966

966 Medium Wheel Loaders

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Key Specs

Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002
321 hp
239 kW
Operating Weight
51124 lb
23196 kg
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002
325 hp (metric)
325 hp (metric)

Features At A Glance

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Latest Features

Latest Features

        
  • Cat Detect vision systems help improve visibility, increase operator awareness and support safer operation.
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  • Rear and surround vision systems provide enhanced visibility around the machine, including the articulation area.
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  • Collision mitigation technologies help detect people and objects, provide collision alerts and support automatic braking.
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  • Collision Warning helps operators identify potential hazards behind the machine before they become incidents.
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  • People Detection highlights individuals behind the machine to improve awareness and support safer operation.
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  • Motion Inhibit helps prevent unintended machine movement when a rear collision risk is detected.
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  • Automatic Emergency Braking helps stop the machine when a potential collision is detected and operator action is not taken.
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  • VisionLink™ provides visibility into safety events and trends to support proactive fleet management.
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  • Cat Advanced Payload helps improve loading accuracy, productivity and material management.
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  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET helps reduce maintenance, minimize downtime and maximize uptime.
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  • Auto Set Tires simplifies tire management and helps optimize machine performance and tire life.
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  • Onboard QR code access puts operator training and machine information at your fingertips.
Comfort That Keeps You Productive

Comfort That Keeps You Productive

        
  • Adjustable seating and spacious cab design support operator comfort.
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  • Left footrest improves stability on rough ground.
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  • Automatic climate control helps maintain a comfortable cab temperature.
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  • Intuitive touchscreen display simplifies machine operation.
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  • Onboard QR code provide immediate access to operator training and machine information.
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  • Noise and vibration reduction help minimize operator fatigue.
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  • Electro-hydraulic steering delivers precise control and improved comfort.
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  • Ride Control enhances ride quality and machine stability on rough terrain.
Performance You Can Count On

Performance You Can Count On

        
  • Load consistently with Autodig and Auto Set Tires.
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  • Reduce wear and simplify setup with Auto Set Tires.
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  • Lower maintenance costs with Single Life Cutting Edge GET.
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  • Save fuel with a lock-up clutch powershift transmission.
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  • Optimize machine settings with Application Profiles.
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  • Reduce fuel consumption with automatic idle shutdown.
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  • Maintain traction with automatic differential lock.
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  • Change work tools quickly with the Fusion™ Quick Coupler.
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  • Optional Aggregate Handler configuration provides added payload capacity for loose aggregates.
Technology That Moves More Material

Technology That Moves More Material

        
  • Cat Detect – Enhance visibility and operator awareness.
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  • Collision Mitigation – Detect potential hazards and support operator response.
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  • Cat Payload* - Improve payload accuracy and loading efficiency.
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  • Visionlink™ - Turn fleet and jobsite data into actionable insights.
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  • Autodig – Automate loading for consistent bucket fill.
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  • Auto Set Tires – Simplify setup and reduce tire wear.
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  • Cat Advanced Payload – Manage material, load targets and productivity.
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  • Cat Payload for Trade** – Connect approved scale data to business processes.
*Not legal for trade.
**Available in Europe and Australia. Country certifications vary.  Contact your Cat dealer for more information.

 
Safety Built In

Safety Built In

        
  • Cat Detect Collision Warning with Motion Inhibit helps operators identify potential hazards and improve jobsite awareness.
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  • People Detection provides alerts when people are detected behind the machine.
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  • Motion Inhibit helps prevent reverse movement when a potential hazard is detected.
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  • Cat Command enables remote machine operation in select applications.
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  • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine.
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  • Available 4-point seat belt improves operator comfort and support throughout the shift.
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  • Wide cab entry, remote door opening and inclined steps help improve machine access.
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  • A floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors and rear vision camera provide excellent visibility around the machine.
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  • Machine alerts help keep operators informed.
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  • Monitored seat belt system supports operator awareness.
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  • Available Multiview Vision provides 360o machine visibility.
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  • Available Cat Detect radar helps monitor the work area.
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  • Available lighting supports access and inspection in low-light conditions.
Built For Maximum Uptime

Built For Maximum Uptime

        
  • Cat® C9.3B engine delivers the power and performance needed for demanding loading applications.
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  • Integrated emissions technologies help maintain performance while meeting emissions requirements.
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  • Simplified fuel system components support reliable operation and easy serviceability.
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  • Engineered and tested for long-term durability in tough working environments.
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  • Designed to maximize uptime and help lower operating costs.

