Cat says new loaders deliver increased productivity

Offering premium performance in the 9- to 11-metric ton (10- to 12-ton) wheel loader class, the new Cat 980 and 982 medium wheel loaders are up to 10 percent more productive and lower maintenance costs up to 20 percent when compared to the previous 980M and 982M powershift models, the company says.

The Cat 980 XE and 982 XE models feature a Caterpillar designed and manufactured continuous variable t transmission (CVT) that delivers increased fuel efficiencies up to 35 percent and lower maintenance costs up to 25 percent compared with the M series models. These new wheel loaders include an expanded technology platform designed to increase machine performance and improve operating efficiency. 

Standard Cat Payload with Assist on all 980 and 982 series loaders provides an accurate weighing of bucket payloads, so operators can load to target the first time every time, Cat says. Optional Cat Advanced Payload expands the system’s functionality with lists-management, multitask- and manual-add modes and tip-off assist. Compatible with third-party scale house software, it can wirelessly integrate the machine in the scale-house process with dispatch for loading (additional subscription required).

The new Cat Autodig with auto set tires promotes proper loading technique to significantly reduce tire slip and loading time. It can automate the complete bucket loading cycle to deliver consistently high bucket fill factors for up to 10 percent more productivity, according to the manufacturer. Also standard with this feature are application profiles, in which the press of one button sets multiple machine parameters to optimize settings for the application at hand. For the first time in this size class, Caterpillar offers a CVT option, expanding the Cat medium wheel loader offering.

The 980 XE and 982 XE feature a high-efficiency continuously variable parallel path drive system. Cat says it combines a direct mechanical path from the engine to the wheels with a Hystat variator.

System integration of the Cat CVT, engine, hydraulic and cooling system significantly improve fuel efficiency up to 35 percent by lowering the rated engine speed with high rim pull, the company says.

Access to the new operator’s cab is easy with its wide door, stair-like steps and grab rails for additional stability. The new adjustable suspension seat comes in comfort, deluxe and premium levels that include heated and cooled options for improved year-round comfort. Seat belts are monitored, and the system can be completed with an exterior beacon to enhance job site safety and features increased legroom, sound suppression, seals and viscous cab mounts that lower noise and vibration, Cat says. Next-generation ride control acts as a shock absorber to improve ride comfort over rough terrain.

The loaders’ new dashboard and high-resolution touchscreen are designed to provide intuitive and user-friendly loader control for enhanced performance. A seat-mounted electrohydraulic joystick steering system or conventional steering wheel are available on the 980.

The new loaders now feature a push-to-start system that requires a valid operator ID and a passcode input on the display or with the optional Cat Bluetooth key. It can act as a machine security system with programmable operating restrictions.

The floor-to-ceiling windshield improves forward visibility of the work area, while the standard rear-vision camera along with convex and spot mirrors help to enhance visibility around the machine to improve operating safety, Cat says.

Extended fluid and filter change intervals on the Cat 980- and 982-wheel loaders reduce maintenance costs up to 20 percent and by up to 25 percent on the 980 XE and 982 XE models. All maintenance intervals are now scheduled in 1,000-hour increments, eliminating service downtime every 500 hours. Cat says all models offer convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers and grouped lube points for fast and easy servicing.

Remote services technologies on the new Cat medium wheel loaders can save service trips to the job site and ensure the machine operates at peak performance.

Cat Performance Series buckets balance with the machine’s linkage for higher fill factors and better material retention with the same rated capacity. According to the manufacturer, Cat Work tools are an integral part of the complete machine design.

The new Cat 980 can be equipped with the optional Fusion Quick Coupler, which is designed to deliver quick bucket changes without leaving the cab.