Cat 972M Wheel Loader

972M Wheel Loader | Front Loader | Tier 4

Medium Wheel Loaders

Overview

The 972M Wheel Loader is equipped with built-in proven technologies to help meet your expectations for productivity, fuel efficiency, reliability and service life. Deep system integration results in a machine built to help you reduce emissions, improve performance and improve fuel economy. All of this is done without interrupting machine performance and making it seamless to you. This machine deliversthe reliability, durability, and versatility you’ve come to expect from a Cat machine.

RELIABILITY YOU CAN COUNT ON
  • Cat C9.3 engine offers increased power density with a combination of proven electronic 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 (Tier 4 Final, Stage IV, and Stage V only).
LONG TERM VALUE AND DURABILITY
  • Heavy-duty transmission and axles handle extreme applications.
  • Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional loop filtration improves hydraulic system strength and component life.
BUILT TO PERFORM
  • Increased engine power resulting in improved machine performance and response.
  • Lock-up clutch transmission, matching the engine power to increase fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
  • Z-bar linkage provides high breakout force at ground level.
  • Easy-to-load performance series buckets improve material retention and reduce dig times, significantly improving productivity and fuel efficiency.
DO MORE WITH LESS FUEL
  • Deep system integration results in lower fuel consumption.
  • Significantly more fuel efficient than both the H and K Series loaders.
  • Power dense engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
  • Standard productive economy mode delivers more fuel savings with minimal productivity impact.
DESIGNED FOR OPERATORS
  • The next generation easily adjustable seat with updated styling and a revolutionary suspension system. It comes in three trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness.
  • Sound-suppression, seals, and damping cab mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter work environment.
SAFELY HOME EVERY DAY
  • 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.
SAVE ON SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
  • Extended service intervals including -
  1. Engine oil and engine oil filter change interval up to 1000 hours (Tier 4 Final, Stage IV, and Stage V only)
  2. Hydraulic filter change interval up to 1000 hours
  3. Transmission oil change interval up to 2000 hours
  • One-piece tilting hood makes cab access fast and easy.
TECHNOLOGY THAT GETS WORK DONE
  • Developed to monitor, manage, and enhance your job site operations.
  • Payload provides accurate weighing* of the materials you are loading and hauling. Payload data is displayed in real-time to improve productivity and reduce overloading.
  • Detect enhances awareness of the environment around working equipment and provides alerts to help keep people and assets safe on the job site.
PURPOSE BUILT SPECIALTY MODELS
INDUSTRIAL & WASTE
  • Engineered for work in Transfer Stations, Recycling Depots, Scrap Yards and Demolition Sites.
  • Factory installed guarding improves uptime; guards protect axle seals, steering cylinders, crankcase, front frame, powertrain, tilt cylinders, lower cab and rear box. Package includes reinforced service centers, heavy duty cable steps, lift cylinder baffles, narrow front fenders, and steel rear fender deflectors.
RELIABILITY YOU CAN COUNT ON
  • Cat C9.3 engine offers increased power density with a combination of proven electronic 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 (Tier 4 Final, Stage IV, and Stage V only).
  • Features an electric fuel priming pump and a fuel/water separator.
  • Thorough component design and machine validation processes result in unmatched reliability and uptime.
LONG TERM VALUE AND DURABILITY
  • Heavy-duty transmission and axles handle extreme applications.
  • Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional loop filtration improves hydraulic system strength and component life.
  • Full hydraulic enclosed wet-disc with Integrated Braking System (IBS) and brake wear indicators add valued safety on the job.
BUILT TO PERFORM
  • Increased engine power resulting in improved machine performance and response.
  • Lock-up clutch transmission, matching the engine power to increase fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
  • Z-bar linkage provides high breakout force at ground level.
  • Easy-to-load performance series buckets improve material retention and reduce dig times, significantly improving productivity and fuel efficiency.
  • Manual/automatic differential locks increase traction and reduce tire scuffing compared to other traction aids, reducing your operating costs.
  • Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.*
  • Automatic idle engine shutdown system significantly reduces idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.

