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Comparison · Bulldozer

Caterpillar D1 vs John Deere 550K

The John Deere 550K is about 13% heavier than the Caterpillar D1 (9,132 vs 8,099 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The John Deere 550K has about 15% more engine power (69 kW (93 hp) vs 60 kW (80 hp)).

Beyond the numbers, compare local dealer support, parts availability and resale value for Caterpillar and John Deere in your region: over the life of a machine they often matter more than small specification differences.

Caterpillar machine similar to the Caterpillar D1 (related model may be pictured)
Caterpillar Caterpillar D1
John Deere 550K bulldozer
John Deere John Deere 550K
Operating weight 8,099 kg (17,900 lb)9,132 kg (20,100 lb)
Engine power 60 kW (80 hp)69 kW (93 hp)
Net power (SAE J1349 / ISO 9249) 59.7 kW (80 hp) at 2,200 rpm—
Engine Cat C3.6, 3.6 L (220 in³)—
Drive Hydrostatic, 1 drive pump, 2 track motorsDual-path hydrostatic
Max. travel speed 9 km/h (5.6 mph) forward; 10 km/h (6.2 mph) reverse—
Track shoes 355 mm (14 in) standard; 635 mm (25 in) or 762 mm (30 in) LGP—
Blade widths 2.64 m (104 in) standard; 3.15 m (124 in) LGP with grade-control prep—
Net power —≈69 kW (92 hp)
Blade width —2.67–2.92 m (105–115 in)
Track on ground —2.34 m (92 in)
Strengths
  • + Small, easy to transport and operate
  • + Hydrostatic drive for precise grading
  • + Cat GRADE and assist options available
  • + Cat support and resale
  • + Dual-path hydrostatic drive: full-power turns and smooth control
  • + Easy to transport
  • + Popular and widely supported in North America
  • + Good resale
Watch-outs
  • − Limited pushing power for bulk earthworks
  • − Premium price for the class
  • − Older design than the newest small dozers
  • − Limited published blade capacity data
Full D1 reviewFull 550K review

Specifications are typical figures for standard configurations and may be measured differently by each manufacturer (for example net vs gross power). Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer. Build another comparison.