Overview
The Cat® 972 XE Wheel Loader delivers increased fuel efficiency, premium performance with simple-to-use standard technologies to boost operator efficiencies, and lower maintenance costs. This machine is designed to meet emission standards without interrupting operation. Improved performance, reliability, durability, and versatility result in a machine that is better built to meet your needs.
Specifications
Units:
| Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| Operating Weight | — |
| Bucket Range | 2.8-14.0 m³ 3.75-18.25 yd³ |
Benefits & Features
Superior Fuel Efficiency
- Up to 35% better fuel efficiency compared to previous Cat model.
- Deep system integration of the Cat continuously variable transmission, engine, hydraulic, and cooling systems results in significantly increased performance and fuel efficiency.
- Eliminating the torque converter allows the capability to control engine rpm and machine speed independently, resulting in efficient digging, fine control, and easy operation.
- Lower rated engine speed reduces component wear and operating noise.
- Power dense engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
Achieve Greater Productivity
- Continuously variable transmission delivers smooth, fast acceleration and speed on grade.
- Machine maneuvering on grade is made easy with speed-hold and anti-rollback.
- Integrated continuously variable transmission provides maximum, steady power at optimal speeds.
- Advanced rimpull control for best loading efficiency in the pile and tire wear reduction.
- New Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors.
- Application Profiles optimize machine settings for different applications at one push of a button.
- Job Aids help operators improve and optimize their operating skills.
- 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.
- Automatic engine idle shutdown system significantly reduces idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.
- Dual ride control accumulator system enables a wide payload range and better ride quality.
- Standard manual front differential provides additional traction when needed. Automatic front and rear locks are available as an option.
- Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.**
- With Fusion™ Quick Coupler, buckets can be changed without leaving the cab, allowing the machine to quickly move 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.
Smart Machine for Efficient Operation
- Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
- Optional Cat Advanced Payload with Assist:
- Optional Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.
– Product Link™ wirelessly connects the machine to the office, giving you access to production and essential health information needed to make timely, fact-based decisions to help you better run your business.
– New Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
– Auto Set Tires promotes proper loading technique, significantly reducing tire slip and tire wear.
– Onboard Job Aids and Operator Controls Help to ease operation.
– Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
Specifications
Units:
| Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm - SAE J1995:2014 | — |
| Engine Model | Cat C9.3B |
| Net Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 | — |
| Note (1) | Cat engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, and Japan 2014 emission standards. |
| Note (2) | The net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and aftertreatment. |
| Net Torque @ 1,200 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 | — |
| Displacement | 9.3 L |
| Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| 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. |
| Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 | — |
| Operating Weight | — |
| Note | Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJTL3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control,cold start, roading fenders, Product Link, front manual differential/openrear axles, power train guard, secondary steering, sound suppression,and a 4.8 m³ (6.25 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE. |
| Forward - 1 | — |
| Forward - 2 | — |
| Forward - 3 | — |
| Forward - 4 | — |
| Note | Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius. |
| Reverse - 1 | — |
| Reverse - 2 | — |
| Reverse - 3 | — |
| Reverse - 4 | — |
| Note (1) | ** For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the EU Directives. |
| Note (2) | ***European Union Directive 2000/14/EC as amended by 2005/88/EC. |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level* | 108 |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008) | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013) | 76 |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Note | Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. |
| Air Conditioning | The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). |
| Breakout Force | — |
| 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. |
| Static Tipping Load - Full 40° Turn - No Tire Deflection | — |
| Static Tipping Load - Full 40° Turn - With Tire Deflection | — |
| Cooling System | — |
| Crankcase | — |
| DEF Tank | — |
| Differential - Final Drives - Front | — |
| Differential - Final Drives - Rear | — |
| Fuel Tank | — |
| Hydraulic Tank | — |
| Transmission | — |
| Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure | — |
| Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,250 rpm | — |
| Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total | 10.7 seconds |
