517 Skidder Featured machine may include additional equipment applicable only for special applications. See your Caterpillar dealer for available options. 3304 DIT Engine Gross Power 101 kw 136 hp Flywheel 89.5 kw 120 hp Operating Weight 18 364 kg 40,450 lbs
517 Skidder The 517 Skidder is designed to maximize skidding performance, reliability and ease of operation to exceed the customer s expectations. Power Train The field proven Cat 3304 DIT diesel engine, heavy-duty torque converter and three-speed transmission are matched to deliver high horsepower for more drawbar pull, improved skidding performance and ease of operation. pg. 4 Application Flexibility The 517 Skidder provides unsurpassed performance and application flexibility due to superior balance, torque converter power train and expanded track and grapple/arch options. The versatile PAT blade makes the 517 a multi-purpose machine. pg. 5 Undercarriage Use of D5H sized heavy-duty track prolongs the life of the key undercarriage components, including rollers, idlers, pins, bushings and shoes. An extended track roller frame places more track under grapple/winch loads and enhances balance. pg. 6 Engineered for demanding work. The 517 Skidder is a state-of-the-art machine that represents Caterpillar s commitment to the logging industry. Reliable, durable operation. The 517 Skidder builds upon a strong history of reliability and durability set by the 527 and previous generations of Caterpillar track-type skidders. 2
Load-Sensing Hydraulic System The load sensing hydraulic system reduces horsepower consumption and system heat. A single lever controls grapple and tong hydraulics, reducing operator efforts for improved productivity. Exclusive Auto-Grab hydraulics maintain constant tong gripping pressures to compensate for shifting loads. pg. 7 Operator Station Excellent all-around viewing area, angled seat, and easy-to-reach controls reduce operator fatigue and increase productivity. Available with enclosed cab or open canopy. pg. 8-9 The 517 Cable Skidder The 517 is also offered in a cable configuration to meet application demands in severe slope and mountainous terrain. pg. 10 Serviceability/Customer Support Many convenient service features, including parts availability supported by a worldwide computer network, enhance Caterpillar s total commitment to customer support. pg. 11 3
Power Train Four cylinder, four stroke engine and heavy-duty torque converter significantly improve skidding performance. Turbocharged Cat 3304 DIT diesel engine sets the industry standard for reliability and durability. Its four cylinder, four stroke design delivers 136 hp (101 kw) at 2200 rpm. A direct-injection fuel system uses adjustment-free unit fuel injectors for efficient, accurate fuel metering and reduced emissions. Pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the air cleaner to provide significant engine protection in harsh logging environments. Resilient engine mounting results in quieter operation and less vibration. Large, heavy-duty torque converter is matched to the 3304 engine power for excellent drawbar pull and improved skidding performance. A fluid coupling allows the engine to run in its optimal rpm range for more efficient use of available engine power. The torque converter reduces the tendency for track-to-ground slip, further improving the 517 s performance in soft underfoot conditions. Less operator effort is required to match gear range to engine rpm as torque multiplication reduces the need for up and down-shifting. Traction and load induced shocks are absorbed by the fluid coupling of the converter, thereby protecting power train components and contributing to longer life. Six-row radiator core has large surface areas for improved heat rejection. High volume fan for increased airflow and improved cooling ability. High fan speed (2200 rpm) allows machine to operate in high, ambient temperatures. Modular steel cores increase durability and resistance to corrosion. Each core module can be replaced individually, saving considerable cost and repair time. Three-speed planetary power shift transmission is designed and built by Caterpillar and delivers three speeds in both forward and reverse. This fieldproven system works best in high-pull applications and is well suited for large load and steep terrain skidding. The 517 has increased cooling capacity to meet the demands of logging applications and extend the life of key power train components. 4
