Cat PL87 Pipelayer: Specifications, Uses, Benefits & Buying Guide

The Cat PL87 pipelayer is a specialized piece of heavy equipment built to lift, position, and lower large pipe sections during pipeline construction. Designed for demanding jobsites, it combines a tracked undercarriage, hydraulic winches, a boom, and an extendible counterweight system to support controlled pipe handling.

For pipeline contractors working on oil and gas infrastructure, water mains, and other utility projects, choosing the right pipelayer can affect productivity, operating costs, and jobsite safety. The Cat PL87 is worth considering when projects require substantial lifting capability, precise load control, and reliable performance across challenging terrain.

In this guide, we cover the Cat PL87's specifications, major features, common applications, operating considerations, and what to inspect before buying a used pipelayer.

What Is a Cat PL87 Pipelayer?

The Cat PL87 is a purpose-built pipeline construction machine manufactured by Caterpillar. Unlike a standard bulldozer or excavator, a pipelayer is specifically configured to handle suspended pipe loads using a boom, winches, and counterweights.

The PL87 uses a tracked platform to travel across suitable jobsites while providing a stable working base for pipe installation. Its differential steering system supports maneuverability, while hydraulic controls allow the operator to manage the boom, load line, and counterweight.

According to Caterpillar's published specifications, the PL87 has a rated engine output of 319 hp in its Tier 4 Final configuration and a listed lifting capacity of 216,000 lb at the tipping point. These figures describe specific manufacturer ratings, not a guarantee that the machine can safely lift that amount in every working position.

For contractors, the important question is whether the machine's actual load chart, configuration, and condition meet the requirements of the project.

Cat PL87 Pipelayer Specifications

The following specifications provide a starting point for evaluating the PL87. Confirm the exact machine configuration and applicable operator documentation before purchasing or operating one.

Specifications are configuration-dependent. Source: Caterpillar's PL87 product specifications and technical literature.

Key Features of the Cat PL87

1. High Lifting Capability

The PL87 is designed for substantial pipe-handling demands. Its published 216,000-lb lifting capacity at the tipping point makes it a machine worth evaluating for large-scale pipeline work.

However, maximum capacity is not the same as allowable capacity at every boom angle or load position. Operators must follow the applicable load chart and account for pipe weight, rigging, lifting geometry, ground conditions, and machine configuration.

2. Hydraulic Winches and Controlled Pipe Placement

The PL87 uses hydraulic winches to control the load line and boom. This arrangement supports coordinated lifting and positioning during pipe installation.

Precise control matters when crews need to align pipe sections, coordinate with other lifting equipment, and lower pipe into a prepared trench. Winch condition, wire rope integrity, braking performance, and control response should all be evaluated during inspection.

3. Differential Steering and Tracked Stability

The PL87's differential steering system is designed to improve maneuverability while maintaining power to both tracks. Caterpillar also highlights its machine balance and undercarriage design as features that support slope capability.

These characteristics can be useful on pipeline rights-of-way where terrain and available working space vary. Nevertheless, slope capability is not permission to lift on any incline. Ground bearing conditions, machine orientation, load position, and the manufacturer's operating limits remain critical.

4. Extendible Counterweights

Counterweights help balance the machine while handling suspended loads. The PL87 uses an extendible counterweight system that can be adjusted as part of the machine's lifting configuration.

Inspect the counterweight mechanism, hydraulic controls, locking components, and any signs of damage or unauthorized modification. Counterweights must be configured according to the manufacturer's instructions and applicable load chart.

5. Operator Visibility and Serviceability

Caterpillar lists features such as a load moment indicator, rearview camera, operator-presence detection, and service-access provisions among the PL87's equipment and design features. Availability can vary by configuration and optional equipment.

Accessible service points and modular major components can also help maintenance teams manage routine service and repairs. When assessing a used machine, verify which features are actually installed and operational.

What Is the Cat PL87 Used For?

The PL87 is primarily designed for pipeline construction and related heavy civil work.

Oil and Gas Pipeline Installation

Pipeline contractors can use pipelayers to support the controlled placement of pipe sections along a prepared pipeline route. The machine's suitability depends on pipe weight, diameter, lifting geometry, terrain, and the project's installation method.

Water and Sewer Infrastructure

Large water transmission lines and other utility projects may require heavy equipment to position pipe sections accurately. A pipelayer can support coordinated installation when the pipe-handling requirements exceed what lighter equipment can manage efficiently.

Industrial and Energy Infrastructure

Industrial facilities and energy projects often involve extensive pipe networks. Where the project calls for lifting and positioning heavy pipe sections, a purpose-built pipelayer may be appropriate.

Pipeline Work on Challenging Terrain

Tracked pipelayers are often selected for work along pipeline corridors where ground conditions and access vary. The PL87's steering and balance features can be helpful, but every lift must be assessed against actual site conditions and manufacturer limits.

Benefits of Using a Cat PL87 Pipelayer

Improved pipe-handling productivity: A machine designed specifically for pipelaying can support coordinated lifting and placement operations.

Precise positioning: Hydraulic winches and dedicated controls help operators manage suspended pipe loads during installation.

Jobsite maneuverability: Differential steering supports controlled movement in suitable working areas.

