2011 CAT D5K XL
Details
Bought brand new as we started to ramp up the scale and scope of our Site/Civil operations, this 2011 D5K XL has been used primarily as a grading machine. This is by design: it’s not a dozer for clearing and grubbing. Instead, we use the D5K XL for precision work—smoothing out aggregates and meticulous sloping and grading. “Easy to use, tough to master,” Justin Day says of this dozer. The particulars of grading make experience essential to getting the perfect end product—experience that just happens to be found in our best operators here at G.W. Tatro.
The ‘XL” stands for “Extra Long,” and references the length of the tracks. This is important, as the longer the track the easier it is for our operators to grade. The end result is a better, smoother product that is more easily attained than shorter, choppier dozers!
The D5K XL is a dream to operators. The cab is spacious, climate controlled and noise reduced; it’s also easy to get into and easy to get out of. This comfortable design allows our operators to remain productive and focused on the project. It uses simplified controls for speed and direction allowing for maximum maneuverability and efficiency. Using a C4.4 Engine with ACERT technology allows it to reduce emissions, classifying the engine as a Tier 4 Interim. The D5K XL has an oval track design, a “super smooth” hydrostatic drive and much more modern hardware and software than anything we had used before this purchase! It also comes equipped with a VPAT blade. The VPAT blade means it can adjust pitch, angle and tilt. It also means that minute calculations are reflected in the blade. This dozer was also designed so the operator has a clear view of the blade while working. In addition, the 2011 version of this dozer saw a major expansion in visibility, something appreciated by our operators and our safety manager!
This D5K has served the fleet faithfully ever since we purchased it, and we look forward to using it for many more years into the future!