Application Flexibility The 517 Skidder can easily handle a variety of tasks and applications for today s loggers. Maximum skidding performance is best attained through the available swing boom and grapple. This tool is ideal for sitesensitive locations with soft underfoot terrain. High horsepower and torque further enhance the 517 s dozing abilities. The available PAT blade offers high levels of versatility in dozing, decking, and pioneering applications. Expanded track options allow the 517 to maintain skidding performance and minimize ground disturbance in a wide range of ground conditions. Excellent ground clearance of 25" (646 mm) allows the 517 to readily avoid obstacles, maneuver in poor underfoot conditions, and work effectively and efficiently on snow covered sites. 5
Undercarriage Undercarriage options provide optimized performance and durability, while allowing customization for different logging applications. Heavy-duty track roller frame and undercarriage are key to the 517 s superior balance and durability. D4H TSK: Center of gravity Available with 7 or 8 rollers, the extended track roller frame places rear idlers beneath grapple/winch loads, improving skidder balance and performance. D5H sized heavy duty undercarriage components better withstand impact and abrasion, enhancing wear life. Supported undercarriage options reduce stress loads and impact forces on undercarriage assemblies and contribute to longer system life. Tri track shoes [available in widths of 26" (660 mm) and 30" (760 mm)] provide an additional outer row of links for improved durability. 517: 2636 mm (104") Center of gravity Additional width of supported undercarriage reduces ground disturbance/compaction and improves skidder flotation. 2910 mm (115") 6
Hydraulics Load Sensing Hydraulic system improves skidding performance and efficiency. Load sensing hydraulics utilize a load sensing, variable displacement pump and pressure compensating system which continually monitors dozer and grapple hydraulic power requirements. System reduces engine horsepower demand by placing pump in low pressure stand-by when not needed for hydraulic output. More power is available to the drive train for increased skidding power and efficiency. Compensator valve has pressure limiting ability, protecting the pump and hydraulic system from damaging overloads. The Auto-Grab feature from Caterpillar constantly monitors and adjusts tong pressure as needed to securely hold grapple loads while skidding. Provides constant tong pressure without continuous hydraulic pump demand. Activated by switch on right hand console. Grapple Cylinder Pressure Pump Pressure 1 3,,, 2 The Auto-Grab Advantage 4 Horsepower saved 1 Load shifts in grapple 2 Pump pressure increases to tighten grapple tongs 3 Grip on logs is maintained 4 Pump pressure returns to low level 7
Operator Station Designed for operator comfort and ease of operation to ensure maximum productivity. 9 2 8 3 4 1 7 8
Easy and comfortable operation. Modular ROPS/FOPS cab is resiliently mounted to the frame. Large window area allows excellent front and rear viewing area. Cab is sealed and pressurized for sound level reduction and improved operator comfort. 1 Power shift transmission delivers three speeds forward and three reverse. Gear selection is quick and easy. 2 Clutch and brake steering controls each track individually providing exceptional maneuverability. 3 Electronic monitoring system monitors critical machine functions and has a three-level warning system to inform operators of potential problems. 4 Single-lever blade control manages all blade functions including height, angle and tilt. 5 Single-lever grapple control allows for simplified operation and reduced operator fatigue. 6 Auto-Grab switch activates the system that monitors and adjusts tong pressure to maintain a secure grip on grapple loads. 7 Standard suspension seat is angled ten degrees to the right so the operator can more comfortably observe grapple/winch functions to the rear. 8 Air-conditioning is standard with the enclosed cab. Controls allow operator to manage cab temperature for optimal comfort levels. 9 Polycarbonate windows provide excellent viewing and eliminate the need for screens. 10 Open ROPS/FOPS canopy is standard with side, front, and rear screens, vandalism protection and optional heater. 5 10 6 9
