Cat Pipelayers have been the standard of the pipeline industry for decades. A worldwide network of Cat dealers, in tune with the special high production needs of pipeliners, supports these durable and dependable machines. Cat Pipelayers are purpose-built to meet the unique demands of pipeline customers. And like every Cat machine, pipelayers are designed for long life, serviceability and rebuild capability to help keep owning and operating costs low.
Engine
Engine Model |
Cat® 3176C |
Flywheel Power |
179.0 kW |
Gross Power |
192.0 kW |
Net Power – EEC 80/1269 |
179.0 kW |
Net Power – SAE J1349 |
177.0 kW |
Bore |
125.0 mm |
Stroke |
140.0 mm |
Displacement |
10.3 L |
Gross Power (Metric) |
192.0 kW |
Gross Power – ISO 14396 (Metric) |
189.0 kW |
Gross Power – ISO 14396 |
189.0 kW |
Net Power – EEC 80/1269 (Metric) |
179.0 kW |
Net Power – ISO 9249 |
179.0 kW |
Net Power – ISO 9249 (Metric) |
179.0 kW |
Net Power – SAE J1349 (Metric) |
177.0 kW |
Rated Flywheel Power |
179.0 kW |
Rated Flywheel Power (Metric) |
179.0 kW |
Pipelaying Equipment
Lift Capacity |
40800.0 kg |
Boom Length |
6.1 m |
Hook Winch Drum Diameter |
254.0 mm |
Rope Minimum Breaking Strength |
261.66 kN |
Boom Winch Drum Diameter |
224.0 mm |
Hook Winch Flange Diameter |
457.0 mm |
Boom Winch Flange Diameter |
406.0 mm |
Hook Winch Drum Length |
279.0 mm |
Boom Winch Drum Length |
254.0 mm |
Diameter – Wire Rope |
19.0 mm |
Hook Winch Capacity – 19 mm (3/4 in) Diameter |
80.16 m |
Boom Winch Capacity – 19 mm (3/4 in) Diameter |
51.82 m |
Hook w/Wire Rope Installed – 19 mm (3/4 in) Diameter |
50.29 m |
Boom w/Wire Rope Installed – 19 mm (3/4 in) Diameter |
40.23 m |
Boom Line Speed |
73.0 m/min |
4 Part Line Hook Speed (Lo) |
11.0 m/min |
4 Part Line Hook Speed (Hi) |
22.0 m/min |
Lift Capacity at Tipping Point |
40800.0 kg |
Removable Counterweights – 4 Segments: 1 at |
1438.0 kg |
Removable Counterweights – 4 Segments: 1 at |
1918.0 kg |
Removable Counterweights – 4 Segments: 2 at |
370.0 kg |
Removable Counterweights – Number of Segments |
4 |
Removable Counterweights – Total 4 Segments |
4096.0 kg |
Total Weight Extendible |
5080.0 kg |
Weights
Shipping Weight |
31347.0 kg |
Operating Weight |
32342.0 kg |
Transmission
1 Forward |
3.52 km/h |
2 Forward |
6.1 km/h |
3 Forward |
10.54 km/h |
1 Reverse |
4.54 km/h |
2 Reverse |
7.85 km/h |
3 Reverse |
13.58 km/h |
Undercarriage
Track Gauge |
2235.0 mm |
Track on Ground |
3176.0 mm |
Ground Contact Area |
4.19 m2 |
Ground Pressure |
74.46 kPa |
Number of Shoes (each side) |
43 |
Track Rollers (each side) |
7 |
Track Shoe Width |
660.0 mm |
Service Capacities
Fuel Tank |
479.0 L |
Crankcase (with Filter) |
31.0 L |
Transmission, Bevel Gear, and Steering Clutch |
183.0 L |
Final Drives (each) |
13.0 L |
Cooling System |
77.4 L |
Hydraulic Tank |
54.1 L |
Recoil Spring Compartments (each) |
57.0 L |
Dimensions
Track Gauge |
2235.0 mm |
Width of Tractor – Boom Removed |
3659.0 mm |
Width of Tractor – Counterweight Extended |
5228.0 mm |
Machine Height – Tip of Grouser to Top of Winch |
2895.0 mm |
Drawbar Height (Center of Clevis) |
634.0 mm |
Length of Track on Ground |
3176.0 mm |
Operating Length (with Drawbar) |
4736.0 mm |
Height to Top of Stack |
3387.0 mm |
Grouser Height |
71.0 mm |
Ground Clearance (SAE J1234) |
416.0 mm |
Boom Height – Tip of Grouser at SAE 1.22 m (4 ft) Overhang |
6728.0 mm |
Machine Height – Tip of Grouser to Top of ROPS |
3450.0 mm |
Width of Tractor |
2895.0 mm |
Hydraulic Controls
Type |
Pressure compensating piston-type pump. |
Output – Maximum |
281.0 L/min |
Relief Valve Setting – Counterweight |
17240.0 kPa |
Relief Valve Setting – Hook and Boom Winch |
33000.0 kPa |
Standards
Brakes |
Brakes meet the standard SAE J/ISO 10265:2008. |
ROPS |
ROPS offered by Caterpillar for the machine meets the criteria of ISO 3471:2008, ISO 3449:2005 Level II. |
Lift Capacity
Lift Capacity at Tipping Point |
40800.0 kg |
Pipelayer

