Next-gen Cat 966 and 972 wheel loaders launched

Caterpillar’s 7-tonne and 9-tonne wheel loaders have been given a makeover with the aim of increasing productivity and comfort for operators as well as lowering operating costs.

One of the key upgrades is the incorporation of a suite of standard technologies aimed at making life easier for operators.

Both the Cat 966 and 972 now come with standard Cat Payload* with Assist for accurate weighing of bucket payloads, so operators can load to target the first time every time. Real-time data is fed to the operator display and allows manual tip-off function to improve final bucket adjustments and truck load accuracy.

A new Cat Autodig function, alongside Auto Set Tires, helps to deliver consistently high bucket fill factors, according to Caterpillar. Autodig fully automates bucket loading hence improving bucket fill factors and decreasing loading time. Working in conjunction with Autodig, Auto Set Tires promotes proper loading techniques to significantly reduce tyre slip and wear.

The new Application Profiles feature lets operators set customised profiles for specific applications, allowing optimised settings and machine parameters to be set for the job with the press of a button. Selectable on-screen Job Aids, along with a streamlined new controls layout, facilitates loader operation and allows operators of all experience levels to be more productive.

In addition to the technologies mentioned above, operators can also specify a range of optional technology with their new wheel loaders to further increase productivity. These include Cat Advanced Payload* with Assist that automatically adjusts the final bucket load to match hauling unit target, enhanced lists management, site integration and extended scale features. A Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information for the site off-board on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

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The Next Generation 966 and 972 series has also been redesigned to offer extended hydraulic system maintenance intervals, so the loaders spend more time at work.

An integrated optional Autolube function ensures components are properly lubricated at all times, reducing daily maintenance and increasing component life. The hydraulic and electric service centers are also easy to access, making servicing the loaders fast and easy.

Combined, these design updates reduce maintenance costs of up to 15 per cent for the new Cat 966 and 972 wheel loaders, Caterpillar said.

A range of tech is also available to make maintenance easier for operators. The Cat App helps operators or fleet managers manage fleet location, hours and maintenance schedules and also assists with requesting service from the local Cat dealer if required.

Remote Troubleshoot connects the machine to the dealer’s service department via the internet to quickly diagnose fault codes without on-machine cable connection. Last but not least, Remote Flash ensures the wheel loaders are operating with the most up-to-date software without affecting productivity.

The new loaders feature Caterpillar’s next generation optional ride control that works as a shock absorber to improve ride quality over rough terrain. The cab is fully enclosed and sealed, keeping dust out and making for a quieter work environment.

A wide door can be unlocked from ground as an option, plus inclined steps improve cab ingress/egress, Caterpillar said.

Shipped standard with an HMU steering wheel, the 966 and 972 can also be specified with an optional seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system.

Precise machine control helps increase productivity and reduce operator fatigue, while increased legroom enhances operator comfort.

The loaders’ new dashboard and high-resolution touchscreen display provide intuitive and user-friendly loader control. Multiple air suspension seat options that include heating or heating and ventilation help to provide year-round comfort.

Standard monitored seatbelts can be enhanced with an exterior beacon for supervisors to elevate job site safety.

The cab windshield extends from floor-to-ceiling for improved forward visibility, while a standard rear-vision camera and large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors provide industry-leading all-around visibility, Caterpillar added.

Other optional safety technologies include The Cat Detect radar that alerts operators to hazards and a multi-view (360-degree) vision system that provide an extra level of monitoring around the loaders.

The Cat 966 and 972 loaders are available with Cat Performance Series buckets with capacities ranging from 2.8 to 14.0 cubic-metres. Caterpillar says the Performance Series buckets balance shape against the machine’s linkage for higher fill factors and better material retention than other designs with the same rated capacity.

Fusion™ Quick Coupler buckets allow rapid work tool changes without the operator having to leave the cab, so the loaders move quickly from task to task.

Special, purpose-built options for the loaders include an aggregate handler configuration that offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling applications. Industrial and waste models feature the guarding and reinforcement required for working at transfer stations, recycling facilities, scrap yards and demolition sites. For demanding applications like steel mills and slag handling, the loaders can be ordered in the steel mill configuration that incorporates additional levels of safety.

For more information on the new Cat 966 and 972 series Medium Wheel Loaders, visit cat.com.