Power and Precision for Every Job

Medium Wheel Loaders 966

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Key Specs

Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002
321 hp
239 kW
Operating Weight
51124 lb
23196 kg
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002
325 hp (metric)
325 hp (metric)

Overview

Power and Precision for Every Job

The Cat® 966 Wheel Loader is engineered for relentless productivity in the harshest environments—from rugged quarries to demanding construction and mining sites. Its smart systems and durable build keep you moving with fewer interruptions, while operator-focused features enhance safety and control. When the job gets tough, the 966 is tougher—ready to power through every load, every shift.

Benefits

Excellent Productivity

Enhanced performance starts with auto diff lock* and smooth neutralizer engagement. On-board QR code** gives instant access to training videos and feature guides, while in-cab monitor alerts help keep maintenance on track.  Versatile configurations, including remote control, for any task.

* Where applicable
** 966 (14C) compared to 966 (14B)

Efficient Operation

Upgraded Remote Services keep the machine up-to-date and reduce troubleshooting time.  Tire monitoring ensures smooth, cost-effective operation.  Updated Cat Advanced Payload improves jobsite efficiency. 

Enhanced Safety

Cat Detect vision systems enhance visibility and risk management and support integration with people and object detection.  Enables in-cab and bystander collision warnings and automatic emergency braking.  With a VisionLink™ subscription, safety events report directly to the back office.  Cat Command remote control lets operators work safely from a distance.

Product Specifications for 966

Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002 321 hp 239 kW
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002 325 hp (metric) 325 hp (metric)
Engine Model Cat® C9.3B Cat® C9.3B
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014 325 hp 242 kW
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014 329 hp (metric) 329 hp (metric)
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 303 hp 226 kW
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 307 hp (metric) 307 hp (metric)
Engine Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 14396:2002 1313 lbf·ft 1781 N·m
Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm SAE J1995:2014 1327 lbf·ft 1799 kW
Net Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011 1255 lbf·ft 1702 N·m
Displacement 567.5 in³ 9.3 l
Emissions Meets Brazil MAR-1 emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3, EU Stage IIIA, and China Nonroad Stage III. Meets Brazil MAR-1 emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3, EU Stage IIIA, and China Nonroad Stage III.
Biodiesel Capability Up to B20¹ Up to B20¹
Note (1) The net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and muffler. The net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and muffler.
Note (2) ¹Cat engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with following lower carbon 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. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. ¹Cat engines are compatible with diesel fuel blended with following lower carbon 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. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels.
Displacement 9.3 L 9.3 L
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 1327 lb/ft 1799 N·m
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. 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.
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002 1313 lb/ft 1781 N·m
Operating Weight 51124 lb 23196 kg
Note Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, powertrain guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE. Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start, roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, powertrain guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE.
Forward - 1 4.2 mile/h 6.7 km/h
Forward - 2 8.4 mile/h 13.5 km/h
Forward - 3 15 mile/h 24.2 km/h
Forward - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h
Reverse - 1 4.5 mile/h 7.3 km/h
Reverse - 2 9.2 mile/h 14.8 km/h
Reverse - 3 16.5 mile/h 26.6 km/h
Reverse - 4 24.5 mile/h 39.5 km/h
Note Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius. Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 72 dB(A) 72 dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008 109 dB(A) 109 dB(A)
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 ¹ 69 dB(A) 69 dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008² 108 dB(A) 108 dB(A)
Note (1) ¹Including countries that adopt the EU and UK Directives. ¹Including countries that adopt the EU and UK Directives.
Note (2) ²Exterior Sound Power Level - European Union Directive 2000/14/EC and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701. ²Exterior Sound Power Level - European Union Directive 2000/14/EC and UK Noise Regulation 2001 No. 1701.
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - 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.
Air Conditioning The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a or R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430), the system contains 1.600 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). - If equipped with R1234yf (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.389 kg (3.1 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of .001 metric tonnes (1.10 tons). The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a or R1234yf. See the label or instruction manual for identification of the gas. - If equipped with R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430), the system contains 1.600 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons). - If equipped with R1234yf (Global Warming Potential = 0.501), the system contains 1.389 kg (3.1 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of .001 metric tonnes (1.10 tons).
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn 32727 lb 14849 kg
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection 35224 lb 15981 kg
Breakout Force 38999 lbf 174 kN
Note (1) For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.” 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. Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
Fuel Tank 80.1 gal (US) 303 l
Cooling System 17.4 gal (US) 66 l
Crankcase 6.1 gal (US) 23 l
Transmission 15.5 gal (US) 58.5 l
Differential - Final Drives - Front 15.1 gal (US) 57 l
Differential - Final Drives - Rear 15.1 gal (US) 57 l
Hydraulic Tank 30.1 gal (US) 114 l
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,275 rpm 99 gpm 373 L/min
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure 4496 psi 31000 kPa
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total 10.1 s 10.1 s
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total 10.1 seconds 10.1 seconds
Height - Top of Hood 9.42 ft 2850 mm
Height - Top of ROPS 11.83 ft 3593 mm
Ground Clearance 1.33 ft 424 mm
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550 mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket 24.33 ft 7399 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height 2 ft 635 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 13.92 ft 4245 mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 12.08 ft 3687 mm
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 62 ° 62 °
Rack Back - Carry Height 50 ° 50 °
Width over Tires (Loaded) 9.92 ft 3012 mm
Tread Width 7.25 ft 2230 mm
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
Rack Back at Ground 40 degrees 40 degrees
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 62 degrees 62 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height 50 degrees 50 degrees
Height - Top of Hood 9.42 ft 2850 mm
Height - Top of ROPS 11.83 ft 3593 mm
Ground Clearance 1.33 ft 424 mm
Wheel Base 11.67 ft 3550 mm
Overall Length - Without Bucket 26.5 ft 8069 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height 2.5 ft 782 mm
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 15.75 ft 4804 mm
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 13.67 ft 4183 mm
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 71 ° 71 °
Rack Back - Carry Height 49 ° 49 °
Width over Tires (Loaded) 9.92 ft 3012 mm
Tread Width 7.25 ft 2230 mm
Note All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires. All dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
Rack Back at Ground 37 degrees 37 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height 49 degrees 49 degrees
Rack Back - Maximum Lift 71 degrees 71 degrees

