Case Carves Out New Equipment Category With Launch Of Minotaur DL550 Compact Dozer Loader

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With the arrival of its multitalented Minotaur DL550, Case says it has created the “compact dozer loader” equipment category. (Photo courtesy of Case.)

Case has established an all-new “compact dozer loader” equipment category with the launch of its “first-of-its-kind” Minotaur DL550. The two-in-one machine delivers dozing and grading capabilities, and is compatible with hundreds of attachments that extend its utility even further. Case says customer input was integral from the initial design process through to final engineering.

“The Minotaur is truly a fleet of one, that is second to none,” says Case Product Manager Jeff Jacobsmeyer. “Business owners and fleet managers looking for a compact solution that delivers countless benefits in a single footprint will immediately see the versatility this exciting new machine brings to their fleets and will quickly understand what a ‘compact dozer loader’ is capable of accomplishing. It’s what the industry has asked for.”

The DL550 Inspected

Case says the DL550 far outstrips the performance and long-term reliability of a traditional compact track loader (CTL) equipped with a dozer blade attachment, thanks to its chassis-integrated C-frame with six-way dozer blade. The manufacturer says that by hydraulically coupling the C-frame into both the chassis and attachment coupler, the DL550 provides a compact dozer’s stability and smooth operating plane while channeling all operating power through the entire body. Using the DL550 as a loader with the included 1.25-cubic-yard (0.95-cubic-meter) bucket or with loader attachments (an industry-exclusive, integrated ripper is available as an option) requires detaching the C-frame.

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The Minotaur DL550 comes with a 1.25-cubic-yard bucket, but the compact dozer loader is also compatible with hundreds of attachments. (Photo courtesy of Case.)

Also included is Case Universal Machine Control, which leaves the Minotaur prepped for machine control technology from Leica Geosystems, Topcon, and Trimble. The included Case SiteConnect Module facilitates the transmission of machine data to the Case SiteWatch telematics platform for real-time monitoring, management, and analysis capabilities. Using the Case SiteManager app, operators can pair their mobile device to the Minotaur to allow a certified technician to perform remote analysis and diagnostics.

A Multitalented Beast

The 18,000-plus-pound (8,165-kilogram) DL550 has a 114-horsepower (85-kilowatt) engine, is built on a dozer-style undercarriage, and provides in excess of 25,000 lbs (11,400 kg) of drawbar pull. Case offers three steel or rubber track options ranging from 14 to 18 inches (356 to 457 millimeters) wide, as well as a choice between the same 90- or 96-in. (2,286- or 2,438-mm) six-way blades as its 650M dozer. The Minotaur’s electrohydraulic controls let operators select the same smooth, moderate, or aggressive responsiveness levels for blade adjustment, steering, and shuttle sensitivity as Case’s full-sized dozers. Operators can also independently set blade tilt, lift, and angle speeds.

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The DL550 equips either a 90- or 96-inch six-way blade—the same ones you’ll find on Case’s 650 dozer—and your choice of three steel or rubber track options. (Photo courtesy of Case.)

For loader work, the Minotaur has a rated operating capacity of 5,500 lbs (2,495 kg) at 50% tipping load and a breakout force of 12,907 lbs (5,854 kg). The same control responsiveness settings apply, and a Hydraulic On Demand feature lets operators set the percentage of auxiliary hydraulic flow to an attachment to match their preference or the manufacturer’s guidance.

Beginning in September, Case will showcase the Minotaur DL550 during a tour of more than 30 planned stops at Case dealerships in the United States and Canada. Check here for tour stops near you.

Source: Case