TC-12 Dozer: The Legendary 1964 Euclid

Euclid TC-12 Dozer

Companies take a big risk when they introduce something radically different than the norm. When the historical smoke clears, which might be decades down the road, they will be judged heroes or zeros. The legendary Euclid TC-12 dozer, introduced for 1955, was a big departure from the crawler norm. It was designed to knock Caterpillar off it’s dominant perch in the crawler industry but didn’t succeed at that. That doesn’t automatically place it in the zero category.

The story begins in 1952, when GM began hiring engineers with expertise in crawler design. That signaled the industry GM was getting in the game. One of the notable GM hires was R.C. Williams, who was Assistant Director of Research at Caterpillar. Williams had been there since 1935 and was well versed in crawler technology. GM didn’t have an official “crawler division” at the time, so he worked in the GM Truck and Coach Division building the foundations of a new division.

The project gained big momentum in 1953 when General Motors bought the Euclid Company, of Euclid, Ohio. As a company, Euclid went back to 1907 as Armington Electric Hoist Company, later renamed Euclid Crane and Hoist Company, founded by George A. Armington (1865-1954). In the 1920s, it had branched out into earthmoving equipment and Armington’s five sons helped run the growing and expanding company as it came to dominate parts of the construction equipment industry.

By the early ‘50s, Euclid was still successful but needing an influx of cash to stay dominant. It was also suffering from aging leadership looking to live a quieter life. GM, in its usual fashion, wanted into the business realm Euclid largely dominated and the best way was to buy an existing company in that realm. A deal was reached. George, in his late 80s by then, oversaw the sale, and his youngest son, Ray, stayed on to manage the Euclid Division of General Motors until his retirement in 1960. With the merger, R.C. Williams transferred from the Truck and Coach Division to become the manager of Crawler Tractor Engineering at Euclid.

An interesting side to the TC-12 development was that GM assigned a stylist to the project. Charles M. Jordan was at the beginning of his long and storied career with GM and is probably best known for being the Chief Designer for Cadillac in the 1960s and later GM’s overall Chief Designer in the 1980s.

The first two prototypes were operational in 1954 and underwent extensive tests. Later that year, ten more preproduction units were built and loaned to construction outfits around the country for further testing. By the middle of 1955, the first retail units were going out to customers and the marketing people went into overdrive highlighting the TC-12’s many unique features. And they had plenty to tout, including “Dual Power.” TC-12 was powered by no less than two GM 6-71 diesels, each powering one track through an Allison Torqmatic transmission. The powertrains were completely separate, and the tractor was divided into halves that oscillated longitudinally and independently of each other. This differed from more conventional crawlers where the track frames are allowed to oscillate independently.

Even though the pair of 6-71s were conservatively rated at 194 hp each (at 1800 rpm), having 338 total horsepower on tap made the first series TC-12 the most powerful crawler in the world. Even the mighty D9 Cat, recently introduced, had only 287 ponies. With the separate Allison gearboxes, the TC-12 operator could keep one track going ahead and put one in reverse for unparalleled maneuverability and control. The gearboxes had three ranges, the highest of which could run the TC-12 to a blistering top speed of 6 mph (later up to over 7 mph) and at the same speed forwards or back.

In it’s day, the TC-12 was reported to be unequaled in its ability to rip and push dirt. It was also claimed to be well suited to pushloading scrapers. Over the years, some operators have opined they didn’t live up to the performance hype. Not being experts on earthmoving, it’s difficult for us to comment but from research, we can say there is no gray area when it comes to opinions on the TC-12. Operators either loved it or hated it. The same went for maintenance people. The TC-12 was a complex unit, so proper maintenance was an important factor. Any complex piece of equipment will get mixed reviews on reliability, but most agree that a properly serviced TC-12 was reliable and durable, even if “properly serviced” meant “PITA” to those doing the service.

The TC-12 was a challenge to transport, particularly back in the day. The TC-12 was gigantic but it was bigger than the other crawlers on the market…  wider, and heavier (30-35 tons without blade) and therefore a challenge to transport. Euclid solved that by making the TC-12 relatively easy to split into it’s two sections for transport. As larger equipment became more the norm, the TC-12 blended in more.

The first big upgrade came in 1958, with the TC-12-2. Among many other refinements, the 6-71s were unleashed to 227 maximum horsepower at 2100 rpm, delivering over 454 ponies together and 1,212 lbs-ft. By then, the market had begun responding to the TC-12 and bigger and more powerful crawlers entered the market to challenge the Euclid. For 1966, the TC-12 had other upgrades and its designation was changed to 82-80. By then, Euclid had other crawlers in the market. In 1968, GM was hit by an anti-trust suit and eventually had to split up the very successful Euclid Division. The truck division remained under that name and the crawlers and earthmovers moved under the new Terex brand name, “Ter” for Terra and “rex “ for King. Though no longer owned by GM, Terex remains in business, but Euclid does not.

