CATERPILLAR has announced the 2019 product upgrade package for its Cat M series medium wheel loaders, which features a host of technology advances, including new machine configurations.
The advances for the M wheel loader range (950M-982M) are said to include reduced maintenance costs via extended service intervals; enhanced operator comfort with new seats and suspensions; emissions control strategies to meet EU Stage V standards (EU only); added machine configurations (982M forestry machine and 982M high lift); expanded productivity measurement tools; remote software update capability and refinements in ground engaging tool and coupler systems.
New configurations in the medium wheel loader line-up include the 982M forestry machine and the 982M high lift. The new 982M forestry machine (logger) is capable lifting 12,700 kg with a pin-on mill yard grapple. Changes from the standard 982M include a larger tilt cylinder, upgraded rear frame, and heavier counterweight.
The 982M high lift, compared with the standard lift version, increases dump clearance under the bucket pin from 15’6”, to 16’10”. Configuration changes from the standard 982M include a new lift arm, new tilt cylinder, new tilt link, and the counterweight from the 982M aggregate handler.
Cat said the new EU Stage V models would save maintenance costs by extending engine oil filter and hydraulic oil filter change intervals from 500 hours up to 1,000 hours. Several fuel and engine oil filters are also being converted from spin-on to cartridge-type, which will include fewer parts to replace at servicing and less costly replacement parts.
The new seats and suspension offers three trim levels – comfort, deluxe and premium plus – and feature high-visibility, seat adjustment controls and stiffness adjustments. A new suspension for deluxe and premium plus trim levels increases dampening at the top and bottom of the seat level, which is described as providing additional suspension stability.
Payload is managed through the Cat Advanced Productivity app, a web-based tool used to visualise production-related data and complements Cat PAYLOAD.
Remote flash support allows the dealer to push software update files to the customer’s machine and authorises the user to initiate installation via the dealer service portal.
The Advansys ground engaging tool system is a Cat tip system, designed with the aim of reducing drag and increasing productivity. The new tip shapes place wear-resistant material in the most vulnerable areas, said to “significantly” increase service life, while a stronger adapter nose results in up to 50% less stress, and improved adapter-nose geometry reduces sliding wear on adapter surfaces. The improved tip shapes shadow the adapter straps and welds for longer adapter life. New 980M/982M buckets are released with weld on adapters; 950M – 982M bolt-on adapters are interchangeable with the former J and K Series.
Additional updates as part of the package include a new universal coupler for models 966M-972M, a reduced offset offering 4% increase in breakout force, and new LED and halogen work and roading light packages.
