Caterpillar releases three redesigned articulated trucks

Caterpillar debuted the redesigned 730, 730 EJ (Ejector) and 735 articulated trucks. Photos courtesy of Cat.

Caterpillar debuted the redesigned 730, 730 EJ (Ejector) and 735 articulated trucks.

The redesign covers features and performance on its C-Series articulated trucks predecessors, according to the company. Operator stations, including controls, transmission-protection features, hoist-assist system, advanced traction control system, stability-assist system and a fuel saving ECO operating mode are included in the redesign.

In addition, the design of the 730 and 730 EJ includes automatic retarder control and a hill-start feature. The 735 retains these features from its C-Series predecessor and further incorporates design refinements, including a Cat C13 ACERT engine, Cat CX31 transmission and structural and dimensional modifications that reduce empty weight by 22 percent while retaining the productivity of the outgoing 735C, the company adds. These features combine for an up to 18 percent gain in fuel efficiency.

Operator station

The company says the cab’s new external “spinal-ROPS” design incorporates a rear-quarter glass, eliminating a structural pillar in the C-Series design, for enhanced rear visibility. Also, a “wake-up” feature initiates the machine’s displays when the door is opened. The door is of a lighter, stronger design with a shut-assist feature for improved sealing against dust infiltration. The overall cab design results in lower inside sound levels compared to previous models.

Optional infrared glass reduces solar heating inside the cab and left- and right-hand sliding windows increase ventilation and facilitate communication with workers and the loading-vehicle operator, the company explains.

The three trucks include improvements to operator controls, comfort and safety.

An automatic climate-control (HVAC) system positions more vents above and behind the operator for increased heating and cooling efficiency. A heated/cooled seat is designed to give operators increased personal-comfort adjustments and the passenger seat now uses a flip up/down design and added cushioning.

A lighting system, controlled via a ground-level switch, illuminates the cab’s entry steps and hitch area, the company adds. Optional safety features include integrated payload lights; long range LED work lights for visibility at night or in situations of lower visibility; and cab-mounted mirrors, including a front-visibility mirror, for all-around visibility for the operator.

Exterior cab features include a flexible lower fender and a low-profile exhaust stack that do not need to be removed for transport.

Cat Connect PAYLOAD technology is an optional feature for the equipment, the company adds.

Innovative controls

A combined transmission-and-hoist lever provides efficient, single-lever control of vehicle speed and body-hoisting functions reduce operator effort and automate repetitive operations. A switch in the cab allows operators to choose either manual or assisted hoisting control, the latter selection automatically applying the waiting brake, shifting the transmission to neutral and raising the body to maximum angle at engine high idle, the company says. Assisted hoisting returns the body to the lower position at the flick of a switch. Both raise and lower functions feature automatic cushioning and speed reduction at limits of movements.

In addition, a shift-protection system brings the truck to a safe stop if a directional shift is made while the truck is moving. The combined shifting/hoisting lever also incorporates a parking position. A tertiary brake switch sets the parking brake in the unlikely event of main and secondary braking malfunction.

Model specifics

According to the company, the 735 replaces the Cat C15 ACERT engine, rated at 441 net horsepower, with the Cat C13 ACERT, rated at 428 net horsepower.