Boosted loaders

Two new Caterpillar H-Series medium wheel loaders—the 966H and 972H—feature key changes to boost productivity and reduce owning and operating costs. The Peoria, Ill.-based Caterpillar offers new engines featuring ACERT technology and provide increased power and U.S. EPA Tier 3 emissions compliance for the new loaders. A new load-sensing hydraulic implement system, which is proprietary to Caterpillar, works more efficiently for improved fuel benefits of 4% to 7% and a 20% increase in lift force over previous models.

Along with improved productivity, enhanced operator comfort and serviceability have been built into the 966H (Circle 903) and 972H (Circle 904). Key changes include electro-hydraulic implement controls with simultaneous lift and tilt capacities, 5° forward-inclined left-access ladder, a cooling system and centralized hydraulic and electric service centers for improved maintenance.

The new wheel loaders are designed to handle a wide range of tasks in construction, aggregates, forestry and bulk materials handling. The 966H produces gross power of 283 hp and handles buckets of 4.5 to 5.5 cu yd. The 972H produces gross power of 307 hp and uses buckets of 5 to 6.5 cu yd.