Purpose-built design: The PL87 combines lifting equipment, counterweights, and a tracked platform for pipeline applications rather than requiring a general-purpose machine to perform a specialized role.

Maintenance planning: Service-access features and equipment monitoring, where fitted, can help maintenance teams identify issues and plan work.

These benefits depend on correct machine selection, competent operators, proper maintenance, and a lifting plan suited to the job.

Cat PL87 vs. Other Pipelayers: What Should You Compare?

The PL87 is not automatically the best choice for every pipeline project. Compare it with other pipelayers based on the work required, not just the model name or maximum lifting figure.

When evaluating alternatives, focus on:

1. Lifting capacity: Compare the applicable load charts at your required working radius and boom configuration.

2. Engine performance: Consider power requirements, fuel consumption, emissions configuration, and local regulations.

3. Machine weight and transport: Check shipping weight, transport width, disassembly requirements, and mobilization costs.

4. Terrain requirements: Evaluate ground pressure, track condition, site access, and permitted working slopes.

5. Maintenance support: Investigate parts availability, service history, repair costs, and dealer or independent service support.

A machine with a higher published capacity may not be the most economical choice if it is difficult to transport or oversized for the project's requirements.

Buying a Used Cat PL87 Pipelayer: Inspection Checklist

Purchasing a used pipelayer can help contractors manage capital spending, but its condition is especially important because lifting equipment operates under demanding loads.

Inspect the Engine and Powertrain

Review engine service records, fluid condition, cooling system performance, exhaust systems, and diagnostic information. Check the transmission, final drives, and steering system for abnormal noise, leaks, or performance issues.

Confirm the emissions configuration and inspect any required aftertreatment equipment.

Examine the Boom, Winches, and Wire Ropes

Look for cracks, deformation, corrosion, damaged welds, and signs of previous repairs. Inspect the wire ropes for broken wires, kinks, crushing, corrosion, and other defects requiring evaluation under applicable standards.

Have qualified personnel assess the winches, brakes, hook, sheaves, and load-control systems. Do not rely on photographs alone to determine lifting-equipment safety.

Check the Undercarriage

Track chains, rollers, idlers, sprockets, and track shoes can represent significant maintenance expenses. Measure wear where possible and obtain an undercarriage assessment before finalizing the purchase.

Test the Hydraulics and Counterweight System

Check for leaks, inconsistent movements, abnormal temperatures, and slow or erratic responses. Verify that the boom, load line, and counterweight systems operate as intended.

Review Hours, Records, and Inspections

Compare recorded operating hours with available maintenance documentation. Ask about major repairs, previous applications, component replacements, and any periods of extended storage.

Arrange a professional inspection and request a written report before committing to the purchase.

Cat PL87 Price and Ownership Costs

There is no single price that applies to every Cat PL87. Purchase costs vary according to machine age, operating hours, configuration, condition, location, and market availability.

The total cost of ownership can also include transportation, inspections, repairs, replacement parts, fuel, maintenance, operator training, and downtime.

Rather than relying on an outdated price estimate, compare current listings for similar pipelayers and account for the cost of bringing each machine into service. A lower asking price may not represent better value if major repairs or transport expenses are required.

Find Used Pipelayers with Boom & Bucket

Choosing the right pipelayer starts with understanding your lifting requirements, site conditions, and equipment budget. A well-maintained used machine may offer a practical way to expand capacity without taking on the full cost of a new purchase.

Boom & Bucket helps contractors explore used heavy equipment and compare available options for their operations.

Ready to find equipment for your next pipeline project?

1. Explore available inventory: Visit Boom & Bucket to browse equipment listings and find available pipelayers.

2. Compare machines: Review specifications, operating hours, condition, and configuration against your project requirements.

3. Plan your investment: Evaluate inspection needs, transportation, maintenance, and financing options before purchasing.

Find a machine that matches your work, supports your crew, and makes sense for your equipment budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cat PL87

How much can a Cat PL87 pipelayer lift?

Caterpillar publishes a lifting capacity of 216,000 lb at the tipping point for the PL87. Actual allowable loads depend on the applicable load chart, boom configuration, load position, ground conditions, and other operating factors.

What engine does the Cat PL87 use?

The PL87 uses a Cat C15 diesel engine. Caterpillar lists 319 hp net power for the Tier 4 Final configuration, while other emissions configurations may have different published ratings.

What is the Cat PL87 used for?

The PL87 is designed primarily for pipeline construction, including lifting, positioning, and lowering pipe sections during oil and gas, water, sewer, and related infrastructure projects.

How much does a used Cat PL87 cost?

Used PL87 prices depend on age, hours, condition, equipment configuration, location, and market demand. Request current pricing and compare the complete cost of ownership before buying.

What should I inspect before buying a used PL87?

Inspect the engine, powertrain, undercarriage, boom, winches, wire ropes, hook, hydraulics, counterweight mechanism, safety systems, and maintenance records. A qualified inspection is recommended before purchase.

Is the Cat PL87 suitable for sloped terrain?

The PL87 is designed with features that support slope capability, including differential steering and machine-balance considerations. Safe operation still depends on actual ground conditions, load configuration, and the manufacturer's specified limits.