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Comparison · Bulldozer

Caterpillar D6 vs John Deere 550K

The Caterpillar D6 is about 162% heavier than the John Deere 550K (22,250 vs 8,500 kg), which usually means more stability and lifting capacity but higher transport weight.

The Caterpillar D6 has about 167% more engine power (160 kW (215 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 D6T crawler dozer on a river project
Caterpillar Caterpillar D6
John Deere John Deere 550K
Operating weight 22,250 kg (49,100 lb)8,500 kg (18,700 lb)
Engine power 160 kW (215 hp)60 kW (80 hp)
Net power ≈160 kW (215 hp)≈60 kW (80 hp)
Blade capacity up to ≈5.6 m³ (7.3 yd³), SU blade—
Engine Cat C9.3B—
Drive Powershift or electric drive (XE)—
Emissions EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V—
Strengths
  • + Electric-drive D6 XE claims significantly lower fuel use
  • + Cat Grade and Assist features as factory options
  • + Huge dealer, parts and resale support
  • + Smooth hydrostatic drive
  • + Easy to transport
Watch-outs
  • − Expensive, especially in XE form with technology
  • − Electric-drive complexity requires dealer expertise
  • − Limited pushing power
Full D6 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.