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Engine Specifications & Applications of the Caterpillar C4.4 Engine
Overview of the Caterpillar C4.4
The Caterpillar C4.4 is a 4-cylinder, 4.4-liter inline diesel engine that delivers mid-range power for a wide array of industrial, construction, and generator applications. First introduced as part of Cat’s compact industrial engine family, the C4.4 has evolved through several emissions tiers, including Tier 3, Tier 4 Interim, and Tier 4 Final / Stage V versions. Built with high efficiency, extended service intervals, and global emissions compliance in mind, the C4.4 is designed to provide quiet, fuel-efficient performance in demanding duty cycles.
Available in naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and turbocharged-aftercooled configurations, the C4.4 is a common power source for mid-sized equipment and power systems where space, serviceability, and consistent output are top priorities. Many OEMs around the world rely on this engine platform for both regulated and unregulated markets, making it a cornerstone of Caterpillar’s industrial engine portfolio.
Caterpillar C4.4 Engine Specifications
Specification |
Details |
Engine Configuration |
Inline 4-cylinder, 4-stroke diesel |
Displacement |
4.4 Liters (268 cubic inches) |
Bore x Stroke |
105 mm x 127 mm |
Compression Ratio |
16.0:1 (varies by emissions tier and build) |
Aspiration |
Naturally Aspirated / Turbocharged / Turbo Aftercooled |
Horsepower Range |
74 – 174 HP (55 – 129 kW) |
Peak Torque |
350 – 705 Nm @ 1,400–1,800 RPM |
Fuel System |
Mechanical or Common Rail Electronic Injection |
Emissions Compliance |
Tier 3 / Tier 4 Final / EU Stage V |
Aftertreatment (Tier 4 Final) |
DOC + DPF + SCR |
Cooling System |
Water-cooled |
ECM and Controls |
ADEM ECU (Tier 4 and Stage V models) |
Dry Weight |
Approx. 1,100–1,300 lbs (500–590 kg) |
Oil Capacity |
10.6 – 12.5 liters (varies by configuration) |
Fuel Consumption |
~205–215 g/kWh at rated power |
Applications of the Caterpillar C4.4 Engine
The Caterpillar C4.4’s broad power range and flexible configuration options allow it to serve in a diverse range of on-site, off-highway, and stationary equipment. It is especially popular in environments requiring low fuel consumption, long service life, and compliance with Tier 4 Final or EU Stage V emissions regulations.
1. Power Generation
The C4.4 is widely used in generator sets, where its stable power delivery and fuel efficiency are critical to both mobile and stationary gensets.
Generator Applications:
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Prime power for small construction sites or remote communities
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Standby and emergency backup for hospitals, banks, telecom, and utilities
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Trailer-mounted rental power units (20–100 kW)
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Auxiliary marine gensets
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Export generator sets for developing markets
Benefits: Compact footprint, fuel-efficient long-run operation, and ease of service in Tier 4 Final and Stage V configurations.
2. Construction Equipment
In construction, the C4.4 is favored for its balance between power output and physical size, supporting medium-duty equipment where emissions and performance must align.
Common Machinery:
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Mid-sized excavators (12–18 ton class)
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Wheel loaders and track loaders
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Compact telehandlers
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Soil compactors and rollers
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Skid-mounted utility equipment
Later electronic versions integrate seamlessly with modern diagnostics and fleet management tools, while older Tier 3 models continue to be used in repower applications worldwide.
3. Agricultural Equipment
Caterpillar C4.4 engines are commonly found in mid-range agricultural machinery, especially where rugged duty and low maintenance costs are required.
Common Agricultural Uses:
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Diesel-powered irrigation pumps
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Feed mixers and grinders
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Compact combines and crop sprayers
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Stationary grain processing units
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Power modules for dairy, poultry, or greenhouse operations
These engines are often preferred in farm environments where mechanical simplicity and emissions compliance need to coexist.
4. Material Handling & Industrial Machinery
The torque-rich profile and low vibration levels of the C4.4 make it ideal for a variety of material handling and stationary industrial use cases.
Industrial Applications:
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Forklifts and reach stackers
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Belt and screw conveyor drives
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Stationary compressors and hydraulic skids
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Generators for mining camps and oilfield bases
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Diesel-powered chillers and blowers
Whether operating indoors or in remote environments, the C4.4 delivers efficient, emissions-ready operation with straightforward maintenance.
5. Marine Auxiliary & Export Applications
The C4.4 is also used in marine auxiliary roles and custom-built export equipment, thanks to its emissions flexibility and global support footprint.
Use Cases:
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Marine gensets for commercial vessels
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Diesel hydraulic power skids for dredging and winches
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Custom export gensets and trailer-mounted units
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Repower of legacy equipment requiring <130 kW
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Non-emissions regulated field installations and mining camps
Where permitted, Tier 3 mechanical builds of the C4.4 are in high demand for global repower and aftermarket resale, particularly in developing markets.
Conclusion
The Caterpillar C4.4 engine is one of the most versatile mid-sized industrial diesel engines available today. Its range of aspiration configurations, emissions tiers, and OEM integrations makes it an adaptable platform for nearly every application sector—construction, agriculture, power generation, and beyond.
Whether you are working with a modern Tier 4 Final generator or repowering older equipment in the field, the C4.4 delivers a winning combination of performance, fuel efficiency, reliability, and global serviceability. Its strong aftermarket support and continued use across equipment categories ensure that the C4.4 will remain a key power solution for years to come.