No matter the job—land clearing, fire clean-up, chipping, loading the grinder, mulching, or processing—the Cat FM528 is built to handle it all with ease.
Caterpillar has introduced the Cat FM528 GF/LL (General Forestry/Log Loader), a highly versatile forestry excavator built for efficiency and adaptability. Designed to handle the demanding needs of forestry professionals, this machine is ready for a wide range of tasks.
From land clearing and fire cleanup to chipping, grinder loading, mulching, and processing, the FM528 is built to perform. It’s compatible with Cat forestry grapples ranging from 52 inches (1322 mm) to 60 inches (1524 mm), giving operators flexibility for different applications.
The FM528 features Triple Grouser track shoes for better maneuverability, even in soft and wet conditions, while minimizing ground disturbance. For enhanced safety, it includes a certified side-entry Forestry ROPS cab with a spacious door and an ergonomic tilt-up armrest. Visibility is a priority, with a large 1.25-inch (32-mm) thick polycarbonate windshield, narrow cab pillars, panoramic windows, and a flat engine hood for a clearer view of the work area.
To handle different job requirements, the FM528 offers a fixed or live heel and blade configuration, making it easy to navigate steep terrain, move heavy logs, or perform precise sorting tasks. Operators can also choose from processor, roadbuilder, log loader, and knuckle boom loader control options, allowing for smooth transitions between forestry and mill yard operations.
Powered by a fuel-efficient Cat C4.4 engine with 173 hp (129 kW) and an advanced electrohydraulic system, the FM528 is designed to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining high performance. Its low-RPM, high-torque engine minimizes wear and tear, keeping maintenance costs low. The hydraulic system is equipped with cooling E-Fans with a reversing feature to optimize temperature control and efficiency.
Sharing many components with the Cat Next Generation excavator line, the FM528 ensures easy access to parts and service, helping to minimize downtime and keep operations running smoothly.
