Caterpillar D8L SA
Power
400 hp
Production
1984-1987
Engine
Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 8-cylinder 32-valve
Transmission
Power shift
From the same series:
Introduction
Caterpillar D8L SA agricultural crawler tractor
The Caterpillar D8L SA is a heavy-duty agricultural crawler tractor produced between 1984 and 1987. Engineered for high-output land preparation and heavy draft applications, this model represents a specialized configuration of the D8 series, optimized for agricultural use.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by the Caterpillar 3408, a liquid-cooled V-8 diesel engine. This 18.0-liter turbocharged and aftercooled unit delivers a rated power of 400 hp (298.3 kW) at 1900 RPM. It utilizes a direct injection fuel system to optimize combustion efficiency during sustained heavy-load operations.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Power is transmitted through a power shift transmission, offering three forward and three reverse gears. The system features a wet disc clutch to manage high torque loads, while final drive power is delivered to the 36-inch tracks via a double-reduction planetary system, ensuring durability and consistent traction.
Hydraulics and Operator Environment
The hydraulic system utilizes load-sensing technology, providing a pump flow of 30 gpm (113.6 lpm) at a pressure of 2500 psi. With four valves available, the system is designed to handle demanding implements. The operator station is equipped with a Roll-Over Protective Structure (ROPS), with an air-conditioned cab available as an optional configuration.
Specifications and Dimensions
The machine operates with a substantial mass, weighing between 77,692 and 80,820 pounds depending on the configuration. The electrical system is powered by a 12-volt setup with a 35-amp alternator and 172 AH batteries, ensuring sufficient capacity for all onboard electronic controls and lighting.
Conclusion
The Caterpillar D8L SA is a specialized, high-capacity tractor designed for large-scale agricultural operations requiring significant drawbar pull and ground stability. Its robust mechanical architecture and high-torque engine make it suitable for intensive soil cultivation and land clearing tasks.
Production Information of Caterpillar, D8L SA
- Agricultural Crawler tractor
- Original price was $272,180 in 1985
| Manufacturer | Caterpillar |
|---|
Engine Specifications of Caterpillar, D8L SA
- Caterpillar 3408
- Liquid-cooled V-8
- 8-cylinder 32-valve
- Turbocharged aftercooled diesel
| Fuel system | Direct injection |
|---|---|
| Starter | Electric |
| Displacement | 1099 ci [18.0 L] |
| Bore/Stroke | 5.40x6.00 inches [137 x 152 mm] |
| Power | 400 hp [298.3 kW] |
| Rated RPM | 1900 |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Coolant capacity | 98 qts [92.7 L] |
| Oil capacity | 48 qts [45.4 L] |
| Starter volts | 24 |
Transmission Information of Caterpillar, D8L SA
Transmission variants 1
| Type | Power shift |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 176 qts [166.6 L] |
| Gears | 3 forward and reverse |
| Clutch | Wet disc |
Mechanical Specs of Caterpillar, D8L SA
- ROPS. Cab available with air-conditioning.
| Drive | Crawler |
|---|---|
| Final drives | Double-reduction planetary |
Power Information of Caterpillar, D8L SA
| Engine | 400 hp [298.3 kW] |
|---|---|
| Drawbar (claimed) | 335 hp [249.8 kW] |
Hydraulics Specifications of Caterpillar, D8L SA
| Type | Load sensing |
|---|---|
| Pump flow | 30 gpm [113.6 lpm] |
| Valves | 4 |
| Capacity | 23.5 gal [88.9 L] |
| Pressure | 2500 psi [172.4 bar] |
Electrical System of Caterpillar, D8L SA
| Charging system | Alternator |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Batteries | 2 |
| Charging amps | 35 |
| Battery AH | 172 |
| Battery AH(optional) | 50 |
Where it sits
With 400 HP, the Caterpillar D8L SA sits just above D7G SA (250 HP) in Caterpillar's range. Its power puts it in the 99th percentile of 1980s models in our database (2052 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Caterpillar D8L SA have?
The Caterpillar D8L SA delivers 400 HP.
What years was the Caterpillar D8L SA produced?
The Caterpillar D8L SA was produced in 1984-1987.
What engine does the Caterpillar D8L SA have?
The Caterpillar D8L SA is powered by a Turbocharged aftercooled diesel, 8-cylinder 32-valve engine.
What transmission does the Caterpillar D8L SA use?
The Caterpillar D8L SA uses a Power shift transmission.