163H Caterpillar 163H Specifications & Technical Data (2000—2007)

Serviceability

Caterpillar re-engineered inspection and service points, grouping them into a convenient left-hand side, ground level ‘service center.’ Ground level fueling and extended engine and hydraulic oil change intervals help minimize downtime.

Service Center

A ‘Service Center’ on the left-hand side provides easy, centralized access to most check and maintenance points. Routine inspection and service are faster and easier, for better machine availability and lower operating costs. Large hinged doors provide easy access to the adjacent engine and maintenance service compartments. Engine and hydraulic oil checkpoints, coolant gauges, and air filters, along with spin-on filters for oils, fuel, and coolant, are included. Remote lubrication points, purge valves, and ecology drain lines are also available. The fuse panel with new automotive style fuses is located inside the cab. Additionally, the tandem oil checkpoint is conveniently located between the wheels in the center of the tandem. Sample ports for engine, hydraulic, transmission fluids, coolant, and fuel encourage preventive maintenance and diagnostics like the S•O•SSM program.

Environmentally Responsible Design

New engine arrangements and operator station designs reduce emissions and meet current and anticipated regulations for interior and exterior sound levels, emissions, exhaust.

Emissions Compliant

The new 163H has reduced NOx, hydrocarbon, and particulate emissions. The Cat 3176C meets or exceeds all U.S. EPA Tier II and EU Stage II emissions control standards worldwide.

Electronic Monitoring System

Powerful monitoring and diagnostic capabilities allow more efficient and safer machine operation. The Cat EMS III keeps operators better informed of machine status with: Continuous tracking of all critical machine parameters on a dash display Warnings/alerts for abnormal conditions Retrieval or adjustment of over 200 electronic system parameters using the powerful ET service tool.

Controls On Steering Console

Controls and switches are located on the steering console, shift console and right cab post, all within easy reach. Gauges are located inside the cab, directly in front of the operator.

Suspension Seat

Standard contour series suspension seat features fold-up armrests and a retractable seat belt. The seat can easily adjust for optimal support and comfort. Seat controls are located within easy reach and in plain view.

Exceptional Visibility

A redesigned operator’s console improves forward visibility. Large side windows allow a clear view of the moldboard heel and tandem tires. A wide rear window and tapered engine hood provide a good view to the rear of the machine. Moving the air dryer and air cleaner, and aligning the precleaner and muffler, improves visibility to the rear of the machine. Operators can work more confidently and efficiently.

Quiet Cab

The resiliently mounted engine and transmission reduce interior engine noise and vibration. Interior sound levels do not exceed 72 dB(A), using ISO 6394. Lower interior noise levels improve operator working conditions.

Quiet Machine

Exterior sound levels are below 107 dB(A) and comply with the EU 2000/14/EC sound limit of 109 dB(A). This quiet operation lets the 163H work with minimal disturbance to the surroundings.

Cab

The operator sound level measured according to the procedures specified in ISO 6394:1998 is 72 dB(A), for cab offered by Caterpillar, when properly installed and maintained and tested with the doors and windows closed. Hearing protection may be needed when operating with an open operator station and cab (when not properly maintained or doors/windows open) for extended periods or in noisy environment. The labeled sound power level is 109 dB(A) measured according to the test procedures and conditions specified in 2000/14/EC.

Engine

The Cat 3176C ATAAC is designed to handle the tough loads. Variable Horsepower matches the torque curves to the gear, to maximize response, power and efficiency. Low fuel consumption reduces operating costs and reduces environmental impact.

Power Train

The power shift transmission takes full advantage of the powerful 3176C engine. Variable Horsepower uses specific torque curves for each gear range for optimum performance. Dual air system and multi-disc oil brakes assure reliable braking control.

All-Wheel Drive System

All-wheel drive improves tractive performance in poor underfoot conditions. The Variable Horsepower feature comes standard on the 163H. With three operating modes – automatic, manual, and off – the operator can match performance to any application.

Engine Performance

The innovative 3176C diesel engine delivers large-engine performance from a compact engine design. The six-cylinder engine is turbocharged and air-to-air aftercooled. With high displacement and low rated speed, this engine provides excellent fuel economy and durability that can significantly reduce operating costs. Power curves customized for the 163H increase peak torque for higher ground speeds and enhanced productivity. Rimpull has been increased in all gears for greater productivity.

Variable Horsepower (VHP) and VHP Plus

Automatically increases horsepower in higher gears when the machine can use it and when all-wheel-drive is engaged. In applications such as snow removal, this power allows higher travel speeds and faster snow removal for more snow clearing in less time. Also, the higher rimpull in all gears maximizes performance during high-speed winging and heavy snow load applications. In lower gears where traction is limited, horsepower is limited, reducing wheel slip, tire wear and conserving fuel. The 163H has a VHP Plus option to provide additional horsepower in forward gears 7-8.