| Note | All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 5.4 m3 (7.1 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 29.5R25 VSNT L4 radial tires. |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight | — |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch | — |
| Ground Clearance | — |
| Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe | — |
| Height - Top of Hood | — |
| Height - Top of ROPS | — |
| Hinge Pin Height at Carry | — |
| Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift | — |
| Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift | — |
| Overall Length - Without Bucket | — |
| Tread Width | — |
| Wheel Base | — |
| Width over Tires (Loaded) | — |
| Rack Back at Ground | 37 degrees |
| Rack Back - Maximum Lift | 71 degrees |
| Rack Back - Carry Height | 49 degrees |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch | — |
| Ground Clearance | — |
| Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe | — |
| Height - Top of Hood | — |
| Height - Top of ROPS | — |
| Hinge Pin Height at Carry | — |
| Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift | — |
| Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift | — |
| Overall Length - Without Bucket | — |
| Tread Width | — |
| Wheel Base | — |
| Width over Tires (Loaded) | — |
| Rack Back - Carry Height | 49 degrees |
| Rack Back at Ground | 39 degrees |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight | — |
| Rack Back - Maximum Lift | 56 degrees |
| Bucket Range | 2.8-14.0 m³ 3.75-18.25 yd³ |
Benefits & Features
Superior Fuel Efficiency
- Up to 35% better fuel efficiency compared to previous Cat model.
- Deep system integration of the Cat continuously variable transmission, engine, hydraulic, and cooling systems results in significantly increased performance and fuel efficiency.
- Eliminating the torque converter allows the capability to control engine rpm and machine speed independently, resulting in efficient digging, fine control, and easy operation.
- Lower rated engine speed reduces component wear and operating noise.
- Power dense engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
Achieve Greater Productivity
- Continuously variable transmission delivers smooth, fast acceleration and speed on grade.
- Machine maneuvering on grade is made easy with speed-hold and anti-rollback.
- Integrated continuously variable transmission provides maximum, steady power at optimal speeds.
- Advanced rimpull control for best loading efficiency in the pile and tire wear reduction.
- New Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors.
- Application Profiles optimize machine settings for different applications at one push of a button.
- Job Aids help operators improve and optimize their operating skills.
- 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.
- Automatic engine idle shutdown system significantly reduces idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.
- Dual ride control accumulator system enables a wide payload range and better ride quality.
- Standard manual front differential provides additional traction when needed. Automatic front and rear locks are available as an option.
- Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.**
- With Fusion™ Quick Coupler, buckets can be changed without leaving the cab, allowing the machine to quickly move 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.
Smart Machine for Efficient Operation
- Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
- Optional Cat Advanced Payload with Assist:
- Optional Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.
– Product Link™ wirelessly connects the machine to the office, giving you access to production and essential health information needed to make timely, fact-based decisions to help you better run your business.
– New Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
– Auto Set Tires promotes proper loading technique, significantly reducing tire slip and tire wear.
– Onboard Job Aids and Operator Controls Help to ease operation.
– Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
Proven Reliability
- Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
- Equipped with automatic Cat regeneration system, Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump.
- Features an electric fuel priming pump, fuel-water separator, and secondary filtration system.
- Thorough component design and machine validation processes result in unmatched reliability and uptime.
Safety Features
- Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
- Optional multiview (360˚) vision system helps the operator monitor the surroundings of the machine at all times.
- Optional Cat Detect radar technology enhances awareness by monitoring the working environment and alerts operators to hazards.
- Cab access with wide door, optional remote door opening, and stair-like steps add solid stability.
- Floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors, and rear-vision camera provide industry leading all-around visibility.
- Computerized monitoring system includes several warning indicators.
- Monitored seat belt is standard and can be enhanced with an optional exterior indicator.
- Optional access light and under-hood service light system to provide illuminated access to the machine and daily checks even in the dark.
Reduced Maintenance Time & Costs
- Extended fluid and filter change intervals reduce maintenance costs by up to 25%.*
- Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy and safe servicing.
- Remote Troubleshoot can connect the machine to the dealer service department to help diagnose problems quickly so you can get back to work.