Integrated, robust components
Winches
Independent hydraulic winches drive boom and hook draw works. The oil-disc brakes give you smooth operation, as well as positive retention of the boom and hook positions. Infinitely variable speed controls give your operator precise control, and a free-fall function allows your operator to drop the load quickly in the event of an emergency.
Counterweight
A narrow profile of the counterweight design helps give your operators a better view around the machine. The box section frame, welded to a cast bevel gear case gives you a rugged mainframe design. The counterweight is extended hydraulically for better load balance and a service latch mechanically locks the counterweight in an extended position.
Boom
The tubular cast steel boom is rugged to give you better fatigue life. Replaceable boom-mount bearings aid serviceability and long life. Your choice of a standard 6.10 m (20 ft) boom, or an optional 7.3 m (24 ft) boom, means you can equip the machine to best suit the demands of your operation.
Blocks and Hook
The heavy-lifting, robust design is popular all around the pipeline industry. A counterweight latch gives you an added level of safety for servicing or inspection.
Drawbar
A robust drawbar tows a wide range of attachments for maximum versatility.
Operator Station and Controls

Designed for Productive Comfort
Caterpillar designs operator stations for maximum productivity. Easy-to-use controls and operator comfort features, along with excellent visibility all around the machine not only help operators work more efficiently, but also contribute to enhanced job site safety.
- The standard Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) provides increased operator protection.
- Ergonomically designed seat is fully adjustable for maximum comfort. It is designed to give your operator excellent support, while still allowing unrestricted arm and leg movement. The position of the seat is well matched to key operator control levers and pedals. Foot pads help provide added stability when working on slopes.
- Finger Tip Controls put steering, machine direction, and gear selection into one easy-to-use control. Low-effort pipelayer controls give your operator simultaneous, precise positioning of the load line and boom in one hand.
- The instrument panel is easy to read, even in direct sunlight.
- An in-dash monitoring system provides the operator with instant feedback on fluid levels and temperatures, as well as the condition of key machine operating systems. The system performs a self-test at every start and provides fault codes for easy troubleshooting.
- A standard 12-volt converter supplies power for devices like cell phones and laptop computers.
- A convenient access ladder gives your operator direct access/egress to the operator station.
Engine and Power Train

Powerful Efficiency
Engine
The Cat 3176C engine gives you the large displacement and good cold start capabilities needed on challenging jobs. Its durable design has been proven in some of the world’s most challenging conditions and will provide years of dependable service.
Planetary Power Shift Transmission
The electronically controlled planetary power shift transmission offers smooth shifting and agile speed and directional changes for maximum productivity. With three speeds forward and three speeds reverse, the transmission utilizes large diameter, high capacity, oil-cooled clutches for long life. Forced oil flow lubricates and cools clutch packs for long life.
Electronic Clutch and Brake Steering System
Low-effort finger tip levers make steering easy and allow your operator to work more precisely in close areas and narrow right-of-ways.
Steering Clutch and Brakes
Oil cooled, hydraulically actuated, large diameter plates and clutch discs provide higher torque capacity and increased service life.
Structure

