545C Wheel Skidder

New Cat C-Series Wheel Skidders with ACERT™ Technology offers maximum productivity, reliability and lower owner and operating cost while meeting Tier3 emission standard regulations.

Engine

The Cat power train delivers top performance, power, and durability.

Cat C7 Engine

The Cat C7 uses Caterpillars breakthrough ACERT Technology to meet exhaust emission reduction standards. It features efficient air management, fuel delivery and electronic control for high productivity and exceptional service life.

Engine Design

This fourstroke engine provides efficient fuel combustion. Precise engineering and thorough testing assure durability, reliability and plenty of power. Builtin serviceability and excellent fuel economy lower operating costs.

ACERT Technology

Caterpillar optimizes engine performance while meeting EPA Tier 3 and European Union Stage IIIa regulations. ACERT Technology reduces emissions during the combustion process by using advanced technology in the air and fuel systems, in conjunction with integrated electronics. Caterpillar meets emission regulations at the combustion source rather than recycling exhaust gases.

ADEM A4 Control Module

Controls the fuel injector solenoids to monitor fuel injection. This system provides automatic altitude compensation, air filter restriction indication and it will not allow the engine to fire until it has oil pressure, acting as cold start protection and a form of prelube.

Turbocharger

The C7 features a waste gate turbocharger that provides high boost over a wider range, improving engine response and peak torque, as well as providing outstanding lowend performance.

Maintenance

The C7 engine reduces costs and downtime with a 500hour oil change interval. Extended service intervals can save thousands of dollars over the life of a machine. Machines are equipped with Caterpillar high efficiency oil filters, whose revolutionary design doubles efficiency without increasing the change interval.

Water Pump

A dual thermostat control improves coolant flow and heat dissipation, resulting in better durability.

Electronic Transfer Pump

The electric fuel transfer pump is selfpriming, eliminating the need for a manual priming pump.

Reliability Features

The C7 offers maximum reliability and response thanks to a range of features ulli Improved fuel injectors and pumplili Leakfree designlili Higher cylinder pressureslili Reinforced cylinder blockliul

LeakFree Design

Improved joints throughout the engine reduce the chance of leaks. The oil pan seal, timing cover and block to flywheel housing incorporate a leakfree design proven in thousands of Cat onhighway truck engines in the field.

Power Train

The integrated Cat power train delivers dependable, relentless pulling power.

FiveSpeed Transmission

The field proven Cat power shift countershaft transmission easily matches engine power to the load size and ground conditions. Electronic control makes fingertip controls possible, reducing operator fatigue and improving comfort.

Gear Application

Gear ratios are carefully designed to maximize productivity in specific cycle segments and under specific loads. ulli Gear 1 provides highest rimpull capability for heavy load applications.lili Gears 2, 3 for normal loads and higher speed operations.lili Gears 4, 5 provide excellent empty return and roading speeds.liul

Electronic Clutch Pressure Control

The CSeries Skidders have an additional transmission feature for added performance and operator comfort, the Electronic Clutch Pressure Control ECPC. This unique feature provides smoother shifting and increases skidding performance by regulating and modulating the individual clutches based on current operator conditions.

Torque Converter

The large, heavyduty torque converter maximizes the productivity of the entire drive train. The torque converter is matched to the Cat C7 engine for excellent rimpull and skidding performance. This lockup torque converter has proven its durability over thousands of hours of punishing loads.

Improved Productivity

The torque multiplication capability of the torque converter reduces the need for the operator to continually shift the transmission to maintain good skidder performance, as is required on competitive skidders. This reduces operator effort and improves machine productivity.

Lockup Clutch

The integral lockup clutch allows the machine to operate in converter drive for greater rimpull, or direct drive for high efficiency hauling and faster travel speeds. Direct drive capability allows up to 15 higher travel speeds when the lockup clutch is engaged.

Auto Lockup

The lockup clutch automatically engages according to ground speed and engine speed conditions. This feature is handled electronically and allows for increased travel speeds in the same gear.

Reduced Operating Costs

Torque converter direct drive capability, combined with the lockup differential, reduces wheel slip. This minimizes rutting and soil damage in straightahead pulls on weaker soil. In turn, it minimizes tire wear, component stress and fuel consumption, reducing total operating costs.