966 Standard Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT

  • Cab, pressurized, sound suppression
  • EH implement controls, parking brake
  • HMU steering wheel
  • Seat, cloth, air suspension
  • Touchscreen display
  • Keypad, programmable buttons
  • Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto temp, fan)
  • Sun visor, front, retractable
  • Windows, front, laminated

POWERTRAIN

  • Cat® C9.3B engine
  • Electric fuel priming pump
  • Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel filter
  • Engine, air precleaner
  • Axles, open/open differentials
  • Axles, auto front differential lock
  • Transmission, planetary, automatic powershift
  • Torque converter with lock-up
  • Service brakes, hydraulic, fully enclosed wet disc, wear indicators
  • Integrated Braking System (IBS)
  • Park brake, caliper on front axles, spring applied-pressure released
  • Brake pedal neutralizer with decel function

ELECTRICAL

  • Starting and charging system, 24V
  • Starter, electric, heavy duty
  • Lights: halogen, 4 work lights, 2 front tower lights, 2 rearview lights

HYDRAULICS

  • Implement system, load sensing with variable displacement piston pump
  • Steering system, load sensing with dedicated variable displacement piston pump
  • Oil sampling valves, Cat XT hoses

LINKAGE

  • Standard lift, Z-bar
  • Kickouts: lift and tilt

MONITORING SYSTEM

  • Front dash with analog gauges, LCD display, and warning lights
  • Primary touchscreen monitor (Cat Payload, quad screens, machine settings and messages)
  • Maintenance reminders

ONBOARD TECHNOLOGIES

  • Autodig with auto set tires
  • Operator ID and machine security
  • Application profiles
  • Job aids
  • Controls help and eOMM
  • Cat Payload
  • Key Features Inform
  • Bucket Carry Display Widget
  • Remote Flash

SAFETY

  • Seat belt reminder
  • 2-point seat belt
  • Rear vision camera
  • Window cleaning platform, front

966 Optional Equipment

NOTE

  • Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT

  • Door, remote opening system
  • Footrest
  • Steering, joystick
  • Implement joystick (2V, 3V only)
  • Entertainment radio (FM, AM, USB, BT)
  • Entertainment radio (DAB+)
  • CB radio ready
  • Seat, suede/cloth, air suspension, heated
  • Seat, leather/cloth, air suspension, heated/cooled
  • Mirrors, heated
  • Sun visor, rear, retractable
  • Windows, front, heavy-duty
  • Full cab window guard

POWERTRAIN

  • Turbine, air precleaner
  • Radiator, high debris
  • Cooling fan, reversible
  • Axles, auto front and rear differential locks
  • Axles, manual front lock
  • Axles, ecology drains, AOC ready, extreme temperature seals
  • Axles, oil cooler

ELECTRICAL

  • Cold start, 120V or 240V
  • Lights: roading with turn signals
  • Lights: LED

HYDRAULICS

  • Ride control, dual accumulators
  • 3rd and 4th auxiliary functions with ride control
  • Quick coupler control

LINKAGE

  • High lift, Z-bar

MONITORING SYSTEM

  • Tire pressure monitor

ONBOARD TECHNOLOGIES

  • Cat Advanced Payload
  • Cat Payload for Trade (Available in Europe and Australia. Country certifications vary. Contact your Cat dealer for more information.)
  • Cat Payload Printer with E-ticket

SAFETY

  • 4-point seat belt (kit)
  • Rear vision camera, dedicated
  • Surround vision, dedicated
  • Window cleaning platform, front
  • Collision warning system
  • Collision mitigation system
  • Reverse strobe lights (Not compatible with roading arrangements)
  • Warning beacon
  • Secondary steering system, electrical (Standard where mandated)
  • Wheel chocks
  • Remote control

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT

  • Cat Autolube system
  • Fenders, extensions or roading
  • Guards: powertrain, crankcase, window glass, cylinders, rear
  • Biodegradable hydraulic oil
  • High-speed oil change system
  • Rear cab access
  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET
  • Toolbox

SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS

  • Aggregate handler
  • Waste and industrial
  • Forestry
  • Corrosion resistant

Compatible Technology and Services

Leverage Caterpillar connected data and security principles to improve efficiencies, increase productivity and make your business more profitable.

