 |  | Power Train
The field proven Cat 3304 DIT Diesel engine, heavy-duty torque converter and three-speed transmission are matched to deliver high horsepower for more drawbar pull, improved skidding performance and ease of operation. |
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Engine
Turbocharged Cat 3304 DIT diesel engine sets the industry standard for reliability and durability. |
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Fuel System
A direct-injection fuel system uses adjustment-free unit fuel injectors for efficient, accurate fuel metering and reduced emissions. |
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Pre-screener
Pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the air cleaner to provide significant engine protection in harsh logging environments. |
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Mounting
Resilient engine mounting results in quieter operation and less vibration. |
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Torque Converter
Large, heavy-duty torque converter is matched to the 3304 engine power for excellent drawbar pull and improved skidding performance. |
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Fluid Coupling
A fluid coupling allows the engine to run in its optimal rpm range for more efficient use of available engine power. |
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Performance
The torque converter reduces the tendency for track-to-ground slip, further improving the 517's performance in soft underfoot conditions. |
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Operator Comfort
Less operator effort is required to match gear range to engine rpm as torque multiplication reduces the need for up and down-shifting. |
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Shocks
Traction and load induced shocks are absorbed by the fluid coupling of the converter, thereby protecting power train components and contributing to longer life. |
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Radiator
Six-row radiator core has large surface areas for improved heat rejection. |
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Fan
High volume fan for increased airflow and improved cooling ability. |
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Fan Speed
High fan speed allows the machine to operate in high, ambient temperatures. |
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Steel Cores
Modular steel cores increase durability and resistance to corrosion. |
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Core Module
Each core module can be replaced individually, saving considerable cost and repair time. |
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Transmission
Three-speed planetary power shift transmission is designed and built by Caterpillar and delivers three speeds in both forward and reverse. The field-proven system works best in high-pull applications and is well suited for large load and steep terrain skidding. |
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Cooling Capacity
The 517 has increased cooling capacity to meet the demands of logging applications and extend the life of key power train components. |
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Application Flexibility
The 517 Skidder provides unsurpassed performance and application flexibility due to superior balance, torque converter power train and expanded track and grapple/arch options. The versatile PAT blade makes the 517 a multi-purpose machine. |
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 | | Performance
Maximum skidding performance is best attained through the available swing boom and grapple. This tool is ideal for site-sensitive locations with soft underfoot terrain. |
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 | | Horsepower and Torque
High horsepower and torque further enhance the 517's dozing abilities. The available PAT blade offers high levels of versatility in dozing, decking, and pioneering applications. |
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 | | Track Options
Expanded track options allow the 517 to maintain skidding performance and minimize ground disturbance in a wide range of ground conditions. |
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 | | Ground Clearance
Excellent ground clearance allows the 517 to readily avoid obstacles, maneuver in poor underfoot conditions, and work effectively and efficiently on snow covered sites. |
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 | | Undercarriage
Use of D5H sized heavy-duty track prolongs the life of the key undercarriage components, including rollers, idlers, pins, bushings and shoes. An extended track roller frame places more track under grapple/winch and enhances balance. |
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| | Track Roller Frame
Heavy-duty track roller frame and undercarriage are key to the 517's superior balance and durability. |
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Extended Track Roller Frame
Available with 7 or 8 rollers, the extended track roller frame places rear idlers beneath grapple/winch loads, improving skidder balance and performance. |
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Undercarriage Components
D5H sized heavy duty undercarriage components better withstand impact and abrasion, enhancing wear life. |
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 | | Supported Undercarriage
Supported undercarriage options reduce stress loads and impact forces on undercarriage assemblies and contribute to longer system life. |
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Tri Track Shoes
Tri track shoes provide an additional outer row of links for improved durability. |
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Minimal Ground Disturbance and Compaction
Additional width of supported undercarriage reduces ground disturbance/compaction and improves skidder flotation. |
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 | | Hydraulics
The load sensing hydraulic system reduces horsepower consumption and system heat. A single lever controls grapple and tong hydraulics, reducing operator efforts for improved productivity. Exclusive Auto-Grab hydraulics maintain constant tong gripping pressures to compensate for shifting loads. |
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| | Load Sensing Hydraulics
Load sensing hydraulics utilize a load sensing, variable displacement pump and pressure compensating system which continually monitors dozer and grapple hydraulic power requirements. |
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Horsepower Demand
System reduces engine horsepower demand by placing pump in low pressure stand-by when not needed for hydraulic output. |
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Drive Train
More power is available to the drive train for increased skidding power and efficiency. |
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Compensator Valve
Compensator valve has pressure limiting ability, protecting the pump and hydraulic system from damaging overloads. |