The TC-12/82-80 remained in production until 1974 with a total of 901 units built of both types, about half and half divided between TC-12 and 82-80. By ‘74, simpler, single-engine dozers of equivalent or superior horsepower were on the market and the disadvantages of the complex and aging TC-12/82-80 design made it difficult to market.

Today, running TC-12/82-80 are few and far between. As with most big construction equipment, they are generally found in worn out condition and parts are difficult to obtain. Transportation costs for a collector often exceed to purchase price, so most TC-12s are found in the hands of construction company owners with the means to transport them.

Specifications

1964 Euclid TC-12 
Engine: GM 6-71 (x2)
Displacement: 425 ci (each)
Bore & Stroke: 4.26 x 5 in.
Flywheel Power: 454 hp @ 2100 rpm (both)
Rated Torque: 1,212 lbs-ft @ 1400 (both)
Compression Ratio: 17:1
Transmission: Allison CRT-5531-1 (two)
Weight: 69,500 lbs. (operating)
LxWxH: 16 ft. 3 in. x 11 ft. 5 in. x 8 ft .8 in.
Fuel Capacity: 225 gal.
Tracks: 43 shoes, 27 in. width
Top Speed: 6.80 mph

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where can one find more information about the history and specifications of Euclid trucks?

Discovering the History and Specifications of Euclid Trucks

For enthusiasts and researchers looking to dive deep into the history and technical specifications of Euclid trucks, there are several resources you can explore:

1. Books:
   • One highly recommended book is “Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines” by Eric C. Orlemann. This publication offers an extensive overview of both Euclid and Terex’s historical journey, including significant milestones and developments.
2. Online Encyclopedias:
   • The Wikipedia page on [Euclid Trucks](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euclid_Trucks) provides a detailed, chronological account of the company’s evolution. This entry covers everything from Euclid’s inception by founders George Armington and his sons, through various ownership transitions, to its eventual rebranding by Hitachi.
3. Expanded Wiki Entries:
   • Substantial additions have been made to the Wikipedia entry, presenting an accessible outline of Euclid’s corporate achievements and multiple changes in ownership. These expansions offer a more comprehensive view of Euclid’s impact and legacy in the earthmoving and construction equipment industry.
4. Manufacturer Websites and Archives:
   • Many manufacturers that have acquired Euclid over the years, such as General Motors and Hitachi, maintain archives or historical sections on their websites. These sources often include technical specifications and historical data specific to the time periods they managed Euclid.
5. Specialized Books and Articles:
   • In addition to Orlemann’s book, searching for industry-specific publications or articles in historical archives can yield more in-depth technical details and expert analyses on Euclid trucks.

By leveraging these resources, one can accumulate a rich and detailed understanding of Euclid trucks, from their historical significance to their technical evolution over the decades.

How did the Euclid TC-12 compare to other machinery like the Cat 657 scrapers?

Comparison of the Euclid TC-12 to the Cat 657 Scrapers

From firsthand experience and discussions with veteran operators, it’s clear that the Euclid TC-12 had distinct differences when compared to the Cat 657 scrapers, particularly in terms of performance and reliability.

Speed and Efficiency

The Euclid TC-12 was often noted for being slower than the Cat D9 tractors, which many companies were already using. This slower pace could affect overall project timelines, making the TC-12 less appealing for tasks where speed was crucial.

Durability and Maintenance

Despite its slower speed, the Euclid TC-12 excelled in ease of maintenance. Operators could quickly perform repairs with basic tools. For instance, it was not uncommon to get a TC-12 back on the road within 15 minutes by using just wire and a soldering gun. This quick-fix capability made the TC-12 a reliable choice in situations where downtime needed to be minimized.

Popularity and Use Cases

In regions like eastern Pennsylvania, the TC-12 didn’t gain much popularity. In contrast, the Cat equipment, specifically the 657 scrapers, were favored for their speed and robust performance. However, the scrapers, like the Euclid TS-24, were considered superior to the Caterpillar models in some aspects, especially in heavy pushing and long-haul tasks.

Fleet Composition

Many companies operated a mix of machinery, often preferring Euclid’s scrapers due to their versatility and ease of repair. A typical fleet might have included 20-25 Euclid TS-24 scrapers alongside some Cat 657 and Cat 631 scrapers. Over time, the fleet composition leaned towards keeping the most efficient machines, resulting in the phasing out of some older models.

Summary

• Speed: TC-12 slower than Cat D9s and Cat 657 scrapers.
• Maintenance: TC-12 easy to repair with basic tools, minimizing downtime.
• Popularity: Less popular in some regions compared to Cat machinery.
• Fleet Use: Mixed fleets with a preference for easy-to-maintain and versatile scrapers.