    * Optional configurations and equipment may vary from region to region and requires conformance to Caterpillar payload policy. Consult your dealer or Caterpillar representative for details.
DO MORE WITH LESS FUEL
  • Deep system integration results in lower fuel consumption.
  • Significantly more fuel efficient than both the H and K Series loaders.
  • Power dense engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
  • Standard productive economy mode delivers more fuel savings with minimal productivity impact.
  • New split-flow oil system uses multi-viscosity oil to improve fuel economy.
DESIGNED FOR OPERATORS
  • The next generation easily adjustable seat with updated styling and a revolutionary suspension system. It comes in three trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness.
  • Sound-suppression, seals, and damping 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.
  • Electrohydraulic (EH) controls, parking brake, and Single Axis Lever (SAL) lift and tilt function allow for better handling and control management.
  • Smart ergonomic controls are easy to use, intuitive, anduser-friendly.
  • Touchscreen multi-function color display keeps operators focused.
  • The next generation of ride control works as a shock absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain.
  • Inclined steps and convenient grab handles ease accessibility to the operating space.
  • Extended windows enhance visibility while convex and spot mirrors extend the driver’s view on the sides and rear.
SAFELY HOME EVERY DAY
  • 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.
  • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
  • Optional rear object detection radar system warns you of an object in critical zone while going in reverse, enhancing job site safety.
SAVE ON SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
  • Extended service intervals including -
  1. Engine oil and engine oil filter change interval up to 1000 hours (Tier 4 Final, Stage IV, and Stage V only)
  2. Hydraulic filter change interval up to 1000 hours
  3. Transmission oil change interval up to 2000 hours
  • One-piece tilting hood makes cab access fast and easy.
  • Electrical service centers enhance convenience and accessibility.
  • Access to fuel fill and daily maintenance points means less servicing time is required.
  • Optional integrated Cat autolube system provides full lube system monitoring and diagnostic test visibility.
  • Remote flash support.
  • Longer tire life with on-the-go traction aids.
TECHNOLOGY THAT GETS WORK DONE
  • Developed to monitor, manage, and enhance your job site operations.
  • Payload provides accurate weighing* of the materials you are loading and hauling. Payload data is displayed in real-time to improve productivity and reduce overloading.
  • Detect enhances awareness of the environment around working equipment and provides alerts to help keep people and assets safe on the job site.
  • Link wirelessly connects you to your equipment, giving you access to essential information you need to know to run your business. Gain valuable insight into how your machine or fleet is performing allowing you to make timely, fact-based decisions that can boost job site efficiency and productivity.
  • Optional Advanced Productivity subscription provides comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.

    * Not legal for trade.
PURPOSE BUILT SPECIALTY MODELS
INDUSTRIAL & WASTE
  • Engineered for work in Transfer Stations, Recycling Depots, Scrap Yards and Demolition Sites.
  • Factory installed guarding improves uptime; guards protect axle seals, steering cylinders, crankcase, front frame, powertrain, tilt cylinders, lower cab and rear box. Package includes reinforced service centers, heavy duty cable steps, lift cylinder baffles, narrow front fenders, and steel rear fender deflectors.
  • Factory installed options available are solid tires, rear machine guard, rubber mounted cab glass, engine precleaner, powered and filtered cab precleaner and variable pitch cooling fan.
  • Cat Waste Buckets available separately are Load & Carry, Tamp & Clamp, Dozing, and Grapple can be fitted with steel or rubber cutting edge.
STEEL MILL
  • Designed for the challenging work environment of steel mills and slag handling applications.
  • Purpose built package provides heat protection for hydraulic hoses and electrical harness and components.
  • Guarding protects tilt cylinder, working lights and the underside of the machine.
  • Reinforcement strengthens fenders, wheel wells, service centers and metallic roof.
  • A Rear Egress System provides emergency stair down the back of the machine.
  • Ground level redundant controls including transmission, engine, and parking brake controls provide an added level of safety.
  • The CAT Slag Bucket is available separately.
CORROSION RESISTANCE
  • Designed for corrosive environments such as fertilizer plants, chemical industries, agriculture, salt water ports and others.
  • Factory protection of all machine components that can be affected by corrosive materials.
  • Treatment includes E-Coat cooler cores, additional coating on main hydraulic valve, heat treated shrink sealant on hydraulic hoses, fittings and electrical wiring, all hinges greased, Zerust® vapor enclosure for electronic components, extra heavy duty alternator, turbine engine precleaner and varnish protection on engine compartment, internal chassis and all non-painted metallic parts.

