972 XE Wheel Loader

Shift Smarter. Burn Less. Get More Done.

The Cat® 972 XE Wheel Loader is built to move more while burning less. Designed for tough jobs across construction, mining, and industrial sites, it delivers powerful performance with smart systems—including a continuously variable transmission (CVT)—that streamline every pass. Operator-focused features help to enhance safety and control, while fewer service stops and strong dealer support keep your crew productive and your operation ahead of schedule.

The Cat® 972 XE Wheel Loader is built to move more while burning less. Designed for tough jobs across construction, mining, and industrial sites, it delivers powerful performance with smart systems—including a continuously variable transmission (CVT)—that streamline every pass. Operator-focused features help to enhance safety and control, while fewer service stops and strong dealer support keep your crew productive and your operation ahead of schedule.

Highlights
Features & Specs
Photo Gallery

Equipment Highlights

Latest Features
        
  • Cat Detect vision systems scale your jobsite needs to provide increased visibility and help you manage ever-changing conditions that pose unexpected risks potentially leading to injury or repair costs.     
              
    • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently. 
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    • Surround vision provides 360 degree visibility around the machine, including the articulation hitch area, enhancing an operator’s situational awareness.
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  • Collision mitigation system utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warning, people detection, motion inhibit and automatic emergency braking.  Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through Visionlink™.     
              
    • Collision Warning:  Radar specifically targets collision potentials that emerge behind the machine within three detection zones – awareness, caution, and critical alarm zone. 
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    • People Detection:  Smart rear camera highlights people on the in-cab monitor to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine. 
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    • Motion Inhibit:  When the machine remains stationary for a period of time and the rear detection system identifies a potential collision, this feature will prevent the machine from reversing. Additionally, it applies the brakes to avoid unintended coasting, ensuring the machine stays securely in place.
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    • Automatic Emergency Braking:  If the machine is reversing and a collision potential is detected in the machine path, the brakes will automatically engage if the operator does not take action.
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  • Cat Advanced Payload now gives you greater control and efficiency—recipe mode ensures accurate material blends, while expanded split mode simplifies load tracking to boost productivity and reduce errors.
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  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET delivers reliable performance and reduces downtime, helping you maximize productivity with fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
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  • The Auto Set Tires feature has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
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  • Operators can instantly access training videos and feature guides using the on-board QR code*.      
* 972 XE (14C) compared to 972 XE (14B)
Delivering Excellent Fuel Efficiency
        
  • Deep system integration of the Cat continuously variable transmission, engine, hydraulic, and cooling systems results in significantly increased performance and fuel efficiency.
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  • Eliminating the torque converter allows the capability to control engine rpm and machine speed independently, resulting in efficient digging, fine control, and easy operation.
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  • Lower rated engine speed reduces component wear and operating noise.
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  • Power dense engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
Achieve Great Productivity
        
  • Continuously variable transmission delivers smooth, fast acceleration and speed on grade.
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  • Machine maneuvering on grade is made easy with speed-hold and anti-rollback.
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  • Integrated continuously variable transmission provides maximum, steady power at optimal speeds.
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  • Advanced rimpull control for best loading efficiency in the pile and tire wear reduction.
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  • Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors.
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  • Auto Set Tires has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
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  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET delivers reliable performance and reduces downtime, helping you maximize productivity with fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
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  • Application Profiles optimize machine settings for different applications at one push of a button.
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  • Job Aids help operators improve and optimize their operating skills.
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  • Performance Series Buckets utilize a system-based approach to balance bucket shape against the machine’s linkage, resulting in higher fill factors and better material retention when compared with other buckets of the same rated capacity.
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  • Automatic engine idle shutdown system significantly helps to reduce idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.
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  • Dual ride control accumulator system enables a wide payload range and better ride quality.
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  • Standard auto front differential lock provides additional traction when needed.  Auto front and rear differential locks are available as an option.
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  • Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.*
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  • Fusion™ Quick Coupler allows for easy tool changes without leaving the cab, letting the machine move quickly from task to task. 
* Optional configurations and equipment may vary from region to region and require conformance to Caterpillar payload policy. Consult your dealer or Caterpillar representative for details.
Integrated Technology Solutions for Efficient Operation
        
  • Cat Detect vision systems scale your jobsite needs to provide increased visibility and help you manage ever-changing conditions that pose unexpected risks potentially leading to injury or repair costs.     
              
    • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently. 
      •         
    • Surround vision provides 360 degree visibility around the machine, including the articulation hitch area, enhancing an operator’s situational awareness.
      •     
        
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  • Collision mitigation system utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warning, people detection, motion inhibit and automatic emergency braking.  Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through Visionlink™.     
              
    • Collision Warning:  Radar specifically targets collision potentials that emerge behind the machine within three detection zones – awareness, caution, and critical alarm zone. 
      •         
    • People Detection:  Smart rear camera highlights people on the in-cab monitor to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine. 
      •         
    • Motion Inhibit:  When the machine remains stationary for a period of time and the rear detection system identifies a potential collision, this feature will prevent the machine from reversing. Additionally, it applies the brakes to avoid unintended coasting, ensuring the machine stays securely in place.
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    • Automatic Emergency Braking:  If the machine is reversing and a collision potential is detected in the machine path, the brakes will automatically engage if the operator does not take action.
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  • Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.     
              