Differential Locks

Normal operation is with the differential locks in both axles disengaged, meaning the all four wheels are free to drive independently. Locking a differential forces both wheels on an axle to turn in sync with each other. Both front and rear differential locks are easily engaged and disengaged with a conveniently located switch on the right hand console. Hydraulically actuated differential locks allows for onthego engagement or disengagement.

Axles

Axles feature a full length oil sump with splash lubrication for excellent heat rejection long component life. The 545C has Wide Axles as standard for use in all applications from moderate to severe, or when using dual tires, wide flotation tires or chains.

Front Axle

The front axle features a pinionmounted design and a heavyduty housing, eliminating the need for a front axle guard.

Pivot Design

The oscillation pivot design provides industry leading ride comfort. ulli 15 oscillation absorbs minor shock loads caused by stumps and holes, and helps isolate the cab from axle movement for a smoother, more comfortable ride.lili Front axle oscillation also provides excellent foreaft stability for large capacity grapples and dual function arches.liul

Brake Components

Brake components are housed inside the axles, protecting them from dirt, dust and wet ground conditions. Inboard brakes allow for splash lubrication and cooling, are virtually maintenance free, and provide reliable brake performance in the most demanding logging applications.

Hydraulics

Stateoftheart hydraulic system provides dependable power and maximum efficiency.

Load Sensing Hydraulics

A load sensing variable displacement pump and pressure compensating system continually monitor hydraulic power requirements, then provides power based on demand.

Lower Power Consumption

The variable displacement hydraulic pump draws engine power only when braking, steering, dozer or grapple actuation demands flow or pressure. This conserves engine horsepower and increases fuel efficiency.

Cooling Demands

Load sensing hydraulics provide flow only when needed, saving fuel and generating less heat, allowing the cooling system to allocate more capacity to the engine, transmission and torque converter.

Oil Cooler

The oil cooler is located above the radiator for better hydraulic oil cooling performance and to make radiator cleanout easier.

AutoGrab Feature

AutoGrab, engineered by Caterpillar, constantly monitors tong pressure and adjusts as needed to securely hold grapple loads while skidding. It is easily activated on demand by a switch located on the righthand control lever.

Cat ToughGuard Hoses

Caterpillar XT3 ToughGuard hoses improve hose life in the grapple, arch, boom and across the hitch. ToughGuard hoses have been very successful in reducing early hour hose failures. Oring face seals assure rocksolid connections that maintain pressure and reduce oil leaks.

Steering

Fully hydraulic control. Meets the following standards SAE J1511 OCT90, ISO 50101992.

Structures

The 545C mainframe, hitch and decking blade are designed and built to surpass the expectations of the logging industry.

BoxSection Construction

Caterpillar designed and manufactured box section structures set the industry standard for reliable, durable main frames. Extensive computer analysis and fieldtesting resulted in the design of the 545C skidder.

Absorbs Twistng and Shock Loads

Frames can absorb twisting and impact forces to provide a sound foundation and wellbalanced system for the entire structure.

Superior Balance

Low center of mass and weight forward design create excellent skidder balance.

Maneuverability

The 545C skidder provides the tightest turning radius for superior maneuverability while still maintaining the excellent balance required for high capacity skidding.

Caterpillar Manufacturing

The front and rear frames are robotically welded and manufactured by Caterpillar to ensure the highest level of quality and durability.

Hitch

A larger and improved center section features oversized plates and bosses to disperse forces. A large doubletapered roller bearing is used on the lower hitch for reduced flexing stress and maintaining tight joints.

Hitch Pins

The wide hitch pin spread significantly reduces horizontal loading on hinge pins and pin bearings for greater durability and extended pin and bearing life. The extra room also increases hydraulic hose clearance and makes hose routing easier.

Fenders

Rear frame fender options are available for both grapple and cable arrangements.

Arches and Booms

All Caterpillar arches use boxsection construction, and are thoroughly tested to exceed durability requirements.