Engine - Tier 4 Final/Stage IV

Emissions
Tier 4/Stage IV

Dimensions - High Lift

Note
All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires.
Rack Back - Carry Height
49 degrees
Ground Clearance
1.42ft
Tread Width
7.33ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.83ft
Wheel Base
11.67ft
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
11.58ft
Rack Back at Ground
39 degrees
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2.58ft
Height - Top of ROPS
11.75ft
Rack Back - Maximum Lift
71 degrees
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
15.75ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket
26.67ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
13.5ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
8.17ft
Height - Top of Hood
9.17ft
Maximum Width over Tires
9.92ft

Sound

With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)**
108 LWA***
Note (3)
***European Union Directive 2000/14/EC as amended by 2005/88/EC.
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)
70dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)**
69dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013)
76 dB(A)*
Note (2)
**For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the EU Directives.
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)
109dB(A)
Note (1)
*Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.

Dimensions - Standard Lift

Rack Back - Maximum Lift
56 degrees
Rack Back at Ground
41 degrees
Ground Clearance
1.42ft
Maximum Width over Tires
9.92ft
Height - Top of Hood
9.17ft
Note
All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires.
Rack Back - Carry Height
50 degrees
Tread Width
7.33ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
14.67ft
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
11.58ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket
25.58ft
Wheel Base
11.67ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
12.58ft
Height - Top of ROPS
11.75ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
8.17ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.83ft
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2.25ft

Engine

Note
The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.6 kg of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes.
Peak Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm - SAE J1995
1275ft·lbf
Maximum Net Torque - 1,100 rpm
1220ft·lbf
Peak Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm - ISO 14396
1261ft·lbf
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - ISO 9249
299HP
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - ISO 9249 - Metric
303HP
Emissions
Tier 4/Stage IV
Displacement
568in³
Engine Model
Cat C9.3
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - ISO 14396 - Metric
336HP
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - ISO 14396
331HP
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - SAE J1349
299HP
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - SAE J1349 - Metric
303HP
Net Power - ISO 9249
299HP
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - SAE J1995 - Metric
341HP
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - SAE J1995
337HP

Operating Specifications

Note (2)
Full compliance to ISO 143971:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
Note (1)
For a machine configuration as defined under "Weight."
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - With Tire Deflection
35626lb
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection
38396lb
Breakout Force
44075lbf

Bucket Capacities

Bucket Range
3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³)

Transmission

Reverse - 4
24.5mile/h
Note
Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 826 mm (32.5 in) roll radius.
Forward - 4
24.5mile/h
Reverse - 3
16.5mile/h
Forward - 2
8.1mile/h
Reverse - 2
9.3mile/h
Reverse - 1
4.7mile/h
Forward - 1
4.2mile/h
Forward - 3
14.4mile/h

Weights

Note
Weight based on a machine configuration with Michelin 26.5R25 XHA2 L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, manual diff lock/open axles (front/rear), power train guard, secondary steering,
Operating Weight
54871lb

Service Refill Capacities

DEF Tank
4.4gal (US)
Crankcase
6.5gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Front
15.1gal (US)
Hydraulic Tank
33gal (US)
Transmission
14.3gal (US)
Fuel Tank
79.8gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Rear
15.1gal (US)
Cooling System
18.9gal (US)

