Cat 988 GC wheel loader delivers higher productivity at lower cost

Designed to maximize life-cycle value in moderate production applications up to 2000 hours per year, the 988 GC is capable of delivering production within six per cent of the 988K in truck loading applications, Caterpillar said.

It has a 3909mm dump clearance making it well suited to load into trucks up to the Cat 775G. Matching the bucket payload of the 988K, the 988 GC offers up to 670 tonnes/hour productivity in shot rock truck loading applications and up to 527 tonnes/hour for load-and-carry operations, Caterpillar said.

Built on the common Cat Large Wheel Loader platform, its full box section rear frame increases durability and resists torsional shock and twisting forces. Its front frame is redesigned to withstand larger loads and features a new lift arm design.

At the heart of the new 988 GC is a Cat C15 engine, which offers configurations to meet EU Stage IIIA / U.S. EPA Tier 3 or EU Stage V / U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions standards.

The 988 GC’s has a cooling package that offers higher heat rejection with an on-demand fan strategy and two available fan speed settings for standard and high-ambient-temperature configurations. 

The Cat torque converter with standard lock-up clutch eliminates losses, lowers system heat, improves travel times and reduces cycle times in load-and-carry operations, Caterpillar added.  

Designed specifically for quarry and mining applications, the Cat Advanced Power Electronic Control Strategy (APECS) transmission offers consistent, smooth shifting, productivity and efficiency improvements. Forward momentum and torque are maintained when shifting for greater momentum on grades.

The transmission neutralizer pedal extends service brake life and allows full power during stationary loading.

Load sensing hydraulics direct hydraulic flow to implement and steering systems only when needed to optimise performance and efficiency.

The Cat 988 GC features a Steering and Integrated Control (STIC™) steering that the company said offers up to 47 per cent quieter operation.

The Cat Comfort Series III seat with seat-mounted implement pod that moves with the seat enhances comfort and reduces operator fatigue.

Operation is simplified through the intuitive operator interface, touchscreen display and easy-to-use soft detent implement controls. Cab isolation mounts and an air suspension seat reduce vibration for a more comfortable operation. An air cooled and heated seat is available as an option for increased operator comfort.

Within the cab is a suite of integrated technologies for enhanced productivity and record keeping. Product Link offers wireless access to essential operating data while standard rear Cat vision enhances visibility behind the 988 GC, allowing the operator to work safely and confidently.

To help keep people and assets safe, the 988 GC can be equipped with Cat Detect technology that enhances awareness of the environment around working equipment.

The Z-bar front lift arm design provides excellent visibility to the bucket edges and work area. Bucket payload is aligned with the 988K models with a range of Cat performance series buckets available with capacities from 6.3 to 7.6 cubic metres.

Cat Payload, which provides on-the-go weighing for materials hauled and loaded, is available as an option. An optional Advanced Productivity subscription provides comprehensive actionable information to help manage and improve operational productivity and profitability.

Caterpillar said the new loader’s design includes features to increase machine uptime and reduce maintenance costs by up to 15 per cent compared to the 988K.

Grouped service points at ground level or with platform access allows for convenient servicing. Access doors for important daily service checks are located on both sides of the engine compartment.

Centralised ground level grease points plus ground level sight gauges simplify daily greasing and oil level checks for major machine systems.

Its on-board diagnostics alert the operator of machine issues so they can be resolved before failure. Information captured by Product Link can be remotely monitored via my.cat.com, the Cat app or VisionLink to help with further preventative maintenance.

For more information about the new Cat 988 GC Wheel Loader, visit cat.com.au