Double-Wide CAT Dozer Featuring ‘Siamese’ Diesel Engines Is the Result of Passionate Collectors

      SEFILMS via YouTube

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      Some individuals become impatient waiting for others to create their ideal vehicle. For instance, one person decided to swap a big-block engine into a C8 Corvette because he couldn't wait any longer for Chevrolet to implement it. What you see here shares a similar narrative. This is a double-wide Caterpillar D8 replica operating with two large inline-six diesel engines, built to pay tribute to the three original models from the 1950s that are now extinct.

      Caterpillar has been manufacturing the D8 in various forms since 1935, with a significantly updated version still available today. However, back when the D8 had only been on the market for about 13 years, Peterson Tractor Company came up with an idea. Peterson Tractor has historically been—and remains—an important distributor for Caterpillar on the West Coast. Many of its clients were actively engaged in building prominent cities like San Francisco, necessitating larger machinery than what Caterpillar was offering at the time.

      Thus, the larger D8 was introduced, equipped with two D13000 engines, each with a capacity of 1,246 cubic inches. In the 1950s, Peterson Tractor constructed three of these machines, effectively linking two D8s to a single blade. This setup provided exceptional pushing strength, which was essential for construction companies dealing with the rugged terrain of Northern California, Oregon, and similar areas. Although 200 hp may not seem substantial by today's standards, it was a significant achievement back then, well before the larger Caterpillar D9 was released.

      All of these D8 Twin Dozers were heavily utilized, and unfortunately for collectors, none of the originals survived. However, in honor of Peterson CAT’s 80th anniversary, a new fourth version was created in 2016.

      SEFILMS via YouTube

      Similar to the initial batch of oversized D8s, this one features mechanically linked D13000s equipped with gasoline-powered pony motors. These motors serve to start the diesel engines and can be disengaged through a lever that activates and deactivates the inboard steering clutches. Operators can maneuver it from either side, depending on which direction offers the best view of the blade.

      The dozer remained outdoors at Peterson CAT’s facility in Hillsboro, Oregon, for eight years post-completion. Exposure to the sun took its toll, causing the paint to oxidize, and water infiltrated one of the engines. Consequently, a restoration became necessary, which Nate Degerstedt oversaw.

      You can hear Degerstedt share the story of the tractor in the video below from SEFILMS on YouTube. He discusses the origins of serial number 004 and mentions key individuals who played a significant role in its creation. Notable Caterpillar collectors Ed Akin and Glen Ghilotti collaborated with the Doyle family, the current owners of Peterson CAT, to procure parts for this unique machine.

      None Survived – So CAT Built This

      Overall, it’s an extraordinarily impressive machine, and even those with no background in heavy equipment can appreciate it. The D8 Twin Dozer is a testament to the idea that necessity fuels innovation.

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