Forklifts and telehandlers specifications and technical data
Home / Forklifts / Caterpillar Forklifts / Cat DP20N

Cat DP20N Specifications

Basic Information

The Caterpillar DP20N is a 2.0-ton (2,000 kg / 4,400 lb) class diesel-powered pneumatic-tire forklift engineered for versatile material-handling tasks across warehouses, fabrication shops, small manufacturing plants, agricultural facilities, distribution centers, and light outdoor yards. Compact in size yet highly durable, the DP20N is designed to provide stable lifting performance, excellent maneuverability in confined aisles, low fuel consumption, and consistent day-to-day reliability under moderate industrial workloads.

This DP20N configuration is equipped with the Mitsubishi S4S-DPB 3.3-liter diesel engine—one of the most trusted industrial engines in the light-to-mid forklift segment. Known for its mechanical simplicity, strong torque delivery, smooth operation, and long-service life, the S4S-DPB complements the DP20N’s compact frame by providing robust low-RPM pulling power and dependable thermal stability under mixed indoor/outdoor usage. Combined with a reinforced welded chassis, ergonomic operator station, fully hydrostatic steering, and efficient hydraulic system, the DP20N delivers predictable load handling, reduced operator fatigue, and minimized service downtime.

Designed to operate economically in fleet environments, the DP20N emphasizes easy maintenance access, straightforward diagnostics, durable brake and drivetrain components, and a balanced chassis that maintains confidence when maneuvering with loads at low or full lift heights.

Engine Specs

The Caterpillar DP20N uses the Mitsubishi S4S-DPB engine, a proven mechanical-injection 3.3-liter diesel powerplant engineered for reliability in forklifts, generators, and construction equipment.

Basic Engine Specifications - 3.3L S4S-DPB:
- Engine type: 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, mechanically injected diesel
- Displacement: 3.3 liters (203 cubic inches)
- Bore x stroke: approx. 94 x 107 mm (3.70 x 4.21 in)
- Rated output: approx. 30-38 kW (40-50 hp) at 2,300-2,500 rpm
- Peak torque: approx. 150-175 Nm (111-129 lb-ft) at 1,600-1,800 rpm
- Induction: naturally aspirated
- Fuel system: mechanical inline or rotary pump
- Idle speed: approx. 750 ± 50 rpm
- Emissions category: typically Tier 3 or equivalent depending on region

This engine is designed for fuel economy, longevity, and stable torque under low-speed forklift duty cycles.

Lubrication System:
- Lubrication type: full-pressure wet-sump
- Pump type: gear-driven trochoid pump
- Oil capacity: approx. 6.5-7.5 L (6.9-7.9 qt)
- Normal oil pressure: approx. 300-400 kPa (44-58 psi)
- Recommended oil: SAE 15W-40 (API CF/CG/CH)
- Oil filter: spin-on full-flow filter
- Crankcase ventilation: closed-breather system

Cooling System:
- Cooling method: liquid-cooled, forced circulation
- Coolant capacity: approx. 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Thermostat opening temperature: approx. 82°C (180°F)
- Radiator: high-capacity fin-tube industrial radiator
- Cooling fan: mechanical, engine-driven
- Water pump: belt-driven centrifugal pump
- System pressure: approx. 90-110 kPa (13-16 psi)
- Coolant mixture: 50/50 ethylene glycol and demineralized water

The cooling system maintains stable thermal behavior under frequent stop-and-go cycles and outdoor temperature swings.

Drive Train

The DP20N utilizes a compact yet durable industrial powershift transmission.

Transmission:
- Type: 1-2 speed forward / 1-2 speed reverse powershift
- Travel speed (unladen): approx. 17-19 km/h (10-12 mph)
- Travel speed (laden): approx. 15-17 km/h (9-10 mph)
- Transmission fluid capacity: approx. 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Recommended fluid: Dexron III ATF or approved industrial ATF
- Cooling: integrated cooler using the engine radiator

Drive Axle:
- Type: solid front drive axle
- Differential: bevel-gear differential
- Axle oil capacity: approx. 3.5-5.0 L (3.7-5.3 qt)
- Lubricant: SAE 80W-90 gear oil

Steer Axle:
- Type: oscillating single-pivot rear axle
- Oscillation angle: approx. ±8-10 degrees
- Lubricant capacity: approx. 1.0-1.5 L (1.0-1.6 qt)

Braking System:
- Service brakes: hydraulic drum brakes (dual leading shoes)
- Brake actuation: hydraulic master cylinder
- Parking brake: mechanical hand-lever actuated drum brake

The braking system offers predictable stopping characteristics, long lining life, and minimal maintenance requirements.