Underlying Strength
The Pipelayer main frame is engineered to handle the most demanding applications. The mainframe is built to absorb high impact shock loads and twisting forces. The one-piece all-welded chassis provides superior strength over bolted designs, as well as an optimum structure for pipelayer mounting. Heavy steel castings add strength to the main case, center saddle and front cross member for outstanding durability. The final drives are elevated well above the ground level work area to protect them from impact loads, abrasion and contaminants. Caterpillar uses robotic welding techniques in the assembly of the case and frames. The deep penetration and consistency of robotic welding insures quality for long life and durability.
Undercarriage

Engineered for Performance
The 572R2 features a rigid Cat elevated sprocket undercarriage that isolates the final drives away from abrasive conditions. A long track roller frame and wide gauge give you more track contact area for a very stable working base. Undercarriage components are built for long life and ease of serviceability. Rollers and idlers feature Duo-Cone™ seals to help prevent oil loss and dirt entry. Tubular roller frames resist bending and twisting, with added reinforcement where operating loads are highest. Cat sprocket segments are precision machined after heat treat for proper fit. Segments can be removed or replaced without breaking the track. Pipelayer track is designed for high-impact and high load applications. The Heavy-Duty Sealed and Lubricated Track permanently coats the track pin with a sealed-in lubricant. This minimizes metal-to-metal contact and virtually eliminates internal pin and bushing wear.
Integrated Technologies

Solutions to Make Work Easier and More Efficient
Cat Product Link™ *
Remote monitoring with Product Link improves overall fleet management effectiveness. Product Link is deeply integrated into machine systems. Events and diagnostic codes, as well as hours, fuel, idle time and other detailed information are transmitted to a secure web based application, VisionLink®. VisionLink includes powerful tools to convey information to users and dealers, including mapping, working and idle time, fuel level and more. *Product Link licensing not available in all areas.
Sustainability

Thinking Generations Ahead
- Technologies like Product Link help improve overall efficiency, save fuel and fluids, and reduce equipment wear and tear.
- Convenient access ladder, excellent visibility and easy-to-use controls enhance job site safety.
- Ecology drains make draining fluids more convenient and help prevent spills.
- Major components are built to be rebuilt, eliminating waste and saving customers money by giving the machine and/or major components a second - and even third - life.
Serviceability

More Productivity, Less Cost
Modular Design
Major components are designed as modules and most can be removed without disturbing or removing other components. This means less service time and more working time for you.
Easy Diagnostics
The machine monitoring system provides instant feedback on the condition of operating systems, utilizing a three level warning system. The system can easily be upgraded by flashing software.
Service Access
Major service points are grouped to make your regular maintenance quicker and easier. Large service panel doors provide easier access to all maintenance locations.
Scheduled Oil Sampling (S?O?SSM) Analysis
Monitor machine health and identify key maintenance needs before they lead to downtime through Cat Scheduled Oil Sampling. Cat machines feature live sampling ports for the engine oil, power train hydraulics and coolant. Cat oil sampling offers accurate analysis using tests designed by Caterpillar for Cat products, as well as knowledgeable interpretation of the results.
Ecology Drains
Ecology drains provide a convenient method for draining fluids that saves time and helps prevent spills.
Safety

Designed with Protection in Mind
Job site safety is a key concern for pipeline customers, and Cat pipelayers are designed with features to help protect people in and around the machine.
- The standard Roll Over Protective Structure (ROPS) provides increased operator protection.
- The winch profile and overall machine design allow for excellent visibility around the machine.
- A long track roller frame and wide gauge give you more track contact area for a very stable working base.
- A left-side access ladder provides convenient access/egress to the operator station.
- A free-fall function allows your operator to drop the load quickly in the event of an emergency.
Renowned Cat Dealer Support