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| | Auto-Grab Feature
The Auto-Grab feature from Caterpillar constantly monitors and adjusts tong pressure as needed to securely hold grapple loads while skidding. |
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Tong Pressure
Provides constant tong pressure without continuous hydraulic pump demand. Activated by switch on right hand console. |
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 | | Operator Station
Excellent all-around viewing area, angled seat, and easy-to-reach controls reduce operator fatigue and increase productivity. Available with enclosed cab or open canopy. |
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| | Easy and Comfortable Operation
Modular ROPS/FOPS cab is resiliently mounted to the frame. Large window area allows excellent front and rear viewing area. Cab is sealed and pressurized for sound level reduction and improved operator comfort. |
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Transmission
Power shift transmission delivers three speeds forward and three reverse. Gear selection is quick and easy. |
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| | Steering
Clutch and brake steering controls each track individually providing exceptional maneuverability. |
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Electronic Monitoring System
Electronic monitoring system monitors critical machine functions and has a three-level warning system to inform operators of potential problems. |
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Blade Control
Single-lever blade control manages all blade functions including height, angle and tilt. |
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Grapple Control
Single-lever grapple control allows for simplified operation and reduced operator fatigue. |
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Auto-Grab Switch
Auto-Grab switch activates the system that monitors and adjusts tong pressure to maintain a secure grip on grapple loads. |
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| | Seat
Standard suspension seat is angled ten degrees to the right so the operator can more comfortably observe grapple/winch functions to the rear. |
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Air-conditioning
Air-conditioning is standard with the enclosed cab. Controls allow operator to manage cab temperature for optimal comfort levels. |
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Windows
Polycarbonate windows provide excellent viewing and eliminate the need for screens. |
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 | | Canopy
Open ROPS/FOPS canopy is standard with side, front, and rear screens, vandalism protection and optional heater. |
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 | | Cable Skidder
The 517 is also offered in a cable configuration to meet application demands in severe slope and mountainous terrain. |
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| | Winching Performance
The combination of high drawbar pull, torque converter driveline and balance enable the 517 to overcome the loads created during winch applications. |
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Controls
517 winch controls operate reel-in, reel-out brake and freespool functions. |
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Brake Control
Modulation of the winch brake control can be utilized to manipulate the load during winch applications in mountainous environments. |
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| | Balance and Pulling Power
Superior balance and pulling power enable the 517 to skid large loads with the optional 517 winch. This highly productive winch has been specifically designed for the 517 skidder in steep and mountainous skidding applications. |
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Serviceability
Less service time means more working time. Major components are made as modules and most can be removed without disturbing or removing others. |
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Servicing
Less service time means more working time. Major components are made as modules and most can be removed without disturbing or removing others. |
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Ground-level Access
Ground-level access provides convenient servicing to most filters and lube points. |
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Pre-screener
Centrifugal pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the internal air cleaner, significantly increasing engine protection. |
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Oil Filters
Spin-on fuel and engine oil filters save changing time. |
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Air Filters
Radial seal air filters are easy to change, reducing air filter maintenance times. |
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Electrical System
24-volt electrical system delivers increased electrical power for engine cranking, lights, and engine diagnostics. |
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 | | Customer Support
Your Cat dealer offers a wide range of services that can be set up under a customer support agreement when you purchase your equipment. The dealer will help you choose a plan that can cover everything from machine and attachment selection to replacement, to help you get the best return on your investment. |
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Selection
Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. How long do components last? What is the cost of preventive maintenance? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat dealer can give you precise answers to these questions. |
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Purchase
Look past initial price. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services that can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run. |
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Operation
Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has training videotapes, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity. |
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Replacement
Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. |
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Product Support
You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers utilize a world-wide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. Save money with remanufactured parts. You receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at cost savings of 40 to 70 percent. |
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Maintenance
More and more equipment buyers are planning for effective maintenance before buying equipment. Choose from your dealer's wide range of maintenance services at the time you purchase your machine. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid unscheduled repairs. |
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