The M Series 2 continues the legacy of quality already established by Cat® Motor Graders. The extensive validation program, combined with improvements to the manufacturing process, allows Caterpillar to further enhance our quality.
The end result of this development process is a motor grader line with breakthrough technologies, tested in the field and built around real applications and real customer needs. M Series 2 Motor Graders meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim/EU Stage IIIB emission standards.
12M2 AWD Motor Graders
Overview
12M2 AWD Motor Graders
The M Series 2 continues the legacy of quality already established by Cat® Motor Graders. The extensive validation program, combined with improvements to the manufacturing process, allows Caterpillar to further enhance our quality.
The end result of this development process is a motor grader line with breakthrough technologies, tested in the field and built around real applications and real customer needs. M Series 2 Motor Graders meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Interim/EU Stage IIIB emission standards.
Specifications
Front, V-Type, 5 or 11 Tooth – Scarifier Shank Holders
5/11
5/11
Front, V-Type, 5 or 11 Tooth – Scarifying Depth, Maximum
18.4 in
467 mm
Front, V-Type, 5 or 11 Tooth – Working Width
40.6 in
1031 mm
Front, V-Type: Working width
47.4 in
1205 mm
Mid, V-Type – Scarifier Shank Holder Spacing
4.6 in
116 mm
Mid, V-Type – Scarifier Shank Holders
11
11
Mid, V-Type – Scarifying Depth, Maximum
11.5 in
292 mm
Mid, V-Type – Working Width
46.6 in
1184 mm
Rear – Ripping depth, maximum
16.8 in
426 mm
Rear – Scarifying Depth, Maximum
16.8 in
426 mm
Rear – Working Width
84 in
2133 mm
Rear – Scarifier Shank Holders
9
9
Rear – Scarifier Shank Holder Spacing
10.5 in
267 mm
Weights
Operating Weight – Typically Equipped
44349 lb
20116 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Maximum – Front Axle
17009 lb
7715 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Maximum – Rear Axle
37860 lb
17173 kg
Operating Weight, typically equipped – Front axle
13040 lb
5915 kg
Operating Weight, typically equipped – Rear axle
31309 lb
14201 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Base – Front Axle
10403 lb
4719 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Base – Rear Axle
28930 lb
13123 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Maximum – Total
54869 lb
24888 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight – Base – Total
39334 lb
17841 kg
Operating Weight, typically equipped – Total
44349 lb
20116 kg
Standards
Brakes
ISO 3450, ISO 10265
ISO 3450, ISO 10265
ROPS/FOPS
ISO 3471/ISO 3499
ISO 3471/ISO 3499
Sound
ISO 6394; ISO 6395
ISO 6394; ISO 6395
Steering
ISO 5010
ISO 5010
Benefits & Features
Visibility
Angled cab doors, a tapered engine enclosure and patented sloped rear window assure excellent visibility to the work area.
Maximum Control, Maximum Comfort
Caterpillar has built the most comfortable cab in the industry, replacing the control levers and steering wheel with two joystick controls, and lengthening the cab for more leg room. Machine design features, like angled doors, provide excellent visibility.
Operator Comfort
The Cat Comfort Series suspension seat and arm/wrist rests are fully adjustable for improved comfort and productivity. Extra leg room, easy-to-reach long-life rocker switches and revolutionary joystick controls make this the most comfortable cab in the industry.
Standard HVAC system
The high capacity system dehumidifies and pressurizes the cab, circulates fresh air, seals out dust and keeps windows clear.
Low Interior Sound and Vibration Levels
Multiple isolation mounts along with relocated hydraulic pump and valves significantly improve operator comfort and productivity.
In-Dash Instrument Cluster
Easy-to-read, high-visibility gauges and warning lamps keep the operator aware of critical system information.
Operator Station
Comfort, productivity, advanced technology. »Learn More
Ease of Operation
Two electro-hydraulic joysticks require up to 78% less hand and wrist movement than conventional lever controls for greatly enhanced operator comfort and efficiency. The intuitive control pattern allows both new and experienced operators to quickly become productive.
Electronically adjustable control pods help position joysticks for optimal comfort, visibility and proper operation.
Joystick Functions
The left joystick primarily controls the machine direction and speed including steering, articulation, return-to-center, wheel lean, gear selection, left moldboard lift cylinder and float.
The right joystick primarily controls drawbar, circle and moldboard functions including right moldboard lift cylinder and float, moldboard slide and tip, circle turn, drawbar center shift, electronic throttle control and manual differential lock/unlock.
Intuitive Steering Control
Joystick lean angle mirrors the steer tires’ turning angle. A brake tensioning system holds the joystick in position until the operator moves it. The steering control automatically reduces steering sensitivity at higher ground speeds for comfortable and predictable control.
