Challenger 45 tractor

Challenger 45

Power

240 hp

Production

1995-1998

Engine

Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder

Transmission

Full power shift

From the same series:

35
55

Introduction

Challenger 45 Agricultural Crawler Tractor

The Challenger 45 is a specialized agricultural crawler tractor manufactured by Caterpillar between 1995 and 1998. Designed for heavy-duty field operations, this tracked machine balances high power output with precise hydraulic control to manage demanding agricultural tasks.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a liquid-cooled, six-cylinder Caterpillar 3116 turbocharged diesel engine. With a displacement of 6.6 liters, it produces 240 horsepower at a rated engine speed of 2100 RPM. This power density is designed for consistent performance in heavy traction applications.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The drivetrain features a full power shift transmission available in two configurations: a standard 16-forward and 9-reverse speed setup, or a creeper version offering 32 forward and 18 reverse gears for applications requiring low-speed precision. Steering is achieved through differential power, supported by wet disc brakes to ensure maneuverability despite the machine's 10,296 kg operating weight.

Hydraulics and Hitch

The hydraulic system utilizes a variable-displacement, load-sensing, and pressure-compensated pump, delivering a flow of 118.1 lpm at a pressure of 189.6 bar. It supports 3 or 4 valves. The rear hitch, categorized as III/II, provides a standard lift capacity of 5,670 kg, with an optional upgrade available to 6,804 kg, utilizing draft control for implement management.

Operator Environment and Undercarriage

The machine operates on 16-inch wide tracks, providing a stable footprint for soil engagement. The standard operator station is a fully enclosed cab equipped with air conditioning to facilitate extended working hours. Power take-off (PTO) is provided via an independent rear unit, operating at 1000 RPM at an engine speed of 1900 RPM.

Conclusion

The Challenger 45 represents a specialized solution for large-scale farming operations requiring high traction and heavy-duty implement handling. Its combination of a high-torque Caterpillar engine and crawler mobility makes it well-suited for primary tillage and significant draft-load operations where wheel-based machines may face limitations in soil compaction or grip.

Production Information of Challenger, 45

  • Agricultural Crawler tractor
  • Original price was $126,700 in 1998
ManufacturerChallenger (a part of Caterpillar)

Engine Specifications of Challenger, 45

  • Caterpillar 3116
  • Liquid-cooled
  • Turbocharged diesel
  • 6-cylinder
Power240 hp [179.0 kW]
Displacement403 ci [6.6 L]
Rated RPM2100
Bore/Stroke4.13x5.00 inches [105 x 127 mm]
Coolant capacity34.4 qts [32.6 L]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of Challenger, 45

Transmission variants 1

TypeFull power shift
Gears16 forward and 9 reverse

Transmission variants 2

TypeCreeper
Gears32 forward and 18 reverse
  • 16-speed full power shift
  • 32-speed creeper

Mechanical Specs of Challenger, 45

  • Cab standard with air-conditioning.
  • Wet disc brakes
DriveCrawler
SteeringDifferential power

Power Information of Challenger, 45

Rear PTOIndependent
Engine RPM1000@1900
ClutchElectro-hydraulic wet disc
Rear PTO Type1000 (1.75)

Hydraulics Specifications of Challenger, 45

TypeVariable-displacement load-sensing pressure-compensated
Pump flow31.2 gpm [118.1 lpm]
Pressure2750 psi [189.6 bar]
Valves3 or 4

Three-Point Hitch of Challenger, 45

Rear TypeIII/II
Rear Type(optional)15000 lbs [6804 kg]
ControlDraft control
Rear lift12500 lbs [5670 kg]

Optional.

Electrical System of Challenger, 45

GroundNegative
Charging systemAlternator
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 240 HP, the Challenger 45 sits between 35 (210 HP) and 55 (250 HP) in Challenger's range. Its power puts it in the 95th percentile of 1990s models in our database (2097 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Challenger 45 have?

The Challenger 45 delivers 240 HP.

What years was the Challenger 45 produced?

The Challenger 45 was produced in 1995-1998.

What engine does the Challenger 45 have?

The Challenger 45 is powered by a Turbocharged diesel, 6-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Challenger 45 use?

The Challenger 45 uses a Full power shift transmission.

Compare the Challenger 45 with another model