FM538 GF/FM538 LL

Latest Features

Machine Setup Simplification

    
• At the touch of fingertips and navigating user-friendly icons, the latest operator oriented User Interface (UI) maximizes uptime and gets crews to work without delay. From re-ordering work tool lists to creating new work tool combinations as needed, operators can quickly set up machines and easily access information.

Foot Pedal Swing Control Kit

    
• The FM538 offers powerful, reliable performance optimized for challenging forestry tasks, and now, operators can enhance productivity and ease of operation with the optional Foot Pedal Swing Control Kit. This attachment integrates seamlessly with Caterpillar’s customizable joystick pattern software, enabling operators to personalize controls based on their preferences or job requirements. With the kit’s two auxiliary pedals, operators can control the upper rotation of the machine using their feet, providing knuckleboom loader style of operation. The Foot Pedal Swing Control Kit is ideal for those looking to maximize control and efficiency in demanding forestry environments. 

Not all features are available in all regions. Please check with your local Cat® dealer for specific offering availability in your area. Build Number: 07H

Take the Guesswork Out of Managing Your Equipment

    
• The latest operator oriented User Interface (UI) has been designed to maximize uptime by allowing operators to easily reorder work tool lists and quickly create new work tool combinations. It also eliminates the need to measure up again when changing Cat® work tool attachments and makes it manageable for a single person to check and adjust for bucket wear. 

    

• VisionLink™ provides actionable data insights for all assets
   - regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer.* Review equipment data from your desktop or mobile device to maximize uptime and optimize assets. Equipment management features provide up-to-date asset tracking of your entire fleet. You can track asset location, operating hours, fuel level, health issues, and overall utilization. Monitor equipment health with fault codes, fluid analysis, and inspection due dates. It’s all about making informed, data-based decisions to help reduce operating costs. 

    

• Cat® Inspect is a mobile application that allows you to easily perform digital preventative maintenance (PM) checks, inspections, and daily walkarounds. Inspections can easily be integrated with other Cat data systems like VisionLink so you can keep a close eye on your fleet.

    

• Remote Troubleshoot is a mobile application that allows your Cat dealer to perform diagnostic testing on your connected machine remotely to help resolve issues quickly and with less downtime.

    

• Remote Flash is a mobile application that allows you to update onboard software without a technician being present, allowing you to initiate software updates when convenient, increasing your overall operating efficiency.

    

• The Cat PL161 attachment locator allows you to track attachments across all worksites, reduce the number of lost attachments, and plan for attachment maintenance and replacement. The work tool recognition** feature automatically adjusts machine settings based on the selected tool.

* Data field availability can vary by equipment manufacturer.
** Recognition feature available on select excavator models. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

High Performance

    
• The Cat® C7.1 engine is fuel efficient and can run on biodiesel and other renewable fuels.

    

• Smart mode helps reduce fuel consumption by automatically matching engine and hydraulic power to working conditions.

    

• Pick and place logs with precision and power with the electrohydraulic control system.

    

• Heavy lift mode with more swing torque helps you confidently move big logs.

    

• Get to work faster with up to a 12% increase in travel speed*.

    

• Auxiliary hydraulic options let you use Cat grapples and various other attachments.

    

• Work in extreme environments with a standard high-ambient capability of 52° C (126° F) and cold start capability of -32° C (-25° F).

*All percentages are compared to the 2020 model year 538.

Work in Comfort

    
• Operators can choose the rear or side entry cab more space and a tilt-up console.

    

• The dual HVAC system keeps operators comfortable in cold and warm weather.

    

• A wider heated and cooled air-suspension seat makes year-round work more pleasant.

    

• All controls are within easy reach to reduce twisting and turning and keep you focused on the work area.

    

• Cab risers — 165 mm (6.5”) fixed or 1219 mm (48”) hydraulic tilt — are available to meet your work needs.

    

• Stow your gear with in-cab storage beneath, behind the seat, and in the consoles.

    

• Use the standard radio’s USB ports and Bluetooth® technology to connect personal devices and make hands-free calls.

