The Caterpillar D5k Lgp is a versatile and powerful crawler dozer designed for a variety of applications, especially in areas requiring low ground pressure. This comprehensive guide delves into the key features, specifications, operating costs, and comparable models of the D5K LGP.
Key Features of the Caterpillar D5K LGP
The D5K LGP boasts several features that contribute to its performance and operator comfort:
Ergonomic Seat-Mounted Joystick Controls
Operator comfort and precise control are paramount with the D5K LGP’s ergonomically designed, seat-mounted joystick controls. This design minimizes vibrations felt by the operator and allows for independent adjustment of the seat and controls. Customizable wrist pads and armrests further enhance operator comfort.
Versatile Track Frame Configurations
The D5K LGP is available with either Extra Long (XL) or Low Ground Pressure (LGP) track frames. The XL configuration maximizes ground contact and flotation, enhancing balance and finish grading. The LGP configuration, featuring wider track shoes (with an optional 762 mm/30 in width), optimizes flotation and stability on slopes and during finish grading.
Advanced AccuGrade™ System
Caterpillar’s AccuGrade™ system revolutionizes earthmoving by providing an automated blade control system. Integrated sensors calculate precise blade slope and elevation, enabling operators to achieve exceptional grading accuracy, boosting productivity and reducing operational costs.
Durable Undercarriage Options
Understanding that undercarriage maintenance contributes significantly to ownership costs, Caterpillar offers two options for the D5K LGP: the standard Sealed and Lubricated Track (SALT) and the optional SystemOne™ undercarriage. Full-length guarding protects the track roller frame from abrasive materials, extending component life. The machine’s balanced design, combined with its extended track length, ensures stability and superior grading performance.
Caterpillar D5K LGP Specifications
Dimensions
- Ground Clearance: 0.3 m (1.1 ft)
- Height – Top of Cab: 2.7 m (9 ft)
- Length of Track on Ground: 2.3 m (7.6 ft)
- Length w/o Blade: 3.3 m (10.8 ft)
- Width Over Tracks: 2.4 m (8 ft) + 20 cm
Engine
- Engine Model: Cat C4.4 ACERT
- Displacement: 4.4 L (269 cu in)
- Gross Power: 100 hp (75 kW)
- Net Power: 96 hp (72 kW)
Hydraulic System
- Pump Flow Capacity: 72 L/min (19.4 gal/min)
- Relief Valve Pressure: 206 bar (2988 psi)
Operating Specifications
- Operating Weight: 9,683 kg (21,347 lbs)
- Fuel Capacity: 193 L (51.5 gal)
- Hydraulic Fluid Capacity: 57 L (15.7 gal)
- Cooling System Fluid Capacity: 23 L (6 gal)
- Engine Oil Capacity: 11 L (3 gal)
- Final Drives Fluid Capacity: 9.8 L (2.6 gal)
- Alternator Supplied Amperage: 120 A
- Operating Voltage: 12 V
Standard Blade
- Width: 3.2 m (10.6 ft)
- Height: 99 cm (39.8 in)
- Capacity: 2.4 m³ (3.1 cu yds)
- Blade Angle (both directions): 25°
Transmission
- Transmission Type: Hydrostatic
- Max Speed – Forward: 9 kph (5.6 mph)
- Max Speed – Reverse: 10 kph (6.2 mph)
Undercarriage
- Standard Shoe Size: 66 cm (26 in)
- Number of Shoes per Side: 40
- Number of Track Rollers per Side: 7
- Track Gauge: 1.8 m (5.8 ft)
- Ground Contact Area: 77,777 cm³ (4726 cu in)
- Ground Pressure: 32 kPa (4.6 psi)
Cost Analysis: Purchase, Rental, and Operation
The Caterpillar D5K LGP has a purchase price of approximately $115,000. Rental options include daily ($895), half-day ($448), and weekly ($2,325) rates. Estimated monthly maintenance costs are around $200, while monthly fuel costs are estimated at $400, with an hourly fuel cost of $2.50.
Comparing the D5K LGP to Similar Models
Comparable Caterpillar models include the larger D6K LGP, the smaller D7K LGP, and the mid-sized D8K LGP. The Caterpillar D5M XL and D5K2 XL are also worth considering for similar applications.
Conclusion
The Caterpillar D5K LGP is a robust and efficient dozer well-suited for various tasks requiring low ground pressure. Its advanced features, coupled with its versatile track configurations, contribute to excellent performance and operator comfort. While the purchase price is significant, rental options provide flexibility. Operational costs remain relatively manageable, making the D5K LGP a valuable asset for diverse projects.
