Gulf Construction Online - Cat unveils major update package for M Series

Loaders

Cat unveils major update package for M Series

01 April 2019

Caterpillar has introduced the latest product update package for its M Series Medium wheel loaders (950M–982M), which includes several technology advances.

The 2019 package offers lower operating 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.

Periodic updates allow Caterpillar to bring new and improved features to market more quickly and more frequently than do conventional New Product Introduction (NPI) cycles, says a company spokesman.

The US EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V models save maintenance costs by extending engine oil, engine oil filter and hydraulic oil filter change intervals from 500 hours up to 1,000 hours. In addition, several fuel and engine oil filters are being converted from spin-on to cartridge-type, which means fewer parts to replace at servicing (housing is retained), easier disposal of used elements, and less costly replacement parts.

The “next generation” of seats and suspensions offers three trim levels – comfort, deluxe, and premium plus – and features high-visibility, seat-adjustment controls, as well as ride stiffness adjustments.

For payload management, Cat’s web-based advanced productivity application is used to visualise machine production-related data and complements Cat Payload, Cat Production Measurement 2.0. The tool is accessed from VisionLink and includes a user-customisable report dashboard, cycle-by-cycle downloadable data, and a list of features for truck and material identification lists.

Meanwhile, 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.

Any authorised user with CWS (Caterpillar Corporate Web Security ID) and a mobile device can initiate flash, which occurs in 30 minutes from initiation to completion. This service is provided at no cost to dealer for machines with cellular Product Link (standard on current 950 – 982 medium wheel loaders except the 950 GC), with remote-flash-compatible software.

New configurations in the medium wheel loader line-up also include the 982M Forestry Machine and the 982M High Lift.

The new 982M Forestry Machine (logger) is capable of lifting 12,700 kg with a pin-on mill yard grapple. And the 982M High Lift, compared with the standard lift version, increases dump clearance under the bucket pin from 15 ft 6 in to 16 ft 10 in. 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.

Also included in the product update is the Advansys ground-engaging-tool system, a Cat tip system designed with exclusive performance features that result in less drag and higher productivity. The new tip shapes place wear-resistant material in the most vulnerable areas, resulting in significantly longer service life. A stronger adapter nose results in up to 50 per cent less stress, and improved adapter-nose geometry reduces sliding wear on adapter surfaces.

New 980M/982M buckets are released with weld-on adapters; 950M–982M model bolt-on adapters are interchangeable with the former J and K Series.

Another update for medium wheel loaders is a new universal coupler for models 966M–972M. The new coupler eliminates width interference with multiple tools and a reduced offset increases breakout force by four per cent.

New LED and halogen work and roading light packages increase safety when working in dark conditions.