Electrical System

- System voltage: 12 V
- Battery capacity: approx. 70-90 Ah
- Alternator: approx. 40-60 A
- Starter motor: approx. 2.0-2.5 kW
- Electrical harness: sealed connectors and abrasion-resistant conduit
- Dash indicators: oil pressure, coolant temp, glow plug indicator, charging light, brake warning, hour meter

The electrical system is built for reliability, resisting dust, moisture, and vibration common in industrial settings.

Wheels and Tires

Drive Configuration:
- Drive wheels: front
- Steering wheels: rear
- Drive type: 2-wheel drive pneumatic-tire forklift

Tire Specifications (Pneumatic):
- Front tires: approx. 6.50-10
- Rear tires: approx. 5.00-8
- Optional tires:
- solid pneumatic for high-debris operations
- non-marking for indoor warehouse floors

Chassis Construction:
- Fully welded steel frame for torsional rigidity
- Integrated counterweight for load stability
- Reinforced overhead guard
- Protected hydraulic and electrical routing
- Anti-slip operator step plates

The chassis design minimizes flex under load and supports stable truck behavior at height.

Steering:
- Steering type: fully hydrostatic power steering
- Steering pump flow: approx. 6-10 L/min (1.5-2.6 gpm)
- Steering cylinder: double-acting cylinder on steer axle
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.2 m (75-87 in)

Hydrostatic steering ensures low-effort directional control with excellent maneuverability in tight aisles.

Hydraulic System

- Hydraulic pump type: engine-driven gear pump
- Pump flow: approx. 35-55 L/min (9-14.5 gpm)
- Maximum hydraulic pressure: approx. 17-19 MPa (2,500-2,750 psi)
- Hydraulic reservoir: approx. 20-28 L (21-30 qt)
- Hydraulic fluid type: ISO VG 32 / VG 46
- Lift cylinders: dual double-acting cylinders
- Tilt cylinders: dual cylinders with cushioning for smooth operation

Optional hydraulic attachments:
- Side-shift
- Fork-positioner
- Rotator
- Drum clamp / Bale clamp
- Push-pull devices

The hydraulic system is optimized for smooth load control and precise placement at low and full lift heights.

Service Refill Capacities

- Engine oil: 6.5-7.5 L (6.9-7.9 qt)
- Cooling system: 7-9 L (7.4-9.5 qt)
- Transmission fluid: 6-8 L (6.3-8.4 qt)
- Drive axle: 3.5-5.0 L (3.7-5.3 qt)
- Steer axle: 1-1.5 L (1.0-1.6 qt)
- Hydraulic system: 20-28 L (21-30 qt).

Mast Data

Mast Types:
- Simplex (1-stage)
- Duplex (2-stage)
- Triplex (3-stage full free-lift)

Lift Heights:
- Simplex: approx. 2.5-3.5 m (98-138 in)
- Duplex: approx. 3.0-4.5 m (118-177 in)
- Triplex: approx. 4.5-6.0 m (177-236 in)

Free Lift: Approx. 80-1,000 mm (3-40 in) depending on mast configuration
Carriage Width: Approx. 900-1,000 mm (35-39 in)

Fork Specifications:
- Standard fork length: 1,070 mm (42 in) or 1,220 mm (48 in)
- Optional fork lengths: 914-1,829 mm (36-72 in)
- Fork width: approx. 100-125 mm (4-5 in)
- Fork thickness: approx. 35-45 mm (1.4-1.8 in)
- Fork class: ITA Class II.

Load Capacity

Rated capacity: 2,000 kg (4,400 lb) at 500-600 mm (20-24 in) load center

Capacity derating occurs with:
- increased mast height
- attachments installed
- longer forks
- off-center or wide loads
- operation on incline surfaces.

Performance Data

- Lift speed (unladen): approx. 0.45-0.55 m/s (90-110 ft/min)
- Lift speed (laden): approx. 0.30-0.40 m/s (60-80 ft/min)
- Lowering speed (unladen): approx. 110-140 ft/min
- Lowering speed (laden): approx. 130-160 ft/min
- Gradeability (unladen): approx. 20-25%
- Gradeability (laden): approx. 15-20%
- Drawbar pull: approx. 12,000-16,000 N (2,700-3,600 lbf).