  • Collision Mitigation System for Medium Wheel Loaders

    Cat Detect - Collision Mitigation System is an operator assist feature designed to enhance situational awareness when reversing the machine. It utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warnings, detect people, inhibit motion, and enable automatic emergency braking. Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through VisionLink™.

  • Rear Object Detection for Wheel Loaders

    Rear Object Detection for wheel loaders is a two-part system providing enhanced blind spot awareness. Radar provides visual and audible alerts when objects enter a safety proximity zone, while a camera allows the operator to see what's behind the machine when reversing.

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Cat Detect - Collision Mitigation System is an operator assist feature designed to enhance situational awareness when reversing the machine. It utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warnings, detect people, inhibit motion, and enable automatic emergency braking. Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through VisionLink™.

Explore Technology

Rear Object Detection for wheel loaders is a two-part system providing enhanced blind spot awareness. Radar provides visual and audible alerts when objects enter a safety proximity zone, while a camera allows the operator to see what's behind the machine when reversing.

Explore Technology
  • Cat® Inspect

    Cat® Inspect allows you to access your equipment data on your mobile device. This easy-to-use app lets you capture inspection data and integrates with your other Cat data systems, so you can keep a close eye on your fleet. More than one million inspections are completed each year, providing convenience and accountability to equipment owners.

  • Cat® Remote Flash

    Remote Flash sends an alert from your Cat dealer, prompting you to update the software on your machine. To minimize downtime, updates can be deployed while on the jobsite without having to wait for a dealer technician to arrive. Remote flash decreases maintenance time and keeps your asset running with maximum efficiency.

  • Cat® Remote Troubleshooting

    Remote Troubleshoot allows your Cat dealer to run testing while the machine is operating. Once the problem is identified, a technician can fix it with the correct parts and tools the first time, saving time and money. Remote Troubleshoot decreases maintenance time and keeps your machine running with maximum efficiency.

  • VisionLink™

    VisionLink™ is a cloud-based software application that takes the guesswork out of fleet management with key insights to maximize performance - regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer. Receive equipment data seamlessly to your desktop or mobile device, all from a convenient centralized solution to make informed decisions at every turn.

1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

Cat® Inspect allows you to access your equipment data on your mobile device. This easy-to-use app lets you capture inspection data and integrates with your other Cat data systems, so you can keep a close eye on your fleet. More than one million inspections are completed each year, providing convenience and accountability to equipment owners.

Explore Technology

Remote Flash sends an alert from your Cat dealer, prompting you to update the software on your machine. To minimize downtime, updates can be deployed while on the jobsite without having to wait for a dealer technician to arrive. Remote flash decreases maintenance time and keeps your asset running with maximum efficiency.

Explore Technology

Remote Troubleshoot allows your Cat dealer to run testing while the machine is operating. Once the problem is identified, a technician can fix it with the correct parts and tools the first time, saving time and money. Remote Troubleshoot decreases maintenance time and keeps your machine running with maximum efficiency.

Explore Technology

VisionLink™ is a cloud-based software application that takes the guesswork out of fleet management with key insights to maximize performance - regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer. Receive equipment data seamlessly to your desktop or mobile device, all from a convenient centralized solution to make informed decisions at every turn.

Explore Technology
  • Cat Payload for Next Generation Wheel Loaders

    Cat® Payload technologies provide on-the-go weighing to help operators hit exact targets, everytime and avoid overloading, underloading or misloading materials.

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Cat® Payload technologies provide on-the-go weighing to help operators hit exact targets, everytime and avoid overloading, underloading or misloading materials.

Explore Technology
  • VisionLink™ Productivity

    VisionLink™ Productivity is an easy-to-use cloud-based platform that gathers and summarizes machine telematics and jobsite data from all your equipment. Actionable performance data is transmitted to the web platform for users to access anywhere, anytime via a mobile, tablet, or desktop device - on or off the jobsite.

1 - 8 of 9 Items items
Previous Next

VisionLink™ Productivity is an easy-to-use cloud-based platform that gathers and summarizes machine telematics and jobsite data from all your equipment. Actionable performance data is transmitted to the web platform for users to access anywhere, anytime via a mobile, tablet, or desktop device - on or off the jobsite.

Explore Technology

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