When Uptime Counts
Cat dealers excel at providing parts availability and equipment service to even the most remote areas. With more than 10,000 service technicians employed in over 3,000 Cat dealer locations around the world, Caterpillar parts and service resources and capabilities are beyond compare. From helping you choose the right machine to knowledgeable ongoing support, Cat dealers provide the best in sales and service. Manage costs with preventive maintenance programs like Custom Track Service, Scheduled Oil Sampling (S·O·S) analysis, and guaranteed maintenance contracts. Stay productive with best-in-class parts availability. Cat dealers can even help you with operator training to help you boost your profits. And when it’s time for machine replacement, your Cat dealer can help you save even more with Genuine Cat Reman parts. Receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at cost savings of 40 to 70 percent for power train and hydraulic components.
ELECTRICAL
Alarm, back-up
Alternator, 70-amp
Converter, 10-amp/12-volt
Diagnostic connector (starting and charging)
Horn, forward warning
Hour meter
Lights, 2 forward, 2 rear
Starting receptacle, 24-volt direct
Alarm, back-up
Alternator, 70-amp
Converter, 10-amp/12-volt
Diagnostic connector (starting and charging)
Horn, forward warning
Hour meter
Lights, 2 forward, 2 rear
Starting receptacle, 24-volt direct
OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
Armrests, adjustable
Brake pedal
Decelerator pedal and switch
Engine air cleaner service indicator
Engine RPM display/gear display
Foot pegs for slope work
FTC control for Clutch and Brake steering
Monitoring System, Electronic (EMS III) coolant temperature, power train oil, hydraulic and fuel gauge, tachometer, odometer, gear indicator diagnostic functions
Power points, two 12-volt
Pre-start coolant level monitoring system
Product Link Ready
ROPS, rollover protection system
Seat, vinyl suspension
Seat belt, retractable 76 mm (3 in)
Storage and literature compartment
Transmission shift points selection
Travel speed and gear limiter, electronic
Armrests, adjustable
Brake pedal
Decelerator pedal and switch
Engine air cleaner service indicator
Engine RPM display/gear display
Foot pegs for slope work
FTC control for Clutch and Brake steering
Monitoring System, Electronic (EMS III) coolant temperature, power train oil, hydraulic and fuel gauge, tachometer, odometer, gear indicator diagnostic functions
Power points, two 12-volt
Pre-start coolant level monitoring system
Product Link Ready
ROPS, rollover protection system
Seat, vinyl suspension
Seat belt, retractable 76 mm (3 in)
Storage and literature compartment
Transmission shift points selection
Travel speed and gear limiter, electronic
PIPELAYER
Block and hook with latch
Boom, 6.10 m (20 ft)
Counterweight, extendible segmented 4096 kg (9,030 lb)
Hydraulics, pipelayer system
UNDERCARRIAGE
Adjuster, hydraulic track
Carrier rollers
Heavy-duty sealed and lubricated tracks
Lifetime lubricated idlers and track rollers
Master link, two-piece
Sprockets, segmented
Track frame, 7 rollers
Track with single grouser track shoes: - 43-section, 660 mm (26 in)
Adjuster, hydraulic track
Carrier rollers
Heavy-duty sealed and lubricated tracks
Lifetime lubricated idlers and track rollers
Master link, two-piece
Sprockets, segmented
Track frame, 7 rollers
Track with single grouser track shoes: - 43-section, 660 mm (26 in)
POWER TRAIN
3176C EUI Caterpillar diesel engine with: - Advanced Modular Cooling System (AMOCS) - Brake system, service, parking and emergency - Coolant, extended life - Drains, ecology (engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, fuel tank, power train case) - Fan, blower -
3176C EUI Caterpillar diesel engine with: - Advanced Modular Cooling System (AMOCS) - Brake system, service, parking and emergency - Coolant, extended life - Drains, ecology (engine oil, coolant, hydraulic oil, fuel tank, power train case) - Fan, blower -
OTHER STANDARD EQUIPMENT
Altitude operation capability, 2286 meter (7,500 ft) without derating
Bumper, front with towing device
Diagnostic pressure taps, centralized ecology drains
Extended service intervals (500 hours)
Guards: - Crankcase, normal service - End track-guide - Hinged bottom - Instrument panel - Radiator, hinged - Rear
Hood, perforated
Implement oil filter
Keyed lockable enclosures
Load sensing hydraulics
Radiator doors, louvered, hinged
Rigid drawbar
SOS analysis taps for engine, transmission, and implement fluids
Transmission remote pressure taps
Vandalism protection
OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
Product Link PL321, none
Product Link PL321, Satellite
Product Link PL321, none
Product Link PL321, Satellite
PIPELAYER
Boom, 7.3 m (24 ft)
POWER TRAIN
Drain, ecology (transmission, torque converter)
Drain, ecology (transmission, torque converter)