The new Cat D6N dozer is powered by a Cat C7.1 ACERT engine rated at 166 net horsepower (124 kW), and meets Tier 4 Final emission standards. It is the first dozer in its size class to offer advanced GRADE technologies as standard equipment. Cat Grade Control Slope Assist helps operators more easily achieve the required mainfall and slope orientation of the blade by automatically maintaining pre-established blade angles for the grade. Cat Stable Blade complements the operator’s blade-control input for attaining higher quality finish grades quicker and with less effort. Cat Slope Indicate displays machine cross slope and mainfall (fore/aft orientation) on the primary monitor, helping operators work more accurately on slopes with no special equipment required. For tackling more complex design plans, the D6N can be outfitted with optional technology features. Cat Grade Control 3D (available early 2016) is an integrated grade-control system that positions antennas on the cab roof, eliminating conventional blade-mounted masts and related cables. The Cat AutoCarry™ system and the AccuGrade™ Ready Option are included in the package. Cat AccuGrade is a dealer-installed aftermarket grade-control system that provides increased grading versatility and the ability to scale capacity to changing needs, providing a choice of lasers for 2D flat-plane and slope work, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) control for complex 3D cuts and contours, and/or systems using a Universal Total Station (UTS) for fine and finish grading. AccuGrade now utilizes components of the Slope Assist system to provide an even higher level of grading performance than was previously achievable. Fuel-efficiency gains result primarily from the D6N’s new transmission with a lock-up clutch torque converter that seamlessly selects the drive mode best suited to the application. The transmission provides the performance of direct drive with the ease of operation of power shift. The standard Enhanced Auto Shift system, combined with the lock-up-clutch control, allows operators to select the optimum ground speed for the load being moved. An electronically controlled, variable-speed demand fan automatically adjusts its speed to conserve engine horsepower and fuel, and reduce sound levels. The D6N has an updated cab with more leg room and wider, easier-closing doors. A smoother-shifting transmission and quieter engine create a more comfortable environment, and operator-selected electro-hydraulic mapping fine tunes implement response (fine/normal/coarse) to suit operator preference or tailor the machine to the application. The HVAC system is significantly improved, and an improved fresh-air filter keeps the cab cleaner. The new D6N is designed for ease of maintenance, providing a ground-level service center for easy access to the electrical disconnect, hour meter and remote light switch. A single grease point for e-bar and c-frame pins is easy to reach and protected behind the engine door. The two-piece engine-compartment door conveniently opens without tools, and engine valve-lash adjustment is not required.
