Overview
The new Cat® 966 GC Wheel Loader is easy to own and operate. It offers low fuel consumption with an on-demand fan, load sensing hydraulics, intuitive controls, and performance series buckets. This machine is built to be just the right machine for a broad range of applications. Great machine performance combined with the low owning and operating costs makes the 966 GC the right choice for your business.
Specifications
Units:
| Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| Operating Weight* | — |
| Bucket Capacities | 3.2 - 7.1 m³ (4.25 - 9.25 yd³) |
Benefits & Features
Proven Reliability
- Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven and improved electronic, 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.
- Engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 4 Final, China Nonroad Stage IV, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
- Thorough component choice, design, and in-machine validation processes result in excellent reliability and uptime.
- Advansys™ ground engaging tools (GET) system features stronger adapters; tips with a new shape to better protect the adapter and an integrated retainer.
Achieve Greater Productivity
- The proven Cat Z-bar linkage geometry with Performance Series Buckets offer excellent penetration into the pile and high breakout forces. This results in low fuel consumption and exceptional production capabilities.
- Caterpillar designed, electronically controlled automatic powershift heavy-duty planetary transmission features shift protection and single clutch gear shifting for efficiency, durability, and smooth gear changes.
- The optional ride control system improves smoothness over rough terrain, increasing confidence and efficiency, ensuring excellent material retention.
- Optional Fusion™ quick-coupler and third hydraulic function can make the machine a versatile tool carrier for buckets, grapples or forks.
- Increased traction in poor underfoot conditions with the optional limited slip differential (LSD). This traction aid is activated automatically, with no operator intervention required.
- An optional Axle Oil Cooler (AOC) is available for high energy applications.
Superior Fuel Efficiency
- Engine Idle Management System (EIMS) reduces idle RPM and fuel consumption. Engine Idle Shutdown will shut down engine after a preset time.
- Variable speed fan adjusts to meet the varying cooling requirements of the machine resulting in a reduced average fan speed and lowered fuel consumption, noise levels, and radiator plugging.
- Load sensing hydraulics produce flow and pressure for the implement system upon demand and only in amounts necessary to perform the needed work functions.
April 29, 2025
Specifications
Units:
| Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| Engine Model | Cat C9.3B |
| Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm - SAE J1995:2014 | — |
| Net Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 | — |
| Net Power - ISO 9249 | — |
| Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm - ISO 14396:2002 | — |
| Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 | — |
| Net Torque @ 1,200 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 | — |
| Bore - ISO 9249 | — |
| Stroke | — |
| Displacement | — |
| Note (1) | Cat engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 5, China Nonroad Stage IV, and Japan 2014 (Tier 4 Final) 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. |
| Note (3) | Cat engines are compatible with the following renewable, alternative, and biodiesel* fuels that reduce greenhouse gases on a lifecycle basis: • Up to B20 biodiesel (FAME) ** • Up to 100% HVO and GTL renewable fuels |
| Operating Weight* | — |
| Note (1) | * For 4.0 m3 (5.2 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE. |
| 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 37° Turn - With Tire Deflection | — |
| Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection | — |
| Breakout Force | — |
| Note (1) | * For 4.0 m3 (5.2 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE. |
| Note (2) | * Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing. |
| Bucket Capacities | 3.2 - 7.1 m³ (4.25 - 9.25 yd³) |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008) | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013) | 78 dB(A)* |
| Note (1) | *Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008)** | — |
| With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)** | 108 dB(A)*** |
| Note (2) | ** For machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the “EU Directives”. |
| Note (3) | *** European Union Directive “2000/14/EC” as amended by “2005/88/EC”. |
| Forward - 1 | — |
| Reverse - 1 | — |
| Forward - 2 | — |
| Reverse - 2 | — |
| Forward - 3 | — |
| Reverse - 3 | — |
| Forward - 4 | — |
| Reverse - 4 | — |
| Note | Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 826 mm (32 in) roll radius. |
| Fuel Tank | — |
| DEF Tank | — |
| Cooling System | — |
| Crankcase | — |
| Transmission | — |
| Differential - Final Drives - Front | — |
| Differential - Final Drives - Rear | — |
| Hydraulic Tank | — |
| Implement Pump Type | Variable Displacement Piston, Load Sensing |
| Implement System - Maximum Flow @ 2,275 rpm | — |
| Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure | — |
| Implement System - Maximum Flow 3rd Function | — |
| Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure 3rd Function | — |
| Hydraulic Cycle Time - Raise from Carry Position | — |
| Hydraulic Cycle Time - Lower, Empty, Float Down | — |
| Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total Cycle Time | — |
| Hydraulic Cycle Time - Dump, at Maximum Raise | — |
| ROPS/FOPS | ROPS/FOPS meet ISO 3471:2008 and ISO 3449:2005 Level II standards |
| Brakes | Brakes meet ISO 3450:2011 standards |
| Height - Top of Hood | — |
| Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe | — |
| B-Pin Height | — |
| Height - Top of ROPS | — |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight | — |
| Ground Clearance | — |
| Wheel Base | — |
| Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch | — |
| Rack Back - Maximum Lift | — |
| Rack Back - Carry | — |
| Rack Back - Ground | — |
| Lift Arm Clearance | — |
| Recyclability | 97% |
Benefits & Features
Proven Reliability
- Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven and improved electronic, 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.
- Engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 4 Final, China Nonroad Stage IV, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
- Thorough component choice, design, and in-machine validation processes result in excellent reliability and uptime.
- Advansys™ ground engaging tools (GET) system features stronger adapters; tips with a new shape to better protect the adapter and an integrated retainer.
Achieve Greater Productivity
- The proven Cat Z-bar linkage geometry with Performance Series Buckets offer excellent penetration into the pile and high breakout forces. This results in low fuel consumption and exceptional production capabilities.
- Caterpillar designed, electronically controlled automatic powershift heavy-duty planetary transmission features shift protection and single clutch gear shifting for efficiency, durability, and smooth gear changes.
- The optional ride control system improves smoothness over rough terrain, increasing confidence and efficiency, ensuring excellent material retention.
- Optional Fusion™ quick-coupler and third hydraulic function can make the machine a versatile tool carrier for buckets, grapples or forks.
- Increased traction in poor underfoot conditions with the optional limited slip differential (LSD). This traction aid is activated automatically, with no operator intervention required.
- An optional Axle Oil Cooler (AOC) is available for high energy applications.
Superior Fuel Efficiency
- Engine Idle Management System (EIMS) reduces idle RPM and fuel consumption. Engine Idle Shutdown will shut down engine after a preset time.
- Variable speed fan adjusts to meet the varying cooling requirements of the machine resulting in a reduced average fan speed and lowered fuel consumption, noise levels, and radiator plugging.
- Load sensing hydraulics produce flow and pressure for the implement system upon demand and only in amounts necessary to perform the needed work functions.
Easy, Comfortable Operator Environment
- The spacious cab features easy, intuitive controls and excellent visibility which provides a comfortable working environment for efficient operation.
- A comfortable cloth covered suspension (mechanical) seat is standard, an optional air suspended seat is available.
- Pilot-operated hydraulic implement controls deliver comfortable, low-effort operation. Two single-axis levers or one joystick are available. Both arrangements are equipped with kick-down switches.
- Unmatched viewing area with a wide, flat, and distortion-free front windshield.
- The glass stretches to the floor of the cab for excellent visibility to the bucket and front tires.
- Sliding side windows on both sides allow natural ventilation and easy communication to ground staff.
- The cab roof has channels which direct rain off the corners of the cab, keeping windows clear.
- Air conditioning and heating systems are standard. Ten louvered vents allow the operator to direct the air flow to remain productive and efficient all shift long.
- Optional windshield guard to protect glass from impacts.
Safety Features
- Ladders are standard on both sides of the machine; the main cab access features a 15-degree angle to easily access the operator environment.
- Steps are equipped with hand and/or guardrails to safely access the cab and maintenance points of the machine.
- The main cab door opens to the front and provides wide access to the operator environment.
- A front window cleaning platform kit is available for enhanced access to the windshield. Front and back wipers ensure that a clear view is maintained.
- External rearview mirrors with integrated spot mirrors are standard.
- A rear vision camera is standard to enhance visibility behind the machine. Reversing strobe light kits are an available option for enhanced jobsite visibility.*
Reduced Maintenance Time and Costs
- Grouped service points and sight gauges allow for easy daily maintenance.
- Convenient access to left, right, and rear of engine compartment provides excellent serviceability.
- Electrical service center, along with additional key serviceability features, helps make servicing and in-field component exchange quick, easy, and efficient.
- A rear swing-up grill gives easy cleaning access to the cooling cores.
- Hinged wheel guards are easy to remove/re-install providing wide access to all maintenance points and to the engine compartment.
- Optional power train bottom guard protects the machine against damage to reduce downtime.
- Optional Cat Autolube system provides an integrated lube system with monitoring function. One-button control, including fault flash function.
- Caterpillar design and manufacturing techniques assure outstanding service life.
Cat Payload Kit - Optional*
- On-the-go weighing** for precise load targets with proven accuracy, flexible installation, and easy calibration and setup.
- Brings payload weighing to the cab so operators can work more productively and deliver consistently accurate loads.
- Increases productivity, weighing while lifting with no interruptions in loading cycle.
- High efficiency: load to exact specification, load more trucks faster, and move more material for more revenue.
- Improve efficiency with less rework; save time, labor, fuel, and costs.
- Simple installation.
**Not legal for trade
Sustainability
- The Cat® C9.3B engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 5, China Nonroad Stage IV and Japan 2014 emission standards.
- 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) * or 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.
- The Cat® clean emissions module includes Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technologies to reduce the engine’s emissions.
- Engine Idle Management System (EIMS) helps maximize fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining machine performance. EIMS provides three standard idle control settings for the machine - hibernate mode, work mode, and transmission engaged work mode.
