987 Wheel Loader

The Right Fit for the Job

The Cat® 987 Wheel Loader is the right-sized production machine for quarry, aggregate, utility mining, and block handling applications. With payloads up to 14 tons, low fuel burn per ton, and durability designed for up to 18,000 hours before rebuild, it helps move more material while lowering total ownership costs.

The Cat® 987 Wheel Loader is the right-sized production machine for quarry, aggregate, utility mining, and block handling applications. With payloads up to 14 tons, low fuel burn per ton, and durability designed for up to 18,000 hours before rebuild, it helps move more material while lowering total ownership costs.

Highlights
Features & Specs
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Equipment Highlights

Achieve Greater Productivity
        
  • Optimized payload options, including 12.5-ton standard payload and 14-ton aggregate configurations, to move more material per pass.
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  • Standard Lift, High Lift and Extended High Lift counterweight configurations for stronger performance and greater material handling capability. 
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  • Visibility over the top of the linkage for greater confidence while loading.
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  • Convenient, responsive electro-hydraulic controls help increase operator productivity.
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  • Optimized 50-ton truck match supports efficient pass matching and strong production.
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  • Extended High Lift provides dump clearance for efficient 775 truck loading. 
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  • Improved visibility and camera/display options increase operator awareness.
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  • Rated payload aligns with the 988 platform; aggregate configurations reach 14 tons.
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  • Common controls support intuitive, consistent operation.
Proven Reliability
        
  • Cat C15 engine is built and tested to meet your most demanding applications.
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  • Cat torque converter with lock-up clutch delivers efficient power transfer while reducing system heat.
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  • High capacity implement pump and valve for fast cycle times, efficient production and low cost per ton.
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  • Maximum responsiveness with Steering and Transmission Integrated Control (STIC™).
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  • Transmission neutralizer pedal helps extend service brake life and allows full power during stationary loading.
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  • Mechanically Actuated Electronic Unit Injection (MEUI™) fuel system and Advanced Diesel Engine Management (ADEM™) A5 electronic control module manage fuel delivery for optimum performance and quick engine response.
Long-Term Value and Durability
        
  • Advanced lift arm, crossmember and reinforced frame design for improved durability, longer component life and confidence in demanding applications.
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  • Robust transmission delivers long life and smooth, consistent shifting.
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  • Advanced Productivity Electronic Control Shifting (APECS) helps maintain momentum when traveling on grades.
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  • Positive Flow Control (PFC) hydraulic system helps increase efficiency, bucket feel, and responsiveness with consistent performance.
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  • Advanced filtration system for extended performance and reliability of the hydraulic system.
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  • Impeller Clutch Torque Converter (ICTC) helps minimize tire spin by allowing torque to adjust to underfoot conditions.
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  • Common bucket compatibility across lift arrangements and compatibility with legacy 988 GC buckets to simplify fleet management and help protect attachment investments.
Powerful Efficiency
        
  • Optimized engine power and hydraulics deliver fast cycles and precise implement control.
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  • Fuel-efficient performance helps to lower cost per ton.
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  • Payload and counterweight options support efficient application matching.
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  • Telematics, remote services, and compatibility help reduce complexity.
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  • Fully integrated electronic engine controls make your fuel go farther.
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  • Engine Idle Management System and Auto Engine Idle Shutdown reduces idle RPM and maximize fuel efficiency.
Technology for Safe, Productive Operation
        
  • Cat Technologies developed to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
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  • Cat Payload ready provides accurate weighing* of the materials you are loading and hauling. Payload data is displayed in real-time to improve productivity and reduce overloading.
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  • Optional Cat Detect enhances awareness of the environment around working equipment and provides alerts to help keep people and assets safe on the jobsite.
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  • Product 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.
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  • Optional Advanced Productivity subscription provides comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.
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  • Standard work tool recognition provides awareness of bucket install.
*Not legal for trade.
Work Safer Every Day
        
  • Standard secondary steering and a seat belt reminder system with motion inhibit help support safer operation and operator confidence.
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  • Standard rear-vision camera, LED work lights, and heated mirrors enhance visibility in demanding working conditions. Optional Object Detection and Surround Vision, help boost operator awareness. 
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  • Adjustable to any payload configuration, providing a smoother ride and more responsive machine — without compromise.
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  • Standard stairway/access arrangement supports safer entry and exit from the machine.
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  • Computerized monitoring with warning indicators helps operators identify issues early and reduce unplanned downtime.
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  • Standard Rear Vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
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  • Pressurized cabin with filtered air and reduced sound levels.
Save on Service and Maintenance
        