DualFunction Arch

The 545C is available with a multiple position, dualfunction arch. It accommodates large capacity grapples, well suited for large bundles of small stems, and difficulttoreach prebunched stems. The dualfunction arch offers variable reach, which minimizes machine maneuvering to pinpoint a load with the grapple. In addition, it offers the ability to push the skidder forward if necessary.

Cable Arch

Allows outstanding line skidding performance with a twoposition adjustable height fairlead to match site conditions.

Operator Station

Easy to operate, fingertip controls, less fatigue

Comfortable Work Station

The work station incorporates years of cab design innovations to maximize operator comfort and productivity.

Air Suspension Seat

Standard air suspension seat swivels 30 to the right for maximum comfort, while allowing the operator to observe skidder and grapple operations to the rear.

Sealed Cab

The pressurized cab is sealed from exterior air with windows closed for efficient heating and cooling. Tight door and window casings also keep out dust, fumes and insects.

Air Conditioning

Standard with the enclosed, pressurized cab, air conditioning helps the operator concentrate on work rather than environmental distractions. A dedicated cab filter assures clean air.

Windows

Tough polycarbonate windows protect the operator, and are large enough for an excellent side and rear view, increasing operator confidence and productivity. Sliding glass windows protected by metal screens in both doors provide fresh air and communication outside the machine.

Sound Insulation

With the optional enclosed cab, ample sound insulation keeps interior sound levels low. Reduced sound levels meet operator environment regulations and significantly boost operator comfort, especially on long shifts.

Cab Mounting

The modular ROPSFOPS cab is resiliently mounted to the skidder frame, reducing vibration for greater comfort and a quieter ride.

Machine Controls

The comfortable operator environment uses ergonomically designed and placed machine controls to reduce fatigue and increase productivity.

Steering

Column tilts and telescopes to fit any size operator. The quarterturn steering wheel quickly and accurately controls 90 degrees of machine articulation delivering excellent maneuverability and productivity.

Transmission Controls

Transmission controls for forward, reverse and gear range are located on the steering wheel for easy fingertip control. The operator can control machine functions with minimal effort, allowing greater concentration on skidding operations. The result is higher productivity and reduced operator fatigue.

Governor Pedal

The governor pedal has been moved to the right for more clearance between the brake pedal, and for improved operator comfort.

Singlelever Grapple Control

A single fourfunction joystick control has top mounted switches for grapple open and close, tong rotate, and AutoGrab System activation. The control is simple, convenient and easy to use.

Decking Blade Control

The decking blade control is located on the right side console. This location provides for precise control for various decking and clearing functions while reducing operator fatigue.

AutoGrab Switch

The AutoGrab system monitors and adjusts tong pressure as needed to maintain a secure grip on grapple loads.

Lockup Torque Converter Drive

When activated by a switch on the main dashboard, the machine will automatically switch between operation in fuel efficient direct drive mode or torque converter drive for maximum rimpull in tough skidding applications.

Differential Lock Switch

Ergonomically located rocker switch allows quick engagement of differential locks when needed.

Monitoring Controls

Conveniently located and easytosee gauges and displays make monitoring machine systems as simple as possible.

Gauges

Four gauges indicate engine coolant temperature, hydraulic oil temperature, torque converter oil temperature, engine rpm and fuel level.

Caterpillar Monitoring System

Monitors fuel, temperatures, vital electrical systems, gear speed and direction. A threelevel warning system alerts the operator of potential problems.

Additional

The right hand console has a standard 12V outlet for powering auxiliary equipment. The cab is prewired and fitted for an entertainment radio, and a CB type 2way radio.

ROPS FOPS

FOPS Falling Object Protection and ROPS RollOver Protection guards offer protection to the operator and the machine.

Work Tools

Move more wood with powerful, flexible Cat grapples and winches.

Reliable, Productive Grapples

Caterpillar designed and manufactured grapples use box section construction for ultimate durability. The new tong curvature reduces the time it takes to bundle the load, and higher clamp forces deliver excellent load retention for secure hauls to the landing.

Bunching Grapples

Bunching grapples are designed for harvesting midtolarge diameter trees, usually felled by a mechanical feller buncher. Its large tong opening is designed to gather a large number of these stems per cycle for maximum loading. It is heavier than the sorting grapple, but its large capacity holds more stems for improved production in smaller trees and large loads.