Electronic Throttle Control
Provides easy, precise and consistent throttle operation. An automatic/manual mode switch offers flexibility for different applications and operator preferences.
Articulation Return-to-Center
Automatically returns the machine to a straight frame position from any angle with the touch of a button.
Auxiliary Pod and Ripper Control (Optional)
Ergonomically positioned to allow simple, comfortable operation for the multiple hydraulic options.
Four fingertip controls and a mini joystick maximize control of up to six hydraulic circuits. Individual functions can be programmed with Electronic Technician (Cat ET). The auxiliary hydraulic pod is provided when the machine is configured with three or more auxiliary functions.
Infinitely variable roller switches provide precise control of the rear ripper and/or front lift group (when equipped).
Steering and Implement Controls
Unprecedented precision and ease of operation. »Learn More
Cat NOx Reduction System
The Cat NOx Reduction System captures and cools a small quantity of exhaust gas, then routes it into the combustion chamber where it drives down combustion temperatures and reduces NOx emissions.
Aftertreatment Technologies
To meet Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emission standards and beyond, Cat aftertreatment components have been designed to match application needs. System components include a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), which uses a chemical process to convert regulated emissions in the exhaust system, and a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) that traps particulate matter that is carried into the exhaust stream.
The DOC, DPF and Cat Regeneration System are contained in a Caterpillar designed Clean Emission Module (CEM) that protects the components, minimizes the aftertreatment footprint and simplifies maintenance.
Cat Regeneration System
The Cat Regeneration System is designed to work transparently, without any interaction needed from the operator. Under most operating conditions, engine exhaust is hot enough to oxidize soot through passive regeneration. If supplemental regeneration is needed, the Cat Regeneration System elevates exhaust gas temperatures to remove soot in the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). This is a process that happens automatically, but the operator can initiate the cycle when convenient or interrupt regeneration as needed. A soot level monitor can be viewed on the Cat Messenger screen and regeneration indicator lights are integrated into the front console.
A Cat C9.3 ACERT™ engine and Cat Clean Emissions Module deliver the performance and efficiency that customers demand, while meeting Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emission standards.
The C9.3 ACERT engine has superior torque and lugging capability to pull through sudden, short-term loads and maintain consistent, desirable grading speeds to get work done faster without downshifting. The High Pressure Common Rail Fuel System improves precision and control with full electronic injection that boosts performance and reduces soot.
Hydraulic Demand Fan
The hydraulic demand fan automatically adjusts cooling fan speed according to engine cooling requirements. This reduces demand on the engine, putting more horsepower to the ground and improves fuel efficiency. Swing-out design allows easy access to cooling cores and reduces clean out time.
Unlocks the differential during a turn, re-locks when straight, for easier operation and lower power train protection.
Front Axle
The Cat sealed spindle keeps bearings free from contaminants and lubricated in a light weight oil. The Cat “Live Spindle” design places the larger tapered roller bearing outboard where the load is greater, extending bearing life.
Inching Pedal
Allows precise control of machine movements and excellent modulation, critical in close-quarter work or finish grading.
Smooth Shifting Transmission
Several key innovations ensure smooth, powerful shifts.
Full Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) system optimizes inching modulation for smooth shifts and directional changes, reducing stress on gears.
Controlled Throttle Shifting helps to smooth directional and gear changes without using the inching pedal.
Load Compensation ensures consistent shift quality regardless of blade or machine load.
This standard feature automatically shifts the transmission at optimal points so the operator can focus on the work to help improve safety, productivity and ease of operation.
Power Shift Countershaft Transmission and the Cat C9.3 engine maximize power to the ground. Eight forward/six reverse gears optimize productivity.
Engine Over-Speed Protection prevents downshifting until an acceptable safe travel speed has been established.
Bolt-On Modular Rear Axle
Improves serviceability and contamination control with easy access to differential components.
Hydraulic Brakes
Hydraulically actuated, oil bathed, multi-disc service brakes at each tandem wheel (1) offer the industry’s largest total brake surface area (2) for dependable stopping power and long brake life. The brake wear indicator/compensator system (3) maintains brake performance and indicates brake wear without disassembly, for fast servicing and longer brake service life. The spring-applied, hydraulically released multi-disc parking brake, sealed and oil-cooled for long life and low service, is integrated into the Operator Presence System to prevent unintended machine movement.
The frame, drawbar and one-piece forged steel circle are designed for durability in heavy duty applications. The strong A-frame drawbar uses a durable tubular design. The front 240° of circle teeth are hardened to reduce wear and ensure component reliability.