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System with temperature monitoring to help extend tire life, reduce downtime and improve operating confidence.
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  • High-speed oil change system helps reduce service time with a remote port and components for faster oil changes.
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  • Grouped service points provide easy access to critical daily service checks.
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  • Electro-hydraulic controls provide smooth, precise operation, helping reduce operator effort and support productive performance.
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  • Durable lift arm, reinforced frames, and enhanced crossmember design help extend component life and reduce lifecycle costs.
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  • Reduced waste with maintenance-free batteries.
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  • Ecology drains to help prevent spills and allow for easy service.
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  • Vehicle Information Management System (VIMS™) notifications to help resolve problems before failure.
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  • Extended maintenance intervals help maximize uptime while reducing fluid and filter replacement costs.
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  • Optional high-speed oil change system, Fast Fill and cold-weather fluid options to simplify service, reduce downtime and support reliable operation in harsh conditions.
Operator Comfort and Control
        
  • Ergonomically positioned controls feature large, backlit switches and LED indicators, while the updated keypad and standardized switch layout simplify operation and enhance cab familiarity.
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  • Deluxe and Premium cab options with powered precleaner for improved operator comfort, control and cab air quality.
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  • Two-position rocker switch easily activates the electro-hydraulic parking brake.
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  • Reduced vibrations from isolated cab mounts and seat air suspension.
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  • Load-sensing hydraulic steering delivers precise, responsive machine control to help operators maneuver confidently and efficiently in demanding loading applications.
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  • Automatic bucket lift kickout/positioner automates lift and return functions, reducing joystick inputs and operator fatigue while delivering consistent bucket positioning for smoother, more efficient operation.