- Engine Idle Shutdown Timer reduces fuel burn, greenhouse gas emissions and unnecessary idle time by shutting down the machine after a pre-set idling period.
- Extended maintenance intervals not only reduce downtime but decrease the amount of fluid and filters that are replaced over the life of the machine.
- Cat® Payload technology maximizes loading efficiency, helping operators of every skill level work more accurately to reduce load time, fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Upgrade to Advanced Payload for expanded features and capabilities that can further increase operator efficiency and accuracy.
- Cat® Reman parts are a sustainable choice. New Cat parts are designed with the potential to have more than one life, so Cat Reman parts are truly remanufactured — not just repaired, rebuilt or reconditioned. Because the process ensures the latest design changes are incorporated into Cat Reman parts, you get like new quality and outstanding performance at lower cost.
Data not available.
Standard Equipment
- NOTE
- Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.
- OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
- Air conditioning (HVAC) with 10 vents and filter unit located outside of cab
- Bucket/work tool function lockout
- Switch, transmission neutralizer lockout
- Cab, pressurized and sound suppressed
- Camera, rearview
- Coat hook
- Computerized monitoring system
- Cup holders and personal tray on right console and behind seat
- Horn
- Mirrors, rearview external with integrated spot mirror
- Pilot hydraulic controls, lift and tilt function; two (2) single axis levers or joystick
- 12V power port (10A)
- Radio ready
- ROPS/FOPS structure
- Seat, Cat Comfort (cloth), mechanical suspension
- Steering column, adjustable angle
- Window, sliding (left and right sides)
- Wipers/washers (front and rear)
- POWER TRAIN
- Axels, Open/Open differentials
- Brakes, full hydraulic enclosed wet-disc
- Cat C9.3B engine
- EIMS (Engine Idle Management System)
- AIS (Auto Idle Shutdown)
- Fan, radiator, electronically controlled, hydraulically driven, temperature sensing, on demand
- Fan, reversing automatic and manual control
- Filter, fuel primary/secondary/tertiary
- Filters, engine air, primary/secondary
- Fuel priming pump (electric)
- Fuel/water separator
- Radiator, unit core (9.5 fpi) with ATAAC
- Torque converter
- Transmission, powershift (4F/4R), automatic (2-4) with kick-down function, overspeed protection
- LINKAGE
- Lift and bucket return-to-dig kickouts (electro-magnetic), mechanical adjustment
- Z-bar, cast tilt lever
- HYDRAULICS
- Dedicated brake and fan pump
- Dedicated load sensing steering pump
- Load sensing implement system pilot operated
- S O S ℠ oil sampling valves
- ELECTRICAL
- Alarm, back-up variable/main disconnect switch
- Alternator (145-amp, brush type)
- Batteries, maintenance free (2 x 1,125 CCA)
- Ignition key; start/stop
- Lighting system: 4 halogen work lights, cab mounted
- Roading lights with high/low beam and F and R turn signals
- Starter, electric (heavy duty)
- Starting and charging system, 24V
- ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Cold weather starting basic (ether starting aid)
- Counterweight, 605 kg (1,334 lb)
- Fenders (front) steel
- Grill, airborne debris
- Hitch, drawbar with pin
- Hood, metallic on steel structure
- Doors, service access (locking)
- L3 radial or bias ply tires
- Precleaner, strata tubes
- Product Link™ ready
Optional Equipment
- NOTE
- Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.
- OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
- Cat® Payload (kit)
- Radio
- Seat, air suspended
- POWER TRAIN
- Axles, limited slip differential(s)
- Axles, oil cooler
- Fan, reversing automatic and manual control
- LINKAGE
- Fusion™ quick coupler control with dual kick outs
- HYDRAULICS
- Quick coupler control
- Ride control
- 3rd function with additional dedicated single axis lever
- ELECTRICAL
- Lighting system: 8 halogen work lights, cab mounted
- Lighting system: 4 LED work lights, cab mounted
- Lighting system: 8 LED work lights, cab mounted
- Lights: warning beacon
- ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
- Autolube system
- Camera, front view (kit)**
- Cold weather starting full (HD batteries 2 x 1,400 CCA, ether system, jacket water heater, cold weather fluids)
- Fender rear extensions or roading
- L5 traction tires
- Power train guard
- Precleaner, strata tubes with screen
- Precleaner, strata tubes with screen
- Reverse Stobe (kit)***
- Roading Certification****
- Secondary steering system, electrical*
- Toolbox
- Window cleaning (kit)
- Windshield guard
- OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT - NOTE
- * Standard where mandated
- ** Refer to M0106413 publication for usage reqiurements.
- *** Not compatible with roading arrangements.
- **** Offering depends on region.
Related Products
Units:
Fusion™ Coupler - Loader
The heart of Fusion™ is a unique design that pulls the load inward, toward the machine.
| Model | Weight |
|---|---|
| 966/972 Fusion Coupler | — |