Adding to the full line of Cat medium wheel loader choices, the new 980 GC is powered by the Cat C13 engine. The engine’s Cat Clean Emissions Module works in the background without impacting production. The EIMS, Auto Engine Idle Shutdown, variable speed fan and load sensing hydraulics combine to offer low fuel consumption and sound levels on the machine.

Its field-proven automatic planetary powershift transmission delivers high reliability and long service life. Four forward/reverse speeds reach a maximum 39.8 km/h (24.7 mph) speed to quickly move about the site, and the well-known Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) shifting system provides smooth, efficient gear changes in all operating conditions. Available ride control improves operating smoothness over rough terrain while ensuring excellent material retention and increasing efficiency, and the optional limited slip differential axle increases traction in poor underfoot conditions. 

With a bucket capacity range of 4.3-5.8 m³ (5.75-7.5 yd³), easy-to-load Cat Performance Series buckets use a system-based approach to balance bucket shape with the machine’s lift and tilt capacity, weight and linkage. The bucket design improves material retention and reduces dig time with build options that include general purpose, flat floor, heavy duty rock, coal and light material to meet any application.

Field proven, the Cat Z-bar loader linkage with cast crossmember and tilt-lever provides strong digging efficiency and high breakout forces for superior production capabilities. Load-sensing hydraulics produce flow and pressure for the implement only when needed, improving machine productivity and resulting in low fuel consumption. The new 980 GC can be equipped with the Cat Fusion™ quick coupler and controls, and combined with optional third-function hydraulics, the coupler allows use of a wide variety of work tools.

Cat VisionLink™, standard for the new 980 GC, allows fleet managers to track critical loader operating parameters like machine location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes and idle time to improve productivity and lower operating costs. Also optionally available, Cat Payload weighs material while moving to the truck and lifting for on-the-go weighing (not legal for trade), so the operator can load to exact specification, load more trucks and avoid over- or under-loading. The Cat Payload for Trade* option for Cat Advanced Payload allows you to integrate the scale data directly into your business processes. It is type approved by the International Organization of Legal Metrology, while retaining all the features of the standard version of Cat Advanced Payload.

Providing a comfortable working environment throughout the shift, the 980 GC’s spacious cab design features easy, intuitive controls and excellent visibility. The complete user interface is designed as an intuitive system, allowing the operator to monitor machine health. Pilot-operated hydraulic controls deliver low-effort, comfortable operation and include a remote transmission kick-down switch for operating comfort.

Keeping safety in mind, ladders are standard on both machine sides, providing easy access to the cab from the left-hand side and to service points from the right-hand side. Extended windows with wide, flat, and distortion-free front windshield combined with rearview mirrors with spot mirrors offer clear visibility to the jobsite. A rearview camera is standard, and a windshield guard option is available. Air conditioning with louvered vents allows the operator to direct airflow for optimum cooling, while the comfort cloth mechanical suspension seat features adjustable armrests, headrest and multiple variations for superior comfort. 

The new loader features convenient service points, one-piece tilting hood with swing-out radiator, and sight gauges for quick and efficient daily maintenance. Hard-to-reach pins have remote, conveniently grouped grease fittings for easy preventative lubrication. An optional Cat Autolube System boasts simple, one-button control and includes fault flash function to alert the operator to issues.

The new 980 GC is built on a legacy of high performance and highly reliable wheel loaders with machine components designed and manufactured to high quality standards. It is backed by the Cat dealer network to help maximize machine uptime by providing global parts support, trained technicians and Customer Value Agreements. 

Caterpillar entered the wheel loader market in 1959 with the release of the No. 944, its first integrated four-wheel-drive loader powered by a 105-horsepower gas engine. The No. 944 featured a four-speed transmission, torque converter, and a rugged box-section frame, setting a new standard in durability and performance in construction equipment. Over the decades, Caterpillar has expanded and refined its lineup, incorporating advanced hydraulics, ergonomic controls, and integrated technology. Today, the company manufactures more than 25 models of wheel loaders, serving industries from construction, quarry and mining to waste handling, agriculture and forestry, agriculture and forestry.

More information on the new Cat 980 GC Wheel Loader can be found by contacting a Cat dealer or visiting cat.com.

*Available in Europe. Country certifications vary. Contact your Cat dealer for more information.

980 GC SPECIFICATIONS

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About Caterpillar:
With 2024 sales and revenues of $64.8 billion, Caterpillar Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, off-highway diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. For 100 years, we’ve been helping customers build a better, more sustainable world and are committed and contributing to a reduced-carbon future. Our innovative products and services, backed by our global dealer network, provide exceptional value that helps customers succeed. Caterpillar does business on every continent, principally operating through three primary segments – Construction Industries, Resource Industries and Energy & Transportation – and providing financing and related services through our Financial Products segment. Visit us at caterpillar.com or join the conversation on our social media channels at caterpillar.com/en/news/social-media.html.

Caterpillar rolls out products and services in each of its regions at different time intervals. Although every effort is made to ensure that product information is released only after Caterpillar has received confirmation from its independent dealer network, plants, and marketing subsidiaries that products and services are available in the relevant region, editors are kindly requested to verify with a Cat dealer for product availability and specifications.

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