Oversized Thinning Grapples

Thinning grapples are designed for harvesting small diameter trees, usually felled by a mechanical feller buncher. Its large tong opening is designed to gather a large number of these small stems per cycle for maximum loading. Cat grapples offer large capacity for maximum performance and productivity.

Grapple Snubbers

Grapple snubber life was improved, reducing grapple swing, hydraulic hose stresses and increasing component life.

Flow Divider

The high capacity flow divider delivers reliable operation and maintains consistent tong sequencing.

Hydraulic Winch

The 545C features an electronically controlled hydraulic winch for grapple applications, replacing the mechanical winch. The hydraulic winch improves application flexibility by allowing the tractive effort to be used while winching, and eliminating the continuously rotating driveshaft. The high capacity winch has four function controls reelin, reelout, brakeon, and freespool. This winch is driven and controlled by the main implement hydraulic system.

Cable Winch

An electrohydraulic lever controls the winch hydraulic control valve, located on the winch case. The integrated software electronically protects freespool clutches. The C500 mechanical winch is available on cable skidders where higher line speeds and max drum pull are important. Winch sump oil is used for hydraulic control and lubrication.

Decking Blade

The decking blade efficiently clears landings and roads, and maintains log decks. It features box section steel arms for superior strength and durability. Decking blade pusharms are mounted directly to the mainframe for excellent strength, and set lower and forward for efficient clearing of slash and debris as well as log deck maintenance. The electrohydraulic control improves operator comfort and control of the decking blade. ulli Heattreated bolton edge and maintenancefree pivot joints for outstanding durability.lili The 545 C is available with two blade options to allow it to be customized to many different types of operating conditions liul No Blade for industrial applications Extended Decking 123.5 width with bolton cutting edges for the fullest coverage of tires and high decking blade usage.

Serviceability

Ease of service increases productivity.

QuickAccess Engine Doors

Large, hinged engine enclosure doors make regular maintenance as easy and fast as possible. Easy access to daily service points increases the likelihood that maintenance will be done, and increases machine service life. In addition, less maintenance time means more working time and greater productivity.

Ground Level Access

Most filters and lube points are accessible from the ground without special tools. Remote lubrication points make daily attention to hardtoreach joints easy.

Rear Frame Access

Steps and grab irons are located on the rear frame and cab for easier access to the rear frame, arch and boom.

Bolton Guards

Bolton guards offer protection to critical components, and are easily removable for servicing. Removable floor plates and side plates allow access to components under the cab.

Radial Seal Air Filters

Hand access makes them easy to change, reducing air filter maintenance times.

Extended Oil Service Intervals

A 500hour oil change interval reduces downtime for service and lowers maintenance costs.

SOSSM Fluid Sampling Valves

Provides a fast, convenient way to gather uncontaminated fluid samples, which improves analysis reliability.

Pressure Taps

Conveniently located for easy access to hydraulic system pressure measurements.

Spinon Oil Filters

Spinon fuel and engine oil filters simplify maintenance and shorten downtime.

Electronic Transfer Pump

Deliveres the proper fue flow to the fuel system and eliminates manual priming.

Ecology Drains

All major fluid compartments hydraulic tank, engine oil pan, radiator, axles and transmission incorporate ecology drains to make regular maintenance easier, and protect the environment from accidental oil spills.

Hitch Hoses

The grapple pilot lines, pressure line and loadsense lines are routed above the hitch and are bulkheaded for easy hose replacement and fastest service. The hitch hoses use the Cat ToughGuard technology and have excellent wear characteristics.

Electrical System

The 24V electrical system delivers dependable electrical power for engine cranking, additional lighting, and engine diagnostics. Wiring circuits are color coded, numbered and protected by circuit breakers.

OnBoard Diagnostic Systems

The Caterpillar Monitoring System continuously checks all critical machine functions and components, and helps locate faults quickly for faster repair. Extremes are recorded, including fluid temperatures, engine speed and electrical system events.

