966M

WHEEL LOADER

TIER 3/STAGE IIIA EQUIVALENT 1 TIER 4 FINAL/STAGE V 2

Engine Maximum Power 230 kW (308 hp) 232 kW (311 hp)
Operating Weight 23 220 kg (51,176 lb) 23 220 kg (51,176 lb)
1 Meets Brazil MAR-1, UN ECE R96 Stage IIIA, and China Nonroad Stage III emission standards, equivalent to U.S. EPA Tier 3 and EU Stage IIIA.
2 Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, either EU Stage V or EU Stage IV*, Japan 2014, and Korea Tier 4 Final emission standards.
*Stage IV engines comply with the transition provisions of the EU nonroad emission regulation
 WHEEL LOADERS MADE FOR MORE
Cat® wheel loaders were built with efficiency in mind, offering you the best in:
++ RELIABILITY
++ DURABILITY
++ PRODUCTIVITY
++ FUEL EFFICIENCY
Experience higher performance while reducing costs and fuel-consumption
with Cat wheel loaders.

CAT 966M
The Cat 966M Wheel Loader offers
® significant fuel savings while lowering
long-term costs. Cat wheel loaders
meet emission standards and are
designed to improve fuel economy
without interrupting performance. The

SUPERIOR EFFICIENCY reliability, durability, and versatility

result in machines that are better built
to meet your needs.

2 966M WHEEL LOADER

 MAKE TIME GREATER
FOR MORE. PRODUCTIVITY
Applying proven technology and
components means more dependable
VISIONLINK® WITH THE CAT ADVANCED
results for your work.
PRODUCTIVITY APPLICATION VISUALIZES
PRODUCTION-RELATED DATA, INCLUDING:

BETTER
RUN TIME AND FUEL
“Is my machine efficient?” 3 FUEL EFFICIENCY
Deep system integration results in lower

3
fuel consumption on average as compared
TOTAL PAYLOAD RATES to previous generation machines.
“How productive is my machine?”

TIME AND CYCLES

“How did the job go today?” 3 EASIER
TO MAINTAIN
PRODUCTION BY MATERIAL I.D.
“How much did I get done?” 3 Extended engine oil, engine oil filter,
hydraulic filter, and transmission oil change
intervals saves you time, money, and energy.

All comparisons to previous generation.

966M WHEEL LOADER 3

 RELIABLE, PROVEN Staying ahead of the
competition, Caterpillar

COMPONENTS &
offers a wide variety of
cutting-edge technologies
to get the job done

TECHNOLOGY
quickly and easily with
outstanding accuracy.

COMPONENTS YOU CAN COUNT ON

Every machine is equipped with a combination of proven electronic, hydraulic, cooling, and power train systems.
Our components save you time, money, and effort.

4 966M WHEEL LOADER

PRODUCTIVE
RESULTS
WORK SMART AND MOVE MORE

PERFORMANCE SERIES
BUCKETS
Easy-to-load performance series buckets improve material
retention and reduce dig times, significantly improving
productivity and fuel efficiency. Resulting in unsurpassed
production capabilities with increased fill factors – ranging
from 100% to 115%.

ADVANCED POWERSHIFT BETTER

TRANSMISSION TRACTION
Featuring a lock-up clutch torque converter, our power trains Differential locks are activated on-the-go which improves
deliver smooth shifting, fast acceleration, and speed on grade, traction resulting in increased productivity while also reducing
amplifying your performance and fuel efficiency. tire scuffing for reduced operating costs.

OPTIMIZED RIDE CONTROL AGGREGATE

SYSTEM HANDLER
Dual accumulator system enables a wide payload range and Aggregate packages are specialized offerings for loose
a better ride. Improves ride quality and smoothness over rough aggregate rehandling applications. Payloads can be increased
terrain, increasing your confidence, comfort, and efficiency, above other applications by installing larger buckets and
ensuring excellent material retention. counterweights in compliance with Caterpillar payload policy.

THE RIGHT TECHNOLOGIES

Fine-tuned for the right applications:
++ BETTER FUEL ECONOMY, MAXIMIZED UPTIME, AND LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS
++ HIGH POWER AND PERFORMANCE ACROSS A VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS
++ ENHANCED RELIABILITY THROUGH COMMONALITY AND SIMPLICITY OF DESIGN
++ WORLD-CLASS SUPPORT FROM THE CAT DEALER NETWORK
++ DURABLE DESIGNS WITH LONG LIFE TO OVERHAUL

966M WHEEL LOADER 5

 DURABLE AXLES

M Series axles are designed to handle your

extreme applications. The rear axle oscillates to
±13 degrees for excellent stability and traction
ENHANCED POWER TRAIN on even the roughest terrain.

