Mastering the 953 Track Loader and the Art of Flat Work

[MikePhua]

The Versatility of the Caterpillar 953
The Caterpillar 953 track loader has long been a staple in earthmoving operations across the Eastern United States. Introduced in the early 1980s, the 953 was designed to bridge the gap between dozers and wheel loaders, offering the traction of a crawler with the lifting and digging capabilities of a loader. With an operating weight of around 30,000 lbs and a bucket capacity of 2.5 cubic yards, the 953 became a favorite among contractors working in clay, loam, and mixed terrain.
Caterpillar sold tens of thousands of units globally, and the 953’s reputation for durability and adaptability remains strong. Its hydrostatic transmission, responsive controls, and balanced frame make it ideal for grading pads, loading trucks, and shaping terrain with precision.
Operator Skill and the Impact of Experience
While the machine itself is capable, the true magic lies in the hands of the operator. A skilled operator can make a 953 perform tasks that rival those of more specialized equipment. In one instance, a young operator demonstrated exceptional control, producing a pad so flat it rivaled the finish of a motor grader. Observers noted the use of float mode in reverse, precise bucket angle control, and seamless transitions between cut and fill.
This level of finesse requires:

• Proper use of return-to-dig (RTD) settings
  
• Understanding of bucket geometry and cutting edge visibility
  
• Mastery of float mode for smoothing loose material
  
• Hand-eye coordination developed through hours of seat time
  

Veteran operators often refer to this as “feel”—the intuitive sense of how the machine responds to terrain, load, and hydraulic feedback. It’s not something taught in manuals but passed down through observation and repetition.
Comparing Track Loaders to Dozers and CTLs
In regions like the Pacific Northwest, track loaders are less common, with contractors favoring compact track loaders (CTLs) or six-way dozers for finish work. CTLs offer better visibility of the cutting edge and are easier to transport, while six-way dozers excel at shaping and grading with blade tilt and angle control.
However, the 953 holds its own in versatility:

• Can dig, load, grade, and backfill without changing machines
  
• Offers superior traction in muddy or uneven terrain
  
• Handles demolition debris and heavy material with ease
  
• Requires fewer passes to move large volumes
  

One operator noted that while a six-way dozer is ideal for making flat surfaces, it’s harder to turn around and load trucks on the same pad. The 953’s ability to pivot, scoop, and dump without repositioning makes it more efficient in tight spaces.
Technique Tips for Flat Work with a 953
To achieve a smooth, level surface using a track loader, operators should:

• Use float mode when reversing over loose fill
  
• Keep the bucket slightly curled to avoid gouging
  
• Set RTD to return the bucket to a consistent angle
  
• Avoid overcorrecting with the loader arms
  
• Watch the track marks and adjust based on pad feedback
  

Using a 4-in-1 bucket adds complexity, as the clamshell function can interfere with float mode. Operators must learn to balance the bucket’s open and closed positions to maintain consistent grading.
The Role of Mentorship and Observation
Many young operators develop their skills by watching seasoned professionals. In one story, a teenager learned to run a 955 by shadowing older operators who had decades of experience. He mimicked their hand movements, listened to engine tone changes, and practiced on weekends until he could match their output. That kind of mentorship is invaluable and often overlooked in today’s fast-paced job sites.
Experienced operators often say, “You don’t run the machine—you become part of it.” That philosophy is evident in those who can make a 953 dance across a pad, leaving behind a surface ready for concrete without a single stake knocked over.
Conclusion
The Caterpillar 953 is more than just a track loader—it’s a platform for craftsmanship. In the hands of a skilled operator, it can shape terrain with precision, efficiency, and grace. While newer machines offer digital aids and enhanced visibility, the fundamentals of flat work remain rooted in technique, timing, and feel.
In a world of automation and GPS grading, there’s still something remarkable about watching a human operator sculpt the earth with nothing but steel, hydraulics, and instinct. That’s not just good—it’s art in motion.