    • Cat Payload* provides accurate weighing of the bucket payloads. Data is displayed in real time to improve productivity and loading accuracy with manual tip-off.
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    • Visionlink™ provides actionable data insights for all assets – regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer.** Customizable dashboards provide information such as hours, miles, location with mapping, idle time, asset status, asset operation, and fuel utilization. Make informed decisions that help to lower costs, simplify maintenance, and improve safety and security on your jobsite.
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    • Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
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    •  Auto Set Tires feature has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
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  • Cat Advanced Payload now gives you greater control and efficiency—recipe mode ensures accurate material blends, while expanded split mode simplifies load tracking to boost productivity and reduce errors.  Additional features include:     
              
    • Tip Off Assist automatizes load adjustment of the final bucket to match hauling unit target.
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    • Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
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    • e-Ticket allows an operator to generate a weighing ticket and effortlessly send it over the air to any email address.
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    • Optional productivity features within VisionLink™ gathers and summarizes machine telematics and jobsite data from all your equipment. Improve machine efficiency, productivity, utilization and reduce per-unit costs.
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  • The Cat Payload for Trade*** option for Cat Advanced Payload allows you to integrate the scale data directly into your business processes.  It is type approved by the International Organization of Legal Metrology, while retaining all the features of the standard version of Cat Advanced Payload. 
* Not legal for trade.
** Data field availability can vary by equipment manufacturer.
*** Available in Europe and Australia. Country certifications vary.  Contact your Cat dealer for more information.
Reliability You Can Count On
        
  • Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
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  • Equipped with automatic Cat regeneration system, Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump.
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  • Features an electric fuel priming pump, fuel-water separator, and secondary fuel filter.
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  • Thorough component design and machine validation processes result in unmatched reliability and uptime.
Safety Features
        
  • Collision Warning System with Motion Inhibit helps to improve worker safety on the ground.  It utilizes radar and vision sensors to detect hazard potentials, alert operators and inhibit motion in the instant a machine transitions from an inactive to an active state. Audible and visual alerts can deliver the power to see, mitigate and manage hazards that may otherwise go undetected to operators.  People Detection is an effective solution that utilizes both a smart camera and radar to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine.  When machine is stationary for at least 15 seconds, and if the rear detection system detects something in the alarm zone, Motion Inhibit will prevent the machine from engaging reverse gear helping to keep those around the machine safe.
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  • Cat® Command remote control enables equipment operators to work safely outside the machine when working in hazardous environments. Command offers the choice of handheld Consoles* (line-of-sight) or long-distance virtual Stations (non-line-of-sight). Deep integration with machine systems enables efficiency and productivity by maintaining the use of in-cab technology* features (Payload, Assist, etc.).
        *Cat Command is not available in all regions or for all models.  Please consult with your Cat dealer for machine compatibility and availability in your area.
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  • Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work more safely. 
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  • 4-point seat belt kit includes retractors on the lap belts, improving operator comfort and freedom of movement.
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  • Cab access with wide door, optional remote door opening, and inclined steps add solid stability.
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  • Floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors, and rear-vision camera provide industry leading all-around visibility.
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  • Computerized monitoring system includes several warning indicators.
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  • Monitored seat belt is standard and can be enhanced with an optional exterior indicator.
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  • Optional multiview (360˚) vision system helps the operator monitor the surroundings of the machine at all times.
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  • Optional Cat Detect radar technology enhances awareness by monitoring the working environment and alerts operators to hazards.
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  • Optional access light and under-hood service light system to provide illuminated access to the machine and daily checks even in the dark.
Reduce Your Maintenance Time and Costs
        
  • Long fluid and filter change intervals help to reduce downtime.
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  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (optional) allows operator to easily monitor tire pressure from the main machine display helping to improve machine performance, operator ride and operating costs.
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  • Maintenance reminders help to synchronize machine maintenance schedule and reduce operation down time.
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  • Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy ground-level servicing.
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  • Remote Troubleshoot allows you to perform diagnostic and calibration testing on your connected machine remotely.
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  • Remote Flash updates onboard software without a technician being present, potentially reducing update time by as much as 50%.
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  • VisionLink helps you manage fleet location, hours, and maintenance schedules.  It also alerts you for required maintenance and allows you to request service from your local Cat dealer.
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  • Integrated Autolube extends component and service life.
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  • One-piece tilting hood makes engine compartment access fast and easy.
Built for Long-Term Production
        
  • Heavy-duty axles designed to handle extreme applications.
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  • Cat Continuously Variable transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
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  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
Work in Comfort
        