Articulation Hitch
A large tapered roller bearing at the lower pivot carries loads evenly and smoothly. Sealed to prevent contamination, a locking pin prevents articulation for safety during service or transport.
Aggressive Blade Angle
Allows material to roll more freely along the blade, particularly dry materials or cohesive soils. Better material control gets the job done faster, requires less power and saves fuel.
Fast, Easy Adjustment Means Tight Components
Shims and patented top-adjust wear strips are easy to add or replace, dramatically reducing downtime and operating costs. Durable nylon composite wear inserts maximize circle torque and component life. Sacrificial brass wear strips between the blade mounting group and moldboard can be replaced easily. Shimless Moldboard Retention System uses vertical and horizontal adjusting screws to keep moldboard wear strips aligned for reduced blade chatter, precise blade control and dramatic reductions in service time.
Moldboard
Heat-treated rails, hardened cutting edges and end bits, and heavy duty bolts assure reliability and long service life. The link bar allows extreme moldboard positioning for bank sloping, ditch cutting and cleaning.
Structures and DCM
Service ease and precise blade control. »Learn More
Sharing key data among systems helps optimize machine performance and aids serviceability.
Cat Messenger, combined with full systems integration, enhances diagnostic capability. Machine system errors are displayed in both text and fault codes for quick analysis of critical data.
Electronic Technician (Cat ET) lets service technicians access stored diagnostic data and configure machine parameters through the Cat Data Link.
Low Battery Elevated Idle raises idle speed when low system voltage is detected, ensuring adequate system voltage and improving battery reliability.
Automatic Engine Deration protects the engine and aftertreatment by automatically lowering engine torque output and alerting the operator if critical conditions are detected.
The AWD arrangement utilizes dedicated left and right pumps for precise hydraulic control. The infinitely variable pumps and motors maximize torque in each gear. This delivers the most power to the ground in the industry and increases productivity.
Maximum Net Power
When AWD is engaged, flywheel horsepower is automatically increased up to an additional 45 kW (60 hp) from base power. This offsets the parasitic losses and maximizes net power to the ground for increased productivity.
Hydrostatic Mode
Standard with AWD, this mode disengages the transmission and provides hydraulic power to the front wheels only. The ground speed is infinitely variable between 0-8 km/h (0-5 mph), perfect for precise finish work.
Steering Compensation
Cat Steering Compensation System enables a “powered turn” by adjusting the outside front tire speed up to 50% faster than the inside tire. The result is improved control, less damage to surfaces and a dramatic reduction of turning radius in poor underfoot conditions.
Incorporates a state-of-the-art electro-hydraulic system as the foundation for revolutionary changes in machine and advanced joystick controls.
Blade Float
Allows the blade to move freely under its own weight. By floating both cylinders, the blade can follow the contours of the road, especially useful when removing snow. Floating only one cylinder permits the toe of the blade to follow a hard surface while the operator controls the slope with the other lift cylinder.
Independent Oil Supply
Large, separate hydraulic oil supplies prevent cross-contamination and provide proper oil cooling, which reduces heat build-up and extends component life.
Load Sensing Hydraulics (PPPC)
The proven load-sensing system and the advanced Proportional Priority Pressure-Compensating (PPPC or “triple P – C”) electro-hydraulic valves provide superior implement control and enhanced machine performance in all applications. Continuously matching hydraulic flow/pressure to power demands creates less heat and reduces power consumption.
Consistent, Predictable Movement – PPPC valves have different flow rates for the head (red) and rod ends (blue) of the cylinder, ensuring consistent extension and retraction speeds.
Balanced Flow – Hydraulic flow is proportioned so all implements operate simultaneously with little effect on the engine or implement speeds.
Cross Slope is a factory installed machine control and guidance system that allows for accurate and real-time positioning of the moldboard without off-machine infrastructure. Harnesses, sensors and the in-cab display are fully integrated into the machine so the system is ready to work from the factory. The system helps the operator more easily achieve the desired cross slope by automating one end of the blade. The system also helps save time and materials so that even less experienced operators can achieve better results, more quickly. The system is designed for easy scalability, supporting all two- and three-dimensional upgrades to be fully compatible with all AccuGrade™ kits.
AccuGrade Ready Option
Optional factory-installed brackets and hardware make the grader ready for dealer installation of the AccuGrade grade control system. Installation is simplified, and integration of the components provides greater protection to enhance system reliability.
