972
The Cat® 972 Wheel Loader brings premium performance with simple-to-use technologies as a standard offering, boosting operator efficiencies and delivering increased productivity. Extended service intervals lower maintenance costs. Improved performance, reliability, durability, and versatility result in a machine that is better built to meet your needs.
Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002
339 HP
Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm - SAE J1995:2014
343 HP
Engine Model
Cat C9.3B
Specification
Value
Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 14396:2002
339 HP
Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm - SAE J1995:2014
343 HP
Engine Model
Cat C9.3B
Net Power @ 1,600 rpm - ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011
321 HP
Note (1)
Cat engine meets Brazil MAR-1 emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3, EU Stage IIIA, and China Nonroad Stage III.
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
1316 ft-lb
Displacement
9.3 L
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002
1313 lb/ft
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014
1327 lb/ft
Note (3)
Cat engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with following lowercarbon intensity fuels up to: • 100% 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. * For use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer.
Specification
Value
Operating Weight
51124 lb
Note
Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 29.5R25 VSNT L4 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control cold start, roading fenders, Product Link, open differential axles (front/rear), secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 5.4 m³ (7.1 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE.
Specification
Value
Forward - 1
4.2 mile/h
Forward - 2
8.4 mile/h
Forward - 3
15 mile/h
Forward - 4
24.5 mile/h
Note
Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and
standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Reverse - 1
4.5 mile/h
Reverse - 2
9.2 mile/h
Reverse - 3
16.5 mile/h
Reverse - 4
24.5 mile/h
Specification
Value
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)
69 dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Speed - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008)
109 dB(A)
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)
70 dB(A)
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Note
Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.
Specification
Value
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).
Specification
Value
Breakout Force
38999 lb
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
15981 kg
Static Tipping Load - Full 40° Turn - With Tire Deflection
32727 lb
Specification
Value
Cooling System
17.4 gal (US)
Crankcase
6.1 gal (US)
DEF Tank
6.9 gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Front
15.1 gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Rear
15.1 gal (US)
Fuel Tank
80.1 gal (US)
Hydraulic Tank
30.1 gal (US)
Transmission
15.5 gal (US)
Specification
Value
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure
4496 psi
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,250 rpm
99 gal/min
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total
10.1 seconds
Specification
Value
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.
Specification
Value
Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
8.1 ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.1 ft
Ground Clearance
1.4 ft
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
11.8 ft
Height - Top of Hood
9.5 ft
Height - Top of ROPS
11.1 ft
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2.6 ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
15.9 ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
13.8 ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket
26.6 ft
Tread Width
7.3 ft
Wheel Base
11.8 ft
Width over Tires (Loaded)
9.11 ft
Rack Back at Ground
37 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height
49 degrees
Rack Back - Maximum Lift
71 degrees
Specification
Value
Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight
7.7 ft
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch
5.1 ft
Ground Clearance
424 mm
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe
3531 mm
Height - Top of Hood
2850 mm
Height - Top of ROPS
3593 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry
2 ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift
4245 mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift
3687 mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket
7399 mm
Tread Width
7.3 ft
Wheel Base
3550 mm
Rack Back at Ground
40 degrees
Width over Tires (Loaded)
9.11 ft
Rack Back - Carry Height
50 degrees
Rack Back - Maximum Lift
62 degrees
Specification
Value
Bucket Range
2.8-11.9 m³ 3.75-15.5 yd³
- Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
- 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.
- Heavy-duty transmission and axles designed to handle extreme applications.
- Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
- Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
- Next Generation implement pump increases flow at lower engine speeds and improves hydraulic response.
- New Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors deliver up to 10% more productivity compared to previous Cat model.
- Powershift transmission with lock-up clutch increases fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
- Single clutch and lock-to-lock shifting for faster acceleration and speed on grades.
- 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.
- Standard open/open differential provides additional traction when needed. Manual front locks and automatic front and rear locks are available as an option.
- Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.**
- Deeply integrated engine, power train, and hydraulic systems deliver unmatched productivity and fuel efficiency.
- 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.
- Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite 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.
- Optional Cat Advanced Payload with Assist:
– Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
- Optional Cat Productivity subscription provides detailed and comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.
***Not legal for trade.
- Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
- Optional 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.
- Extended fluid and filter change intervals reduce maintenance costs by up to 15%.*
- Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy ground-level 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
- Next-generation, easily adjustable seat and suspension for improved operator comfort. It comes in three 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.
- HMU steering wheel offers low-effort and precise machine steering. The optional 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.
- Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:
– Steel mill model is designed for the challenging work environment of steel mills and slag handling applications, incorporating an added level of safety.