Product Specifications for 966

Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002 321 hp 239 kW
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002 325 hp (metric) 325 hp (metric)
Engine Model Cat® C9.3B Cat® C9.3B
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014 325 hp 242 kW
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014 329 hp (metric) 329 hp (metric)
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 302 hp 222 kW
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 302 hp (metric) 302 hp (metric)
Engine Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 14396:2002 1313 lbf·ft 1781 N·m
Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm SAE J1995:2014 1327 lbf·ft 1799 N·m
Net Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 1255 lbf·ft 1702 N·m
Displacement 567.5 in³ 9.3 l
Emissions Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, China Nonroad Stage IV and Japan 2014 emission standards. Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, China Nonroad Stage IV and Japan 2014 emission standards.
Biodiesel Capability Up to B20¹ Up to B20¹
Note (2) ¹Cat 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) ***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. *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). ¹Cat 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) ***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. *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).
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 1327 lb/ft 1799 N·m
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002 1313 lb/ft 1781 N·m
Note (3) Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: • 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* • 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrogenated 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. * Engines with no aftertreatment devices can use higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel. Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: • 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* • 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrogenated 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. * Engines with no aftertreatment devices can use higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel.
Displacement 9.3 L 9.3 L
Operating Weight 51124 lb 23196 kg
Note Weight based on a machine configuration with Z-bar linkage, Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, powertrain guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE. Weight based on a machine configuration with Z-bar linkage, Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, powertrain guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE.
Forward - 1 4.2 mile/h 6.7 km/h
Forward - 2 8.4 mile/h 13.5 km/h
Forward - 3 15 mile/h 24.2 km/h
Forward - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h
Reverse - 1 4.5 mile/h 7.3 km/h
Reverse - 2 9.2 mile/h 14.8 km/h
Reverse - 3 16.5 mile/h 26.6 km/h
Reverse - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h
Note Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius. Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 70 dB(A) 70 dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008 109 dB(A) 109 dB(A)
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 ¹ 69 dB(A) 69 dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008² 108 dB(A) 108 dB(A)
Note (1) ¹Including countries that adopt the EU and UK Directives. ¹Including countries that adopt the EU and UK Directives.
Note (2) ²Exterior Sound Power Level - European Union Directive 2000/14/EC and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701. ²Exterior Sound Power Level - European Union Directive 2000/14/EC and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701.
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Note Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.
Air Conditioning The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a or R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430), the system contains 1.600 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). - If equipped with R1234yf (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.389 kg (3.1 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of .001 metric tonnes (1.10 tons). The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a or R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430), the system contains 1.600 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). - If equipped with R1234yf (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.389 kg (3.1 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of .001 metric tonnes (1.10 tons).
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn 32727 lb 14849 kg
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection 35224 lb 15981 kg
Breakout Force 38999 lbf 174 kN
Note For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.” For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.”
Note (1) Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing. Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
Fuel Tank 80.1 gal (US) 303 l
DEF Tank 6.9 gal (US) 26 l
Cooling System 17.4 gal (US) 66 l
Crankcase 6.1 gal (US) 23 l
Transmission 15.5 gal (US) 58.5 l
Differential - Final Drives - Front 15.1 gal (US) 57 l
Hydraulic Tank 30.1 gal (US) 114 l
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,275 rpm 99 gpm 373 L/min
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure 4496 psi 31000 kPa
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total 10.1 s 10.1 s
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total 10.1 seconds 10.1 seconds
Height - Top of Hood 9.42 ft 2850 mm
Height - Top of ROPS 11.83 ft 3593 mm
Ground Clearance 1.33 ft 424 mm
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550 mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket 24.33 ft 7399 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height 2 ft 635 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 13.92 ft 4245 mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 12.08 ft 3687 mm
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 62 ° 62 °
Rack Back - Carry Height 50 ° 50 °
Width over Tires (Loaded) 9.92 ft 3012 mm
Tread Width 7.25 ft 2230 mm
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 62 degrees 62 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height 50 degrees 50 degrees
Rack Back at Ground 39 degrees 39 degrees
Height - Top of Hood 9.42 ft 2850 mm
Height - Top of ROPS 11.83 ft 3593 mm
Ground Clearance 1.33 ft 424 mm
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550 mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket 26.5 ft 8069 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height 2.5 ft 782 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 15.75 ft 4804 mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 13.67 ft 4183 mm
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 71 ° 71 °
Rack Back - Carry Height 49 ° 49 °
Width over Tires (Loaded) 9.92 ft 3012 mm
Tread Width 7.25 ft 2230 mm
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 71 degrees 71 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height 49 degrees 49 degrees
Rack Back at Ground 37 degrees 37 degrees

966 Standard Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT

  • Cab, pressurized, sound suppression
  • EH implement controls, parking brake
  • Steering, joystick
  • Seat, cloth, air suspension
  • Touchscreen display
  • Keypad, programmable buttons
  • Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto temp, fan)
  • Sun visor, front and rear retractable
  • Windows, front, laminated