Radiator

Cleanout access doors located on both sides of the radiator help make radiator cleanout faster. The radiator features an all aluminum construction with 8 fins per inch for easy cleanout.

Matched Set Hitch Bearings

Matched set bearings come preassembled with the correct preload from the supplier to streamline the assembly process and ensure a quality hitch joint every time. No rolling torque measurement is required, so the assembly process is simplified. Matched set bearings also reduce service time in the field.

Customer Support

Cat dealer services help you operate longer with lower costs.

Product Support

You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers use a worldwide computer network to find instock parts to minimize machine down time. Save money with genuine Cat Reman parts. You receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at substantial cost savings.

Product Link

Product Link enables convenient monitoring of important equipment information remotely to help increase productivity and reduce owning and operating costs. This stateoftheart satellite technologybased Product Link system enables Caterpillar dealers and customers to keep in touch with their machines. The system provides a twoway information flow between machine onboard systems and Caterpillar dealerscustomers via the Cat Dealer Website and EquipmentManager. Through the subscriptions to Asset Watch hours, location, time and geofence, Maintenance Watch preventative maintenance, repair scheduling, parts ordering, and Health Watch event and diagnostic codes, fuel consumption the customer can manage their entire fleet.

Machine Selection

Make detailed comparisons of the machines under consideration before purchase. Cat dealers can estimate component life, preventive maintenance cost, and the true cost of lost production.

Purchase

Look past initial price. Consider the financing options available as well as daytoday operating costs. 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.

Customer Support Agreements

Cat dealers offer a variety of product support agreements, and work with customers to develop a plan that best meets specific needs. These plans can cover the entire machine, including attachments, to help protect the customers investment.

Operation

Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has videotapes, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity, and Caterpillar offers certified operator training classes to help maximize the return on your machine investment.

Maintenance Services

Talk to your dealer about the range of available maintenance services. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as SOSSM Analysis and Coolant Sampling and Technical Analysis help avoid unscheduled repairs.

Replacement

Repair, rebuild or replace Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice.

