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The Caterpillar D6D bulldozer is a mid-sized, powerful crawler tractor designed for heavy-duty earthmoving, grading, and construction work. Introduced in the 1980s, the D6D is driven by a rugged, turbocharged Cat 3306 diesel engine delivering about 140 horsepower, providing a strong balance of power and reliability sought by contractors and operators worldwide.
Specifications and Performance
The D6D features a powershift transmission with three forward and three reverse gears, enabling smooth operation and versatile speed control. Maximum forward speed is approximately 6.7 mph, and reverse speed reaches about 8 mph. Ground pressure is modest, around 9.4 psi, owing to well-designed tracks and weight distribution.
Key dimensions include an operating weight around 20,360 pounds and a track gauge of 5 feet 1 inch, with track shoes standard at 16 inches wide. The bulldozer's blade capacity is about 4.3 cubic yards, and it boasts a cutting depth of roughly 18.6 inches with the blade capable of angling 12 degrees in either direction, perfect for grading and earthmoving tasks requiring precision.
The hydraulic system maintains peak pressure at approximately 2,250 psi with a pump flow capacity near 44 gallons per minute, supporting blade lift, tilt, and hydraulic angle adjustments, contributing to smooth operator control in diverse ground conditions.
Key Features and Operator Comfort
Ergonomic design is evident in the D6D's spacious cab outfitted with safety and comfort features, including a four-post rollover protective structure (ROPS). Some models include optional air conditioning, enhancing productivity by reducing fatigue in harsh environments.
The dozer is favored for its durable undercarriage, which includes five track rollers per side and solid frame construction that provides stability and longevity on rough job sites. Hydraulic controls offer precise blade manipulation with ease.
Operational and Maintenance Considerations
Fuel capacity of approximately 63 gallons ensures extended operation without frequent refueling, crucial for large projects. Hydraulic fluid capacity at 12 gallons supports the system's high pressure and flow requirements, emphasizing the importance of routine fluid checks and filter maintenance for optimum performance.
Owners and operators should consider regular inspections of the undercarriage components such as sprockets, rollers, track links, and shoes, as these parts bear the brunt of wear from continuous ground contact. Preventive maintenance extends machine life and minimizes unexpected downtime.
Usage and Industry Context
The D6D is broadly used in construction, mining, forestry, and agricultural applications. Its reliable power and maneuverability make it well-suited for tasks ranging from grading highways to site preparation for buildings. Compared to larger models like the D7R or D8T, the D6D offers a cost-effective solution for mid-scale projects requiring both power and precision.
Purchase prices for this model historically hovered around $100,000 to $350,000 depending on configurations and market conditions, with rental options available for shorter-term needs.
Field Story
A construction company working in rugged terrain appreciated the D6D for its ability to maneuver tight spaces while pushing large volumes of material. Regularly servicing hydraulic lines and track tension ensured smooth operation despite heavy daily workloads.
Glossary
Specifications and Performance
The D6D features a powershift transmission with three forward and three reverse gears, enabling smooth operation and versatile speed control. Maximum forward speed is approximately 6.7 mph, and reverse speed reaches about 8 mph. Ground pressure is modest, around 9.4 psi, owing to well-designed tracks and weight distribution.
Key dimensions include an operating weight around 20,360 pounds and a track gauge of 5 feet 1 inch, with track shoes standard at 16 inches wide. The bulldozer's blade capacity is about 4.3 cubic yards, and it boasts a cutting depth of roughly 18.6 inches with the blade capable of angling 12 degrees in either direction, perfect for grading and earthmoving tasks requiring precision.
The hydraulic system maintains peak pressure at approximately 2,250 psi with a pump flow capacity near 44 gallons per minute, supporting blade lift, tilt, and hydraulic angle adjustments, contributing to smooth operator control in diverse ground conditions.
Key Features and Operator Comfort
Ergonomic design is evident in the D6D's spacious cab outfitted with safety and comfort features, including a four-post rollover protective structure (ROPS). Some models include optional air conditioning, enhancing productivity by reducing fatigue in harsh environments.
The dozer is favored for its durable undercarriage, which includes five track rollers per side and solid frame construction that provides stability and longevity on rough job sites. Hydraulic controls offer precise blade manipulation with ease.
Operational and Maintenance Considerations
Fuel capacity of approximately 63 gallons ensures extended operation without frequent refueling, crucial for large projects. Hydraulic fluid capacity at 12 gallons supports the system's high pressure and flow requirements, emphasizing the importance of routine fluid checks and filter maintenance for optimum performance.
Owners and operators should consider regular inspections of the undercarriage components such as sprockets, rollers, track links, and shoes, as these parts bear the brunt of wear from continuous ground contact. Preventive maintenance extends machine life and minimizes unexpected downtime.
Usage and Industry Context
The D6D is broadly used in construction, mining, forestry, and agricultural applications. Its reliable power and maneuverability make it well-suited for tasks ranging from grading highways to site preparation for buildings. Compared to larger models like the D7R or D8T, the D6D offers a cost-effective solution for mid-scale projects requiring both power and precision.
Purchase prices for this model historically hovered around $100,000 to $350,000 depending on configurations and market conditions, with rental options available for shorter-term needs.
Field Story
A construction company working in rugged terrain appreciated the D6D for its ability to maneuver tight spaces while pushing large volumes of material. Regularly servicing hydraulic lines and track tension ensured smooth operation despite heavy daily workloads.
Glossary
- Powershift Transmission: Gear system allowing seamless shifting under load without manual clutching.
- Track Gauge: Distance between the centers of the two tracks, affecting stability.
- Ground Pressure: The pressure exerted by the machine on the ground, influencing traction and soil compaction.
- ROPS: Safety framework protecting the operator in rollovers.
- Hydraulic Pump Flow: The volume of hydraulic fluid moved per minute, impacting the speed and strength of hydraulic functions.