Simple to Operate

    
• Cat® continues to improve user interface functionality for operators of all skill levels. The touchscreen monitor is an easy-to-use operating tool that presents the jobsite dashboard with an intuitive format. 

    

• The Cat PL161 attachment locator is a Bluetooth device designed to let users know where their attachments are across all worksites, reduce the number of lost attachments, and plan for attachment maintenance and replacement. The PL161 integrates easily into VisionLink™ for full fleet management of machines and attachments from one smartphone or tablet dashboard to view location and tracking details.

    

• The keyless push-button engine start adds security by using operator ID codes to limit and track machine access. Codes can be entered manually or via an optional Bluetooth key fob.

    

• Navigate quickly on the standard high-resolution 254 mm (10 in) touchscreen monitor.

    

• Make moving the excavator much easier with the optional Cat® Stick Steer. Push a button and use one hand to travel and turn instead of both hands or feet on levers or pedals.

    

• Not sure how a function works or how to maintain the machine? Always have the operator’s manual at your fingertips in the touchscreen monitor.

    

• Optional auxiliary relay powers on and turns off CB radios and other attachments without you taking your hands off the joysticks.

Versatile Configurations

    
• General Forestry

    
1. The General Forestry model is ideal for road work, grappling, processing, and delimbing.

    

2. With a reach boom and quick coupler, you can equip the FM538 with a processor, bucket, thumb, mulcher, and other attachments to get work done quickly and efficiently.

    

3. A frontless option allows you to customize the machine to fit your applications.

    
• Log Loader

    
1. The log loader configuration is ideal for truck loading, Butt-n-Top loading, power clam applications, and millyard work.

    

2. An under-mounted heel cylinder provides maximum force for shovel logging with a Cat grapple. A variable displacement pump delivers high-flow rotating capability for heel and log grapples and Power Clam and Butt-n-Top grapples.

    

3. An overmounted heel cylinder provides maximum clearance to load trucks and increases lift height for millyard applications.

    
• Rugged, reliable, simple-to-service Cat forestry grapples range in size from 1322 mm (52″) to 1524 mm (60″).

    

• Special Tri Link shoes are available for lower ground pressure and extra flotation in soft, wet, underfoot conditions.

Easy Maintenance

    
• Boost productivity with proactive service reminders. The Integrated Vehicle Health Management system alerts the operator with step-by-step service guidance and the parts needed so you don’t experience unnecessary downtime.

    

• Expect to spend less on maintenance costs compared to the previous model. 

    

• The engine’s regeneration system functions automatically with no operator input or interruption to work.

    

• Using Cat® genuine oil and filters and doing typical S∙O∙S^SM monitoring will double the current service interval to 1,000 hours, giving you greater uptime to do more work.

    

• S·O·S ports simplify maintenance and allow for quick, easy extraction of fluid samples for analysis.

    

• The diesel particulate filter requires no maintenance.

    

• Replace fuel filters at 1,000 hours
   - twice the interval from the previous filters.

    

• The latest hydraulic oil filter provides improved filtration performance, anti-drain valves to keep oil clean when the filter is replaced, and longer life with a 3000-hour replacement interval.

    

• The high-efficiency cooling fan runs only when needed; program intervals so the fan automatically reverses to keep cores clean without interrupting your work.

Safely Home Every Day

    
• The cab meets applicable industry standards for Rollover Protective Structure (ROPS)/Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS)/Operator Protective Guards (OPG) and protects the operator inside the cab.

    

• Access most routine maintenance points at ground level.

    

• The right-hand service platform design provides easy, safe, and quick access to the upper service platform; the service platform steps use an anti-skid punch plate to prevent slipping. Handrails are provided for easy access.

    

• Larger 32 mm (1 1/4”) polycarbonate front window, smaller cab pillars, and a flat engine hood improve visibility.

    

• Standard rearview camera enhances jobsite visibility; right-hand-sideview camera is optional.

    

• The monitor’s slope and grade indicator tell you the machine’s position to help optimize its performance.

    

• A signaling/warning horn and travel alarm enhance jobsite safety.

