Introduction
Caterpillar D4 Agricultural Crawler Tractor
The Caterpillar D4 is an agricultural crawler tractor produced between 1938 and 1959. Developed as a successor to the RD4 series, this machine was manufactured in Peoria, Illinois, and established a standard for tracked vehicles in heavy-duty agricultural applications during the mid-20th century.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the Caterpillar D4400, a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine with a displacement of 312 cubic inches (5.1 liters). It operates at a rated speed of 1400 RPM, delivering 44 horsepower and a peak torque of 421 lb-ft at 1000 RPM. The induction system utilizes an oil bath air cleaner, and the engine includes a 44-quart coolant capacity and a 16-quart oil capacity.
Transmission and Steering
Power is delivered through a gear-type transmission offering 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear, coupled with a dry disc clutch. The steering system relies on manual clutches, which allow the operator to control the tracks independently. The transmission housing requires 20 quarts of oil for lubrication.
Chassis and Dimensions
The D4 features a crawler drive system equipped with 13-inch wide tracks designed to maximize surface contact and traction on uneven or soft terrain. The tractor has a wheelbase of 61.125 inches and an operating weight ranging between 9,970 and 10,250 pounds. The operator environment consists of an open station design.
Conclusion
With its robust diesel architecture and track-driven propulsion, the Caterpillar D4 was engineered for demanding field tasks requiring significant drawbar pull and stability. Its mechanical simplicity and reliable performance have made it a notable reference in the history of agricultural crawler tractors.
Production Information of Caterpillar, D4
- Agricultural Crawler tractor
- Built in Peoria, Illinois, USA
| Manufacturer | Caterpillar |
|---|
Engine Specifications of Caterpillar, D4
- Caterpillar D4400
- Liquid-cooled
- 4-cylinder
- Diesel
- The D4400 was used on the RD4/D4 tractors through the 5T series.
| Air cleaner | Oil bath |
|---|---|
| Torque | 421 lb-ft [570.9 Nm] |
| Displacement | 312 ci [5.1 L] |
| Bore/Stroke | 4.25x5.50 inches [108 x 140 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 1400 |
| Compression | 17.3:1 |
| Coolant capacity | 44 qts [41.6 L] |
| Oil capacity | 16 qts [15.1 L] |
| Torque RPM | 1000 |
Transmission Information of Caterpillar, D4
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 20 qts [18.9 L] |
| Gears | 5 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | Dry disc |
Mechanical Specs of Caterpillar, D4
- Open operator station.
| Drive | Crawler |
|---|---|
| Steering | Manual clutches |
Power Information of Caterpillar, D4
- Https://www.tractordata.com/farm-tractors/002/9/8/2982-caterpillar-d4-tests.html
Where it sits
Its power puts it in the 70th percentile of 1930s models in our database (235 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Caterpillar D4 have?
The Caterpillar D4 delivers 44 hp[B] HP.
What years was the Caterpillar D4 produced?
The Caterpillar D4 was produced in 1938-1959.
What engine does the Caterpillar D4 have?
The Caterpillar D4 is powered by a Diesel, 4-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Caterpillar D4 use?
The Caterpillar D4 uses a Gear transmission.