Helpful Tips for Operating Your Cat® 815 or 825K

Large soil compactors like the Cat® 815 and 825K are from four to seven times more productive than some smaller models on large jobs. And while that means using fewer machines, it also means that operators need to understand best practices for operation to maintain or increase efficiencies on those jobs.

Estimated read time: 2 minutes

Our simple but handy tips can help you stay alert, safe and productive all day while you’re operating your Cat® 815 or 825K Large Soil Compactor. Check them out in this video.

of
Cat® Large Soil Compactor Operating Tips

Estimated watch time: 2 minutes

Remember that when operating any heavy equipment, safety is always your priority. Stay alert and avoid conditions that could cause your compactor to roll over. Also remember to:

  • Operate the machine forward for the best possible visibility and control. 

  • Maintain a straight compaction line, pick a point out on the horizon and steer the machine straight for it.

  • Avoid oversteering. You only need minimal joystick movement. 

 

DOWNHILL AND SLOPE OPERATION [00:48]

You’ll need to take extra precautions when operating your Cat 815 or 825K down hills or on slopes: 

  • Always slow to a lower gear before you start down a hill or grade.

  • The proper gear lets you maintain a safe speed without continuous brake use. 

  • If you overuse the brakes, the wheel discs and axle oil could overheat.

  • Only operate on a slope if you’re sure it’s safe and ground conditions are good. 

  • Never operate the machine across steep slopes.

  • Always maintain a safe travel speed. Remember that higher speeds mean a more unstable machine. 

  • Be alert for uneven and newly filled ground areas, which can also cause the machine to become unstable.

  • Always operate straight up and down slopes and hills — never go across them. 

 

UNDERSTANDING THROTTLE LOCK OPERATION [01:31]

Throttle lock helps reduce fatigue and keep you alert while in the operator’s seat. The technology’s engage/disengage button is located on your equipment’s keypad module control. Once it’s engaged: 

  1. Add throttle until you reach your desired engine RPM level.

  2. Next, reach down to the throttle lock button at the base of the right-side joystick to lock in your desired throttle setting. 

  3. Once engaged, you no longer have to continuously apply throttle to run the equipment. Throttle lock maintains your desired engine speed for you. 

  4. To disengage it, simply tap your brakes.

 

Read all about operating Cat Compaction Control your Cat 815 or 825K Large Soil Compactor.

LEVEL UP WITH OPERATOR TRAINING

Caterpillar operator training includes customized machine solutions for any job, any industry.

START LEARNING
LEVEL UP WITH OPERATOR TRAINING
LEVEL UP WITH OPERATOR TRAINING

Popular Articles About Large Soil Compactors

Get the most from your large soil compactor with operating tips, safety advice, maintenance help and much more.

   



View Articles




 

Once You Own, You're In

Gain unlimited access to must-know information about your machine. Find ideas you can put to work on the job right away, including business insights.



Go Now


Products
Industry Solutions
Services & Support
How Can We Help?
Company Info
News
Connect with Cat

public North America ‧ English edit

Caterpillar Brands