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Introduction to the Caterpillar 983
The Caterpillar 983 Traxcavator remains the largest track-type loader ever produced by Caterpillar in its more than 90-year history. Introduced in 1969, the 983 was purpose-built for heavy-duty quarrying, bulk earthmoving, and demolition work, specifically designed to operate in situations unsuitable for wheel loaders. Unlike earlier track loaders adapted from standard tractors, the 983 was designed from the ground up, featuring a rigid track frame, high-capacity hydraulics, and optimized loader arm geometry.
Development History and Key Milestones
The Caterpillar 983 stands as a milestone in track loader engineering, marrying power, capacity, and durability in a machine designed for the toughest earthmoving and quarrying tasks. Its thoughtful design improvements and operator-friendly features made it a leader in its class during its production lifespan. The 983’s enduring presence in work sites today underscores its legacy as a heavy equipment icon, still valued for performance when handling the most demanding applications.
The Caterpillar 983 Traxcavator remains the largest track-type loader ever produced by Caterpillar in its more than 90-year history. Introduced in 1969, the 983 was purpose-built for heavy-duty quarrying, bulk earthmoving, and demolition work, specifically designed to operate in situations unsuitable for wheel loaders. Unlike earlier track loaders adapted from standard tractors, the 983 was designed from the ground up, featuring a rigid track frame, high-capacity hydraulics, and optimized loader arm geometry.
Development History and Key Milestones
- The 983’s lineage traces back to Caterpillar’s acquisition of the Trackson company in 1951, which originally supplied track loader kits for their tractors.
- Early models like the No. 6 Shovel and the 933, 955, 977 series established Caterpillar’s presence in track loaders. By 1969, the demand for bigger track loaders culminated in the 983’s introduction.
- The initial 38K series weighed around 35 tons and featured a 4.5-cubic-yard general-purpose or rock bucket. Its powertrain consisted of a Caterpillar D343T six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing 275 flywheel horsepower linked to a three-speed full powershift transmission.
- In 1978, the 983B was launched, bringing a bucket increase to 5 cubic yards, a weight bump to 36 tons, and the adoption of the direct injection 3406 engine, still rated at 275 hp. It included enhancements like pedal steering for easier operator control and an optional automatic bucket control system for efficient cycle times.
- Engine: Caterpillar 3406T turbocharged six-cylinder diesel, 275 flywheel horsepower at 2,060 rpm
- Transmission: Three-speed planetary powershift with three forward and three reverse gears
- Operating Weight: Approximately 38.5 to 39.3 US tons depending on configuration
- Bucket Capacity: Options between a 4.5 to 5 cubic yard heavy-duty general purpose or spade nose rock bucket
- Track Gauge: 92 inches, with standard 22-inch double grouser track shoes
- Mobility: Top speed around 7 mph with multi-disc pack steering clutches and oil-cooled band brakes providing reliable control under load.
- Rigid track frame and seven bottom rollers per side ensure stability and longevity under heavy work.
- Pedal steering enabled the operator to keep hands on loader and transmission controls, enhancing precision.
- High visibility cab options and rollover protective structures (ROPS) enhance operator safety and comfort.
- Optional ripper attachments increased versatility for earthbreaking and quarry work.
- The Caterpillar 983’s principal competitor was the Komatsu D155S, which featured a slightly larger bucket and more power but suffered from reduced popularity due to sluggish performance and limited production.
- The 983B was discontinued in 1982 as the market shifted toward hydrostatic drive track loaders, with the 973 model becoming the largest track loader in Caterpillar’s lineup thereafter.
- Despite improvements in equipment technology, many Caterpillar 983 units remain in service worldwide for their reliability and effectiveness in severe conditions.
- Traxcavator: Caterpillar’s brand name for their track-type loaders combining features of track tractors and hydraulic loaders.
- Powershift Transmission: A transmission allowing gear changes without interrupting power flow, improving operational smoothness.
- Double Grouser Tracks: Tracks with raised bars providing enhanced traction on rough terrain.
- Pedal Steering: Steering method where vehicle direction is controlled by foot pedals rather than a steering wheel or levers.
- Rollover Protective Structures (ROPS): Protective frame structures designed to protect operators in case of machine rollover.
The Caterpillar 983 stands as a milestone in track loader engineering, marrying power, capacity, and durability in a machine designed for the toughest earthmoving and quarrying tasks. Its thoughtful design improvements and operator-friendly features made it a leader in its class during its production lifespan. The 983’s enduring presence in work sites today underscores its legacy as a heavy equipment icon, still valued for performance when handling the most demanding applications.
