Wheel Loaders

972M

< Back

Request A Quote
Financing & Insurance
See our Offers
Calculate my Payment
  • Find Your Dealer
  • Used Midsize Wheel Loaders
View Product Downloads
Yes, I would like to receive future marketing communications (such as email) from Caterpillar Inc., its affiliates and subsidiaries worldwide and the Caterpillar dealer network. Regardless of whether you decide to receive these marketing communications, Caterpillar will continue to send service/transactional messages, including those that have to do with any accounts that you may have with us.

Overview

The 972M Wheel Loader is equipped with built-in proven technologies to help meet your expectations for productivity, fuel efficiency, reliability and service life. Deep system integration results in a machine built to help you reduce emissions, improve performance and improve fuel economy. All of this is done without interrupting machine performance and making it seamless to you. This machine delivers the reliability, durability, and versatility you’ve come to expect from a Cat machine.

Engine

Units:
Displacement 568.0 in³ 9.3 l Less
Engine Model Cat C9.3 ACERT Cat C9.3 ACERT Less
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - SAE J1349 298.0 HP 222.0 kW Less
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - SAE J1349 - Metric 302.0 HP 222.0 kW Less
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - ISO 14396 325.0 HP 242.0 kW Less
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - ISO 14396 - Metric 329.0 HP 242.0 kW Less
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - SAE J1995 330.0 HP 246.0 kW Less
Maximum Power - 1,800 rpm - SAE J1995 - Metric 334.0 HP 246.0 kW Less
Net Power - ISO 9249 298.0 HP 222.0 kW Less
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - ISO 9249 298.0 HP 222.0 kW Less
Maximum Net Power - 1,700 rpm - ISO 9249 - Metric 302.0 HP 222.0 kW Less
Maximum Net Torque - 1,000 rpm 1204.0 ft-lb 1632.0 N·m Less
Peak Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm - ISO 14396 1261.0 ft-lb 1710.0 N·m Less
Peak Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm - SAE J1995 1275.0 ft-lb 1728.0 N·m Less

Weights

Operating Weight 54871.0 lb 24897.0 kg Less
Note Weight based on a machine configuration with Michelin 26.5R25 XHA2 L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link?, manual diff lock/open axles (front/rear), power train guard, secondary steering, sound suppression and a 4.8 m3 (6.28 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE. Weight based on a machine configuration with Michelin 26.5R25 XHA2 L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link?, manual diff lock/open axles (front/rear), power train guard, secondary steering, sound suppression and a 4.8 m3 (6.28 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE. Less

Buckets

Bucket Capacities 3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³) 3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³) Less

Operating Specifications

Breakout Force 44075.0 196.0 kN Less
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection 38396.0 lb 17421.0 kg Less
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - With Tire Deflection 35626.0 lb 16164.0 kg Less
Note (1) For a machine configuration as defined under ?Weight.? For a machine configuration as defined under ?Weight.? Less
Note (2) Full compliance to ISO 143971:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing. Full compliance to ISO 143971:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing. Less

Transmission

Forward - 1 4.2 mile/h 6.7 km/h Less
Forward - 2 8.1 mile/h 13.1 km/h Less
Forward - 3 14.4 mile/h 23.2 km/h Less
Forward - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h Less
Reverse - 1 4.7 mile/h 7.6 km/h Less
Reverse - 2 9.3 mile/h 15.0 km/h Less
Reverse - 3 16.5 mile/h 26.5 km/h Less
Note Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 826 mm (32.5 in) roll radius. Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 826 mm (32.5 in) roll radius. Less
Reverse - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h Less

Hydraulic System

Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total 10.7 s 10.7 s Less
Implement Pump Type Variable Displacement Piston Variable Displacement Piston Less
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure 4496.0 psi 31000.0 kPa Less
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,200 rpm 95.0 gal/min 360.0 l/min Less

Service Refill Capacities

Cooling System 18.9 gal (US) 71.6 l Less
Crankcase 6.5 gal (US) 24.5 l Less
Differential - Final Drives - Front 15.1 gal (US) 57.0 l Less
Differential - Final Drives - Rear 15.1 gal (US) 57.0 l Less
Fuel Tank 79.8 gal (US) 302.0 l Less
Hydraulic Tank 33.0 gal (US) 125.0 l Less
Transmission 15.5 gal (US) 58.5 l Less

Sound

Note *Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. *Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. Less
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008) 109.0 dB(A) 109.0 dB(A) Less
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013) 76 dB(A)* 76 dB(A)* Less
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) 70.0 dB(A) 70.0 dB(A) Less