POWERTRAIN

  • Cat® C9.3B engine
  • Electric fuel priming pump
  • Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel filter
  • Engine, air precleaner
  • Axles, auto front differential lock
  • Transmission, planetary, automatic powershift
  • Torque converter with lock-up
  • Service brakes, hydraulic, fully enclosed wet disc, wear indicators
  • Integrated Braking System (IBS)
  • Park brake, caliper on front axles, spring applied-pressure released
  • Brake pedal neutralizer with decel function

ELECTRICAL

  • Starting and charging system, 24V
  • Starter, electric, heavy duty
  • Lights: halogen, 4 work lights, 2 front roading lights with turn signals, 2 rearview lights

HYDRAULICS

  • Implement system, load sensing with variable displacement piston pump
  • Steering system, load sensing with dedicated variable displacement piston pump
  • Ride control, dual accumulators
  • Oil sampling valves, Cat XT hoses

LINKAGE

  • Standard lift, Z-bar
  • Kickouts: lift and tilt

MONITORING SYSTEM

  • Front dash with analog gauges, LCD display, and warning lights
  • Primary touchscreen monitor (Cat Payload, quad screens, machine settings and messages)
  • Maintenance reminders

ONBOARD TECHNOLOGIES

  • Autodig with auto set tires
  • Operator ID and machine security
  • Application profiles
  • Job aids
  • Controls help and eOMM
  • Cat Payload
  • Key Features Inform
  • Bucket Carry Display Widget
  • Remote Flash

SAFETY

  • Seat belt reminder
  • 2-point seat belt
  • Rear vision camera
  • Window cleaning platform, front

966 Optional Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT

  • Door, remote opening system
  • Footrest
  • HMU steering wheel
  • Implement joystick (2V, 3V only)
  • Entertainment radio (FM, AM, USB, BT)
  • Entertainment radio (DAB+)
  • CB radio ready
  • Seat, suede/cloth, air suspension, heated
  • Seat, leather/cloth, air suspension, heated/cooled
  • Mirrors, heated
  • Windows, front, heavy duty
  • Full cab window guard

POWERTRAIN

  • Turbine, air precleaner
  • Radiator, high debris
  • Cooling fan, reversible
  • Axles, auto front and rear differential locks
  • Axles, ecology drains, AOC ready, extreme temperature seals
  • Axles, oil cooler

ELECTRICAL

  • Cold start, 120V or 240V
  • Lights: LED

HYDRAULICS

  • 3rd and 4th auxiliary functions with ride control
  • Quick coupler control

LINKAGE

  • High lift, Z-bar

MONITORING SYSTEM

  • Tire pressure monitor

ONBOARD TECHNOLOGIES

  • Cat Advanced Payload
  • Cat Payload for Trade (Available in Europe and Australia. Country certifications vary. Contact your Cat dealer for more information.)
  • Cat Payload Printer with E-ticket

SAFETY

  • 4-point seat belt (kit)
  • Rear vision camera, dedicated
  • Surround vision, dedicated
  • Window cleaning platform, front
  • Collision warning system
  • Collision mitigation system
  • Reverse strobe lights (Not compatible with roading arrangements)
  • Warning beacon
  • Secondary steering system, electrical (Standard where mandated)
  • Wheel chocks
  • Remote control

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

  • Cat Autolube system
  • Fenders, extensions or roading
  • Guards: powertrain, crankcase, window glass, cylinders, rear
  • Biodegradable hydraulic oil
  • High-speed oil change system
  • Rear cab access
  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET
  • Toolbox

SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS

  • Aggregate handler
  • Waste and industrial
  • Forestry
  • Tunneling (Japan only)
  • Corrosion resistant

Compatible Technology and Services

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Cat® Command Remote Control enables operators to control Caterpillar construction equipment from a safe distance, helping improve job site safety, productivity, and operational flexibility. Whether working in hazardous environments, demolition sites, steep terrain, or areas with restricted access, Cat Command technology keeps operators away from potential risks while maintaining precise machine control.

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Cat Detect - Collision Mitigation System is an operator assist feature designed to enhance situational awareness when reversing the machine. It utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warnings, detect people, inhibit motion, and enable automatic emergency braking. Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through VisionLink™.

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Rear Object Detection for wheel loaders is a two-part system providing enhanced blind spot awareness. Radar provides visual and audible alerts when objects enter a safety proximity zone, while a camera allows the operator to see what's behind the machine when reversing.

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VisionLink™ is a cloud-based software application that takes the guesswork out of fleet management with key insights to maximize performance - regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer. Receive equipment data seamlessly to your desktop or mobile device, all from a convenient centralized solution to make informed decisions at every turn.

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Cat® Payload technologies provide on-the-go weighing to help operators hit exact targets, everytime and avoid overloading, underloading or misloading materials.

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