Cat AccuGrade
AccuGrade is a dealer-installed blade control system which enables operators to cut and fill to grade with increased accuracy, minimizing the need for traditional survey stakes and grade checkers. AccuGrade includes Cross Slope, Sonic, Laser, Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and/or Universal Total Station (UTS) technologies to automatically control the blade. In-cab displays show precise elevation and real-time cut/fill information. More accurate blade positioning helps operators get to grade faster, with fewer passes than ever before. The AccuGrade System significantly improves grading productivity and accuracy by as much as 50 percent over conventional methods.
Cat Product Link*
Remote monitoring with Product Link improves overall fleet management effectiveness. Product Link is deeply integrated into machine systems. Events and diagnostic codes, as well as hours, fuel, idle time and other detailed information are transmitted to a secure web based application, VisionLink™. VisionLink includes powerful tools to convey information to users and dealers, including mapping, working and idle time, fuel level and more.
*Product Link licensing not available in all areas. Please consult your Cat dealer for availability.
Integrated Technologies
Solutions to make work easier and more efficient. »Learn More
Moldboard Options
Standard 3.7 m (12 ft) or optional 4.3 m (14 ft). Left and right side extensions are also available.
Ground Engaging Tools (GET)
A variety of tools are available from Cat Work Tools, including cutting edges, graderbits and end bits, all designed for maximum service life and productivity.
Front Mounted Groups
A front mounted push plate/counterweight or front lift group are available. The front lift group can be combined with a front dozer blade or front scarifier for added versatility.
Rear Ripper/Scarifier
Made to penetrate tough material fast and rip thoroughly for easier movement with the moldboard. The ripper includes three shanks (with holders for five). Nine scarifier shanks can also be added for additional versatility.
Snow Removal Work Tools
Multiple snow plow, snow wing and mounting options increase machine versatility and utilization throughout the year.
Features are designed to enhance operator and job site safety, such as drop-down rear lights and a rearview camera. Among many standard safety features are laminated glass, back-up lights, and perforated tandem walkways and grab rails.
Operator Presence System
The parking brake remains engaged and hydraulic implements disabled until the operator is initially seated and the machine is ready for operation.
Secondary Steering System
Automatically engages an electric hydraulic pump in case of a drop in steering pressure, allowing the operator to steer the machine to a stop.
Hydraulic Lockout
A simple switch located in the cab disables all implement functions while still providing machine steering control. This safety feature is especially useful while roading.
Brake Systems
Brakes are located at each tandem wheel to eliminate braking loads on the power train. Redundant brake systems utilize accumulators to enable stopping in case of machine failure, further increasing operational safety.
Circle Drive Slip Clutch
This standard feature protects the drawbar, circle and moldboard from shock loads when the blade encounters an immovable object. It also reduces the possibility of abrupt directional changes in poor traction conditions.
Blade Lift Accumulators (Optional)
This optional feature uses accumulators to help absorb impact loads to the moldboard by allowing vertical blade travel. Blade lift accumulators help reduce unnecessary wear and also help reduce impact loading for enhanced operator safety.
Rearview Camera (Optional)
Visibility is further enhanced with an optional Work Area Vision System (WAVS) through a 178 mm (7 in) LCD color monitor in the cab. Developed specifically for rugged applications, this durable camera improves productivity and increases operator awareness of surroundings.
Front and Rear Fenders (Optional)
To help reduce objects flying from the tires, as well as build-up of mud, snow and debris, optional fenders can be added.
From helping you choose the right machine to financing and ongoing support, your Cat dealer provides the best in sales and service.
Manage your costs with preventive maintenance programs like S•O•SSM analysis, Coolant Sampling and guaranteed maintenance contracts.
Stay productive with best-in-class parts availability. Your Cat dealer can even help boost your profits with operator training.
And when it’s time for component replacement, your Cat dealer can help you save even more. Genuine Cat Remanufactured parts carry the same warranty and reliability as new products at savings of 40 to 70 percent for power train and hydraulic components.
Joystick hydraulic controls right/left blade lift with float position, circle drive, blade sideshift and tip, centershift, front wheel lean, articulation and power steering
Joystick, adjustable armrests
Joystick gear selection
Joystick hydraulic power steering
Ladders, cab, left and right side
Lights, night time cab
Mirror, inside rearview, wide angle
Power port, 12V
Radio Ready, Entertainment
ROPS cab, sound suppressed 70 dB(A)
Seat, cloth-covered, comfort suspension
Seat belt, retractable 76 mm (3 in)
Storage area for cooler/lunchbox
Throttle control, electronic
Windows, laminated glass: • fixed front with intermittent wiper • side and rear (3)
FLUIDS
Antifreeze
Extended Life Coolant to –35° C (–30° F)
TIRES, RIMS AND WHEELS
Partial allowance for tires on 254 × 607 mm (10 × 24 in) multi-piece rims is included in the base machine price and weight