  • Easily adjustable seat and suspension for outstanding operator comfort. It comes in two trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness (kit).
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  • Spacious cab with significant leg room and adjustable seat controls for added comfort and efficiency.
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  • Left footrest allows for added operator comfort, safety and machine stability when working in uneven, bumpy operations. 
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  • Automatic air conditioning system keeps the cab cool as desired.
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  • In-cab dashboard and high-resolution touch display(s) are easy to use, intuitive, and user friendly.
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  • Instantly access training videos and feature guides using the on-board QR code*.
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  • Sound suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter work environment.
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  • The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering system provides precision control and dramatically reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort and accuracy.  An HMU steering wheel is also available.
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  • Ride control works as a shock absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain.
* 972 XE (14C) compared to 972 XE (14B)
Purpose-Built Specialty Configurations
        
  • Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:     
              
    • Industrial and waste models feature guarding and reinforcement necessary for work in transfer stations, recycling depots, scrap yards, and demolition sites.
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    • Corrosion Resistant package adds value in protecting your machine investment. An industry-unique factory treatment provides more protection for machine components that can be affected by corrosive materials.
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Features + Specs

Equipment Features
Optional Equipment
Specs
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008: 67 dB(A)
  • Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008: 107 dB(A)
  • Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 ¹: 67 dB(A)
  • Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008²: 105 dB(A)
  • Note (1): ¹Including countries that adopt the EU and UK Directives.
  • Note (2): ²Exterior Sound Power Level - European Union Directive 2000/14/EC and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701.
  • With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Note: Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.
  • Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002: 339 hp
  • Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002: 344 hp (metric)
  • Engine Model: Cat® C9.3B
  • Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014: 343 hp
  • Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014: 348 hp (metric)
  • Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011: 316 hp
  • Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011: 321 hp (metric)
  • Engine Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 14396:2002: 1375 lbf·ft
  • Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm SAE J1995:2014: 1388 lbf·ft
  • Net Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011: 1287 lbf·ft
  • Displacement: 567.5 in³
  • Emissions: Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
  • Biodiesel Capability: Up to B20¹
  • Note (1): The net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and aftertreatment.
  • Note (2): ¹Cat diesel 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. 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).
  • Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002: 1375 lb/ft
  • Note (3): Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: • 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester)* • 100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrogenated 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. * Engines with no aftertreatment devices can use higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel.
  • Displacement: 9.3 L
  • Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014: 1388 lb/ft
  • Operating Weight: 54858 lb
  • Note: Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, powertrain guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.8 m³ (6.25 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE.
  • Forward - 1: 4.3 mile/h
  • Forward - 2: 8 mile/h
  • Forward - 3: 14.1 mile/h
  • Forward - 4: 24.5 mile/h
  • Reverse - 1: 4.3 mile/h
  • Reverse - 2: 8 mile/h
  • Reverse - 3: 17.9 mile/h
  • Note: Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
  • Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 1,400 rpm: 92 gpm
  • Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure: 4496 psi
  • Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total: 10.1 s
  • Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total: 10.7 seconds
  • Height - Top of Hood: 9.33 ft
  • Height - Top of ROPS: 11.83 ft
  • Ground Clearance: 1.33 ft
  • Wheel Base: 11.67 ft
  • Overall Length - Without Bucket: 26.5 ft
  • Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height: 2.5 ft
  • Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift: 15.67 ft
  • Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift: 13.67 ft
  • Rack Back - Maximum Lift: 71 °
  • Rack Back - Carry Height: 49 °
  • Width over Tires (Loaded): 9.92 ft
  • Tread Width: 7.25 ft
  • Note: All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.8 m³ (6.25 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
  • Rack Back at Ground: 37 degrees
  • Rack Back - Carry Height: 49 degrees
  • Rack Back - Maximum Lift: 71 degrees
  • Air Conditioning: The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a or R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430), the system contains 1.600 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). - If equipped with R1234yf (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.389 kg (3.1 lb) of refrigerant, which has a CO2 equivalent of .001 metric tonnes (1.10 tons).
  • Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn: 35919 lb
  • Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection: 38582 lb
  • Breakout Force: 44072 lbf
  • Note (1): For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.”
  • Note (2): Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
  • Fuel Tank: 80.1 gal (US)
  • DEF Tank: 6.9 gal (US)
  • Cooling System: 17.4 gal (US)
  • Crankcase: 6.1 gal (US)
  • Transmission: 16.6 gal (US)
  • Differential - Final Drives - Front: 15.1 gal (US)
  • Differential - Final Drives - Rear: 15.1 gal (US)
  • Hydraulic Tank: 30.1 gal (US)
  • Height - Top of Hood: 9.33 ft
  • Height - Top of ROPS: 11.83 ft
  • Ground Clearance: 1.33 ft
  • Wheel Base: 11.67 ft
  • Overall Length - Without Bucket: 25.42 ft
  • Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height: 2.27 ft
  • Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift: 14.58 ft
  • Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift: 12.58 ft
  • Rack Back - Maximum Lift: 56 °
  • Rack Back - Carry Height: 49 °
  • Width over Tires (Loaded): 9.92 ft
  • Tread Width: 7.25 ft
  • Note: All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.8 m³ (6.25 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
  • Rack Back - Maximum Lift: 56 degrees
  • Rack Back - Carry Height: 49 degrees
  • Rack Back at Ground: 39 degrees
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