    

• Make service work easier and safer with optional inspection lighting. With the flip of a switch, lights will illuminate the engine, pump, battery, and radiator compartments to enhance visibility.

Attachments

Tackle your jobs with a complete Cat® solution. Cat attachments are not just accessories
 - they are essential tools that define what your machine can do. When you pair a Cat excavator with Cat attachments, you unlock a fully integrated system built for performance, durability, and efficiency. Whether you are clearing land, breaking concrete, or compacting soil, the right attachment transforms your excavator into a powerful, multi-purpose tool ready for any challenge. Depending on your project or application, you could benefit from excavator attachments such as:  

    
• Buckets: Handle everything from digging and grading to cleanup and debris removal with your excavator. Caterpillar® offers general duty, heavy duty, extreme duty, and severe duty buckets, as well as specialized designs for ditch cleaning, rock, and finishing work. Reinforced edges and wear-resistant materials ensure long-lasting performance in tough conditions.

    

• Pin Grabber: Offer fast, secure attachment changes and are compatible with a wide range of tools. Ideal for operators who need flexibility on the job site, they allow switching between buckets, hammers, and grapples. Features a redundant locking system to keep your attachments in place and protect them from damage.  

    

• CW Quick Couplers: Rugged, wedge-style quick couplers built to increase the utilization of your excavator. Designed to fit your machine and application needs, Caterpillar® offers a series of CW couplers in mechanical and hydraulic versions. Ideal for contractors who prioritize a strong, simple locking system for frequent attachment changes.

    

• S-Type Couplers: A pin grabber-style dedicated coupler, S-Type Couplers feature a narrow, lightweight design for improved performance. They offer precision, flexibility, and are ideal for fleets needing consistent attachment interchangeability.

    

• Hydraulic Connecting S-Type (HCS) Couplers: HCS Couplers offer automatic hydraulic connection with the compact, low-profile design of the S-Type. With advanced functionality such as full hydraulic and electronic connection, hydromechanical attachments are connected and ready to operate in seconds. 

    

• Performance Hammers: Built for high-demand applications, performance hammers deliver maximum impact energy and fast cycle times for breaking concrete, rock, and asphalt. Ideal for heavy-duty demolition, quarrying, and production environments where speed and power are critical. 

    

• GC S Hammers: Simplified, silenced models designed for noise-sensitive environments. They maintain solid performance while reducing sound levels, making them ideal for urban job sites, residential areas, and regulated zones. Ideal for site prep, light demolition, foundry and quarry applications.

    

• Mulchers: Ideal for forestry and agriculture applications. Mulchers clear land and manage vegetation by shredding brush, trees, and undergrowth into fine mulch. Their high-speed rotors deliver fast, consistent results, with interchangeable teeth to suit different materials and desired final mulch size.

Cat® attachments are engineered to maximize your excavator’s productivity, helping you get more work done with greater efficiency and confidence. Choosing the right attachment is not just about compatibility, it is about unlocking your machine’s full potential while avoiding equipment damage or safety risks. Connect with your Cat Dealer to find the optimal attachments for your specific machine and application needs.
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Not all attachments are available in all regions. Contact your Cat Dealer for details.
 

Sustainability

    
• The Cat® 7.1 engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards.

    

• Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) and are compatible* with ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)*** or 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels. Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details.

    

• Auto Engine Speed Control reduces unnecessary fuel burn and greenhouse gas emissions by allowing the engine to automatically go into idle mode when the machine is not working.

    

• Extended maintenance intervals reduce downtime and decrease the amount of fluid and filters that are replaced over the machine’s life.

    

• Cat® VisionLink displays the CO2 emissions for monitored assets, calculated by fuel type for the Runtime Fuel Burned each day in a selected date range.

    

• Remote Flash minimizes downtime and maintenance time while keeping your asset running at maximum efficiency. Alerts for machine updates are sent virtually from your Cat® dealer, and updates can be deployed without a dealer technician needing to be onsite.

*While Caterpillar engines are compatible with these alternative fuels, some regions may not allow their use. 
**Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. 
***Engines with no aftertreatment devices are compatible with higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel (for use of  blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer).