Caterpillar VRG-20/2

The Caterpillar VRG-20/2 is a Verachtert-built hydraulic demolition and sorting grapple, an excavator-mounted work tool rather than a self-propelled machine. It carries no engine, ECM, or transmission of its own; jaw closing and continuous rotation draw entirely off the host excavator's auxiliary hydraulic circuit, running at up to 350 bar. Operating weight falls in roughly the 1,035 to 1,045 kg (2,282 to 2,304 lb) range depending on shell type, with a maximum jaw opening near 1,800 mm (70.9 in) and closing force in the 36 to 37 kN class. It is generally matched to excavators in the 10 to 16 tonne class, though documentation for sorting versus demolition duty on this size grade spans a wider range depending on configuration and hydraulic kit fitted. The /2 designation marks a generation update from the earlier VRG-20, dating to the early-to-mid 2000s, and the tool is offered with grid/bar shells for demolition or solid shells for sorting, mounted via a wedge-lock quick-coupler or a direct pin-on bracket. It shares its family lineup and service manual with the larger VRG-25/2, VRG-30/2 and VRG-40/2 grapples.

The /2 generation redesigned the grapple around a factory-integrated hydraulic swivel built with fewer components than the original VRG-20, aimed at continuous rather than limited rotation and easier upkeep. Beyond that update, the core layout (hydraulic closing cylinder, pivoting shell group, pin-mounted frame) carries through the whole VRG-20/2, VRG-25/2, VRG-30/2 and VRG-40/2 family, so wear patterns and service needs stay consistent as size scales up through the range. In the used and parts market the VRG-20/2 stays relevant because, with no engine or emissions system to age out, its value and service life come down almost entirely to pivot pin and bushing condition, cylinder seal integrity, and rotator health rather than hour meter or engine wear. Replaceable wear shells and teeth let the base frame outlast repeated demolition cycles, and because the whole grapple family shares one parts and service manual structure, sourcing parts and service information for a used VRG-20/2 stays straightforward even without a confirmed factory successor model.

Below: full specifications, fluids & capacities, the factory service schedule, common service parts, verified fault codes, what owners discuss, attachment guidance, the complete assembly directory, and a serial-number reference. Complete parts lists with full OEM part numbers, exploded diagrams, quantities, and fitment data are available free in Heavy Parts AI.