CAT wheel loaders are one of the best brands in the construction industry. The company prioritizes efficiency and safety, making them an excellent choice for any work site. If you are looking for a great wheel loader model, it is worth reviewing the options from this top-notch company. In this guide, we’ll review everything you need to know about CAT wheel loaders and how to choose the one that’s right for your needs.

CAT wheel loaders are known far and wide as some of the best machines in the construction industry, and it’s no wonder why. These wheel loaders are designed to deliver a powerful performance while reducing fuel consumption and wear and tear on the internal components. That means less daily and long-term maintenance for you. You’ll also find various models and capacities with basic and high-tech controls so you can choose the machine that you can operate most comfortably.

CAT produces a variety of wheel loader models. These range from lightweight, compact models to larger types suitable for heavy-duty work or large sites. Here are some of the wheel loaders from CAT to help you choose which is right for you!

• Bucket Breakout Force: 32,810 lbs
• Operating Weight: 42,461 lbs
• Power: 249 hp

The CAT 950 wheel loader is a basic model that delivers high-efficiency results in a simple package. Its unique construction reduces fuel and maintenance costs while remaining tough enough to handle all your work site needs.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 34,645 lbs
• Operating Weight: 41,554 lbs
• Power: 225 hp

The CAT 950 GC wheel loader makes getting all your work done easy without being harsh on your machine. This model conserves fuel without reducing efficiency or power so that you can work faster and longer without extra maintenance.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 40,690 lbs
• Operating Weight: 42,357 lbs
• Power: 250 hp

The CAT 950 M wheel loader delivers power and an amazingly smooth performance. It comes with a five-speed transmission, making it easy to maneuver around your work site and finish in a fraction of the time.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 42,489 lbs
• Operating Weight: 44,469 lbs
• Power: 269 hp

A medium-sized wheel loader, the CAT 962 has a deceptive amount of smart technology. This is designed to help operators work more smoothly and efficiently while reducing fuel consumption and work time.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 42,489 lbs
• Operating Weight: 44,591 lbs
• Power: 250 hp

The CAT 962 M is designed for operator convenience, with intuitive controls and a five-speed transmission. This medium-sized wheel loader makes it easier to complete your work in a fraction of the time.  

• Bucket Breakout Force: 34,645 lbs
• Operating Weight: 41,554 lbs
• Power: 225 hp

The CAT 966 wheel loader offers a simple but powerful experience, making it ideal for any operator.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 38,869 lbs
• Operating Weight: 48,018 lbs
• Power: 321 hp

The CAT 966 GC comes equipped with various new, high-efficiency features, such as fan settings, load-sensing hydraulics, and an engine idle management system.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 38,999 lbs
• Operating Weight: 51,124 lbs
• Power: 321 hp

The CAT 966 XE is a medium-sized wheel loader for various work sites. With operator-assist features, this machine makes it easy to do your work as quickly and efficiently as possible.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 44,072 lbs
• Operating Weight: 54,858 lbs
• Power: 339 hp

This mid-size wheel loader is a great middle-of-the-road machine, marrying old and new technologies. It’s more powerful and efficient but ideal for workers who prefer more straightforward controls.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 44,072 lbs
• Operating Weight: 54,858 lbs
• Power: 339 hp

The CAT 972 XE is a mid-size machine with high-tech controls for more efficient work and lower energy and maintenance costs.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 51,008 lbs
• Operating Weight: 66,877 lbs
• Power: 393 hp

The CAT 980 wheel loader has impressive technologies to help you work faster, more efficiently, and with lower maintenance costs.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 51,008 lbs
• Operating Weight: 66,877 lbs
• Power: 393 hp

If you want a wheel loader that uses innovative technology and massively reduces energy consumption, the CAT 980 XE is your machine. It reduces energy consumption by up to 35 percent and CO2 emissions by up to 17 percent.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 58,531 lbs
• Operating Weight: 78,264 lbs
• Power: 404 hp

The CAT 982 wheel loader offers simple controls for high-tech results. It also features operator-assist capacities to simplify your role while reducing fuel and maintenance costs.

