CATERPILLAR has announced that its next generation of 926, 930 and 938 wheel loaders boast a range of features designed to boost productivity by simplifying machine operation.
The small wheel loaders offer industry-specific configurations to handle agriculture, waste, forestry, aggregate and snow removal applications. Customised models can be equipped direct from the factory or through aftermarket upgrade kits installed by a Cat dealer.
The Cat adaptive engine RPM feature automatically adjusts engine speed based on operator input. The 1,200 to 1,500-RPM working range is said to make the loaders more fuel efficient, while larger pumps run at slower speeds for less wear and longer service life.
These new loaders feature four customised powertrain operating modes: Utility mode, Torque mode, Hystat mode, and Ice mode.
Cat Payload comes standard on these new models, while in-cab pushbutton kickout settings for upper, lower and tilt allow operators to match bucket position to the task. Controlled by a joystick button, a new bucket shake feature is said to provide ‘precise’ metering of materials in batching or spreading applications and cleans the bucket.
Smaller cab pillars, increased window area, heated and electric rear view mirrors with lower parabolic, and standard rear view camera combine to improve visibility. New options include a multi-view camera delivering a bird’s-eye view around the loader, and rear object detection with visual and audible alarms provides additional alerts to the rear of the machine.
Up to 50 different operating profiles can be set, which the loader can recall when an operator starts the machine. The next gen loaders come with two steering options – new force feedback joystick steer control and a low-effort steering wheel. New joystick steering allows the loaders to travel at speeds reaching 25mph.
Engine oil and filters and fuel filter service intervals increase to 1,000 hours. All daily service items are within easy reach, and the new cabin filter is serviced from ground level.