Our power trains come standard with a lock-up clutch

transmission, matching the engine power to increase
fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
CAT FUSION™ COUPLER SYSTEM

Caterpillar patented, Fusion is a wheel loader coupler

system (not pictured) performing virtually identical to
pin-on, with all the flexibility of a quick coupler system.

OPTIMIZED HYDRAULICS

Our hydraulic systems come equipped with a mono-

block main hydraulic valve. This design reduces
weight while decreasing leak points by 40%. EXTENSIVE RANGE
OF ATTACHMENTS
Do more jobs with one machine. An extensive range
of work tools and bucket styles are available to
customize these machines for your operation.
DURABLE FRAMES

The robotically welded two-piece structural

frame absorbs impact associated with excavation
and loading, while the hitch system provides high
bearing force capacity.

6 966M WHEEL LOADER

 INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY UP TO 15%
CAT® CONNECT TECHNOLOGY

Technology gives you the edge. Operators of all experience levels will dig and load with more confidence, speed, and accuracy.
The result? Better productivity and lower costs.

PAYLOAD DETECT

Provides you accurate weighing* of the materials you are Enhances awareness of the environment around working
loading and hauling. Payload data is displayed in real-time equipment and provides alerts to help keep people and assets
to improve productivity and reduce overloading. Optional safe on the job site.
Advanced Productivity subscription provides comprehensive
actionable information to help you manage and improve the
productivity and profitability of your operations. LINK

Wirelessly connects you to your equipment, giving you access

to essential information you need to know to run your business.
Gain valuable insight into how your machine or fleet is performing
allowing you to make timely, fact-based decisions that can boost
job site efficiency and productivity.

*Not legal for trade.

966M WHEEL LOADER 7

REAL-TIME INFORMATION FROM CAT LINK
TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF MANAGING YOUR EQUIPMENT
Cat Link hardware (Product Link™) and software (VisionLink®) work together to put equipment information at your fingertips.
Get real-time access to information on every machine in your fleet on any jobsite—no matter the size of the operation or the
brands of equipment you run.

PRODUCT LINK™
Track asset location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes,
idle time and more to improve your productivity and lower your
operating costs. Cellular connectivity comes standard. Satellite
connectivity is available.

VISIONLINK
Using the online VisionLink interface, you can see a common,
collective view of your information, making it easier to manage
a mixed fleet and make informed decisions about your equipment.

MY.CAT.COM
You can also access Caterpillar and Cat dealer information at
my.cat.com. My.cat.com gives you access to PM schedules, parts
and service records, warranty coverage and more—with a single
login. Plus, you can link directly to your VisionLink account.

8 966M WHEEL LOADER

 SUPERIOR
FUEL
EFFICIENCY

ENGINE AND EMISSIONS ADVANCED SYSTEM INTEGRATION

High power density and fuel efficiency set our engines Lower fuel consumption resulting from the system integration
apart. Certified to meet emission standards, our engines of the engine and emissions system, power train, hydraulic
feature Cat electronics, a fuel injection process, and system, and cooling system.
air-management systems.

EFFICIENT ENGINE STRUCTURE PRODUCTIVE ECONOMY MODE

Significantly improved performance and fuel economy through Automatically control engine torque and speed based on the
engine speed and overall system heat load reduction. machine’s power train load, placing them in the most efficient
operating range for fuel and performance.

NEXT GENERATION FUEL CAT NOx REDUCTION AFTERTREATMENT

SYSTEMS SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES
Cat injection timing regulates the fuel The Cat NOx Reduction System (NRS) The Selective Catalytic Reduction
injection process through a series of captures and cools a small quantity (SCR) has been added to our
timed microbursts, providing more of exhaust gas, then routes it back demonstrated aftertreatment solution,
control of combustion for the cleanest, into the combustion chamber where it fully meeting emission standards.
most efficient fuel burn. reduces temperatures and emissions
(Tier 4 Final, Stage V only).

