Building on the base machine platform of their predecessors, Caterpillar has introduced the new D1, D2 and D3 next generation small dozers.

The D1, D2 and D3 next gen dozers replace the D3K2, D4K2 and D5K2, respectively, and the new series offers the same specialty model options as previous versions.

The new dozers feature styling changes, technology enhancements and a new low-emission, fuel-efficient engine.

The dozers feature a new lower sloping hood line that improves visibility to the peripheral view and blade’s cutting edge to increase finish grade efficiency.

“With the new D1, D2 and D3, you have a lot better visibility and the operator is able to see a lot closer to the machine,” said Joel Fritts, dozer market professional for Caterpillar. “The operator can see exactly what’s going on in front of them.”

The D1 features an operating weight of 8,274 to 8,342 kg, with 80 hp and a blade cpacity of 1.52 to 1.66 cubic metres.

The D2 delivers a blade capacity of 1.85 to 1.98 cubic metres, 92 hp and an operating weight of 8,319 to 8,627 kg.

As the largest of the three new dozers, the D3 weighs 9,217 to 9,593 kg, with 104 hp and a blade capacity of 2.19 to 2.34 cubic metres.

All three of the next gen small dozers are powered by the Cat C3.6 diesel engine, which meets Tier 4 Final and Stage 5 emission standards.

The dozers’ large, hinged door has been moved to the right-hand side of the new machines, and provides easy engine service access to all regular engine maintenance points.

While offering the same net power ratings as their previous counterpart models, the small dozers deliver up to 10 per cent improved fuel economy.

Eco mode, available in forward/reverse or reverse only options, improves fuel economy by automatically reducing engine speed. When load changes necessitate higher engine rpm, Eco mode automatically allows the engine to deliver maximum speed and power until the load decreases.

A 25-cm primary display with colour touchscreen provides access to many of the standard and optional advanced technology features.

Reducing track slip when the machine encounters maximum load for greater productivity of each cycle, standard Automatic Traction Control no longer requires operator interaction.

Slope Indicate improves operator confidence when working on slopes by providing slope of the chassis in the cross-slope direction without guessing. As well, Stable Blade complements operator blade control input, allowing the operator to finish grade easier, quicker and with less effort.

Available as part of the Cat attachment ready option (ARO) for easy scalability to GRADE with 3D control systems, Slope Assist saves time by helping the operator to more easily achieve the desired blade mainfall slope and cross slope by automatically maintaining the operator’s established blade grade angles.

“Slope Assist has been huge for us. It’s a grade control solution that helps the customer get started in grade control without having to have the more expensive off board reference systems,” Fritts said.  

The small dozers’ Power Pitch option enables the operator to control blade pitch remotely from the operator’s compartment to optimize blade pitch for blade loading, optimizing machine productivity by up to 6 per cent.

“We have got an awful lot of technology on these machines that allows us to do great things and the operator can be very productive with that,” Fritts said. “We are working hard to make it easier for the operator to use the technology.”

A host of optional features helps the customer to optimize engine operation, based on operating conditions.

The available turbine type precleaner increases engine air filter life when working in excessive debris conditions. An automatic reversing fan reduces debris build-up in the radiator and engine enclosure by reversing fan direction at a predetermined interval without the need for operator input.

Access to the radiator without tools for periodic cleaning is facilitated by the hinged radiator grille option.

The next gen small dozers are available in standard and low ground pressure undercarriage configurations.

The XL designation will no longer be used with the new series. The LGP 76 cm track will be offered for the D1 and D3 models to improve traction and flotation in exceedingly marginal underground conditions.