Hydraulic System

Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure
4496psi
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total
10.7s
Implement Pump Type
Variable Displacement Piston
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,200 rpm
95gal/min

Buckets

Bucket Capacities
3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³)

Standard/Optional Features

Standard Equipment:

  • Note
    • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.
  • Power Train
    • Engine, Cat C9.3 meets Tier 3/Stage IIIA equivalent or Tier 4/Final/Stage IV emission standards
    • Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) wih Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models)
    • Fuel priming pump (electric)
    • Fuel/water separator
    • Precleaner, engine air intake
    • Economy Mode (selectable)
    • Transmission, automatic planetary power shift (4F/4R)
    • Torque converter, locking clutch with free wheel stator
    • Switch, transmission neutralizer lockout
    • Axles, manually actuated differential lock front axle, open differential rear axle
    • Axles, ecology drains
    • Brakes, full hydraulic enclosed wet-disc with Integrated Braking System (IBS)
    • Brake wear indicators
    • Parking brake, disc and caliper
    • Fan, radiator, on demand
  • Operator Environment
    • Cab, pressurized and sound suppressed (ROPS/FOPS)
    • Viscous mounts
    • Multi-function 18 cm (7 in) color touch-screen display for rear vision camera, clock and machine parameters
    • EH controls, SAL (single axis lever) lift and tilt function
    • Steering, EH joystick, speed sensing with force feedback
    • Radio ready (entertainment) includes antenna, speakers and converter (12V, 10-amp)
    • Air conditioner, heater, and defroster (auto temp and fan)
    • EH parking brake
    • Beverage holders (2) with storage compartment for cell phone/MP3 player
    • Bucket/work tool function lockout
    • Coat hook (2)
    • Cab air filter
    • Ergonomic cab access ladders and handrails
    • Horn, electric
    • Light, two dome (cab)
    • Mirrors, rearview external with integrated spot mirrors
    • Post mounted membrane 16 switch keypad
    • 2 receptables, 12V
    • Seat, Cat Comfort (cloth) air suspension
    • Seat belt, 51 mm (2 in) retractable, with indicator
    • Sun visor, front
    • Wet-arm wipers/washers front and rear, intermittent front wiper
    • Window, sliding (left and right sides)
    • Cab tie-off
  • Computerized Monitoring System
    • With following gauges: Speedometer/tachometer; Digital gear range indicator; Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) level (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models); Temperature: engine coolant, hydraulic oil, transmission oil; Fuel level
    • With following warning indicators: Regeneration; Temperature: axle oil, engine intake manifold; Pressure: engine oil, fuel pressure hi/low, primary steering oil, service brake oil; Battery voltage hi/low, primary steering oil, service brake oil; Battery voltage hi/low; Engine air filter restriction; Hydraulic oil filter restriction; Hydraulic oil low; Parking brake; DEF low level (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models); Transmission filter bypass
  • Electrical And Lighting
    • Batteries (2), maintenance free 1,400 CCA
    • Ignition key; start/stop switch
    • Starter, electric, heavy duty
    • Starting and charging system (24V)
    • Lighting system: Four halogen work lights (cab mounted); Two halogen roading lights (with signals); Two halogen rear vision lights (hood mounted)
    • Alarm, back-up
    • Alternator, 145-amp brushed
    • Main disconnect switch
    • Receptacle start (cables not included)
  • Cat Connect Technologies
    • Link technologies: Product Link
    • Detect technologies: rear vision camera
  • Linkage
    • Linkage, Z-bar, cast crosstube/tilt lever
    • Kickout, lift and tilt, automatic
  • Hydraulics
    • Hydraulic system, load sensing
    • Steering, load sensing
    • Ride control, 2V
    • Remote diagnostic pressure taps
    • Hoses, Cat XT
    • Oil sampling valves
  • Fluids
    • Premixed extended life coolant with freeze protection to -34° C (-29° F)
  • Other Standard Equipment
    • Hood, non-metallic power tilting
    • Service centers (electrical and hydraulic)
    • Platform, window washing
    • Auto idle shutdown
    • Fenders, front with mud-flap/rear with extension
    • Ecology drains for engine, transmission, and hydraulics
    • Ether aid ready
    • Grill, airborne debris
    • Filters: fuel, engine air, engine oil, hydraulic oil, transmission
    • Fuel cooler
    • Grease zerks
    • Hitch, drawbar with pin
    • Precleaner rain cap
    • Sight gauges: engine coolant, hydraulic oil, and transmission oil level
    • Toolbox
    • Vandlism protection caplocks

