Caterpillar D6D SA tractor

Caterpillar D6D SA

Power

165 hp

Production

1977-1991

Engine

Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Gear

From the same series:

D5B SA

Introduction

Caterpillar D6D SA Crawler Tractor

The Caterpillar D6D SA is an agricultural crawler tractor produced between 1977 and 1991. Designed for heavy-duty field operations, this tracked machine belongs to the Caterpillar series of specialized agricultural tractors, succeeding earlier models such as the D6C SA.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by the Caterpillar 3306 engine, a 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled, turbocharged diesel unit. It features direct injection and a displacement of 638 cubic inches (10.5 liters). The engine delivers a net power output of 165 hp (123.0 kW) at a rated speed of 2000 RPM, providing the necessary torque for demanding traction tasks.

Transmission and Drive System

The D6D SA utilizes a mechanical gear transmission system offering 6 forward speeds and 4 reverse speeds, allowing operators to select the appropriate gear ratio for varying soil conditions and implement requirements. The tractor operates on a crawler drive system, equipped with 20-inch tracks to optimize surface contact and weight distribution, resulting in an operating weight between 28,500 and 29,000 pounds.

Hydraulics and Electrical Systems

The hydraulic system is of the open-center type, providing a pump flow of 24 gpm (90.8 lpm) at a system pressure of 2250 psi (155.1 bar). The electrical system is powered by two 12-volt batteries, supported by a 50-amp alternator. Engine ignition is managed by a 24-volt electric starter system.

Operator Environment

The tractor is fitted with a four-post Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS). A cabin option was available, which included air conditioning to improve operator comfort during extended periods of field work.

Conclusion

The Caterpillar D6D SA is a robust crawler tractor engineered for heavy agricultural applications requiring high drawbar pull and stability. Its combination of a reliable 6-cylinder powerplant, mechanical transmission, and substantial track surface area makes it suitable for intensive soil cultivation and heavy-duty farm management.

Production Information of Caterpillar, D6D SA

  • Agricultural Crawler tractor
  • Original price was $104,120 in 1985
ManufacturerCaterpillar

Engine Specifications of Caterpillar, D6D SA

  • Caterpillar 3306
  • Liquid-cooled inline
  • Turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Starter volts24
Displacement638 ci [10.5 L]
Fuel systemDirect injection
Bore/Stroke4.75x6.00 inches [121 x 152 mm]
Coolant capacity40 qts [37.9 L]
Oil capacity29 qts [27.4 L]
StarterElectric
Rated RPM2000
Power (net)165 hp [123.0 kW]

Transmission Information of Caterpillar, D6D SA

Transmission variants 1

TypeGear
Gears6 forward and 4 reverse
Oil capacity104 qts [98.4 L]

Mechanical Specs of Caterpillar, D6D SA

  • Four-post ROPS. Cab available with air-conditioning.
DriveCrawler

Power Information of Caterpillar, D6D SA

Engine (net)165 hp [123.0 kW]
Drawbar (claimed)125 hp [93.2 kW]

Hydraulics Specifications of Caterpillar, D6D SA

TypeOpen center
Pressure2250 psi [155.1 bar]
Pump flow24 gpm [90.8 lpm]

Electrical System of Caterpillar, D6D SA

Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12
Charging amps50
Batteries2

Where it sits

With 165 HP, the Caterpillar D6D SA sits just above D6C SA (140 HP) in Caterpillar's range. Its power puts it in the 86th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1259 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Caterpillar D6D SA have?

The Caterpillar D6D SA delivers 165 HP.

What years was the Caterpillar D6D SA produced?

The Caterpillar D6D SA was produced in 1977-1991.

What engine does the Caterpillar D6D SA have?

The Caterpillar D6D SA is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Caterpillar D6D SA use?

The Caterpillar D6D SA uses a Gear transmission.

Compare the Caterpillar D6D SA with another model