Lugging Performance

High torque output and torque rise makes the 3176C very responsive. Its superior lugging performance maintains consistent grading speeds without the need to downshift.

Advanced Fuel System

The advanced Diesel Engine Module (ADEM III) fuel system is a Caterpillar exclusive electronic control module which provides improved engine response, performance, fuel efficiency, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and reduced emissions. The ADEM III electronic engine control improves altitude capability to 3000 meters without deration and allows integration with the electronic transmission control for maximum power train efficiency.

Turbocharged and Air-to-Air Aftercooled

Turbocharger packs more dense air into the cylinders for more complete combustion and lower emissions improving performance and engine efficiency. These benefits are especially useful at high altitudes. Air-to-air aftercooler reduces smoke and emissions by providing a cooler inlet air for more efficient combustion. This also extends the life of the piston rings and bore.

Extended Engine Life

The large bore-stroke design and conservative power rating minimize internal stresses and increase component life. The low engine speeds reduce engine wear and sound levels.

Hydraulic Demand Fan

The hydraulic demand fan control automatically adjusts cooling fan speed according to engine cooling requirements. This system reduces demands on the engine, putting more power to the ground and improving fuel efficiency.

More Power

The Variable Horsepower feature is standard on the 163H. When all-wheel drive is engaged, Variable Horsepower kicks in and delivers maximum power in all gears via an electronically controlled variable displacement piston pump driven directly from the transmission.

Wide Working Range

All-wheel drive is available in gears 1-7 forward and 1-5 reverse, making it effective in both low-speed and high-speed applications – from ditch cutting to snow winging. Electronically controlled dual displacement wheel motors deliver high displacement in gears 1-4 forward and 1-3 reverse, and low displacement in gears 5-7 forward and 4-5 reverse. Front wheels freewheel in 8 forward and 6 reverse.

Superior Traction

All-wheel drive improves tractive performance in poor underfoot conditions such as snow, mud, and sand. This feature also provides excellent steering and side-draft control.

Fuel Tank

The 397 liter, ground level fuel tank allows longer work shifts and reduces refueling times. A fuel tank sediment drain enables the operator to remove sediment accumulation, reducing the risk of fuel system damage.

Hydraulics

The load-sensing hydraulic system lowers power consumption and system heat. The advanced PPPC control valves provide low lever effort, balanced flow and consistent cylinder speeds for outstanding blade control. Blade float is incorporated into the blade lift valves.

Optimized Inching Modulation

The new Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) optimizes inching modulation and smoothes shifting. It also eliminates cable control, improving reliability and enhances cool oil characteristics.

Drawbar, Circle, Moldboard

Versatile moldboard positioning and a long wheelbase improve material handling. Rugged construction and replaceable wear parts minimize operation costs.

Blade Positioning

The blade linkage design provides extensive moldboard positioning, most beneficial in mid-range bank sloping and in ditch cutting and cleaning.

Blade Angle

A long wheelbase allows the operator to obtain an aggressive moldboard angle. This aggressive angle permits material to roll more freely along the blade, which reduces power requirements. This is particularly helpful in handling very dry materials, cohesive soils, snow and ice.

Circle Construction

One-piece forged circle with hydraulically driven motor stands up to high stress loads. Raised wear surfaces prevent circle teeth wear against the drawbar. Sixty-four uniformly spaced teeth on the front 240° of the circle are flame cut and heat induction hardened to resist wear. The circle, with 360° rotation, is secured to the drawbar by six vertically and horizontally adjustable shoes for maximum support.

Replaceable Wear Items

Tough, durable nylon composite wear inserts are located between the drawbar and circle, and between the support shoes and circle. This sacrificial wear system helps keep components tight for fine grading and allows easy replacement. These inserts reduce rotational friction resulting in extended component life.

Circle Drive Slip Clutch

The standard circle drive slip clutch protects the drawbar, circle and moldboard from shock loads when the blade encounters immovable objects. It also reduces the possibility of the grader making abrupt directional changes in poor traction conditions.

Drawbar Construction

The Y-frame drawbar is constructed of two solid beams for high strength and optimum durability, as well as precise blading control. The yoke plate completely covers the top of the circle.

Air Conditioner and Heater-Pressurizer

The optional air conditioner arrangements help create a comfortable work environment. A cab heater-pressurizer is standard. The high-capacity systems dehumidify air and pressurize the cab, while circulating fresh air and sealing out dust. Multiple additional vents evenly distribute air throughout the cab for clear windows and operator comfort.