Engine - Tier 3/Stage IIIA Equivalent

Emissions Tier 3/Stage IIIA Tier 3/Stage IIIA Less

Bucket Capacities

Bucket Range 3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³) 3.20-9.94 m³ (4.19-13.0 yd³) Less

Dimensions - High Lift

Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight 8.17 ft 2500.0 mm Less
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch 5.83 ft 1775.0 mm Less
Ground Clearance 1.42 ft 434.0 mm Less
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe 11.58 ft 3522.0 mm Less
Height - Top of Hood 9.25 ft 2818.0 mm Less
Height - Top of ROPS 11.75 ft 3587.0 mm Less
Hinge Pin Height at Carry 2.58 ft 778.0 mm Less
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 15.75 ft 4793.0 mm Less
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 13.5 ft 4140.0 mm Less
Maximum Width over Tires 9.92 ft 3009.0 mm Less
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires. Less
Overall Length - Without Bucket 26.67 ft 8109.0 mm Less
Rack Back - Carry Height 49 degrees 49 degrees Less
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 71 degrees 71 degrees Less
Rack Back at Ground 39 degrees 39 degrees Less
Tread Width 7.33 ft 2230.0 mm Less
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550.0 mm Less

Dimensions - Standard Lift

Centerline of Rear Axle to Edge of Counterweight 8.17 ft 2500.0 mm Less
Centerline of Rear Axle to Hitch 5.83 ft 1775.0 mm Less
Ground Clearance 1.42 ft 434.0 mm Less
Height - Top of Exhaust Pipe 11.58 ft 3522.0 mm Less
Height - Top of Hood 9.25 ft 2818.0 mm Less
Height - Top of ROPS 11.75 ft 3587.0 mm Less
Hinge Pin Height at Carry 2.25 ft 680.0 mm Less
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 14.67 ft 4458.0 mm Less
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 12.58 ft 3843.0 mm Less
Maximum Width over Tires 9.92 ft 3009.0 mm Less
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires. Less
Overall Length - Without Bucket 25.58 ft 7774.0 mm Less
Rack Back - Carry Height 50 degrees 50 degrees Less
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 56 degrees 56 degrees Less
Rack Back at Ground 41 degrees 41 degrees Less
Tread Width 7.33 ft 2230.0 mm Less
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550.0 mm Less

Reliability

        
  • Cat® C9.3 ACERT™ engine offers increased power density with a combination of proven electronic, fuel and air systems.
    •     
  • Utilizing rigorous component design and machine validation processes results in unmatched reliability, durability and high uptime.

Durability

        
  • Heavy-duty powershift transmission and axles handle extreme applications.
    •     
  • Full flow hydraulic filtration system with additional loop filtration improves hydraulic system robustness and component life.

Productivity

        
  • Engine power increased by approximately 8% improves machine performance and response (compared to H Series).
    •     
  • Lock-up clutch torque converter, combined with lock-to-lock shifting, delivers smooth shifts, fast acceleration and speed on grade.
    •     
  • Z-bar linkage provides high breakout force at ground level.
    •     
  • Easy-to-load Performance Series Buckets feature a wider mouth and curved side plates that improve material retention (fill factor) and decrease cycle times.
    •     
  • On-the-go disc-type front manual differential locks (front and rear fully automatic option).
    •     
  • Optional Aggregate Handler configuration offers slightly higher payload capability for loose aggregate rehandling.*
*Optional configurations and equipment may vary from region to region and requires conformance to Caterpillar payload policy. Consult your dealer or Caterpillar representative for details.

Fuel Efficiency

        
  • Up to 10% more fuel efficient than K Series and up to 25% more fuel efficient than H Series loaders.**
    •     
  • Power dense ACERT engine burns less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.
    •     
  • Standard productive Economy Mode provides maximum fuel savings with minimal productivity impact.
**Actual results may vary based on factors such as, but not limited to, machine configuration, operator technique, machine application, climate, etc.

Ease of Operation

        
  • Best-in-class operator environment provides unmatched comfort, visibility, and efficiency.
    •     
  • E-H joystick steering (steering wheel optional) with force feedback for precision control and dramatically decreases operator arm fatigue.
    •     
  • Intuitive, ergonomic controls and touch screen multifunction display keep operators focused on their work.
    •     
  • Ride control system with dual accumulators provides excellent ride quality and lowers cab vibrations.

