Equipment Focus: The Cat D8T Bulldozer

If you’re looking to increase dozing productivity, the Cat D8T is definitely a dozer to consider. Caterpillar claims this machine’s performance and efficiency will push your profits forward, giving you a faster return on investment. There’s a lot to deliver on, so let’s take a look at why the Cat D8T dozer may be for you.

In this article we’ll cover:

• Cat D8T overview
• Video feature of the Cat D8T Dozer
• Caterpillar D8T features
• D8T dozer specs
• Cat D8T price

Cat D8T Overview

The Cat D8T is part of Caterpillar’s large dozer range. As with all large dozers, the D8T model has a weight-to-horsepower ratio to enable it to push large loads and satisfy the needs associated with road building and stockpile management.

The Cat D8T dozers can also make light work of:

• Ripping
• Trapping
• Dragline support
• Stripping overburden
• Truck dump maintenance

According to Caterpillar, the D8T dozer allows users to increase productivity by up to 18%, without increasing fuel consumption. This translates to more material moved at a lower cost per ton, and is almost like having an extra machine on the job.

The D8T is a step up from Cat’s D6T dozer series with greater gross power, length of track on the ground, blade capacity, operating weight and ground pressure. In saying that, there are similarities between the D6T and D8T models including a smooth-shifting, automatic 4-speed transmission—making it easy for operators of every level to reach optimal efficiency.

Cat D8T Dozer Feature Video

Disclaimer: The dozer in this clip may be an overseas model. The Australian model may vary from above.

Caterpillar D8T Features

In The Cab

The Cat D8T features a comfortable cab with easy controls. It achieves greater visibility with the optional addition of a rear vision camera and cylinder mounted mirrors. As standard, the cab also includes:

• Access lighting
• Smooth shifting
• Operator protection tech
• Seat belt safety reminder
• Convenient steps, handles & guardrail
• Single hand control for speed & turning input

Technology

One of the main things to note about the Caterpillar D8T is its technology. The D8T is fully equipped with Cat GRADE technologies that accurately hit the target grade faster from first pass to final grade. Tech updates mean less required operator input and increased productivity.

The D8T tech includes:

• Slope Assist which maintains blade position without GPS signal
• 3D integrated grade control
• Attachment Ready Option
• Auto Blade Assist presets blade pitch positions
• AutoCarry automates blade lift
• Automatic Ripper Control auto adjusts engine speed & ripper depth
• Product Link collects data & can be viewed from all devices

Maintenance & Serviceability

Cat’s D8T makes maintenance easy through grouped service points and a ground-level service center. The major structures and components are built to reduce waste, lifetime operating cost and extend profitability cycles.

Owners will be happy to know that this dozer runs cleaner with purpose-built cartridge fuel filters that keep the fuel system clean and extend injector life. The addition of an integrated drain valve also improves servicing and reduces waste.

Caterpillar has also doubled the engine oil service interval to 500 hours, which will save time and cost on parts. Not only that but Remote Flash tech also allows for software updates to be made via Product Link saving on service call expenses.

D8T Specs

D8T Price

Used Cat D8T dozers cost between $350,000 and $815,000, averaging at $485,542*. Prices vary depending on the age, usage and condition of the machine.

Do you think the D8T is the machine for you? If so, take a look at Cat D8T dozers for sale here, or dozers for auction here.

*Prices are based on Machines4U listing data provided by sellers/advertisers and are an approximation only. Data is correct up to and at time of publishing. Prices may change and need to be verified with individual sellers.