps dozing straight with no GNSS/GPS.
- Slope Indicate - Shows side slope and uphill/downhill grades to help operators with slope work.
- ARO – Sensors (IMUs) for GPS capability.
- AutoRip - Automates ripper raise/lower and shank in/out to maximize ripping productivity. The new rip-to-depth feature sets the bar at the same position during each pass.
- Blade Recall – Sets the lift, tilt and pitch of the blade at the beginning of a cut.
Additionally, a new Cat Grade with 3D Ready option provides more flexibility for customers upgrading to Cat Grade with 3D. Cat Grade with 3D uses a GPS signal to adjust blade lift and tilt movements automatically. This helps operators get to design faster, save time and reduce the cost of rework, labor and materials.
The new Cat Grade with 3D Ready option includes all required hardware – onboard sensors, GNSS antennas and receivers, and a 10-inch touchscreen display – and comes factory-installed. The 3D Ready hardware can be quickly updated to a complete Grade with 3D system by purchasing necessary licenses through the Cat dealer.
Quick Specs
- Engine: Cat C15
- Net Power: 363 horsepower
- Powertrain: Fully Automatic 4-Speed with Lock-up Clutch (LUC) torque divider
- Operating Weight: 87,083 pounds
- Ground Pressure: 13 psi
- Blade: Semi-Universal
- Blade Capacity: 13.47 cubic yards
