The new Cat® 558 makes forestry work productive, profitable, and pleasant.
The new Cat® 558 next generation forest machine features several design upgrades sure to lift the production of seasoned forestry professionals, and even those with less time in the woods.
“The previous 558 was the best in its class for moving timber with power and reliability,” said Brent Uitermarkt, vice president for Caterpillar’s forestry products. “The new 558 next gen machine builds on that by being even more productive. Plus, it has added benefits of greater comfort and safety, and owners will spend a lot less time and money on maintenance.”
More production
Available in Log Loader and General Forest configurations, the new 558 is powered by a proven Cat 7.1 engine that generates 25 per cent more power than the previous series. Add in the machine’s new electrohydraulic control system that produces 30 per cent more swing torque and 15 per cent more travel power and tough, hilly work becomes easer to accomplish.
Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to working conditions to help do that work with maximum fuel efficiency. Also, with cold-start capability of -32˚C and the ability to work in high ambient temperatures – up to 52˚C – the machine can work year-round.
Safety and comfort
The new Certified Forestry cab with its reinforced structure and large, 32mm-thick polycarbonate windshield enhances operator safety. Available in a choice of rear or side entry, the cab’s interior space is 25 per cent larger, allowing most operators to stand without hitting their head. Field of view from the standard heated and cooled seat is 50 per cent better due to narrower cab pillars, larger panoramic windows, and a flat engine hood. A standard rear-view camera enhances visibility, as do three available cab risers 22” (559mm) fixed and 48” (1219mm) and 72” (1829mm) tilt.
The available Cat easy lock cab tilting system on the Log Loader configuration makes for much easier transport.
Ingress and egress are easier due to the cab’s wider and taller door and tilt-up console on the operator’s seat for the side-entry cab. The machine’s new dual HVAC system keeps operators comfortable regardless of working in the summer heat or during subfreezing ambient winter temperatures. Its specially insulated roof and improved window and door seals keep in-cab noise levels low.
Operators have multiple options for starting the 558’s engine, including an easy-to-reach push button, Bluetooth key fob, or unique Operator ID function. Operator ID allows each operator to quickly program and store their own machine settings and attachment function preferences. The large 10” (254mm) high-resolution touchscreen monitor delivers intuitive navigation and includes a digital version of the operator’s manual for quick reference. The available Cat® PL161 attachment locator assists in finding work tools within a range of 60m, even if they’re covered by overgrowth or debris.
Lower maintenance costs
Compared to the previous model, the 558 next generation forest machines will consume 50 fewer filters over the course of 12,000 hours, which contributes to lowering maintenance costs by up to 15 per cent.
“We improved our filters and our service intervals, and we improved ground-level access to service points to make daily maintenance quick and safe,” said Uitermarkt. “Our new electrohydraulic control system eliminates the need for a pilot filter and pilot oil altogether.”
Fuel filters feature a synchronised 1000-hour change interval – double the service life of the previous model. A new hydraulic oil-return filter improves filtration and delivers a 3000-hour service life, which is 50 per cent longer than previous designs. The highefficiency cooling fan runs only when necessary, and reversing intervals are programmable to enable the fan to keep the radiator cores clean without interrupting work.
Modern technology
Product Link™ technology captures critical operating data, fault codes, and machine location information to boost fleet-management efficiency. When within cell coverage, the machine’s new remote troubleshoots feature analyses the data captured by Product Link and can share it with the Cat dealer to help save a service trip to the jobsite. Owners can also be sure the 558 is operating with the most current version of software with standard remote flash, which updates machine software around the owner’s production schedule.
“The new 558 is perfect for moving logs more efficiently, comfortably, and safely,” said Uitermarkt. “When you add in a Cat dealer network committed to forestry, you get a winning combination of machine and support that simply can’t be beat.”
CAT® 558 specs
Engine Cat® 7.1 Twin Turbo
Power 302hp (225kW)
Operating weight without attachment – General Forestry 41,500kg
Operating weight without attachment – Log Loader 44,300kg
Max reach – General Forestry 10,620mm
Max reach – Log Loader 12,590mm
Drawbar pull 350kN
Swing torque 154kN/m
For more information on the 558, visit cat.com or contact your local Cat dealer.
