Caterpillar Compactor Model Name Guide: CS-79B to CS20 and Everything Between

Caterpillar has renamed its vibratory compactor lineup multiple times over the past three decades, and the most recent transition from letter-suffix designations (CS-79B, CP-76B) to streamlined numeric names (CS20, CP17) has created significant confusion in the parts ordering process. When a mechanic searches for mounting sandwiches for a "CS20," they may not realize it is the same machine previously called the "CS-79B," and that parts catalogs, service bulletins, and technical documentation may reference either name depending on the publication date.

This guide provides a complete mapping of Caterpillar vibratory compactor model names across all generations, explains the logic behind the naming system, and identifies which mounting sandwich part number fits each model regardless of what name it was sold under.

Understanding Cat's Naming Convention

Caterpillar's vibratory compactor naming system has evolved through three distinct eras:

Era 1: Three-Digit Numeric (1980s-2000s)

The earliest widespread Cat compactors used a three-digit numeric system where the first digit indicated the machine class/size and the last two digits provided a relative position within that class. Letter suffixes indicated generation updates. For example:

• CS-563C — "CS" for compactor smooth drum, "563" for the 563 platform, "C" for third generation
• CB-534B — "CB" for combination roller, "534" platform, "B" for second generation
• CS-433B — "CS" smooth drum, "433" platform, "B" generation

These machines use the 077-2792 mounting sandwich (also known as 40-125 and 1G6989 in aftermarket catalogs).

Era 2: Two-Digit with Letter Suffix (2000s-2020s)

Caterpillar simplified the naming system for the next generation by switching to a two-digit number roughly corresponding to the machine's operating weight in metric tons, preceded by the type prefix (CS, CP, or CB). The letter suffix continued to indicate generation updates:

• CS-56 — Smooth drum compactor, approximately 10,800 kg class (no letter suffix = first generation)
• CS-66B — Smooth drum, ~13,200 kg class, "B" generation
• CS-79B — Smooth drum, ~20,400 kg class, "B" generation
• CP-54B — Padfoot drum, ~11,200 kg class, "B" generation

The mid-range models in this era (CS-56 through CS-78B without the "B" suffix on the 74 and higher) generally use the 227-0172 mounting sandwich. The large B-series models (CS-74B through CS-79B, CP-74B, CP-76B) use the 358-0286.

Era 3: Simplified Numeric (2020s-Present)

In the most recent rebranding, Caterpillar dropped the letter suffix entirely and adopted a simpler numeric designation that approximately indicates the machine's operating weight in metric tons. The type prefix (CS, CP) is retained:

• CS16 — Smooth drum, ~16,200 kg (formerly CS-74B)
• CS20 — Smooth drum, ~20,400 kg (formerly CS-79B)
• CP17 — Padfoot drum, ~17,500 kg (formerly CP-76B)

Complete Model Name Mapping: Old to New

The following table provides the definitive mapping between legacy and current Cat compactor model names, including the correct mounting sandwich part number for each.

Mid-Size Compactor Models (227-0172 Applications)

The mid-size compactor range was not all simultaneously rebranded to the new numeric system. Some models in this class may have transitioned names while others retained their original designations. The 227-0172 mounting sandwich covers all of these machines regardless of naming era:

Legacy Compactor Models (077-2792 Applications)

The oldest generation of Cat compactors, many of which are still in active service worldwide, use the 077-2792 mounting sandwich. These machines pre-date the two-digit naming convention and use the original three-digit system:

Key Differences Between CS and CP Models

Throughout all naming eras, Caterpillar has used consistent type prefixes to identify the drum configuration:

• CS (Compactor Smooth) — Smooth steel drum for granular soil compaction and asphalt rolling. The drum has a continuous smooth surface that provides uniform pressure distribution.
• CP (Compactor Padfoot) — Padfoot or sheepsfoot drum for cohesive soil compaction. The drum surface features raised pads that penetrate into the soil layer, providing kneading action that is more effective on clay-rich materials.
• CB (Combination) — Tandem roller with two drums, typically used for asphalt paving applications. Both drums vibrate and the machine can operate in split-frequency mode for thin lifts.

Critically for parts ordering purposes, the CS and CP variants of the same size class use the same mounting sandwich. For example, both the CS-79B (CS20) and the CP-76B (CP17) use the 358-0286 mounting sandwich. The drum type (smooth vs padfoot) does not affect the mount specification.

How to Find Your Machine Model

If you are unsure of your machine's exact model designation, check these locations:

1. Serial number plate: Located on the left or right side of the machine frame, near the cab. The model designation and serial number are stamped or engraved on a metal plate.
2. Operator's manual: The model is printed on the cover and first pages of the manual.
3. Cat SIS (Service Information System): Enter the serial number to retrieve the complete model identification, parts lists, and service documentation.
4. Contact us: Send us a photo of your serial number plate and we will identify your model and the correct mounting sandwich part number. Use our contact form or WhatsApp.

Summary: Which Mounting Sandwich for Your Model?

Regardless of what name is on the side of your machine, the correct mounting sandwich depends on the physical platform it was built on. Use our Cross-Reference Chart for the definitive model-to-part mapping, or apply this simplified rule:

When in doubt, contact us with your machine serial number and we will confirm the correct part.