Caterpillar 426, 1988 Technical Specifications
| SideShift or CenterMount | CM or SS |
| SAE dig depth (mm) | 4697 |
| Reach @ ground level (mm) | 2092 |
| Loading height (mm) | 3753 |
| Bucket width, min-max (mm) | 305-914 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 4720 |
| Dipper breakout (kgf) | 3480 |
| Slew System | Cylinder |
| Loader Bucket Capacity (m3) | 1 |
| Dump height (mm) | 2570 |
| Bucket width (mm) | 4720 |
| Bucket breakout (kgf) | 3480 |
| Engine Make & Model | Perkins 4.236 |
| Engine power (kW@rpm) | 52@2400 |
| Engine displacement (lit) | — |
| Number of cylinders | — |
| Pump type | VDAP |
| Pump flow (lit/min) | 135 |
| Relief valve pressure (bar) | 186.17 |
| Transmission type | PS TC |
| Drive | 2WD/4WD |
| Speeds, FR | 44 |
| Maximum speed (km/h) | 32 |
| Ride control (Std/Opt/NA) | — |
| Travel length (mm) | 6887 |
| Travel height (mm) | 3710 |
| Width (mm) | 2262 |
| Turn circle radius without brakes (mm) | — |
| Operating weight (kg) | 6470 |
| Model | 426 |
Introduction
The Caterpillar 426 is a versatile piece of construction equipment built to handle multiple tasks on job sites. With its range of features and specifications, the machine can be used to dig, load, and shift earth materials among other tasks. However, the various features and specifications have both advantages and disadvantages that must be considered when deciding whether to invest in this machine.
SideShift or CenterMount
The Caterpillar 426 comes in two versions, with either the SideShift or the CenterMount. The SideShift version is ideal for tight spaces as it allows the machine to move laterally without having to reposition the entire machine. It is particularly beneficial when there is limited room to maneuver the machine. The CenterMount version is better suited for larger projects, as it provides greater stability and weight distribution. However, it may not be able to access tight spaces as easily as the SideShift.
SAE dig depth
The Caterpillar 426 has a SAE dig depth of 4697 mm. This is a significant advantage when undertaking excavation projects as it allows for deeper digging. This means the machine can be used in a variety of projects, including foundation work, swimming pool excavation, and landscaping. The deeper digging depth reduces the need for additional equipment, which could save on costs.
Reach @ ground level
The 2092 mm reach at ground level means that the Caterpillar 426 can easily reach materials or areas that are beyond the reach of other machines. This is useful when loading materials onto dump trucks, handling large materials such as logs, or loading materials onto high platforms.
Loading height
At 3753 mm, the loading height provides an ample reach for loading materials onto high vehicles. This feature is particularly useful in commercial construction where large quantities of materials, such as concrete or gravel, need to be loaded.
Bucket width, min-max; capacity; and breakout
The Caterpillar 426 has a bucket width range of 305-914 mm, which makes it suitable for both small and large-scale projects. The bucket capacity of 1 cubic meter means that the machine can handle large volumes of materials.
The bucket breakout is a measure of the force that the machine can exert on materials when its bucket is engaged. The Caterpillar 426 has a bucket breakout force of 4720 kgf, which is significant and can help to break up and lift hard materials such as rock. However, it has a lower dipper breakout force of 3480 kgf, which may limit its ability to handle tougher materials.
Slew system
The Caterpillar 426 uses a cylinder based slew system to turn the machine. This system is reliable and efficient, making it a valuable asset when working on projects with tight spaces.
Engine and transmission
The Caterpillar 426 is powered by a Perkins 4.236 engine, which provides 52 kW of power at 2400 rpm. This engine is reliable and efficient, and provides sufficient power to handle heavy loads.
The Caterpillar 426 is equipped with a PS TC transmission and can either be 2WD or 4WD. The machine boasts a maximum speed of 32 km/h and has 44 forward speeds. This makes it efficient in handling tough terrains.
Travel height, length, and width; Operating weight
The Caterpillar 426 has a travel height of 3710 mm, which makes it suitable for traveling under low obstacles. It has a travel length of 6887 mm, which provides sufficient room for the machine to maneuver around the job site. The width of 2262 mm means that the machine can easily fit through narrow gaps.
The Caterpillar 426 has an operating weight of 6470 kg making it possible to handle various weight loads.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- The SideShift and CenterMount versions provide flexibility when working on different projects.
- The deeper dig depth, bucket capacity, and high breakout force make the machine ideal for heavy-duty projects.
- The cylinder based slew system is reliable and efficient in tight spaces.
- The Perkins 4.236 engine provides sufficient power to handle heavy loads.
- The travel height, length, and width make the machine versatile in various job sites.
Disadvantages
- The low dipper breakout force may limit its ability to handle tougher materials.
- The CenterMount version may be less suited for tight spaces compared to the SideShift.
- The machine may not be ideal for small-scale projects due to its size and weight.
- The machine’s high operating weight may hinder its mobility on some terrains.
Real-World Applications
The Caterpillar 426 can be used in various projects such as:
Foundation and Excavation projects
The deeper dig depth and high breakout force make the Caterpillar 426 ideal for foundation work and excavation projects. Additionally, the machine’s sturdy build and efficient slew system allow it to navigate tight spaces while carrying heavy loads.
Swimming pool excavation
The machine’s digging depth is ideal for construction of swimming pools or other large-scale excavations.
Commercial Construction
The Caterpillar 426’s large loading height and bucket capacity make it suitable for loading large amounts of materials onto high vehicles. It is also effective for moving heavy materials around job sites quickly.
Overall Assessment
The Caterpillar 426 is a versatile machine ideal for heavy-duty projects such as foundation work, swimming pool excavation, and commercial construction. While the machine has some limitations, its range of features and specifications, including deeper dig depth, bucket capacity, and high breakout force, make it a valuable asset to have in any job site. The machine’s reliability, efficiency, and flexibility make it an excellent investment for any business.