Dimensions and Weight

- Overall length to fork face: approx. 2.3-2.5 m (91-98 in)
- Overall width: approx. 1.1-1.2 m (43-47 in)
- Overhead guard height: approx. 2.1-2.2 m (83-87 in)
- Wheelbase: approx. 1.5 m (59 in)
- Ground clearance (frame): approx. 100-120 mm (4-5 in)
- Turning radius: approx. 1.9-2.2 m (75-87 in)
- Aisle width (1000x1200 pallet): approx. 3.4-3.7 m (134-146 in)
- Maximum fork height: 2.5-6.0 m depending on mast
- Free lift: 80-1,000 mm
- Fork lengths: 36-72 in typical
- Operating weight: approx. 3,200-3,700 kg (7,050-8,160 lb)
- Counterweight mass: approx. 1,300-1,700 kg (2,866-3,748 lb).

Maintenance Data

250-Hour:
- Replace engine oil and filter
- Clean radiator fins
- Lubricate mast components and steer axle joints
- Inspect air filter

500-Hour:
- Replace transmission fluid and filter
- Inspect drive axle seals
- Check hydraulic suction screen

1,000-Hour:
- Replace hydraulic oil and filters
- Replace coolant
- Inspect hoses, cylinder seals, and driveline joints

2,000-Hour:
- Full hydraulic system inspection
- Mast structural alignment check
- Steering linkage inspection
- Engine mount and axle mount inspection.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Forklifts Specifications
Cat DP20N Cat DP45NT Cat GP25NT
Clark CGC25 Clark DPM25 Clark GCX25E
Hyster H50UT Hyster S30FT Hyster H3.0XT
Komatsu FD15H-15 Komatsu FD25C-17 Komatsu FG18HTU-20
Toyota 42-6FGU15 Toyota 62-7FDF25 Toyota 72-8FDJ35
Cat 2C3000 Cat 2C5000 Cat 2P3500
Clark C15D Clark C18CL Clark C20SD
Hyster H3.00XM Hyster H3.5FT Hyster H5.0UT
Toyota 02-7FDF25 Toyota 02-7FG40 Toyota 02-7FGF30
Cat 2P5000 Cat C3500 Cat C5000
Clark C25C Clark C25L Clark C30CL
Komatsu FG15C-15 Komatsu FG18ST-17 Komatsu FD25-11
Hyster H2.5XT Hyster H30FT Hyster H40FT
Toyota 42-7FD45 Toyota 42-7FDA50 Toyota 42-7FGF15
Cat P5000 Cat P5000D Cat P6000
Clark C40D Clark C55SL Clark GTS25D
Hyster H50CT Hyster H50XT Hyster H55XM
Toyota 62-7FDF30 Toyota 8FD40U Toyota 8FD70U
Cat DP80 Cat DP135 Cat P3000
Clark S20C Clark S25C Clark GTS30L
Hyster H60FT Hyster H155FT Hyster H170FT
Toyota 8FD80U Toyota 8FDU20 Toyota 8FG40U
Cat DP40K Cat DP50K Cat GC35K
Clark S30L Clark S32CL Clark S40SD
Hyster S40FTS Hyster S50CT Hyster S50FT
Toyota 8FG50U Toyota 8FG60U Toyota 8FGC70U
Cat GC40K Cat GP40KL Cat GP50K
Komatsu FD135-8 Komatsu FD15T-20 Komatsu FD20-7
Clark S45SL Clark S50D Clark S55L
Hyster S60FT Hyster S120FTS Hyster S135FT
Toyota 8FGCU18 Toyota 8FGU25 Toyota 8FGU30

Telehandlers Specifications
Bobcat T3571 Bobcat TL470 HF Bobcat TL923
Cat TH360B Cat TH407C Cat TH417C
JCB 508C JCB 512-56 JCB 520-40
JLG 1644 JLG 6036 SkyTrak JLG 943

Front-End Loader Specifications
Bush Hog 2446QT Bush Hog 3226QT Bush Hog M300
Case IH L360 Case IH L540 Case IH L735
Ford 7108 Ford 768A Ford 776B
John Deere 419 John Deere D170 John Deere H130
Kubota LA300 Kubota LA480 Kubota LA650A
Quicke 640 Quicke Q5M Quicke X4S