966M WHEEL LOADER 9

 EASY TO OPERATE
SAFE. COMFORTABLE. ACCESSIBLE.
A quiet operating environment and intuitive controls help to reduce the fatigue, stresses, sounds,
and temperatures of a demanding job.

CAB ACCESS ADVANCED SEAT

Inclined steps and convenient grab handles ease The next generation of operator comfort includes
accessibility to the operating space. an easily adjustable seat with updated styling and a
revolutionary suspension system. It comes in three trim
levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness.

BETTER RIDE CONTROL NOISE REDUCTION

The next generation of ride control works as a shock Sound-suppression, seals, and damping cab
absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain. mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter
work environment.

GREATER VISIBILITY JOYSTICK STEERING

Extended windows enhance visibility while convex The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering
and spot mirrors extend the driver’s view on the system provides precision control and dramatically
sides and rear. reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort
and accuracy.

10 966M WHEEL LOADER

 SMARTER CONTROLS
AT YOUR
FINGERTIPS

TOUCHSCREEN CENTRAL CONTROL

DISPLAY DISPLAY PANEL
Easy interface, machine controls, Featuring a large text box with With easy-to-reach controls and
rear vision camera, intuitive information about machine operation, touchscreen display, the LED switch
navigation, and integrated Cat features, system troubleshooting, panel provides immediate access to
Production Measurement payload and calibration, the central display frequently required functions, even
system let operators modify and is equipped with LED indicators and while wearing gloves.
monitor their machines instantly. analog gauges, allowing the operator
to easily analyze key systems.

966M WHEEL LOADER 11

 EASIER MAINTENANCE
MORE SAVINGS
Cat wheel loaders are easy to maintain and service,
eliminating any potential waste of time or money. LOWER
Major components are rebuildable, giving the machine
a second life, and often a third life. MAINTENANCE
KEY FEATURES SAVING YOU TIME, MONEY, COSTS
AND ENERGY:
++ Extended engine oil and engine oil filter change interval
SAVE ON MAINTENANCE
up to 1000 hours (Tier 4 Final, Stage V only) BY USING FEWER FILTERS
++ Extended hydraulic filter change interval up to 1000 hours
++ Extended transmission oil change interval up to 2000 hours
++ Optional Integrated Cat autolube system
++ Remote flash support
++ Longer tire life with on-the-go traction aids
++ Safe and simple preventive maintenance

Extended filter change intervals means using fewer filters

over the machine’s lifetime.

12 966M WHEEL LOADER

 DO MORE
JOBS
VERSATILE ATTACHMENTS
AND COUPLERS

For work sites that demand more, you need a wheel loader
that is purpose-built for the job. Cat work tools are engineered
to handle all of your specific application needs.

STANDARD Z-BAR LINKAGE HIGH LIFT LINKAGE

The proven Z-bar linkage combines digging efficiency with The optional high lift linkage offers increased hinge pin height
sharp visibility, resulting in excellent excavation, high breakout to load more easily in a variety of applications with any type of
forces, and superior production capabilities. bucket or fork.

FUSION QUICK COUPLER PERFORMANCE SERIES BUCKETS

The Fusion Coupler System allows machines to use a wide Performance Series Buckets use a system-based approach to
range of tools that can each be picked up by machines of balance bucket shape with the machine’s lift and tilt capacity,
varying sizes. Fusion is designed to integrate the work tool and weight, and linkage. A variety of work tools and bucket styles let
the machine by pulling the coupler and tool closer to the loader, you customize these machines to meet your operation needs.
increasing overall lift capability. ++ Easy loading
++ Improved machine performance ++ Fuel efficient
++ Unsurpassed durability ++ Carry more
++ Increased visibility ++ Lower operating costs
++ Higher productivity

Aggregate Handler Industrial and Waste Handler Forestry Arrangement

Aggregate packages make rehandling Industrial and waste packages offer The forestry package includes a
loose aggregate less stressful on the integrated guards to protect your heavy-duty linkage, a larger tilt
machine, which means payloads can machine from the harsh environment of cylinder, and a heavier counterweight
be increased with the installation of a scrap or waste handling application. to safely handle the larger loads met
larger buckets and counterweights. in logging and mill yard applications.

966M WHEEL LOADER 13

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
See cat.com for complete specifications.