• Bucket Breakout Force: 59,060 lbs
• Operating Weight: 78,264 lbs
• Power: 404 hp

The CAT 982 XE is a deceptively powerful machine, thanks to its 404 hp engine. It’s also assisted by some of the most advanced controls on the market, pinpoint turning, and lower energy consumption.

While there are many great wheel loaders on the market, here are a few things that make CAT wheel loaders stand out from the crowd:

• Increased fuel efficiency
• High power for faster, more effective work
• Models range from basic to high-tech
• Designed to last longer to save time and money

Wheel loaders are used to transport materials around work sites, dig and excavate, lift pallets, and more. CAT offers various arm attachments to help you customize your machine to your work site. This makes it possible to complete tasks such as:

• Lifting and transporting materials
• Loading materials into other machines
• Digging
• Removing ground waste such as brush or snow
• Clearing rubble
• Laying pipes

What should you consider when choosing which model suits your work site?

Machine Features: Wheel loaders have various features, from operator-assist controls to fuel-saving mechanisms. It’s up to you to decide which of these is most important.

New vs. Used Options: A properly maintained wheel loader can be used for many years. Buying a used machine can help save you a lot of money, though there are drawbacks as well. Consider the pros and cons of buying new or used.

Financing and Warranty Options: Learn about financing and warranty options before purchasing. These can save you huge amounts of trouble and money!

One of the most important things to do for your CAT wheel loader is to provide proper maintenance and care. This will improve your machine’s longevity, keep it in top working condition, and protect your workers.

Essential wheel loader maintenance includes:

• Check fluid levels and replenish
• Clean filters
• Check for leaks
• Observe all components for wear and tear or visible damage
• Clean battery terminals
• Grease wheel loader
• Check tires for wear and tear

Make sure you undergo a more thorough inspection every 50 hours of use.

CAT wheel loaders vary in price depending on the size, make, and model. New models start at about $55,000 for compact wheel loaders, though they can range up to roughly $125,000. Larger models might be anywhere from $130,000 to upwards of $800,000.

When you look at the various CAT wheel loader models, you might feel overwhelmed! Choosing the suitable model for your needs comes down to what kind of work you need to do, how much experience you have with similar machines and the type of work site you have. You can select the perfect wheel loader for your needs by comparing these factors.

Heavy machinery like wheel loaders can be an expensive investment! Luckily, CAT wheel loaders have financing options, including loans and leases. Consider buying a wheel loader secondhand, as this can be significantly more affordable.

Proper maintenance will significantly extend the life of your CAT wheel loader, saving you time and money. Every 50 hours, ensure you thoroughly inspect your brakes, steering, electrical system, and tires. Daily maintenance includes testing brake pads, oil levels, and air filters.

As per OSHA standards, everyone who operates a wheel loader must undergo training and receive an official certificate. Before using a wheel loader on a construction site, you must complete a vocational or community college course.

When it comes to comparing CAT wheel loaders with John Deere, customers have voiced strong opinions. On a popular forum discussion on Red Power Magazine, many users favored CAT for its superior performance and features.

One user commented, “The CAT was hands down a nicer unit to run and had better power as well.” This sentiment was echoed by others who praised the overall comfort and power of CAT wheel loaders, particularly in challenging environments. Another review highlighted the loader’s performance in the cab, noting, “It is smooth and quiet in the cab and seems to have a lot of push power.”

Not only does CAT excel in power and comfort, but it also offers more advanced features. As one user pointed out, “CAT has way more features and makes Deere seem way behind.” These added features are especially beneficial for operators who require versatility and precision in their daily tasks.

These reviews provide a clear picture of why many professionals choose CAT over John Deere for their heavy equipment needs.

If you need construction equipment, you’re in the right place. Send us details about the job and/or specs on the machine you want, and we’ll find you the best options available.