International Harvester TD-15C Crawler Dozer: Specifications and Blade Options

[MikePhua]

Introduction
The International Harvester TD-15C crawler dozer, introduced in the early 1970s, represents a significant advancement in heavy machinery design and performance. Building upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the TD-15B, the TD-15C incorporated several enhancements that made it a formidable competitor in the mid-sized dozer market. This article delves into the specifications of the TD-15C, focusing on its engine, dimensions, weight, and blade configurations, with particular emphasis on the Semi-U blade.
Engine Specifications
The TD-15C was powered by the International Harvester DT-466 engine, a 7.6-liter, 6-cylinder diesel engine renowned for its durability and efficiency. This engine produced approximately 140 horsepower, providing the dozer with ample power for a variety of tasks. The engine's design emphasized reliability, ensuring that the TD-15C could operate in demanding conditions without frequent breakdowns.
Dimensions and Weight

• Length: The standard operating length of the TD-15C crawler tractor is approximately 12 feet 1 inch. This measurement can vary depending on the machine configuration and attachments.
  
• Width: The standard operating width is about 7 feet 8 inches, which can change based on the specific setup and attachments.
  
• Height: The standard operating height stands at 9 feet 8 inches, subject to variations with different configurations.
  
• Weight: The standard operating weight is approximately 32,975 pounds, though this can vary depending on the machine's configuration and attachments.
  

These dimensions and weight figures are crucial for determining the machine's suitability for various tasks and its transport requirements.
Blade Configurations
The TD-15C was compatible with several blade types, each designed for specific applications:

• Straight Blade: Ideal for general-purpose pushing and leveling tasks.
  
• Semi-U Blade: This blade type is characterized by its curved shape, allowing for better material containment and increased capacity. The Semi-U blade is particularly effective in applications requiring high volume material handling, such as land clearing and road construction.
  
• Angle Blade: Designed for tasks that require the blade to be angled, offering enhanced maneuverability and precision in certain applications.
  

The Semi-U blade, with its unique design, provides operators with improved efficiency and effectiveness in material handling tasks.
Performance and Operational Insights
The TD-15C's design emphasized operator comfort and machine durability. Its undercarriage featured a flat, smooth belly without diagonal braces from the track frames, distinguishing it from competitors like the Caterpillar D6D. This design choice contributed to better ground clearance and reduced maintenance needs, particularly in soft or uneven terrains.
Operators have noted the TD-15C's reliability and ease of maintenance. For instance, the final drives can be serviced without removing the track frames, a feature that simplifies repairs and reduces downtime.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to contemporaneous models, the TD-15C stood out for its balance of power, durability, and ease of maintenance. While the Caterpillar D6D was also a strong contender in the mid-sized dozer category, the TD-15C's design offered certain operational advantages, particularly in terms of ground clearance and undercarriage accessibility.
Conclusion
The International Harvester TD-15C crawler dozer, with its robust engine, thoughtful design, and versatile blade options, remains a noteworthy example of mid-20th-century heavy machinery engineering. Its legacy continues to influence modern dozer designs, and it serves as a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of its era.