ENGINE – 966M (TIER 3/STAGE IIIA EQUIVALENT) OPERATING SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Model Cat C9.3 Static Tipping Load – Full 37° Turn
14 668 kg 32,329 lb
Maximum Power @ 1,800 rpm – SAE J1995 230 kW 308 hp – with Tire Deflection
Static Tipping Load – Full 37° Turn
Maximum Power @ 1,800 rpm – ISO 14396 227 kW 304 hp 15 822 kg 34,873 lb
– No Tire Deflection
Maximum Net Power @ 1,700 rpm – SAE J1349 207 kW 278 hp
Breakout Force 173 kN 38,984 lbf
Maximum Net Power @ 1,700 rpm – ISO 9249 207 kW 278 hp • For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.”
Peak Gross Torque (1,200 rpm) – SAE J1995 1600 N·m 1,180 lbf-ft • Full compliance to ISO 143971:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification
Peak Gross Torque (1,200 rpm) – ISO 14396 1581 N·m 1,166 lbf-ft between calculations and testing.
Maximum Net Torque (1,000 rpm) 1507 N·m 1,112 lbf-ft
SERVICE REFILL CAPACITIES
Displacement 9.3 L 568 in³
Fuel Tank 302 L 79.8 gal
ENGINE – 966M (TIER 4 FINAL/STAGE V) DEF tank 16.8 L 4.4 gal
Engine Model Cat C9.3 Cooling System 71.6 L 18.9 gal
Maximum Power @ 1,800 rpm – SAE J1995 232 kW 311 hp Crankcase 24.5 L 6.5 gal
Maximum Power @ 1,800 rpm – ISO 14396 229 kW 307 hp Transmission 58.5 L 15.5 gal
Maximum Net Power @ 1,700 rpm – SAE J1349 206 kW 276 hp Differentials and Final Drives – Front 57 L 15.1 gal
Maximum Net Power @ 1,700 rpm – ISO 9249 206 kW 276 hp Differentials and Final Drives – Rear 57 L 15.1 gal
Peak Gross Torque (1,200 rpm) – SAE J1995 1599 N·m 1,179 lbf-ft Hydraulic Tank 125 L 33 gal
Peak Gross Torque (1,200 rpm) – ISO 14396 1581 N·m 1,166 lbf-ft
Maximum Net Torque (1,000 rpm) 1527 N·m 1,126 lbf-ft HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Displacement 9.3 L 568 in³ Variable
Implement Pump Type
• The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas Displacement Piston
refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.6 kg of Implement System:
refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.288 metric tonnes.
Maximum Pump Output (2,200 rpm) 360 L/min 95 gal/min
WEIGHTS Maximum Operating Pressure 31 000 kPa 4,496 psi
Operating Weight 23 220 kg 51,176 lb Hydraulic Cycle Time – Total 10.1 Seconds
• 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, DIMENSIONS
manual diff lock/open axles (front/rear), power train guard, secondary steering, sound
suppression and a 4.2 m3 (5.5 yd3) general purpose bucket with BOCE Standard Lift High Lift
BUCKET CAPACITIES Height to Top of Hood 2818 mm 9'3" 2818 mm 9'3"
3.20- 4.19- Height to Top of Exhaust Pipe 3522 mm 11'7" 3522 mm 11'7"
Bucket Range
7.40 m3 9.68 yd3 Height to Top of ROPS 3587 mm 11'9" 3587 mm 11'9"
TRANSMISSION Ground Clearance 434 mm 1'5" 434 mm 1'5"
Forward 1 6.5 km/h 4.0 mph Reverse 1 7.1 km/h 4.4 mph Center Line of Rear Axle to Edge
2180 mm 7'2" 2500 mm 8'2"
of Counterweight
Forward 2 13.0 km/h 8.1 mph Reverse 2 14.4 km/h 8.9 mph
Center Line of Rear Axle to Hitch 1775 mm 5'10" 1775 mm 5'10"
Forward 3 23.5 km/h 14.6 mph Reverse 3 25.9 km/h 16.1 mph
Wheelbase 3550 mm 11'8" 3550 mm 11'8"
Forward 4 39.5 km/h 24.5 mph Reverse 4 39.5 km/h 24.5 mph
Overall Length (without bucket) 7289 mm 23'11" 8109 mm 26'7"
• Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires
with 826 mm (32.5 in) roll radius. Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 4235 mm 13'11" 4793 mm 15'9"
Hinge Pin Height at Carry 630 mm 2'1" 778 mm 2'7"
SOUND
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value: Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 3643 mm 11'11" 4140 mm 13'7"

Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) 70 dB(A) Rack Back at Maximum Lift 62 degrees 71 degrees

Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008) 109 dB(A) Rack Back at Carry Height 50 degrees 49 degrees

Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013) 76 dB(A)* Rack Back at Ground 42 degrees 39 degrees

  **Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio. Maximum Width over Tires 3009 mm 9'10" 3009 mm 9'10"

With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value:** Tread Width 2230 mm 7'4" 2230 mm 7'4"
• All dimensions are approximate and based on L3 XHA2 tires.
Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) 69 dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level 108 L wa***
***F or machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the
“EU Directives.”
***European Union Directive “2000/14/EC” as amended by “2005/88/EC.”

14 966M WHEEL LOADER

STANDARD & OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT STANDARD OPTIONAL HYDRAULICS STANDARD OPTIONAL

Cab, pressurized, sound suppression  Hydraulic system, steering, load sensing 

Door, remote opening system  Ride Control, 2V 

Touchscreen display  3rd and 4th function w/ Ride Control 

EH: Controls, joystick, parking brake  Oil sampling valves, hoses, Cat XT™ 

Seat, cloth, air suspension 

Seat, suede/cloth, air suspension, heated  ELECTRICAL STANDARD OPTIONAL

Seat, leather/cloth, air suspension,  Starter, electric, heavy duty 
heated/cooled Starting and charging system, 24V 
Radio, AM/FM, Bluetooth®, CD/USB/MP3/ Lights: Halogen, 4 work lights, 2 roading

Sirius XM, CB ready lights, 2 rear vision lights


Visibility: Mirrors, rear vision camera 

Lights: Additional 4 halogen work lights OR

Air conditioner, heater, defroster replace full lighting with LED packages

(auto temp, fan) Cold start, 120V, 240V 
Windows, front, heavy duty, or full guards 

MONITORING SYSTEM STANDARD OPTIONAL

CAT CONNECT TECHNOLOGIES STANDARD OPTIONAL
Gauges: Speedometer, temperature, fuel

Link: Product Link  level, DEF level
Link: VIMS™  Indicators: Regeneration, temperature,

pressure, battery, oil, DEF
Detect: Rear vision camera 

Detect: Cat Rear Object Detection 

ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT STANDARD OPTIONAL
Machine Security System 
Cat Autolube System 
Printer, Aggregate Autodig, Cat Production

Measurement 2.0 Fenders, roading 

Guard, power train 

POWER TRAIN STANDARD OPTIONAL Oil change, high speed engine 

Cat C9.3 engine, meets emission standards  Precleaner, turbine 

Emissions: CEM, DPF, DEF Precleaner, trash 


(Tier 4 Final/Stage V) Wheel chocks 
Fuel priming pump, fuel/water separator 

Radiator, high debris, wide fin spacing 

LINKAGE STANDARD OPTIONAL
Fan, variable pitch fan, auto/manual control 
High Lift 
Torque converter, lock up clutch 
Forestry 
Precleaner, engine air intake 
Quick Coupler Ready 
Brakes, full hydraulic, Integrated Braking Linkage, Z-bar, cast crosstube/tilt lever 

System, wear indicators
Kickout, lift and tilt, automatic 
Axles, manual differential locks,

ecology drains
Axles, automatic locks, oil cooler, OTHER OPTIONAL CONFIGURATIONS STANDARD OPTIONAL

temperature seals, guards Aggregate Handler 

Industrial and Waste Handler 

Forestry 

Not all features are available in all regions. Please check with your local Cat dealer
for specific offering availability in your area.

For additional information, refer to the Technical Specifications brochures for the
966M model available at www.cat.com or your Cat dealer.

966M WHEEL LOADER 15

For more complete information on Cat products, dealer services and industry solutions, visit us on the web at www.cat.com AEXQ2425-00
2019 Product Update
VisionLink® is a trademark of Trimble Navigation Limited, registered in the United States and in other countries.

Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice. Featured machines in photos may include additional
equipment. See your Cat dealer for available options.

© 2019 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, VIMS, Fusion, XT,
Cat Connect, Product Link, “Caterpillar Yellow”, the “Power Edge” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity
used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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