Safety

        
  • Excellent cab access with wide door, remote door opening option and stair-like steps.
    •     
  • Floor to ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors and rear vision camera provide industry leading all-around visibility.

Serviceability

        
  • One-piece tilting hood with side and rear doors; hydraulic and electrical service centers make access fast and easy.
    •     
  • Safe, ground level access to fuel fill and daily maintenance points means less servicing time is required.
    •     
  • Optional, fully integrated Cat Autolube system provides full lube system monitoring and diagnostic test visibility.

Cat Connect Technology

        
  • Monitor, manage and enhance job site operations.
    •     
  • Cat LINK Technologies: VisionLink® enables owners to access data wirelessly to monitor machine health, utilization and location.
    •     
  • Cat DETECT Technologies: Integrated rear vision camera enhances visibility behind machine to help operators work safely. Optional Cat Rear Object Detection increases operator awareness of the working environment which enhances site safety.
    •     
  • Cat PAYLOAD Technologies: Optional Cat Production Measurement 2.0 brings simple and accurate on-the-go payload scale allowing operators to deliver exact loads and work more efficiently. Advanced Productivity subscription provides comprehensive actionable information to help you manage and improve the productivity and profitability of your operations.

972M Standard Equipment

POWER TRAIN
  • Engine, Cat C9.3 ACERT - meets Tier 3/Stage IIIA equivalent or Tier 4 Final/Stage IV emission standards
  • Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models)
  • Fuel priming pump (electric)
  • Fuel/water separator
  • Precleaner, engine air intake
  • Economy Mode (selectable)
  • Transmission, automatic planetary power shift (4F/4R)
  • Torque converter, locking clutch with free wheel stator

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
  • Cab, pressurized and sound suppressed (ROPS/FOPS)
  • Viscous mounts
  • Multi-function 18 cm (7 in) color touch-screen display for rear vision camera, clock and machine parameters
  • EH controls, SAL (single axis lever) lift and tilt function
  • Steering, EH joystick, speed sensing with force feedback
  • Radio ready (entertainment) includes antenna, speakers and converter (12V, 10-amp)
  • Air conditioner, heater, and defroster (auto temp and fan)
  • EH parking brake
  • Beverage holders (2) with storage compartment for cell phone/MP3 player
  • Bucket/work tool function lockout
  • Coat hook (2)
  • Cab air filter
  • Ergonomic cab access ladders and handrails
  • Horn, electric
  • Light, two dome (cab)
  • Mirrors, rearview external with integrated spot mirrors
  • Post mounted membrane 16 switch keypad
  • 2 receptacles, 12V
  • Seat, Cat Comfort (cloth) air suspension
  • Seat belt, 51 mm (2 in) retractable, with indicator
  • Sun visor, front
  • Wet-arm wipers/washers front and rear, intermittent front wiper
  • Window, sliding (left and right sides)
  • Cab tie-off

COMPUTERIZED MONITORING SYSTEM
  • With following gauges: Speedometer/tacometer; Digital gear range indicator; Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) level (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models); Temperature: engine coolant, hydraulic oil, transmission oil; Fuel level
  • With following warning indicators: Regeneration; Temperature: axle oil, engine intake manifold; Pressure: engine oil, fuel pressure hi/low, primary steering oil, service brake oil; Battery voltage hi/low; Engine air filter restriction; Hydraulic oil filter restriction; Hydraulic oil low; Parking brake; DEF low level (Tier 4 Final/Stage IV models); Transmission filter bypass

ELECTRICAL AND LIGHTING
  • Batteries (2), maintenance free 1,400 CCA
  • Ignition key; start/stop switch
  • Starter, electric, heavy duty
  • Starting and charging system (24V)
  • Lighting system: Four halogen work lights (cab mounted); Two halogen roading lights (with signals); Two halogen rear vision lights (hood mounted)
  • Alarm, back-up
  • Alternator, 145-amp brushed
  • Main disconnect switch
  • Receptacle start (cables no included)

CAT CONNECT TECHNOLOGIES
  • Link technologies: Product Link
  • Detect technologies: rear vision camera

LINKAGE
  • Linkage, Z-bar, cast crosstube/tile lever
  • Kickout, lift and tilt, automatic

HYDRAULICS
  • Hydraulic system, load sensing
  • Steering, load sensing
  • Ride control, 2V
  • Remote diagnostic pressure taps
  • Hoses, Cat XT�
  • Oil sampling valves

FLUIDS
  • Premixed extended life coolant with freeze protection to -34� C (-29� F)

