2 hours ago
The Rise of Articulated Dump Trucks in Earthmoving
Articulated dump trucks (ADTs) have become essential in modern earthmoving, mining, and infrastructure development. Their ability to traverse rough terrain, maintain traction on slopes, and haul heavy loads with minimal ground disturbance makes them ideal for large-scale projects. By the mid-2000s, manufacturers like Volvo and Caterpillar had refined their ADT designs to offer improved operator comfort, fuel efficiency, and load-handling precision.
Models such as the Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735/740 were widely deployed across North America and Europe, often working side by side on major excavation sites. These machines represent two distinct engineering philosophies—Volvo’s emphasis on smooth control and user-friendly features, and Caterpillar’s focus on raw power and productivity.
Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735 Side-by-Side
Operators who have run both machines report nuanced differences in performance and handling:
One recurring issue with the Caterpillar 735 is front-end heaviness when hauling wet pit-run material. In some cases, the dump box fails to raise unless the operator brakes hard in reverse to shift weight. This has been observed in both 2003 and 2006 models.
Volvo introduced a load/dump brake feature that automatically applies trailer brakes and shifts the transmission to neutral during dumping. While innovative, it occasionally triggers the parking brake unexpectedly, requiring manual override.
Fleet Decisions and Machine Rotation
Contractors often rotate machines based on site conditions, operator preference, and maintenance cycles. In one fleet, the Volvo A40D was replaced by a Caterpillar 735 due to productivity gains and faster dump cycles. However, the Volvo remained favored for precision work and smoother ride in uneven terrain.
Operators who have used both machines extensively tend to prefer the Caterpillar 735 for its cab comfort, dump speed, and aggressive transmission. Volvo earns praise for its steering precision, quiet operation, and user-friendly controls.
Recommendations for Fleet Managers
When selecting ADTs for mixed terrain and high-volume hauling:
The Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735 represent two high-performing articulated dump trucks with distinct strengths. While Caterpillar excels in productivity and cab design, Volvo offers smoother handling and thoughtful control features. In real-world conditions, both machines deliver results—but the choice often comes down to terrain, operator style, and jobsite demands. For contractors who value both muscle and finesse, having both in the fleet is a winning strategy.
Articulated dump trucks (ADTs) have become essential in modern earthmoving, mining, and infrastructure development. Their ability to traverse rough terrain, maintain traction on slopes, and haul heavy loads with minimal ground disturbance makes them ideal for large-scale projects. By the mid-2000s, manufacturers like Volvo and Caterpillar had refined their ADT designs to offer improved operator comfort, fuel efficiency, and load-handling precision.
Models such as the Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735/740 were widely deployed across North America and Europe, often working side by side on major excavation sites. These machines represent two distinct engineering philosophies—Volvo’s emphasis on smooth control and user-friendly features, and Caterpillar’s focus on raw power and productivity.
Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735 Side-by-Side
Operators who have run both machines report nuanced differences in performance and handling:
- Power and Fuel Efficiency
Both trucks deliver ample horsepower and torque for hauling pit-run material, but the Volvo A40D tends to run quieter and smoother. Fuel consumption is comparable, though Volvo’s engine management system offers slightly better optimization under light loads.
- Retarder Functionality
The Volvo uses a pedal-operated retarder with an optional automatic mode. It’s quiet and effective, ideal for downhill control. The Caterpillar 735, by contrast, has a loud retarder that engages automatically. While some operators prefer the audible feedback, others find it excessive.
- Dump Cycle and Gear Recovery
Caterpillar’s dump box lowers faster and returns to gear more quickly. As soon as the lever is placed in float, all gears become available. Volvo’s system holds second gear until the box is fully down, slightly delaying cycle time.
- Cab Comfort and Ergonomics
The Caterpillar cab is more refined, with better seat support, headrests, and armrests. Volvo’s cab is functional but lacks some comfort features unless upgraded. Heated seats are common in Volvo but sometimes come without basic adjustments.
- Steering and Precision
Volvo’s steering is stiffer but more precise, especially in tight turns. Caterpillar’s steering is lighter and more adjustable, offering better comfort over long shifts.
- Transmission Behavior
Volvo’s transmission shifts smoothly, with minimal gear hunting. Caterpillar’s shifts are abrupt and aggressive, but fast. Gear hunting is more frequent in the Cat, though mitigated by the gear lock feature.
- Visibility and Mirror Placement
Caterpillar improved mirror placement in later models, allowing operators to see inside the dump box. Volvo’s mirrors are functional but less optimized for box visibility.
One recurring issue with the Caterpillar 735 is front-end heaviness when hauling wet pit-run material. In some cases, the dump box fails to raise unless the operator brakes hard in reverse to shift weight. This has been observed in both 2003 and 2006 models.
Volvo introduced a load/dump brake feature that automatically applies trailer brakes and shifts the transmission to neutral during dumping. While innovative, it occasionally triggers the parking brake unexpectedly, requiring manual override.
Fleet Decisions and Machine Rotation
Contractors often rotate machines based on site conditions, operator preference, and maintenance cycles. In one fleet, the Volvo A40D was replaced by a Caterpillar 735 due to productivity gains and faster dump cycles. However, the Volvo remained favored for precision work and smoother ride in uneven terrain.
Operators who have used both machines extensively tend to prefer the Caterpillar 735 for its cab comfort, dump speed, and aggressive transmission. Volvo earns praise for its steering precision, quiet operation, and user-friendly controls.
Recommendations for Fleet Managers
When selecting ADTs for mixed terrain and high-volume hauling:
- Use Caterpillar 735 or 740 for fast cycle times and operator comfort
- Deploy Volvo A40D for precision work and fuel-sensitive operations
- Train operators on gear lock and retarder use to maximize safety
- Monitor dump box raise times under heavy loads and adjust hauling strategy
- Maintain mirror alignment and cab ergonomics to reduce fatigue
The Volvo A40D and Caterpillar 735 represent two high-performing articulated dump trucks with distinct strengths. While Caterpillar excels in productivity and cab design, Volvo offers smoother handling and thoughtful control features. In real-world conditions, both machines deliver results—but the choice often comes down to terrain, operator style, and jobsite demands. For contractors who value both muscle and finesse, having both in the fleet is a winning strategy.