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Features + Specs

Equipment Features
Optional Equipment
Specs
  • Front: Fixed
  • Rear: Trunnion
  • Oscillation Angle: +/-12.5°
  • Oscillation Angle - Chain Arrangement: +/-8.5°
  • Brakes: ISO 3450:2011
  • Engine Power - ISO 14396:2002: 449 hp
  • Engine Power - ISO 14396:2002 (DIN): 455 hp (metric)
  • Engine Model: Cat® C15
  • Rated Speed: 2000 rpm
  • Peak Power Speed: 1600 rpm
  • Gross Power - SAE J1995:2014: 456 hp
  • Net Power - SAE J1349:2011: 448 hp
  • Bore: 5.4 in
  • Stroke: 6.75 in
  • Displacement: 927 in³
  • Peak Torque (1,200 rpm) - SAE J1995:2014: 1778 lbf·ft
  • Torque Rise: 16%
  • Note (1): Two engine emission options are available: 1. Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, and Japan 2014 emission standards. 2. Meets Brazil MAR-1 emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3 and EU Stage IIIA.
  • Note (2): Net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan at minimum speed, air intake system, exhaust system, and alternator.
  • Note (3): Net power at the flywheel when the fan is at maximum speed is 304 kW / 408 hp per SAE reference conditions.
  • Transmission Type: Cat planetary power shift
  • Forward - 1: 5 mile/h
  • Forward - 2: 8 mile/h
  • Reverse - 1: 5 mile/h
  • Reverse - 2: 8 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Forward 1: Lock-up disabled
  • Direct Drive - Forward 2: 8 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Forward 3: 14 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Forward 4: 24 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Reverse 1: Lock-up disabled
  • Direct Drive - Reverse 2: 9 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Reverse 3: 16 mile/h
  • Direct Drive - Reverse 4: 25.4 mile/h
  • Note: Travel speeds based on 35/65-R33 tires.
  • ROPS/FOPS: Rollover Protective Structure/Falling Objects Protective Structure (ROPS/FOPS) meet ISO 3471:2008 and ISO 3449:2005 Level II standards
  • Rack Back: 3.8 s
  • Raise: 7.5 s
  • Dump: 3 s
  • Lower Float Down: 4.6 s
  • Total Hydraulic Cycle Time - Empty Bucket: 18.9 s
  • Air Conditioning: The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134y (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.51 kg (3.3 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of 0.001 metric tonnes (0.001 tons).
  • Operating Weight - Standard Lift: 106823 lb
  • Bucket Capacity Range: 6.4-9.6 m3 (8.3-12.5 yd3)
  • Operating Weight - High Lift: 111743 lb
  • Operating Weight - Extended High Lift : 113847 lb
  • Rated Payload - Standard Lift (Quarry Face) : 12.5 ton (US)
  • Rated Payload - Standard Lift (Loose Material) : 14 ton (US)
  • Rated Payload - High Lift (Quarry Face): 12.5 ton (US)
  • Rated Payload - High Lift (Loose Material) : 14 ton (US)
  • Rated Payload - Extended High Lift (Quarry Face) : 12.5 ton (US)
  • Bucket Capacity Range - Quarry Face : 6.4-7.6 m3 (8.3-10 yd3)
  • Bucket Capacity Range - Material Handler : 6.9-9.6 m3 (9-12.5 yd3)
  • Cat Truck Match - Standard Lift: 770/735/740/745
  • Cat Truck Match - High Lift: 772/773/707
  • Cat Truck Match - Extended High Lift: 772/773/775
  • Fuel Tank: 141 gal (US)
  • Fuel Tank - Short Lift: 127 gal (US)
  • Cooling System: 26 gal (US)
  • Engine Crankcase: 9 gal (US)
  • Diesel Exhaust Fluid Tank: 6 gal (US)
  • Transmission: 20 gal (US)
  • Differential - Final Drives - Front: 49 gal (US)
  • Differential - Final Drives - Rear: 45 gal (US)
  • Hydraulic System Factory Fill: 94 gal (US)
  • Hydraulic System - Tank Only: 34 gal (US)
  • Note: Cat U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Japan 2014 engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) and are compatible* with ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels** up to: - 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)*** - 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels Cat engines meeting Brazil MAR-1 emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3, EU Stage IIIA are compatible* with diesel fuel blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels*** up to: - 100% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)**** - 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated vegetable oil) and GTL (gas-to-liquid) fuels Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer or Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations (SEBU6250) for details. * While Caterpillar engines are compatible with these alternative fuels, some regions may not allow their use. ** Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. *** Engines with no aftertreatment devices are compatible with higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel (for use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer). **** For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer.
  • Steering System - Circuit: Pilot, load sensing
  • Steering System - Pump: Piston, variable displacement
  • Maximum Flow at 2,165 rpm: 52 gpm
  • Relief Valve Setting - Steering: 4000 psi
  • Total Steering Angle: 70°
  • Steering Cycle Times - High Idle: 3 s
  • Steering Cycle Times - Low Idle: 5.2 s
  • Lift/Tilt System - Circuit: EH - Load Sense
