The new Cat 558 next generation forest machine features several design upgrades, which supports production in logging environments and projects.
“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.”
Engine and Operation
Available in Log Loader and General Forest configurations, the new 558 is powered by a Cat 7.1 engine that generates 25% more power than the previous series. The machine also has a new electrohydraulic control system that produces 30% more swing torque and 15% more travel power.
Smart mode automatically matches engine and hydraulic power to working conditions. The machine features cold-start capability of -25˚ F (-32˚ C) and high ambient temperature capability of 126˚ F (52˚ C).
Comfort and Safety
The new Certified Forestry cab with its reinforced structure and large 1.25-in. (32-mm) thick polycarbonate windshield supports operator safety. The cab is available in a choice of rear or side entry. A standard rearview camera promotes visibility as do three available cab risers – 22-in. (559 mm) fixed, 48-in. (1219 mm) and 72-in. (1829 mm) tilt. The available Cat lock cab tilting system on the Log Loader configuration facilitates transport.
The machine has a new dual HVAC system for working in the summer heat or during subfreezing ambient winter temperatures. Its insulated roof and window and door seals keep in-cab noise levels low.
Operators can start the 558’s engine with a simple push of a button or available Bluetooth key fob and unique Operator ID. Operator ID allows each operator to program and store their own machine settings and attachment function preferences. A 10-in. (254-mm) high-resolution touchscreen monitor delivers navigation through operating menus and includes a digital version of the operator’s manual for reference. An available Cat PL161 attachment locator assists in finding work tools within a range of 200-ft. (60 m), even when covered by overgrowth or debris.
Maintenance
Compared to the previous model, the 558 next generation forest machine will consume 50 fewer filters over the course of 12,000 hours.
“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 synchronized 1,000-hour change interval – double the service life of the previous model. A new hydraulic oil return filter delivers a 3,000-hour service life, which is 50% longer than previous designs. The cooling fan runs only when necessary; and reversing intervals are programmable to enable the fan to keep the radiator cores clean.
Technology
Product Link technology captures operating data, fault codes and machine location information for fleet management. When within cell coverage, the machine’s new remote troubleshoot feature analyzes the data captured by Product Link and can share it with the Cat dealer. 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 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.”
Product Specifications
| Engine | Cat 7.1 Twin Turbo |
| Power, hp (kW) | 302-hp (225 kW) |
| Operating weight without attachment – General Forestry, lb (kg) | 91,490-lbs. (41,500 kg) |
| Operating weight without attachment– Log Loader, lb (kg) | 97,660-lbs. (44,300 kg) |
| Max reach – General Forestry, ft/in (mm) | 34-ft., 10-in. (10,620 mm) |
| Max reach – Log Loader, ft/in (mm) | 41-ft., 4-in. (12,590 mm) |
| Drawbar pull, lbf (kN) | 78,638-lbf. (350 kN) |
| Swing torque, lb-ft (kN m) | 113,584-lb.-ft. (154 kN m) |
