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Cat’s efficient M Series Wheeled Loaders

The new Cat 966M, 966M XE, 972M (pictured), and 972M XE Wheeled Loaders meet EU Stage IV emissions standards, and are said to offer considerable additional value including greater productivity, lower fuel consumption, improved operator efficiency and Cat Connect features. The four models have C9.3 ACERT engines equipped with a combination of proven electronic, fuel, air and after treatment components. Deep system integration is said to result in reduced emissions, improved performance and improved fuel
May 14, 2014 Read time: 3 mins
The new 2294 CAT 966M, 966M XE, 972M (pictured), and 972M XE Wheeled Loaders meet EU Stage IV emissions standards, and are said to offer considerable additional value including greater productivity, lower fuel consumption, improved operator efficiency and CAT Connect features.

The four models have C9.3 ACERT engines equipped with a combination of proven electronic, fuel, air and after treatment components.  Deep system integration is said to result in reduced emissions, improved performance and improved fuel economy without interrupting machine performance, making it seamless to operators.

The XE Advanced powertrain first introduced with the 966K XE continues with the 966M XE and the new 972M XE. The XE technology results in a claimed 25% higher fuel efficiency on average compared to machines with traditional torque converters, and simplifies operation with a two pedal design while providing seemingly endless power.

The new CAT M Series wheeled loaders are ideal for aggregates, sand and gravel, batch plants and industrial applications where poor underfoot conditions make traction difficult, slowing production and challenging job deadlines. By their ability to engage on-the-go and to transfer 100% of the torque to the wheel with traction, the new disc-type differential locks improve tractive ability in these applications, thereby increasing productivity. All four models come standard with front axle differential locks which are manually activated by a switch on the floor.

The 966M, 966M XE, 972M and 972M XE hydraulic systems also have significant design changes and customer value improvements. The main hydraulic valve is now a monoblock with an integrated ride control section. The monoblock design reduces weight, has 40% fewer leak points and is common across all M Series models.

New hydraulic implement pumps continuously and automatically balance hydraulic loads with the machine performance desired by the operator. The new pumps have larger displacements for increased hydraulic flow at lower engine rpm thereby saving fuel. Engine response is improved as is performance at higher altitudes.

A new ‘Aggregate handler’ version of the new M Series models allow it to increase payload by around 700kg in free flowing material applications.

Improving operator efficiency was said to be a key design goal for the 966M, 966M XE, 972M and 972M XE. A switch has been added to the electronic service centre which unlatches the door remotely. The gas strut then swings the door open all while the operator is safely on the ground. The angle of the steps up to the cab have been increased to an optimal 15°, enabling operators to climb the steps more vertically, like a ladder. Grab handles have been repositioned so a secure three points of contact can be maintained at all times.

Once in the cab, the new door securely seals against the new roll formed ROPS posts and the lower glass panel has been extended several centimetres to improve visibility to the left side of the machine. New larger convex mirrors improve visibility to the rear and integrated spot mirrors provide visibility close to both sides of the machine.

A new multipurpose colour touch screen display markedly simplifies the operator interface; with machine controls, rearview camera and new fully integrated CAT Production Measurement system. Intuitive navigation with in-language text enables operators to modify certain machine operating parameters and monitor machine conditions literally at the touch of their fingers.

The new CAT Connect enables operators and managers to access machine operating data including total fuel consumption, average fuel rate, total idle time and fuel consumed at idle, total operating hours and several other machine data. The new Caterpillar Production Measurement app option is integrated in the new touchscreen display providing payload information.

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