Ultimately, while the Euclid TC-12 had its advantages in maintenance and ease of repair, it often fell short compared to the speed and overall performance of the Cat 657 scrapers.

Where can one find a detailed history of Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines?

If you’re looking to dive deep into the history of Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines, the best starting point would be the book “Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines” by Eric C. Orlemann. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the two companies’ histories, detailing their innovations, growth, and eventual changes in ownership. Although it might not cover every single detail, it provides a solid foundation for understanding the evolution of these iconic brands.

For additional information, the Wikipedia entry on Euclid Trucks has been significantly expanded and offers a concise yet informative summary of Euclid’s corporate journey. This entry traces the company’s pathway from its origins with the Armington family through to its acquisition by numerous entities like GM, White Motor Corp, Daimler Benz, Clark Equipment Co, Volvo Michigan Euclid, and finally Hitachi. This resource also highlights the eventual phasing out of the Euclid name by Hitachi in 2004.

Here’s a quick list of resources:

• “Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines” by Eric C. Orlemann
• [Wikipedia entry on Euclid Trucks](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Euclid_Trucks)

Both of these sources together provide a thorough narrative of the milestones and transitions that marked the history of Euclid and Terex in the earthmoving and construction equipment industry.

What changes did Euclid undergo in terms of ownership over the years?

Ownership Changes of Euclid Trucks Over the Years

Euclid Trucks has experienced a series of ownership changes throughout its history, reflecting its dynamic journey in the heavy equipment industry.

Initially founded by George Armington and his five sons, Euclid quickly established a strong corporate foundation. The company’s success caught the attention of General Motors (GM), which acquired it as part of their expansion strategy.

Years later, the brand transitioned to White Motor Corporation, signaling another significant shift. Following that, the name passed to Daimler-Benz, a move that aimed to enhance their presence in the construction and mining sectors.

Ownership then shifted to Clark Equipment Company, and subsequently, to Volvo Michigan Euclid. Each transition marked a phase of adaptation and strategic realignment for the brand.

Eventually, Hitachi acquired Euclid, utilizing the well-established name to make a robust entry into the dump truck market. By the end of 2004, however, Hitachi phased out the Euclid brand, thus concluding its long-standing presence in the earthmoving, construction, and mining equipment industry.

These multiple transitions highlight Euclid’s resilience and adaptability in an ever-evolving market.

Why did Hitachi phase out the Euclid name by the end of 2004?

Hitachi decided to phase out the Euclid name by late 2004 to strategically position itself in the dump truck market. Initially, the Euclid brand helped Hitachi gain traction in this competitive industry. However, once the company established a solid presence, it no longer needed the legacy name.

By retiring the Euclid brand, Hitachi aimed to unify its product lines under a single, cohesive identity. This rebranding effort allowed for streamlined marketing and clearer brand recognition. Additionally, consolidating under one name helped eliminate any market confusion, reinforcing Hitachi’s reputation as a leading manufacturer in earthmoving, construction, and mining equipment.

What happened to the Euclid brand eventually?

By then, Euclid had other crawlers in the market. In 1968, GM was hit by an anti-trust suit and eventually had to split up the very successful Euclid Division. The truck division remained under that name and the crawlers and earthmovers moved under the new Terex brand name, “Ter” for Terra and “rex” for King. Though no longer owned by GM, Terex remains in business, but Euclid does not.

The journey of Euclid didn’t end there. After the split, the Euclid brand saw multiple ownership changes:

1. White Motor Corp: Euclid was acquired by White Motor Corp, marking the first of many transitions.
2. Daimler Benz: The brand was subsequently sold to Daimler Benz, continuing its legacy in the heavy machinery sector.
3. Clark Equipment Co: Ownership then passed to Clark Equipment Co, further diversifying the brand’s capabilities.
4. Volvo Michigan Euclid: Eventually, it became part of Volvo Michigan Euclid, broadening its reach.

Finally, Hitachi acquired the Euclid brand. Hitachi utilized the Euclid name as a springboard to enter the dump truck market. However, by the end of 2004, Hitachi phased out the Euclid name, ensuring the disappearance of one of the longest-lived names in the earthmoving, construction, and mining equipment field.

Where can one find a more detailed history of Euclid?

For a more detailed history of Euclid, one can refer to the book “Euclid and Terex Earthmoving Machines” by Eric C. Orlemann.

Who were the original founders of Euclid?

The original founders of Euclid were George Armington and his five sons.

Where can I find a video of a restored Euclid TC-12 in action?

Where to Find a Restored Euclid TC-12 in Action

If you’re looking to see a restored Euclid TC-12 bulldozer in action, check out footage from the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion in Rollag, MN. In 2017, this vintage machinery event captured a surviving Euclid TC-12operating live. This reunion is renowned for showcasing historical equipment in motion. A video clip from this event can provide an exciting glimpse into this classic bulldozer’s capabilities.