The 517 Cable Skidder The 517 winch is specifically designed for the 517 to help maximize productivity. Exceptional winching performance. The combination of high drawbar pull, torque converter driveline and balance enable the 517 to overcome the loads created during winch application. The winch delivers an impressive 68,782 lb (31 264 kg) of line pull. 517 winch controls operate reel-in, reel-out brake and freespool functions. Modulation of the winch brake control can be utilized to manipulate the load during winch applications in mountainous environments. Superior balance and pulling power enable the 517 to skid large loads with the optional 517 winch. This highly productive winch has been specifically designed for the 517 skidder in steep and mountainous skidding applications. 10
Serviceability The most serviceable machines from the most committed dealers. Built-in servicing ease. Less service time means more working time. Major components are made as modules and most can be removed without disturbing or removing others. Ground-level access provides convenient servicing to most filters and lube points. Centrifugal pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the internal air cleaner, significantly increasing engine protection. Spin-on fuel and engine oil filters save changing time. Radial seal air filters are easy to change, reducing air filter maintenance times. 24-volt electrical system delivers increased electrical power for engine cranking, lights, and engine diagnostics. Complete Customer Support Cat dealer services help you operate longer with lower costs. Your Cat dealer offers a wide range of services that can be set up under a customer support agreement when you purchase your equipment. The dealer will help you choose a plan that can cover everything from machine and attachment selection to replacement, to help you get the best return on your investment. Selection. Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. How long do components last? What is the cost of preventive maintenance? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat dealer can give you precise answers to these questions. Purchase. Look past initial price. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services that can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run. Operation. Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has training videotapes, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity. Replacement. Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. Product Support. You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers utilize a world-wide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. Save money with remanufactured parts. You receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at cost savings of 40 to 70 percent. Maintenance. More and more equipment buyers are planning for effective maintenance before buying equipment. Choose from your dealer s wide range of maintenance services at the time you purchase your machine. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid unscheduled repairs. 11
Engine Four-stroke cycle, four cylinder 3304 DIT diesel engine. Ratings at 2200 rpm* kw hp Gross power 101 136 Net power 89.5 120 The following ratings apply at 2200 rpm when tested under the specified standard conditions for the specified standard: Net power kw hp Caterpillar 89.5 120 ISO 9249 89.5 120 SAE J1349 88.7 119 80/1269 EEC 89.5 120 Dimensions Bore 120.65 mm 4.75 in Stroke 152.4 mm 6.0 in Displacement 7.0 L 425 in 3 *Power rating conditions based on standard air conditions of 25 C (77 F) and 99 kpa (29.32" Hg.) dry barometer used 35 API gravity fuel having an LHV of 42 780 kj/kg (18,390 Btu/lb) when used at 30 C (86 F) [ref. a fuel density of 838.9 g/l (7.001 lb/u.s. gal)] net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and muffler no derating required up to 2286 m (7500 ft) altitude Features cam-turned and tapered, cast aluminum-alloy pistons have three rings and are cooled by oil spray steel backed, copper-bonded crankshaft bearings hardened crankshaft journals dry-type air cleaners with primary and secondary elements exclusive centrifugal pre-cleaner 24-volt electric starting system with 75-amp alternator and two 700 CCA-batteries Hydraulic Controls Load-sensing, variable displacement piston pump. Max. Pump capacity of 119 lpm at 20 690 kpa/207 bar /3000 psi at rpm rated engine speed of 2200 Tilt cylinder flow 60 liters/min 15.8 gpm Angle cylinder flow 119 liters/min 31.4 gpm Lift cylinder flow 119 liters/min 31.4gpm Maximum system pressure 20 690 kpa/207 bar 3000 psi Implement circuit pressures Bulldozer lift 20 690 kpa/207 bar 3000 psi Bulldozer tilt 20 690 kpa/207 bar 3000 psi Bulldozer angle 20 690 kpa/207 bar 3000 psi Grapple valve, three or five stack and pilot control valve Grapple system supply pressure 20 690 kpa/207bar 3000 psi Drive geared from engine flywheel Load Sensing hydraulic features system reduces pump output when hydraulic demand is low draws less engine power, providing more power to the drawbar hydraulic power is used more effectively and only when needed simplifies the skidder operation and saves fuel Transmission Cat three-speed power shift design with heavy-duty torque converter. Maximum travel speeds km/h mph Forward 1 3.7 2.3 2 6.6 4.1 3 11.5 7.1 Reverse 1 4.6 2.8 2 8.0 5.0 3 14.2 8.8 Features planetary gear sets within transmission provide additional torque multiplication no clutching required to change gears gear selection is quick and accurate power shift transmission and torque converter reduce the need for gear changing and better match drawbar pull to ground conditions 12 517 Skidder specifications
Winch Rugged 517 winch with freespool. 517 GR 517 CA Mechanical Retrieval Device Winch (Optional attachment with single function arch) Weight 312 kg 686 lb 1500 kg 3300 lb Winch length 720 mm 28.3" 1120 mm 44.1" Winch case width 627 mm 24.7" 975 mm 38.3" Flange diameter 315 mm 12.4" 504 mm 19.9" Drum width 241 mm 9.5" 330 mm 13.0" Drum diameter 178 mm 7.0" 254 mm 10.0" Cable size: Recommended 16 mm 0.62" 19 mm 0.75" Optional 19 mm 0.75" 22 mm 0.88" Drum capacity: Recommended cable 46 m 151' 122 m 400' Optional cable 32 m 105' 88 m 290' Oil capacity 13.7 L 3.5 gal 74 L 19.5 gal Cable/ferrule sizes (OD x length) 41 mm x 51 mm (1.62" x 2") 54 mm x 65 mm (2.12" x 2.56") Maximum linepull 18 660 kg* 41,050 lb* 31 264 kg** 68,782 lb** Maximum linespeed 77 mpm* 253 fpm* 40.5 mpm** 133 fpm** Features hydraulically actuated multiple-disc wet clutch and brake equal speed in gearing in forward and reverse freespool with drag adjustment Caterpillar parts support four roller fairlead * with 0.62" cable ** with 0.88" cable Operating Weights (approximate) Grapple kg lb Operating weight includes enclosed cab, PAT blade, swing boom, 8 ft 2 sorting grapple, 8-roller track frame, 8-roller track guards, 26" (660 mm) tri-link track and full fuel tank 18 364 40,450 Cable Operating weight includes enclosed cab, PAT blade, 517 winch, 8-roller track frame 26" (660 mm) tri-link track and full fuel tank 17 343 38,200 ROPS/FOPS ROPS/FOPS canopy is standard. Features ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure) offered by Caterpillar for the machine meets ROPS criteria SAE J395, SAE J1040 APR88, ISO 3471-1: 1986, ISO 3471: 1994 FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) meets FOPS criteria SAE J231 JAN81 and ISO 3449 1992 LEVEL II 517 Skidder specifications 13
Steering and Braking Brakes meet SAE J1026 APR90. Lever steering features hand-lever steering/braking controls oil-cooled, hydraulically actuated multiple-disc steering clutches and brakes single brake pedal brakes both tracks without disengaging steering clutches mechanically actuated, spring applied parking brake Operator Station Features enclosed cab and open canopy with screens meets operator protective structure criteria for forestry equipment SAE J1084 APR80 single lever dozer control allows for easy dozer operation the seat is angled to the right by ten degrees providing a more comfortable view to grapple/winch operations power shift transmission allows for effortless and precise shifting single lever control operates all arch/grapple functions Pivot Shaft and Equalizer Bar Pivot shaft and pinned equalizer bar oscillation system. Features pivot shaft transmits ground impact loads directly to main frame protects power train components pinned equalizer bar keeps track roller frame in proper alignment system provides smooth machine underside helps prevent collection of mud and debris Electrical System 24-volt Features two, 12-volt maintenance-free batteries 75-amp alternator wiring harnesses wrapped with braided, vinyl-coated nylon shielding for maximum protection connectors are self-sealing, yet still allow easy service access Service Refill U.S. L Gallons Fuel tank 260 69 Cooling system 38 10 Crankcase 19 5 Transmission and torque converter 125 33 Final drives 5.7 1.5 Hydraulic Tank 29.5 7.8 Final Drive Single reduction final drives. Features isolated from ground-impact and blade-induced loads modular design reduces removal and installation time segmented sprocket simplifies replacement 14 517 Skidder specifications
Dimensions All dimensions are approximate. Cable: 517 3302 mm (10'10") 1557 mm* (5'1") 987 mm** (3'2") 646 mm (2'1") 2000 mm (6'6") GAUGE 2560 mm (8'4") 1500 mm (4'9") 2910 mm (9'6") 4970 mm (16'3") 57 mm (2.2") GROUSER HEIGHT * - Top of drum ** - Top of guard Fixed Grapple: 517 3302 mm (10'10") 2974 mm (9'9") 797.5 mm (2'7") 2000 mm (6'6") GAUGE 2560 mm (8'4") 1500 mm (4'9") 2910 mm (9'6") 4505 mm (14'8") 57 mm (2.2") GROUSER HEIGHT 5414 mm (17'9") Swing Boom: 517 3302 mm (10'10") 1415 mm (4'8") 371 mm (14.6") 1500 mm (4'9") 2910 mm (9'6") 57 mm (2.2") GROUSER HEIGHT 4594 mm (15'1") 5746 mm (18'10") 517 Skidder specifications 15
Arch Configurations Two arch configurations allow you to effectively match the 517 Skidder to a wide variety of skidding applications. Single-Function Arch versatile attachment suitable for selection and clear cut applications reach consists of one vertical arc typical application include short cycles and/or larger diameter timber B 70 C A1 A Swing Boom A excellent reach to the rear and side for maximum skidder versatility suitable for hard to reach timber on steep slopes, soft ground, or selection harvest or thinnings reduces cycle times by reducing the amount of maneuvering of the skidder to reach logs complements the 517 excellent viewing area for outstanding operational ease and comfort includes single lever swing boom control B B1 C D A1 70 70 Dimension A* A1* B B1 C D Single 2447 mm 909 mm 2974 mm 1000 mm Function (96 in) (36 in) (117 in) (39.4 in) Swing Boom 3269 mm 1241 mm 4092 mm 2800 mm 1366 mm 1166 mm Arch (128.6 in) (49 in) (161 in) (110 in) (54 in) (46 in) * Equipped with 8-roller track frame 16 517 Skidder specifications
Grapples Choose from a variety of grapple configurations to meet your needs. A B Sorting Grapple used for 305 mm (12 in) or larger diameter trees designed to pick-up individual or several stems for quick cycles Sorting Grapple Grapple Capacity (A) Tong Opening (B) m 2 ft 2 mm in 517 Skidder 0.74 8.0 2134 84 A B Bunching Grapple used for 305 mm (12 in) or smaller diameter trees designed to gather bundle of stems and maximize grapple loads Bunching Grapple Grapple Capacity (A) Tong Opening (B) m 2 ft 2 mm in 517 Skidder 0.74 8.0 2286 90 517 Skidder specifications 17
Undercarriage 517 Skidder 7-roller track frame 8-roller track frame Oscillation: front idlers at gauge line 143.2 mm 5.64" 143.2 mm 5.64" at pivot shaft +2.8 +2.8 Number of shoes (each side) 42 44 Width of shoes: 560 mm 22" - - 610 mm 24" - - 660 mm 26" 660 mm 26" 760 mm 30" 760 mm 30" Length of track on ground 2710 mm 106.7" 2910 mm 114.6" Track gauge 2000 mm 78.7" 2000 mm 78.7" Ground contact area with: 560 mm (22") shoes 3.03 m 2 4695 in 2 - - 610 mm (24") shoes 3.30 m 2 5122 in 2 - - 660 mm (26") tri-link 3.58 m 2 5548 in 2 3.84 m 2 5959 in 2 760 mm (30") tri-link 4.13 m 2 6402 in 2 4.44 m 2 6876 in 2 Ground pressure 517 GR*: 560 mm (22") shoes 0.55 kg/cm 2 7.83 psi - - 610 mm (24") shoes 0.50 kg/cm 2 7.22 psi - - 660 mm (26") tri-link 0.50 kg/cm 2 7.16 psi 0.48 kg/cm 2 6.79 psi 760 mm (30") tri-link 0.44 kg/cm 2 6.29 psi 0.42 kg/cm 2 5.96 psi Ground pressure 517 CA**: 560 mm (22") shoes 0.52 kg/cm 2 7.35 psi - - 610 mm (24") shoes 0.47 kg/cm 2 6.64 psi - - 660 mm (26") tri-link 0.47 kg/cm 2 6.75 psi 0.45 kg/cm 2 6.41 psi 760 mm (30") tri-link 0.42 kg/cm 2 5.94 psi 0.40 kg/cm 2 5.64 psi * Machine configured with enclosed cab, PAT blade, swing boom and 8 sq. ft. sorting grapple ** Machine configured with enclosed cab, PAT blade and winch Features Lifetime Lubricated rollers and idlers are directly mounted to roller frame oscillating roller frames attach to tractor by pivot shaft and pinned equalizer bar large pivot bushings operate in an oil reservoir equalizer bar saddle connection is low-friction bushing with remote lube line recoil system fully sealed and lubricated track roller frames have box section design that resists torsional loads Blade Specifications All dimensions are approximate. PAT Blade Width 2738 mm 108" Width (angled 25 ) 2476 mm 97.5" Height 1077 mm 42.4" Capacity 2.19 m 3 2.86 yd 3 Digging Depth 321 mm 12.6" Ground Clearance 989 mm 38.9" Maximum Tilt 505 mm 19.9" Weight 1547 kg 3410 lbs 18 517 Skidder specifications
Standard Equipment Note: Standard equipment may vary. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for specifics. Air cleaner, with pre-screener Alarm, back-up Alternator, 75-amp/24-volt Batteries, two 12-volt Brake system; service, parking and secondary Blower fan Cap locks: Oil filler Dipstick Fuel tank fill Fuel tank drain Hydraulic tank fill Radiator fill Coolers, dual transmission oil Direct electric starting, 24-volt Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) Engine enclosures, perforated Ether starting aid Fuel priming pump Gauges: Engine coolant temperature Fuel Transmission oil temperature Guards: Fenders, heavy-duty Extreme service crankcase Fuel tank, heavy-duty Radiator, heavy-duty punched hole Front brush sweeps Pre-screener guard Heavy duty starting motor Horn Hydraulics, load sensing Lighting system, halogen three front, two side, two rear Muffler (shielded) Seat, vinyl covered suspension, angled by ten degrees to the right Seat belt Segmented sprocket Steering, clutch and brake Torque converter Track: Adjusters, hydraulic Heavy-duty sealed and lubricated Two piece master link End guiding guards Transmission, power shift with three speeds forward and reverse Additional Equipment With approximate changes in operating weights. Note: Additional equipment may vary. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for specifics. kg lb Bulldozer 4P, Power angle and tilt 1559 3434 Guards Track roller guards: 7 roller 279 615 8 roller 316.4 696 Rear track guards 452 996 Sweep screen 72 159 Vandalism protection (canopy) 1.20 2.64 (cab) 0.80 1.76 Arches Single function 1632 3594 Single function with mechanical retrieval device 2010 4428 Swing Boom 2345 5164 Grapples Bunching 0.74 m 2 (8 ft 2 ) 714 1573 Sorting 0.74 m 2 (8 ft 2 ) 703 1548 kg lb Operator Environment Open ROPS/FOPS canopy 1037 2284 Enclosed ROPS/FOPS cab 1178 2594 Heater, ROPS canopy 76 168 Track Roller Frames 7 roller 3074 6770 8 roller 3221 7094 Undercarriage Track, 560 mm (22") standard shoe 2520 5551 Track, 610 mm (24") standard shoe 2618 5766 Track, 660 mm (26") tri-link 7 roller 3860 8501 8 roller 4105 9041 Track, 760 mm (30") tri-link 7 roller 4043 8905 8 roller 4299 9470 Winch Caterpillar 517 Winch 1522 3353 517 Skidder specifications 19
517 Skidder www.cat.com AEHQ5319-01 (11-99) (Replaces AEHQ5319) 1998, 1999 Caterpillar Printed in U.S.A. Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice.