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Cat 972 Wheel Loader

972

Medium Wheel Loaders

Overview

The Cat® 972 Wheel Loader brings premium performance with simple-to-use technologies as a standard offering, boosting operator efficiencies and delivering increased productivity. Extended service intervals lower maintenance costs. Improved performance, reliability, durability, and versatility result in a machine that is better built to meet your needs.

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Proven Reliability
  • Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
  • Equipped with automatic Cat regeneration system, Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump.
  • Features an electric fuel priming pump, fuel-water separator, and secondary fuel filter.
Durability
  • Heavy-duty transmission and axles designed to handle extreme applications.
  • Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
Superior Fuel Efficiency & Productivity
  • New Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors deliver up to 10% more productivity compared to previous Cat model.
  • Powershift transmission with lock-up clutch increases fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
  • Single clutch and lock-to-lock shifting for faster acceleration and speed on grades.
Smart Machine for Efficient Operation
  • Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
– Cat Payload with Assist provides accurate weighing*** of the bucket payloads. Data is displayed in real time to improve productivity and loading accuracy with manual tip-off.
– Product Link™ wirelessly connects the machine to the office, giving you access to production and essential health information needed to make timely, fact-based decisions to help you better run your business.
– New Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
– Auto Set Tires promotes proper loading technique, significantly reducing tire slip and tire wear.
– Onboard Job Aids and Operator Controls Help to ease operation.
  • Optional Cat Advanced Payload with Assist:
Safety Features
  • Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
  • Optional 360˚ vision system helps the operator monitor the surroundings of the machine at all times.
  • Optional Cat Detect radar technology enhances awareness by monitoring the working environment and alerts operators to hazards.
Reduced Maintenance Time & Costs
  • Extended fluid and filter change intervals reduce maintenance costs by up to 20%.*
  • Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy and safe servicing.
  • Remote Troubleshoot can connect the machine to the dealer service department to help diagnose problems quickly so you can get back to work.
Work in Comfort in the All New Cab
  • Next-generation, easily adjustable seat and suspension for improved operator comfort. It comes in three trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness.
  • Increased legroom and adjustable seat controls for increased comfort and efficiency.
  • Automatic air conditioning system keeps the cab cool as desired.
Purpose-built Specialty Configurations
  • Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:
– Industrial and waste models feature guarding and reinforcement necessary for work in transfer stations, recycling depots, scrap yards...
Proven Reliability
  • Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
  • Equipped with automatic Cat regeneration system, Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump.
  • Features an electric fuel priming pump, fuel-water separator, and secondary fuel filter.
  • Thorough component design and machine validation processes result in unmatched reliability and uptime.
Durability
  • Heavy-duty transmission and axles designed to handle extreme applications.
  • Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
  • Next Generation implement pump increases flow at lower engine speeds and improves hydraulic response.
Superior Fuel Efficiency & Productivity
  • New Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors deliver up to 10% more productivity compared to previous Cat model.
  • Powershift transmission with lock-up clutch increases fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
  • Single clutch and lock-to-lock shifting for faster acceleration and speed on grades.
  • Application Profiles optimize machine settings for different applications at one push of a button.
  • Job Aids help operators improve and optimize their operating skills.
  • Performance Series Buckets utilize a system-based approach to balance bucket shape against the machine’s linkage, resulting in higher fill factors and better material retention when compared with other buckets of the same rated capacity.
  • Automatic engine idle shutdown system significantly reduces idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.
  • Standard manual front differential provides additional traction when needed. Automatic front and rear locks are available as an option.
  • Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.**
  • Deeply integrated engine, power train, and hydraulic systems deliver unmatched productivity and fuel efficiency.
  • With Fusion™ Quick Coupler, buckets can be changed without leaving the cab, allowing the machine to quickly move from task to task.

** Optional configurations and equipment may vary from region to region and require conformance to Caterpillar payload policy. Consult your dealer or Caterpillar representative for details.
Smart Machine for Efficient Operation
  • Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
– Cat Payload with Assist provides accurate weighing*** of the bucket payloads. Data is displayed in real time to improve productivity and loading accuracy with manual tip-off.
– Product Link™ wirelessly connects the machine to the office, giving you access to production and essential health information needed to make timely, fact-based decisions to help you better run your business.
– New Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
– Auto Set Tires promotes proper loading technique, significantly reducing tire slip and tire wear.
– Onboard Job Aids and Operator Controls Help to ease operation.
  • Optional Cat Advanced Payload with Assist:
– Tip Off Assist automatizes load of the final bucket to match hauling unit target.
– Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
  • Optional Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.

***Not legal for trade.
Safety Features
  • Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
  • Optional 360˚ vision system helps the operator monitor the surroundings of the machine at all times.
  • Optional Cat Detect radar technology enhances awareness by monitoring the working environment and alerts operators to hazards.
  • Cab access with wide door, optional remote door opening, and stair-like steps add solid stability.
  • Floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors, and rear-vision camera provide industry leading all-around visibility.
  • Computerized monitoring system includes several warning indicators.
  • Monitored seat belt is standard and can be enhanced with an optional exterior indicator.
  • Optional access light and under-hood service light system to provide illuminated access to the machine and daily checks even in the dark.
Reduced Maintenance Time & Costs
  • Extended fluid and filter change intervals reduce maintenance costs by up to 20%.*
  • Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy and safe servicing.
  • Remote Troubleshoot can connect the machine to the dealer service department to help diagnose problems quickly so you can get back to work.
  • Remote Flash works around your schedule to ensure your machine’s software is up to date for optimal performance.
  • The Cat App helps you manage fleet location, hours, and maintenance schedules; it also alerts you for required maintenance and allows you to request service from your local Cat dealer.
  • Integrated Autolube extends component and service life.
  • One-piece tilting hood makes engine compartment access fast and easy.

*Parts and fluids only
Work in Comfort in the All New Cab
  • Next-generation, easily adjustable seat and suspension for improved operator comfort. It comes in three trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness.
  • Increased legroom and adjustable seat controls for increased comfort and efficiency.
  • Automatic air conditioning system keeps the cab cool as desired.
  • New in-cab dashboard and high-resolution touch display(s) are easy to use, intuitive, and user friendly.
  • Sound suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter work environment.
  • The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering system provides precision control and dramatically reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort and accuracy. An HMU steering wheel is also available.
  • The next generation of ride control works as a shock absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain.
Purpose-built Specialty Configurations
  • Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:
– Industrial and waste models feature guarding and reinforcement necessary for work in transfer stations, recycling depots, scrap yards, and demolition sites.
– Steel mill model is designed for the challenging work environment of steel mills and slag handling applications, incorporating an added level of safety.
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Engine

Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002
339hp
Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm - SAE J1995:2014
342hp
Engine Model
Cat C9.3B
Net Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011
321hp
Note (1)
Cat engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, China Nonroad Stage IV and Japan 2014 emission standards.
Note (2)
The net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and aftertreatment.
Net Torque @ 1,200 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011
1316ft-lb
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002
1375lb/ft
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 (h
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014
1388lb/ft
Displacement
9.3 L

Weights

Operating Weight
54858lb
Note
Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJTL3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control,cold start, roading fenders, Product Link, front manual differential/openrear axles, power train guard, second

Transmission

Forward - 1
4.1mile/h
Forward - 2
8.4mile/h
Forward - 3
15mile/h
Forward - 4
24.5mile/h
Note
Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Reverse - 1
4.5mile/h
Reverse - 2
9.2mile/h
Reverse - 3
16.5mile/h
Reverse - 4
24.5mile/h

Sound

Note (1)
** For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the EU Directives.
Note (2)
***European Union Directive 2000/14/EC as amended by 2005/88/EC.
With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level*
108
With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)
69dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)
109dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013)
76
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)
70dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Note
Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.

Air Conditioning System

Air Conditioning
The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons).

