Caterpillar Model Numbers Explained

Understanding Caterpillar model numbers helps you identify your machine and order the correct spare parts. Cat uses a structured naming system across its product lines — here's how to decode it.

D-Series — Bulldozers

Cat bulldozers (also known as dozers) use the letter D followed by a number indicating size:

D1 - D3 — Class: Small bulldozers • Typical Weight: 9–10 tonnes
D4 - D5 — Class: Medium bulldozers • Typical Weight: 14–17 tonnes
D6 - D7 — Class: Large bulldozers • Typical Weight: 22–27 tonnes
D8 - D9 — Class: Heavy bulldozers • Typical Weight: 38–49 tonnes
D10 - D11 — Class: Mining bulldozers • Typical Weight: 66–104 tonnes

Higher D-numbers mean larger, more powerful bulldozers.

300 Series — Excavators

Cat excavators use a 3-digit number where the value roughly indicates operating weight in tonnes:

301 – 306 — Class: Mini/compact • Typical Weight: 1.5–6 tonnes
307 – 310 — Class: Midi • Typical Weight: 7–10 tonnes
311 – 320 — Class: Standard • Typical Weight: 11–20 tonnes
323 – 340 — Class: Large • Typical Weight: 23–40 tonnes
345 – 390 — Class: Extra large • Typical Weight: 45–90 tonnes

900 Series — Wheel Loaders

Cat wheel loaders use numbers in the 900 range. The first digit indicates size class:

906 – 918 — Class: Compact • Typical Weight: 5–9 tonnes
920 – 938 — Class: Medium • Typical Weight: 12–15 tonnes
950 – 972 — Class: Large • Typical Weight: 18–26 tonnes
980 – 994 — Class: Extra large/mining • Typical Weight: 32–200 tonnes

400 Series — Backhoe Loaders

Cat backhoe loaders use numbers in the 400 range (416, 420, 428, 432, 444). Higher numbers indicate larger machines with greater dig depth and loader capacity.

700 Series — Articulated Trucks

Cat articulated dump trucks use the 700 range (725, 730, 735, 740, 745). The last two digits approximate the payload in tonnes.

Model Suffixes — What Do They Mean?

Caterpillar adds letter suffixes to indicate variant or generation:

GC: General Construction — lower cost specification, optimised for common applications
XE: Extended Efficiency — advanced powertrain (CVT or electric drive) for maximum fuel savings
LGP: Low Ground Pressure — wider tracks for working on soft ground
LRC: Long Reach Configuration — extended boom and stick for deep digging or demolition
UHD: Ultra High Demolition — tall boom for multi-storey building demolition
MH: Material Handler — converted for waste/scrap handling with elevated cab
B, C, D, E: Generation letters (older models) — D6R, 320D, 330E etc.
F: Latest generation (some models) — represents newest technology
CR: Compact Radius — short tail swing for confined space work

Finding Your Model Number

Your Caterpillar model and serial number are located on the serial number plate (data plate), typically found:

Excavators: Left side of the upper frame, near the cab door
Dozers: Left side of the mainframe, behind the track frame
Wheel loaders: Left side of the rear frame, behind the cab
Backhoe loaders: Left side of the mainframe, behind the cab
Forklifts: Left side of the mast or dashboard area

The plate shows: Model (e.g. 320), Serial Number (e.g. ZBH00001), and Arrangement Number. When ordering parts, always quote both model and serial number.

Need Help?

Can't identify your Caterpillar model? Contact us with photos of your machine and serial number plate — we'll identify it for you.

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Priority Undercarriage Links

This guide now feeds directly into the first Sherry-backed Caterpillar model clusters and live part listings below.