Caterpillar Inc. is pleased to debut the Cat FM528 GF/ LL (General Forestry/Log Loader), a forestry excavator designed for adaptability and efficiency.
Equipped with the side-entry Next Generation Certified Forestry cab, the Cat® FM528 GF/LL Forest Machine is Caterpillar’s first forest machine to offer a fixed or live heel and blade option. Its multi-configuration capabilities fill in fleet-equipment gaps and mean the machine can go to work in the woods or the millyard to help boost productivity and profitability.
Built with the Cat C4.4 173hp (129kW) engine and electro-hydraulic system, the high-torque motor provides high power at low RPM while helping reduce fuel consumption and minimising downtime and maintenance costs.
“The Cat® FM528 represents our commitment to understanding and responding to the evolving needs of the forestry industry,” said Mike Dickenson, Caterpillar’s senior product specialist for forest machines. “We are merging adaptability, operator-oriented design, and cost efficiency, empowering forestry professionals to maximise their productivity while prioritising safety.”
Engineered for efficiency
Whether it’s land clearing, fire clean-up, chipping, grinder loading, mulching, or processing, the Cat FM528 is equipped to tackle a variety of tasks with ease. The machine is compatible with a wide range of robust Cat forestry grapples, available in sizes from 1322mm (52″) to 152mm (60″).
Equipped with Triple Grouser track shoes that help provide high manoeuvrability while minimising disturbance in soft, wet-underfoot conditions, the machine also helps keep operators safe with a certified side-entry Forestry ROPS cab which includes a spacious door and an easy-to-use tilt-up armrest.
Refined visibility is integrated into the design with a large 1.25″ (32mm) thick polycarbonate windshield, narrow cab pillars, large panoramic windows, and a flat engine hood, helping operators maximise engagement with their work environment.
Versatility at the core
The Cat FM528 offers a unique fixed or live heel and blade configuration, allowing operators to easily adapt to various applications like navigating steep terrain, managing heavy logs, or performing detailed sorting tasks.
With options for processor, roadbuilder, log loader, and knuckleboom loader controls, this multi-configurable machine helps crews easily transition between forestry and millyard work, increasing productivity and profitability.
Efficiency meets performance
Powered by the Cat C4.4 173hp (129kW) engine and an advanced FM528 is designed to help lower fuel consumption while delivering superior performance. The hightorque engine operates effectively at low RPMs, minimising maintenance costs from wear and tear while maintaining precision in various job tasks. Further, the hydraulic system features cooling E-Fans with reversing capabilities to optimise engine efficiency and temperature control.
Sharing common parts and service with the Cat Next Generation excavator line, the FM528 ensures readily available components, significantly reducing downtime. Using Cat long-life fuel and hydraulic oil filters with extended and synchronised service intervals also helps lower maintenance expenses.
A century of innovation
Over the past century Caterpillar has grown with its customers to help build a better, more sustainable world. That’s why Caterpillar continues to support forestry customers with five models, including the FM528 GF and FM528 LL machines, plus a range of work tools that deliver dependability, versatility and efficiency to every fleet.
When you choose Cat products, services and solutions today, you’re gaining 100 years of experience and expertise.
For more information about FM528, contact a Cat dealer or visit cat.com.