| Fan Speed | High fan speed allows the machine to operate in high, ambient temperatures. |
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| Steel Cores | Modular steel cores increase durability and resistance to corrosion. |
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| Power Train | Four cylinder, four stroke engine and heavy-duty torque converter significantly improve skidding performance. | 
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| Engine | Turbocharged Cat 3304 DIT diesel engine sets the industry standard for reliability and durability. |
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| Mounting | Resilient engine mounting results in quieter operation and less vibration. |
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| Radiator | Six-row radiator core has large surface areas for improved heat rejection. |
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| Fan | High volume fan for increased airflow and improved cooling ability. |
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| Fuel System | A direct-injection fuel system uses adjustment-free unit fuel injectors for efficient, accurate fuel metering and reduced emissions. |
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| Pre-screener | Pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the air cleaner to provide significant engine protection in harsh logging environments. |
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| Torque Converter | Large, heavy-duty torque converter is matched to the 3304 engine power for excellent drawbar pull and improved skidding performance. |
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| Fluid Coupling | A fluid coupling allows the engine to run in its optimal rpm range for more efficient use of available engine power. |
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| Performance | The torque converter reduces the tendency for track-to-ground slip, further improving the 517's performance in soft underfoot conditions. |
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| Operator Comfort | Less operator effort is required to match gear range to engine rpm as torque multiplication reduces the need for up and down-shifting. |
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| Shocks | Traction and load induced shocks are absorbed by the fluid coupling of the converter, thereby protecting power train components and contributing to longer life. |
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| Core Module | Each core module can be replaced individually, saving considerable cost and repair time. |
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| Transmission | Three-speed planetary power shift transmission is designed and built by Caterpillar and delivers three speeds in both forward and reverse. |
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| Cooling Capacity | The 517 has increased cooling capacity to meet the demands of logging applications and extend the life of key power train components. |
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| Application Flexibility | The 517 Skidder can easily handle a variety of tasks and applications for today's loggers. |
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| Performance | Maximum skidding performance is best attained through the available swing boom and grapple. | 
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| Horsepower and Torque | High horsepower and torque further enhance the 517's dozing abilities. | 
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| Track Options | Expanded track options allow the 517 to maintain skidding performance and minimize ground disturbance in a wide range of ground conditions. | 
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| Ground Clearance | Excellent ground clearance allows the 517 to readily avoid obstacles, maneuver in poor underfoot conditions, and work effectively and efficiently on snow covered sites. | 
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| Undercarriage | Undercarriage options provide optimized performance and durability, while allowing customization for different logging applications. | 
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| Track Roller Frame | Heavy-duty track roller frame and undercarriage are key to the 517's superior balance and durability. |
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| Extended Track Roller Frame | Available with 7 or 8 rollers, the extended track roller frame places rear idlers beneath grapple/winch loads, improving skidder balance and performance. |
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| Undercarriage Components | D5H sized heavy duty undercarriage components better withstand impact and abrasion, enhancing wear life. |
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| Supported Undercarriage | Supported undercarriage options reduce stress loads and impact forces on undercarriage assemblies and contribute to longer system life. | 
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| Tri Track Shoes | Tri track shoes provide an additional outer row of links for improved durability. |
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| Minimal Ground Disturbance and Compaction | Additional width of supported undercarriage reduces ground disturbance/compaction and improves skidder flotation. |
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| Hydraulics | Load Sensing Hydraulic system improves skidding performance and efficiency. | 
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| Load Sensing Hydraulics | Load sensing hydraulics utilize a load sensing, variable displacement pump and pressure compensating system which continually monitors dozer and grapple hydraulic power requirements. |
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| Horsepower Demand | System reduces engine horsepower demand by placing pump in low pressure stand-by when not needed for hydraulic output. |
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| Drive Train | More power is available to the drive train for increased skidding power and efficiency. |
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| Compensator Valve | Compensator valve has pressure limiting ability, protecting the pump and hydraulic system from damaging overloads. |
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| Auto-Grab Feature | The Auto-Grab feature from Caterpillar constantly monitors and adjusts tong pressure as needed to securely hold grapple loads while skidding. |
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| Tong Pressure | Provides constant tong pressure without continuous hydraulic pump demand. Activated by switch on right hand console. |
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| Operator Station | Designed operator comfort and ease of operation to ensure maximum productivity. | 
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| Easy and Comfortable Operation | Modular ROPS/FOPS cab is resiliently mounted to the frame. Large window area allows excellent front and rear viewing area. |
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| Transmission | Power shift transmission delivers three speeds forward and three reverse. Gear selection is quick and easy. |
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| Steering | Clutch and brake steering controls each track individually providing exceptional maneuverability. |
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| Electronic Monitoring System | Electronic monitoring system monitors critical machine functions and has a three-level warning system to inform operators of potential problems. |
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| Blade Control | Single-lever blade control manages all blade functions including height, angle and tilt. |
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| Grapple Control | Single-lever grapple control allows for simplified operation and reduced operator fatigue. |
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| Auto-Grab Switch | Auto-Grab switch activates the system that monitors and adjusts tong pressure to maintain a secure grip on grapple loads. |
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| Seat | Standard suspension seat is angled ten degrees to the right so the operator can more comfortably observe grapple/winch functions to the rear. |
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| Air-conditioning | Air-conditioning is standard with the enclosed cab. Controls allow operator to manage cab temperature for optimal comfort levels. |
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| Windows | Polycarbonate windows provide excellent viewing and eliminate the need for screens. |
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| Canopy | Open ROPS/FOPS canopy is standard with side, front, and rear screens, vandalism protection and optional heater. | 
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| Cable Skidder | The 517 winch is specifically designed for the 517 to help maximize productivity. | 
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| Winching Performance | The combination of high drawbar pull, torque converter driveline and balance enable the 517 to overcome the loads created during winch applications. |
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| Controls | 517 winch controls operate reel-in, reel-out brake and freespool functions. |
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| Oil Filters | Spin-on fuel and engine oil filters save changing time. |
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| Brake Control | Modulation of the winch brake control can be utilized to manipulate the load during winch applications in mountainous environments. |
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| Balance and Pulling Power | Superior balance and pulling power enable the 517 to skid large loads with the optional 517 winch. This highly productive winch has been specifically designed for the 517 skidder in steep and mountainous skidding applications. |
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| Serviceability | The most serviceable machines from the most committed dealers. |
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| Servicing | Less service time means more working time. Major components are made as modules and most can be removed without disturbing or removing others. |
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| Ground-level Access | Ground-level access provides convenient servicing to most filters and lube points. |
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| Pre-screener | Centrifugal pre-screener removes large debris before it reaches the internal air cleaner, significantly increasing engine protection. |
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| Air Filters | Radial seal air filters are easy to change, reducing air filter maintenance times. |
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| Electrical System | 24-volt electrical system delivers increased electrical power for engine cranking, lights, and engine diagnostics. |
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| Customer Support | Cat dealer services help you operate longer with lower costs. | 
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| Selection | Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. |
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| Purchase | Look past initial price. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. |
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| Operation | Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. |
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| Replacement | Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. |
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| Product Support | You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers utilize a world-wide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. |
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| Maintenance | More and more equipment buyers are planning for effective maintenance before buying equipment. |
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