Optional Equipment:

  • Note
    • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.
  • Power Train
    • Axles - Automatic front/rear differential locks; Axle oil cooler; Extreme temperature seals; Seal guards
    • Fan, VPF (variable pitch fan), automatic and manual control
    • Radiator, high debris with wider fin spacing
  • Operator Environment
    • Door, remote opening system
    • Cover, HVAC metallic
    • EH controls, SAL 3rd function - Additional roller switch for 4th function
    • EH controls, joyhstick lift and tilt - Additional integrated roller switches for 3rd and 4th functions
    • Filter, carbon fresh air
    • Mirrors, heated rearview external with integrated spot mirrors
    • Precleaner, HVAC
    • Precleaner, HVAC (RESPA)
    • Radio, AM/FM/CD/USB/MP3 Bluetooth with Satellite Sirius XM
    • Radio, CB ready
    • Seat, heated air suspension
    • Seat belt, 76 mm (3 in) retractable, with indicator
    • Steering, EH wheel with directional FNR shifter and gear selector - Additional FNR with implement controls
    • Roof, metallic
    • Steering, secondary
    • Sun visor, rear
    • Windows, rubber mounted
    • Windows, with front guard
    • Windows, with heavy duty front guard
    • Windows, with full guards front, rear and sides
  • Electrical And Lighting
    • Four additional auxiliary halogen cab mounted work lights or
    • Two additional auxiliary front HI LED and two additional auxiliary rear LED cab mounted work lights with 2 LED work lights in the radiator grill and LED front turn signals also includes replacement of the standard four halogen cab mounted work lights with four LED work lights (the standard offering and only roading light available is the halogen roading light)
    • Warning amber strobe beacon
    • Reversing strobes
    • External seat belt indicator light
    • Speed limiter - 20 km/h (Europe only)
  • Cat Connect Technologies
    • Link technologies: VIMS
    • Payload technologies: Advanced Productivity subscription; Cat Production Measurement 2.0; Printer; Aggregate Autodig
    • Detect technologies: Cat Rear Object Detection
    • Machine Security System
  • Hydraulics
    • 3rd function with Ride Control: Standard linkage; High lift linkage; Forestry linkage
    • 4th function with Ride Control: Standard linkage; High lift linkage; Forestry linkage
  • Fluids
    • Premixed extended life coolant with freeze protection to -50° C (-58° F)
  • Starters, Batteries, And Alternators
    • Cold start - 120V
    • Cold start - 240V
  • Linkage
    • High lift
    • Extended capacity
    • Quick coupler ready
  • Work Tools
    • Performance Series buckets
    • Fusion quick coupler
    • Forks, pallet
    • Forks, logging
  • Other Optional Equipment
    • Cat Autolube System
    • Fenders, roading
    • Guard, power train
    • Oil change, high speed engine
    • Precleaner, turbine
    • Precleaner, trash
    • Wheel chocks
  • Purpose Bult Specialty Models
    • Aggregate Handler
    • Industrial and Waste Handler
    • Steel Mill
    • Corrosion Resistance

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Operating Weight
54871 lb
Net Power - ISO 9249
299 HP
Bucket Capacities
3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³)
Bucket Range
3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³)
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Maximum Gross Power
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