OTHER STANDARD EQUIPMENT
  • Hood, non-metallic power tilting
  • Service centers (electrical and hydraulic)
  • Platform, window washing
  • Auto idle shutdown
  • Fenders, front with mud-flap/rear with extension
  • Ecology drains for engine, transmission, and hydraulics
  • Ether aid ready
  • Grill, airborne debris
  • Filters: fuel, engine air, engine oil, hydraulic oil, transmission
  • Fuel cooler
  • Grease zerks
  • Hitch, drawbar with pin
  • Precleaner rain cap
  • Sight gauges: engine coolant, hydraulic oil, and transmission oil level
  • Toolbox
  • Vandalism protection caplocks

972M Optional Equipment

POWER TRAIN
  • Axles: Automatic front/rear differential locks; Axle oil cooler; Extreme temperature seals; Seal guards
  • Fan, VPF (variable pitch fan), automatic and manual control
  • Radiator, high debris with wider fin spacing

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT
  • Door, remote opening system
  • Cover, HVAC metallic
  • EH controls, SAL 3rd function - Additional roller switch for 4th function
  • EH controls, joystick lift and tilt - Additional integrated roller switches for 3rd and 4th functions
  • Filter, carbon fresh air
  • Mirrors, heated rearview external with integrated spot mirrors
  • Precleaner, HVAC
  • Precleaner, HVAC (RESPA)
  • Radio, AM/FM/CD/USB/MP3 Bluetooth with Satellite Sirius and XM
  • Radio, CB ready
  • Seat, heated air suspension
  • Seat belt, 76 mm (3 in) retractable, with indicator
  • Steering, EH wheel with directional FNR shifter and gear selector - Additional FNR with implement controls
  • Roof, metallic
  • Steering, secondary
  • Sun visor, rear
  • Windows, rubber mounted
  • Windows, with front guard
  • Windows, with heavy duty front guard
  • Windows, with full guards front, rear and sides

ELECTRICAL AND LIGHTING
  • Four additional auxiliary halogen cab mounted work lights or
  • Two additional auxiliary front HI LED and two additional auxiliary rear LED cab mounted work lights with 2 LED work lights in the radiator grill and LED front turn signals also includes replacement of the standard four halogen cab mounted work lights with four LED work lights (the standard offering and only roading light available is the halogen roading light)
  • Warning amber strobe beacon
  • Reversing strobes
  • External seat belt indicator light
  • Speed limiter - 20 km/h (Europe only)

STARTERS, BATTERIES, AND ALTERNATORS
  • Cold start - 120V
  • Cold start - 240V

CAT CONNECT TECHNOLOGIES
  • Link technologies: VIMS�
  • Payload technologies: Advanced Productivity subscription; Cat Production Measurement 2.0; Printer; Aggregate Autodig
  • Detect technologies: Cat Rear Object Detection
  • Machine Security System

LINKAGE
  • High lift
  • Extended capacity
  • Quick coupler ready

WORK TOOLS
  • Performance Series buckets
  • Fusion quick coupler
  • Forks, pallet
  • Forks, logging

HYDRAULICS
  • 3rd function with Ride Control: Standard linkage; High lift linkage; Forestry linkage
  • 4th function with Ride Control: Standard linkage; High lift linkage; Forestry linkage

FLUIDS
  • Premixed extended life coolant with freeze protection to -50� C (-58� F)

OTHER OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
  • Cat Autolube System
  • Fenders, roading
  • Guard, power train
  • Oil change, high speed engine
  • Precleaner, turbine
  • Precleaner, trash
  • Wheel clocks

OTHER OPTIONAL CONFIGURATIONS
  • Aggregate Handler
  • Industrial and Waste Handler
  • Steel Mill

Attachments

Flat Floor Buckets - Performance Series
Flat Floor Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 4.8m³ (6.28yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.2m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.2m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.2m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.2m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.2m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 5.4m³ (7.00yd³)Performance Series Flat Floor Bucket 6.3m³ (8.25yd³) Flat Floor Bucket 9.6m³ (12.50yd³)
General Purpose Buckets
General Purpose Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.2m³ (5.50yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.4m³ (5.75yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.6m³ (6.00yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 4.8m³ (6.25yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.0m³ (6.50yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.1m³ (6.75yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.3m³ (7.00yd³)Performance Series General Purpose Bucket 5.5m³ (7.25yd³)Performance Series
Link
Cat Product Link
Payload
Cat PAYLOAD for Medium Wheel Loaders