  • Lift/Tilt System - Pump: Variable displacement piston
  • Maximum Flow at 2,165 rpm: 159 gpm
  • Relief Valve Setting - Lift/Tilt: 4598 psi
  • Cylinders, Double Acting - Lift, Bore and Stroke: 190 mm x 1216 mm (7.5 in x 48 in)
  • Cylinders, Double Acting - Tilt, Bore and Stroke: 170 mm x 722 mm (6.7 in x 28.4 in)
  • Pilot System: Variable displacement piston
  • Relief Valve Setting: 500 psi
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008): 74 dB(A)
  • Machine Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008): 113 dB(A)
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)*: 73 dB(A)
  • Machine Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)**: 110 dB(A)
  • Note (1): * For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the “EU Directives” and “UK Directives.”
  • Note (2): ** European Union Directive “2000/14/EC" and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701.
  • Note (3): The machine sound power level was measured according to ISO 6395:2008. The measurement was conducted at 70% of the maximum engine cooling fan speed.
  • Note (4): The operator sound pressure level was measured according to ISO 6396:2008. The measurement was conducted at 70% of the maximum engine cooling fan speed.
  • Note (5): Hearing protection may be needed when the machine is operated with a cab that is not properly maintained or when the doors or windows are open for extended periods or in a noisy environment.
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008): 73 dB(A)
  • Machine Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008): 113 dB(A)
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)*: 72 dB(A)
  • Machine Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)**: 110 dB(A)
  • Note (1): * For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the “EU Directives” and “UK Directives.”
  • Note (2): ** European Union Directive “2000/14/EC" and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701.
  • Note (3): The machine sound power level was measured according to ISO 6395:2008. The measurement was conducted at 70% of the maximum engine cooling fan speed.
  • Note (4): The operator sound pressure level was measured according to ISO 6396:2008. The measurement was conducted at 70% of the maximum engine cooling fan speed.
  • Note (5): Hearing protection may be needed when the machine is operated with a cab that is not properly maintained or when the doors or windows are open for extended periods or in a noisy environment.
  • Ground to Top of ROPS: 13.5 ft
  • Ground to Top of Exhaust Stacks: 13.3 ft
  • Ground to Top of Hood: 10.7 ft
  • Ground to Fuel Tank Clearance: 2.3 ft
  • Rear Axle - Centerline to Bumper: 10.3 ft
  • Front Axle Centerline to Bucket Tip: 15.6 ft
  • Wheel Base: 12.5 ft
  • Maximum Overall Length: 38.2 ft
  • Ground to Lower Hitch Clearance: 1.5 ft
  • Ground to Center of Front Axle: 3.2 ft
  • Clearance at Maximum Lift (45° Dump): 11.5 ft
  • Rack Back Angle at Ground Level: 40 degrees
  • Rack Back Angle at Carry: 50 degrees
  • B-Pin Height - Maximum Lift: 17.6 ft
  • Maximum Overall Height - Bucket Raised: 24.4 ft
  • Rack Angle at Maximum Lift: 63 degrees
  • Dump Angle at Maximum Lift: 46 degrees
  • Reach at Maximum Lift (45° Dump): 7.5 ft
  • Note: Specifications are calculated with 6.9 m3 (9.0 yd3 ) rock bucket equipped with Michelin XLDD1 35/65 R33 tires.
  • Ground to Top of ROPS: 13.5 ft
  • Ground to Top of Exhaust Stacks: 13.3 ft
  • Ground to Top of Hood: 10.7 ft
  • Ground to Fuel Tank Clearance: 2.2 ft
  • Rear Axle - Centerline to Bumper: 10.3 ft
  • Front Axle Centerline to Bucket Tip: 16.7 ft
  • Wheel Base: 12.5 ft
  • Maximum Overall Length: 39.3 ft
  • Ground to Lower Hitch Clearance: 1.5 ft
  • Ground to Center of Front Axle: 3.2 ft
  • Clearance at Maximum Lift (45° Dump): 12.8 ft
  • Rack Back Angle at Ground Level: 43 °
  • Rack Back Angle at Carry: 53 °
  • B-Pin Height - Maximum Lift: 18.9 ft
  • Maximum Overall Height - Bucket Raised: 25.6 ft
  • Rack Angle at Maximum Lift: 61 °
  • Dump Angle at Maximum Lift: 46 °
  • Reach at Maximum Lift (45° Dump): 7.5 ft
  • Note: Specifications are calculated with 6.9 m3 (9.0 yd3 ) rock bucket equipped with Michelin XLDD1 35/65 R33 tires.
  • Ground to Top of ROPS: 13.5 ft
  • Ground to Top of Exhaust Stacks: 13.3 ft
  • Ground to Top of Hood: 10.7 ft
  • Ground to Fuel Tank Clearance: 2.3 ft
  • Rear Axle - Centerline to Bumper: 10.3 ft
  • Front Axle Centerline to Bucket Tip: 14.1 ft
  • Wheel Base: 12.5 ft
  • Maximum Overall Length: 36.7 ft
  • Ground to Lower Hitch Clearance: 1.5 ft
  • Ground to Center of Front Axle: 3.2 ft
  • Clearance at Maximum Lift (45° Dump) : 10 ft
  • Rack Back Angle at Ground Level: 40 degrees
  • Rack Back Angle at Carry: 49 degrees
  • B-Pin Height - Maximum Lift: 16.1 ft
  • Maximum Overall Height - Bucket Raised: 22.9 ft
  • Rack Angle at Maximum Lift: 62 degrees
  • Dump Angle at Maximum Lift: 46 degrees
  • Reach at Maximum Lift (45° Dump) : 7.2 ft
  • Note: Specifications are calculated with 6.9 m3 (9.0 yd3 ) rock bucket equipped with Michelin XLDD1 35/65 R33 tires.
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