Caterpillar D6R LGP vs D6N LGP: A Detailed Comparison

[MikePhua]

Development History and Machine Positioning
The Caterpillar D6R LGP was introduced in 1996 as the successor to the D6H. It featured the Cat 3306T turbocharged six-cylinder engine (~185 hp net) and offered operators increased breakout power and heavy-duty performance. In 2006 and later, the D6N emerged as a smaller and more fuel-efficient model, powered by a Cat 3126B engine with HEUI injection, delivering around 145 hp rated but reaching up to ~170 hp under load. The D6N was positioned between finishing and production dozing, while the D6R targeted more power-intensive applications .
Key Specifications Comparison (LGP Configuration)

• Operating Weight:
  • D6R LGP ~45,200 lb
    
  • D6N LGP ~38,224 lb
    
• Engine Output:
  • D6R: ~185 hp net from Cat 3306T
    
  • D6N: rated ~145 hp with peak ~170 hp at 1,600 rpm
    
• Track Shoe Width:
  • D6R LGP uses 36″ shoes
    
  • D6N LGP: 33″ shoes
    
• Ground Pressure:
  • D6R LGP: ~4.95 psi
    
  • D6N LGP: ~4.5 psi
    

Operator Feedback and Applications

• Clearing and Heavy Push: Operators comparing the two machines often cite that the D6R’s heavier build, greater torque, and SU (semi-U) blade make it better suited for tough land clearing, brush pushing, or stump removal. The D6N, while lighter, features the VPAT blade and excels in precision grading and finish work .
  
• Fuel Consumption and Transport: The D6R consumes noticeably more fuel and may require special transport permits due to its heavier weight (~45 k lb), while the D6N is easier to move and more economical on fuel .
  

Performance and Handling

• Dozing Capability: The D6R’s greater horsepower and weight deliver superior drawbar pull and tougher pushing power, especially in rough terrain and heavy material. It is better equipped for aggressive rooting and filling tasks.
  
• Precision and Comfort: The D6N features smoother electronic clutch pressure control and differential steering in many units. Operators highlight better cab visibility, ease of grading, and comfortable handling for finish jobs. Steering feel is notably refined on the D6N, especially with the fingertip control or differential steering option .
  

Technical Terms Explained

• LGP (Low Ground Pressure): Wide track configuration increasing track contact area to minimize ground pressure—ideal for soft or sensitive terrain.
  
• VPAT (Variable Pitch Angle Tilt) Blade: A hydraulically adjustable grading blade allowing for variable angle, pitch, and tilt. D6N LGP models come exclusively with VPAT.
  
• SU Blade (Semi‑U Blade): Found on D6R, this semi-universal blade combines cutting efficiency and material rolling capacity. Better suited to production pushing.
  
• Ground Pressure: The force a machine places on the ground per square inch—lower pressure limits soil compaction and sinking.
  

Real‑World Examples

• A land-clearing contractor in Ontario considered both options. Despite the lighter footprint and easier transport of the D6N, he chose the D6R to handle the power needs of pushing over dense brush and trees. The D6R’s heavier linkage and stronger blade held up under the abuse, while the D6N was praised for grading precision but lacked grunt for clearing large stumps .
  
• Operators working remote finish-grade jobs favored the D6N for its smoother transmission shifting, lower fuel draw, and better visibility in the cab—a contrast to the heavier ride and fuel consumption of the D6R.
  

Buy‑Oriented Checklist

• Choose D6R LGP if your work involves heavy-duty land clearing, pushing, or ripping and payload isn’t a transport concern.
  
• Opt for D6N LGP if your focus is on finish grading, mover efficiency, fuel economy, and ease of maneuvering.
  
• Evaluate blade types: SU for production and rugged terrain versus VPAT for versatile grading.
  
• Consider ground pressure and soil types: 36″ tracks on the D6R vs. 33″ on the D6N—both offer LGP, but D6R yields marginally higher pressure per inch.
  

Conclusion
The D6R and D6N each serve distinct purposes within Caterpillar’s medium-dozer lineup. The D6R LGP is a heavier, more powerful machine built for brute pushing and rough terrain applications. In contrast, the D6N LGP offers a lighter, more precise, and fuel-efficient alternative geared toward grading and finishing operations. Operator preferences, application type, fuel costs, and transport considerations all influence the optimal choice.