New Products - The multi-tasking Cat 568 Forest Machine

One machine with many talents. Read about what the new Cat 568 can do in your forest.

Cat indicates that the 568 Forest Machine (FM) in its general forestry configuration, can carry out road building, site preparation and processing. In the loader version, it can be configured for log loading, shovel logging, butt-n-top loading (a specialised grapple is able to rotate logs so that the butts and tops of logs alternate for stable, safe loading) and mill yard applications. It is the largest in the four-model Cat FM product line.

Highlights of the 568 include a 16% increase in power, more efficient hydraulics, longer track frames for stability, and ground-level accessibility for maintenance.

The new 319 hp (238 kW) engine (C9.3 ACERT) meets US Tier 4 Interim emissions regulations. The increased power comes with up to 5% fuel efficiency gains. Hydraulic efficiency is 10% higher than the 330D FM. Much focus has been placed on freer oil flow, by changes to the hydraulic valve arrangements and reshaped and resized oil passages. The result is a machine that runs more smoothly and is more responsive. The Flexxaire programmable reversible fan to blow debris out of the radiator is included as standard equipment. Also standard is a starting aid for cold weather, which includes two extra batteries.

Servicing is improved with a one-piece engine hood and larger filter, cooling and hydraulic compartments. Spin-on fuel and oil filters can be accessed from the ground. The hydraulic housing and filters are found in the hydraulic tank to prevent contamination.

Cat has gone for a rugged structure by including a strong swing bearing, heavy doors and extra guarding. The track frames are 13” (33 cm) longer than the 330D, providing 18% more stability. The upper structure weight is spread across 10 track rollers, compared to nine in the 330D.

The 568 boom is available in either over/under (heel boom cylinder on top side of stick and stick cylinder on underside) which can provide more lift height and reach, or under/under.

Cab improvements include a 40% larger LCD monitor than the 330D, and a new heated air suspension seat as standard. Source: www.cat.com/forestry