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Case Minotaur DL550 Compact Dozer Loader
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Overview and Company Legacy
The Case Minotaur DL550 is an innovative machine that combines the power and stability of a small dozer with the agility and versatility of a loader. Manufactured by Case Construction Equipment, a company with a long history dating back to the 1800s and known for its reliability in construction and earthmoving equipment, the DL550 redefines the compact dozer loader segment by integrating advanced hydraulics, operator comfort, and precision tooling.
Technical Specifications
  • Operating weight: Approximately 18,600 lbs, providing excellent stability and traction.
  • Engine: 114 horsepower FPT diesel, optimized for efficiency and power delivery, running at 2,500 rpm for best performance.
  • Hydraulic flow: Standard auxiliary hydraulics at 24.2 gpm and high-flow options at 41.6 gpm, with enhanced high-flow (EHF) up to 41.6 gpm at 4,100 psi.
  • Blade: Six-way variable pitch blade with a width of 90 or 96 inches, capable of precise lift, angle, and tilt adjustments controlled via a single lever.
  • Loader: Vertical lift geometry with a 1.25 cubic yard bucket and hydraulic coupler making it compatible with hundreds of attachments.
  • Tracks: Heavy-duty steel tracks with sealed and lubricated track chains for longevity.
  • Operator cab: Enclosed, fully sealed cab offering ROPS/FOPS Level 1 protection, equipped with heating, air conditioning, and ergonomic controls including adjustable seats and joysticks.
Performance and Features
The hallmark of the DL550 is its chassis-integrated C-frame that hydraulically couples the six-way dozer blade to the machine’s chassis and attachment coupler. This design channels all dozing power through the machine body rather than the loader arms, giving the DL550 superior dozing capability and a smooth operating plane similar to conventional dozers. The machine offers drawbar pull exceeding 25,000 lbs and breakout force over 12,900 lbs, making it a powerful contender on small to mid-sized job sites.
Additional key features include:
  • Auto Ride Control for smoother operation on rough terrain.
  • Creep Speed Mode enabling precise work at low speeds.
  • Compatibility with CASE Universal Machine Control systems for blade guidance and precision grading.
  • Fully integrated rear ripper with adjustable shanks for soil loosening and enhanced jobsite versatility.
Operator Experience
The machine’s cab provides comfort for full-day operations, reducing operator fatigue through climate control, vibration-dampening seats, and intuitive control layouts. The joystick controls give excellent feedback and control precision, allowing easy management of both dozer blade and loader attachments.
Maintenance and Warranty
The DL550 comes with a base and extended warranty offering up to 2 years or 2,000 hours of coverage on the machine and engine, reflecting Case’s confidence in build quality. Routine maintenance includes hydraulic system checks, track tensioning, and cab filtration inspections supported by telematics systems like CASE SiteWatch™, which provide remote diagnostics and maintenance reminders.
Market Position and Industry Impact
This machine bridges the gap between compact track loaders and traditional dozers, appealing to contractors needing combined dozing power and loader versatility without multiple machines. Since its introduction, the Minotaur DL550 has been recognized for its innovative design, earning accolades for safety, performance, and operator-focused features. It has enabled smaller contractors and rental businesses to undertake tougher earthmoving tasks with a single, adaptable machine.
Glossary of Terms
  • C-frame: A chassis-integrated frame connecting the dozer blade securely to the machine.
  • Breakout Force: The maximum force exerted by the bucket or blade to penetrate material.
  • ROPS/FOPS: Roll-over and Falling Object Protective Structures ensuring cab safety.
  • Hydraulic Flow (GPM): Gallons per minute of hydraulic fluid delivery influencing attachment power.
  • Telematics: Remote data communication tools monitoring machine health and usage.
Conclusion
The Case Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader is a groundbreaking machine that combines raw dozing strength with loader agility. Its fully integrated chassis design, powerful engine, advanced hydraulics, and operator comforts position it as a formidable tool for modern construction projects. It offers users the efficiency of two machines in one, backed by extensive support and innovative technology that promise durability, precision, and productivity for years to come.
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