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Overview of D7 Models
The Caterpillar D7 is a medium-sized bulldozer with a lineage dating back to 1938. Over the years, it evolved through multiple versions—C, D, 17A, and later D7E, F, G, H and beyond—with each iteration refining power, structure, and operator features. Models from the 1950s such as the D7C and D7D carried weights around 26,900–27,200 lb in operating condition (bare tractor only without blade or cable system). This forms a baseline for further weight calculations.
Estimating Weight with Cable Blade
When you fit the D7 with a cable blade assembly—and associated components—the total rises significantly. The breakdown in an example scenario:
Another reference suggests a rounded figure—roughly 32,000 lb overall weight for a D7 with cable blade and control unit . Variances likely stem from model differences, blade types, presence of belly guards, or power units, but the 32k–34k lb range remains a sound estimate.
Terminology Note
The “bare” D7C weighs near 26,930 lb, while the D7D tips the scale around 27,230 lb . Add the physical mass of blade and CCU, and the configuration jumps to the mid-30,000 lb zone.
These vintage tractors originate from Caterpillar’s post-WWII production era. While Caterpillar no longer provides exact sales figures, the D7 platform remained a mainstay through the mid-20th century—adaptable, reliable—and formed the foundation for heavier machines in later decades .
Real-World Anecdote
A vintage equipment hauler once recounted arranging transport for a D7-3T—tracking it scaled close to 32,000 lb once fully equipped with the cable blade and control unit. The weight estimate was critical to confirm it could be hauled safely without special permits .
Quick Reference Weight Breakdown
If you're planning to move, restore, or use a classic D7 with cable blade:
A Caterpillar D7 from the 1950s fitted with a cable blade and control unit typically weighs between 32,000 and 34,000 pounds—or roughly 16 to 17 tons. This includes the tractor, blade, and cable gear. Understanding these numbers is essential for safe handling, shipping, restoration planning, or simply appreciating the heft of these durable classic machines.
The Caterpillar D7 is a medium-sized bulldozer with a lineage dating back to 1938. Over the years, it evolved through multiple versions—C, D, 17A, and later D7E, F, G, H and beyond—with each iteration refining power, structure, and operator features. Models from the 1950s such as the D7C and D7D carried weights around 26,900–27,200 lb in operating condition (bare tractor only without blade or cable system). This forms a baseline for further weight calculations.
Estimating Weight with Cable Blade
When you fit the D7 with a cable blade assembly—and associated components—the total rises significantly. The breakdown in an example scenario:
- Base tractor (e.g., D7D): ~27,230 lb
- Cable Control Unit (CCU): ~2,070 lb
- Standard blade (e.g., Cat 7S): ~5,080 lb
Another reference suggests a rounded figure—roughly 32,000 lb overall weight for a D7 with cable blade and control unit . Variances likely stem from model differences, blade types, presence of belly guards, or power units, but the 32k–34k lb range remains a sound estimate.
Terminology Note
- Cable Blade: A blade raised/lowered and angled using a cable mechanism driven by a mechanical control unit—common on vintage models.
- Cable Control Unit (CCU): A gear-driven drum assembly, typically mounted on the tractor for controlling the blade via cable.
- Operating Weight: The total in-service weight, including blade, hydraulics, fuel, attachments, and sometimes operator.
The “bare” D7C weighs near 26,930 lb, while the D7D tips the scale around 27,230 lb . Add the physical mass of blade and CCU, and the configuration jumps to the mid-30,000 lb zone.
These vintage tractors originate from Caterpillar’s post-WWII production era. While Caterpillar no longer provides exact sales figures, the D7 platform remained a mainstay through the mid-20th century—adaptable, reliable—and formed the foundation for heavier machines in later decades .
Real-World Anecdote
A vintage equipment hauler once recounted arranging transport for a D7-3T—tracking it scaled close to 32,000 lb once fully equipped with the cable blade and control unit. The weight estimate was critical to confirm it could be hauled safely without special permits .
Quick Reference Weight Breakdown
- Base tractor (D7C/D7D): ~26,900–27,200 lb
- Blade (cable type): ~5,000 lb
- Cable Control Unit: ~2,000 lb
- Estimated total: ~32,000–34,000 lb (16–17 tons)
If you're planning to move, restore, or use a classic D7 with cable blade:
- Confirm exact specs: Check serial tags or service literature to identify precise model (D7C vs D7D vs 17A).
- Weigh if possible: A site scale gives certainty—especially useful for transport logistics.
- Factor in extras: Belly guards, canopy, fuel load, or spare components can add a few hundred to a few thousand pounds.
- Plan transport accordingly: At ~17 tons, most standard lowboy trailers handle it without overweight permits in many jurisdictions.
A Caterpillar D7 from the 1950s fitted with a cable blade and control unit typically weighs between 32,000 and 34,000 pounds—or roughly 16 to 17 tons. This includes the tractor, blade, and cable gear. Understanding these numbers is essential for safe handling, shipping, restoration planning, or simply appreciating the heft of these durable classic machines.
