The Cat 657 scraper offers a 7 per cent increase in fuel efficiency and a 21 per cent increase in the cab interior over its predecessor 657G, according to Cat. The largest open bowl scraper in Cat’s line, the 657 has a rated load of 52 tons (46.4 metric tons) and is designed for high volume earthmoving, highway construction and mining applications.

The machine offers several features, including:
An on-board Payload Estimator that enables on-the-go weighing and achieves a 95 per cent load accuracy, Cat says. An Auto-Stall feature rapidly brings the transmission to operating temperature at start-up, so the 657 can quickly get to work in cold climates.

Ground Speed Control allows operators to lower fuel consumption by setting a desired top speed; the machine then automatically finds the gear that works best for the engine and transmission.

The Cat 657 is powered by a Cat C18 engine in the tractor and a Cat C15 engine in the scraper. Engine power and torque is enhanced by the engines’ Advanced Productivity Electronic Control System, resulting in more material moved throughout the shift, according to Cat.

The transmission features Electronic Clutch Pressure Control, designed to improve shift quality and fuel efficiency. New hydraulic disc brakes improve braking performance and reduce maintenance, Cat says.

The 21 per cent larger cab improves comfort and visibility to the bail, cutting edge and bowl of the new 657. The air suspension seat adjusts and rotates 30 degrees to reduce fatigue. A smoother ride is provided by the new Advance Ride Management feature, which adjusts damping to match ground conditions. Automatic HVAC temperature control and defroster come standard. A new power access ladder increases operator safety when entering and exiting the cab.

The new high-pressure steering system requires less steering input. Engine overspeed protection automatically engages when the machine is in eighth gear, slowing the machine’s speed when approaching engine limits. The new optional Sequence Assist automates many operator inputs during each cycle to simplify machine operation.