Operating Specifications

Breakout Force
44072lb
Note (1)
For a machine configuration as defined under Weight.
Note (2)
Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
Static Tipping Load - Full 40° Turn - No Tire Deflection
17505kg
Static Tipping Load - Full 40° Turn - With Tire Deflection
35919lb

Service Refill Capacities

Cooling System
17.4gal (US)
Crankcase
6.1gal (US)
DEF Tank
6.9gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Front
15.1gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Rear
15.1gal (US)
Fuel Tank
80.1gal (US)
Hydraulic Tank
30.1gal (US)
Transmission
15.5gal (US)

Hydraulic System

Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure
4496psi
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,250 rpm
99gal/min
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total
10.7 seconds

Dimensions

Note
All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 5.4 m3 (7.1 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 29.5R25 VSNT L4 radial tires.

Dimensions - High Lift

Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
8.1ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.1ft
Ground Clearance
1.4ft
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
11.8ft
Height - Top of Hood
9.5ft
Height - Top of ROPS
11.1ft
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2.6ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
15.9ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
13.8ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket
26.6ft
Tread Width
7.3ft
Wheel Base
11.8ft
Rack Back at Ground
37 degrees
Rack Back - Maximum Lift
71 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height
49 degrees
Width over Tires (Loaded)
9.11ft

Dimensions - Standard Lift

Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.1ft
Ground Clearance
420mm
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
3527mm
Height - Top of Hood
2846mm
Height - Top of ROPS
3589mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2.2ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
4464mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
3843mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket
7731mm
Tread Width
7.3ft
Wheel Base
3550mm
Rack Back at Ground
39 degrees
Width over Tires (Loaded)
9.11ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
8ft
Rack Back - Maximum Lift
56 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height
49 degrees

Bucket Capacities

Bucket Range
2.8-14.0 m³ 3.75-18.25 yd³

Standard/Optional Features

Standard Equipment:

  • Operator Environment
    • Cab, pressurized, sound suppression
    • EH implement controls, parking brake
    • Steering, joystick
    • Seat, cloth, air suspension
    • Touchscreen display
    • Visibility: mirrors, rear-vision camera
    • Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto temp, fan)
    • Sun visor, front, retractable
    • Sun visor, rear, retractable
    • Window cleaning platform, front
    • Window, front, laminated
  • On-board Technologies
    • Cat Payload scale
    • Autodig with Auto Set Tires
    • Operator ID & machine security
    • Application Profiles
    • Job Aids
    • Controls Help and eOMM
  • Power Train
    • Cat C9.3B engine
    • Electric fuel priming pump
    • Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel filter
    • Engine, air precleaner
    • Axles, 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
  • 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
  • Electrical
    • Starting and charging system, 24V
    • Starter, electric, heavy duty
    • Lights: halogen, 4 work lights, 2 front roading lights with turn signals, 2 rearvision lights
  • Monitoring System
    • Front dash with analog gauges, LCD display, and warning lights
    • Primary touchscreen monitor (Cat Payload, quad screens, machine settings & messages)
  • Linkage
    • Standard lift, Z-bar
    • Kickouts: lift and tilt

Optional Equipment:

  • Operator Environment
    • Door, remote opening system
    • HMU steering wheel
    • 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
    • Multiview (360�) vision system
    • Cat Detect rear radar system
    • Dedicated rearview screen
    • Mirrors, heated
    • Full cab window guard
  • On-board Technologies
    • Cat Advanced Payload
    • Cat Payload Printer
  • Power Train
    • Turbine, air precleaner
    • Radiator, high debris
    • Cooling fan, reversible
    • Axles, auto differential locks front and rear
    • Axles, ecology drains, AOC ready, extreme temperature seals
    • Axles, oil cooler
  • Hydraulics
    • 3rd and 4th auxiliary functions with ride control
    • Quick coupler control
  • Electrical
    • Cold start, 120V or 240V
    • Lights: LED
    • Warning beacon
  • Monitoring System
    • Reversing strobe lights
  • Linkage
    • High lift, Z-bar
  • Additional Equipment
    • Cat Autolube system
    • Fenders, extensions or roading
    • Guards: power train, crankcase, cab, cylinders, rear
    • Biodegradable hydraulic oil
    • High-speed oil change system
    • Rear cab access
    • Toolbox
    • Wheel chocks
    • Secondary steering system, electrical
  • Special Configurations
    • Aggregate handler
    • Steel Mill
    • Corrosion resistant

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