- Remote Flash works around your schedule to ensure your machine’s software is up to date for optimal performance.
- The Cat App 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.
- Integrated Autolube extends component and service life.
- One-piece tilting hood makes engine compartment access fast and easy.
*Parts and fluids only
Durability
- Heavy-duty axles designed to handle extreme applications.
- Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
Work in Comfort in the All New Cab
- Next-generation, easily adjustable seat and suspension for improved operator comfort. It comes in two trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness (kit).
- Increased legroom and adjustable seat controls for increased comfort and efficiency.
- Automatic air conditioning system keeps the cab cool as desired.
- New in-cab dashboard and high-resolution touch display(s) are easy to use, intuitive, and user friendly.
- Sound suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter work environment.
- The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering system provides precision control and dramatically reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort and accuracy.
- The next generation of ride control works as a shock absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain.
Purpose-built Specialty Configurations
- Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:
Data not available.
Standard Equipment
- Operator Environment
- Cab, pressurized, sound suppression
- Door, remote opening system
- EH implement controls, parking brake
- Steering, joystick
- Seat, suede/cloth, air suspension, heated
- Touchscreen display
- Visibility: mirrors, rear-vision camera
- Mirrors, heated
- Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto temp, fan)
- Sun visor, front, retractable
- Sun visor, rear, retractable
- Window cleaning platform, front
- Window, front, laminated
- ON-BOARD TECHNOLOGIES
- Cat Payload scale
- Autodig with Auto Set Tires
- Operator ID & machine security
- Application Profiles
- Job Aids
- Controls Help and eOMM
- POWER TRAIN
- Cat C9.3B engine
- Electric fuel priming pump
- Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel filter
- Engine, air precleaner
- Axles, front differential lock
- Axles, ecology drains
- Transmission, continuous variable
- Rimpull control
- Throttle lock mode
- Hill and speed hold on grades
- Service brakes, hydraulic, fully enclosed wet disc, wear indicators
- Park brake, caliper on front axles, spring applied-pressure released
- HYDRAULICS
- Implement system, load sensing with electro-hydraulic variable displacement piston pump
- Steering system, load sensing with dedicated variable displacement piston pump
- Ride control, dual accumulators
- Oil sampling valves, Cat XT™ hoses
- ELECTRICAL
- Starting and charging system, 24V
- Starter, electric, heavy duty
- Lights: halogen, 4 work lights, 2 rearvision lights
- Lights: roading with turn signals
- MONITORING SYSTEM
- Front dash with analog gauges, LCD display, and warning lights
- Primary touchscreen monitor (Cat Payload, quad screens, machine settings & messages)
- LINKAGE
- Standard lift, Z-bar
- Kickouts: lift and tilt
Optional Equipment
- Operator Environment
- Entertainment radio (FM, AM, USB, BT)
- Entertainment radio (DAB+)
- CB radio ready
- Seat, leather/cloth, air suspension, heated/cooled
- Multiview (360�) vision system
- Cat Detect rear radar system
- Dedicated rearview screen
- Full cab window guard
- ON-BOARD TECHNOLOGIES
- Cat Advanced Payload
- Cat Payload Printer
- POWER TRAIN
- Turbine, air precleaner
- Radiator, high debris
- Cooling fan, reversible
- Axles, auto differential locks front and rear
- Axles, AOC ready, extreme temperature seals
- Axles, oil cooler
- HYDRAULICS
- 3rd and 4th auxiliary functions with ride control
- Quick coupler control
- ELECTRICAL
- Cold start, 120V or 240V
- Lights: LED
- Warning beacon
- MONITORING SYSTEM
- Reversing strobe lights
- LINKAGE
- High lift, Z-bar
- ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Cat Autolube system
- Fenders, roading
- Guards: power train, crankcase, cab, cylinders, rear
- Biodegradable hydraulic oil
- High-speed oil change system
- Toolbox
- Wheel chocks
- Secondary steering system, electrical
- SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS
- Aggregate handler
- Waste and industrial
- Corrosion resistant