Caterpillar D4H Dozer: Specifications, Performance, and Key Insights

[MikePhua]

The Caterpillar D4H is a powerful, mid-sized bulldozer that has earned its place as a staple in construction and earthmoving industries. Known for its versatility, reliability, and solid build, the D4H is ideal for a range of tasks, from site preparation to material handling. In this article, we will explore the specifications of the D4H, its capabilities, maintenance considerations, and practical applications.
Key Specifications of the Caterpillar D4H
The D4H dozer is powered by a strong engine and designed to handle heavy workloads with precision. Here are the key specifications that define the D4H model:
Engine

• Engine Model: Caterpillar 3046T
  
• Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged
  
• Rated Power: Approximately 92 horsepower (69 kW)
  
• Displacement: 4.6 liters
  
• Operating Speed: 2,200 rpm
  
• Fuel Capacity: 189 liters (50 gallons)
  

The D4H is equipped with a turbocharged engine, which provides additional power while keeping fuel consumption efficient. This design allows it to perform under various conditions, from pushing large amounts of material to handling tough terrain.
Dimensions

• Length (with Blade): 4,730 mm (186 inches)
  
• Width (with Blade): 2,290 mm (90 inches)
  
• Height (Top of ROPS): 3,045 mm (120 inches)
  
• Track Gauge: 1,670 mm (65.8 inches)
  
• Track Shoes: 460 mm (18 inches)
  

The D4H is compact enough to maneuver through tight spaces while providing ample power and stability for larger jobs. The track width ensures the dozer has a firm grip on uneven terrain, making it highly effective in both construction and land reclamation work.
Blade and Ground Clearance

• Blade Width: 2,560 mm (101 inches) for the straight blade
  
• Blade Height: 1,370 mm (54 inches)
  
• Ground Clearance: 350 mm (14 inches)
  

The blade is designed to handle both fine grading and heavy-duty material pushing. The ground clearance ensures that the dozer can easily navigate over rocks and other obstacles without compromising performance.
Hydraulic System

• Hydraulic Pump Capacity: 149 liters per minute (39.3 gallons per minute)
  
• Hydraulic Pressure: 17,500 kPa (2,538 psi)
  

The hydraulic system of the D4H is robust, enabling it to operate heavy attachments and provide effective blade control, essential for tasks like land clearing or moving large earth volumes.
Transmission and Final Drive

• Transmission Type: Powershift (manual or automatic shift options)
  
• Final Drive Type: Sealed and lubricated with a planetary reduction system
  

This transmission type ensures the D4H is suitable for continuous operation in rough conditions, offering smooth shifts and control during uphill climbs or challenging terrains.
Performance and Capabilities
The D4H is a balanced machine, offering a combination of power, precision, and efficiency. Here are some of its key performance capabilities:
Operating Weight

• Operating Weight: 10,690 kg (23,600 lbs)
  

With its operating weight, the D4H is capable of handling heavy-duty tasks but remains light enough for versatile use in different projects, especially on medium-sized construction sites.
Max Blade Capacity

• Max Blade Capacity: 2.2 cubic meters (2.9 cubic yards)
  

This impressive capacity allows the D4H to move a significant amount of material with each pass, making it efficient for earthmoving, grading, and leveling work.
Maximum Drawbar Pull

• Max Drawbar Pull: 6,860 kg (15,100 lbs)
  

The drawbar pull is a critical factor for dozers, as it determines how much weight the dozer can pull in a straight line. The D4H excels in pushing and pulling operations, making it ideal for hauling and shifting materials.
Speed and Maneuverability

• Maximum Speed: 7.7 km/h (4.8 mph) forward, 9.3 km/h (5.8 mph) reverse
  

Though not the fastest dozer in the market, its speed is more than adequate for the majority of tasks it is designed for, particularly in tight spaces or construction sites where maneuverability is key.
Applications of the D4H Dozer
The D4H is versatile enough to be used across a wide range of industries. Some of the most common applications include:

• Construction Projects: The D4H is highly effective for site preparation, grading, and material handling in construction sites. Its strong engine and blade capacity allow it to level large areas and create foundational workspaces.
  
• Road Building and Maintenance: With its ability to clear land and push materials, the D4H is ideal for road construction projects, where it can be used for earthmoving, trenching, and maintaining existing roads.
  
• Land Reclamation: For projects that involve restoring or reshaping land, such as mining sites, the D4H is invaluable. It can handle uneven terrain and assist with large-scale earthmoving efforts.
  
• Agricultural Work: The D4H can also be used in agricultural land preparation, such as clearing fields, leveling ground for irrigation systems, or preparing land for farming.
  

Maintenance and Longevity
Like all heavy machinery, regular maintenance is key to keeping the D4H in optimal working condition. Here are some key maintenance tips:

• Oil and Fluid Checks: Ensure that oil levels are checked regularly, especially after heavy use. Caterpillar recommends changing the engine oil and filters at regular intervals to prevent engine wear.
  
• Track and Undercarriage Inspection: Given the demanding nature of the D4H’s work, it’s crucial to inspect the tracks regularly for wear. Tracks should be adjusted to maintain proper tension, and any worn-out parts should be replaced.
  
• Hydraulic System Maintenance: Regularly inspect hydraulic hoses and components for leaks, and check the fluid levels. Clean filters and replace hydraulic fluid as recommended in the owner’s manual.
  
• Cooling System: Overheating can cause serious damage to the engine. The D4H’s cooling system should be flushed regularly, and the radiator should be cleaned to maintain efficient cooling performance.
  

Conclusion
The Caterpillar D4H dozer is a powerful and reliable machine, designed to perform under a wide variety of conditions. Its strong engine, robust hydraulic system, and high-performance blade make it a great choice for heavy-duty construction, earthmoving, and land preparation tasks. Proper maintenance is essential to ensure that the D4H continues to operate efficiently, but when well cared for, it can provide many years of productive service.
By understanding its specifications and how it fits into different projects, operators and fleet managers can make informed decisions about using the D4H for a wide range of earthmoving and construction needs. Whether working on a large commercial construction project or smaller land reclamation efforts, the D4H remains a strong, versatile tool in the heavy equipment arsenal.