SAFETY.CAT.COM

Engine
Net Flywheel Power	219 hp
Engine Model	Cat® C7 ACERT™
Net Power - ISO 9249	219 hp
Net Power - SAE J1349	219 hp
Gross Power - SAE J1995	232 hp
Governed Speed at Rated Power	1800 RPM
Displacement	439 in3
Bore	5 in
Stroke	5 in
Torque Rise	9% at 1400 RPM
Max Torque @ Rated Speed	951 N-m at 1400 RPM
Derating Altitude	7900 ft
Air Cleaner	Dry precleaner
Alternator	Serpentine belt driven, brushless
Electrical System	24V Direct Electric
Battery - Quantity	2
Battery - Volts	12V
Battery - Capacity	950 CCA
Starting System	Direct electric
Number of Cylinders	6
Engine Make	DITAC EUI: 4 stroke cycle diesel
Dimensions
Wheelbase	155.1 in
Length	316.06 in
Overall width	133.7 in
Height	125.4 in
Ground Clearance	21 in
Boom height - max, standard	169.4 in
Top roller height (cable)	109 in
Axle height	33.2 in
Rear axle to pin	86.7 in
Length - overall, grapple, dual	316 in
Length, overall, cable	295.8 in
Decking blade lift height	54.4 in
Decking blade dig depth	17.9 in
Height - top of cab	125.4 in
Decking blade width	123.5 in
Tread width	103.2 in
Turning radius over tires	252 in
Weights
Est Operating Weight	42325 lb
Grapple
Bunching Capacity	16.6 ft2
Thinning Capacity	19 ft2
Sorting Capacity	14.4 ft2
Bunching - Full Open Height	75 in
Bunching - Fully Closed Height	54 in
Bunching - Min. Stem Diameter	7.2 in
Bunching - Tip to Tip Height	83 in
Bunching - Tong Opening	127 in
Thinning - Tip to Tip Height	85 in
Thinning - Tong Opening	135 in
Thinning - Full Open Height	74 in
Thinning - Min. Stem Diameter	9.5 in
Thinning - Fully Closed Height	58 in
Service Refill
Fuel Tank	99.8 gal
Cooling System	15 gal
Differential, Final Drive - Front	13.7 gal
Differential, Final Drive - Rear	19.5 gal
Engine Oil	7.1 gal
Transmission, Torque Converter	14.2 gal
Mechanical Winch	6.5 gal
Hydraulic System - Tank	14.3 gal
Hydraulic System - Total	29.6 gal
Power Train
Travel Speed - Fwd. 1st	4 mph
Travel Speed - Fwd. 2nd	5.6 mph
Travel Speed - Fwd. 3rd	6.8 mph
Travel Speed - Fwd. 4th	9.5 mph
Travel Speed - Fwd. 5th	17.1 mph
Travel Speed - Rev. 1st	3.9 mph
Travel Speed - Rev. 2nd	6.5 mph
Travel Speed - Rev. 3rd	11.6 mph
Torque Converter - Type	Lock-up clutch
Transmission	5 fwd / 3 rev countershaft, powershift
Steering, frame articulation	+/- 45°
Brakes - Service Type	Enclosed wet disc each wheel, full hydraulic
Brakes - Parking Type	Spring applied, hydraulic released, Electro-hydraulic controlled
Transmission Cooler Type	Plate
Hydraulic System
Circuit Type	Closed center, variable flow
Pump Type	Axial piston
Pump Output	50 gal/min
Relief Valve Setting	3045 psi
Reservoir Tank Capacity	14.27 gal
Steering Valve	Direct link, non-follow
Steering Cylinder - Bore	3.5 in
Steering Cylinder - Stroke	17.22 in
Steering Cylinder - Rod Diameter	2 in
Dozer Valve	Electro-hydraulic
Dozer Cylinder - Bore	4 in
Dozer Cylinder - Stroke	4 in
Dozer Cylinder - Rod Diameter	2.25 in
Grapple Valve	4 or 5 stack, pilot
Arch
Dual Function - Lift highest, retracted	110.91 in
Dual Function - Lift highest, farthest	85.16 in
Dual Function - Lift max reach	56.81 in
Dual Function - Lift lowest, retracted	39.92 in
Dual Function - Lift lowest, farthest	13.19 in
Dual Function - Loaded tire radius	33.19 in
Dual Function - Reach Highest, Retracted	65.08 in
Dual Function - Reach Lowest, Retracted	69.88 in
Dual Function - Reach Lowest, Farthest	108.74 in
Dual Function - Reach Highest, Farthest	117.24 in
Dual Function - Reach Max	122.87 in
Arch, Dual Function
CR - Lift highest, retracted	110.91 in
CR - Lift highest, farthest	85.16 in
CR - Lift maximum reach	56.81 in
CR - Lift lowest, retracted	39.92 in
CR - Lift lowest, farthest	13.19 in
CR - Loaded tire radius	33.19 in
CR - Reach highest, retracted	65.08 in
CR - Reach lowest, retracted	69.88 in
CR - Reach lowest, farthest	108.74 in
CR - Reach highest, farthest	117.24 in
CR - Reach maximum	122.87 in
Grapple, CR - Bunching
Grapple capacity	16.6 ft2
Tip to tip height	83 in
Tong opening	127 in
Full open height	75 in
Minimum stem diameter	7.2 in
Full closed height	54 in
Grapple, CR - Thinning
Grapple capacity	19 ft2
Tip to tip height	85 in
Tong opening	135 in
Full open height	74 in
Minimum stem diameter	9.5 in
Full closed height	58 in
Winch - Grapple Skidder
Max Line Pull - Bare Drum	39342 lb
Max Line Speed	132 ft/min
Drum Capacity 19.0mm (3/4in)	154 ft
Drum Capacity 22.2mm (7/8in)	97 ft
Drum capacity 25.4mm (1in)	91 ft
Drum Diameter	9 in
Drum Width	11 in
Winch - Cable Skidder
Max Line Pull - Bare Drum	45850 lb
Max Line Speed	360 ft/min
Drum Capacity 19.0mm (3/4in)	148 ft
Drum Capacity 22.2mm (7/8in)	105 ft
Drum capacity 25.4mm (1in)	82 ft
Drum Diameter	10 in
Drum Width	11 in