The 950L and 962L have approximate operating weights from 18 000 to 19 000 kg.

The new Cat L Series medium wheel loaders – the 950L and 962L, are said to come with proven technologies to meet customers’ high expectations for reliability, productivity, fuel efficiency and long service life. The new L Series medium wheel loaders are more powerful and fuel-efficient than predecessor models, featuring significant drive-train and hydraulic-system refinement.

The 950L and 962L are powered by a Cat C7.1 ACERT engine with a maximum gross power rating 265 hp and approximate operating weights from 18 000 to 19 000 kg. The updated and refined Cat ACERT engines offer increased engine power by 22% in the 950L and 8% in the 962L (compared to H series) to greatly improve machine performance and response.

The 950L and 962L use a 5F/3R countershaft power-shift transmission. A high-capacity torque converter in both models uses a lock-up clutch for efficient grade and high-speed performance, and the Caterpillar Advanced Productivity Electronically Controlled (APEC) control system maintains torque flow during range shifts for faster acceleration on ramps and smoother shifts in the transmission’s direct-drive mode.

In addition, the Integrated Braking System (IBS) regulates downshifting in proportion to the required braking force, resulting in smoother downshifts and increased deceleration control. The IBS prolongs service brake life, lengthens axle-oil change intervals, reduces axle-oil temperatures and improves transmission-neutraliser performance – resulting in faster cycle times.

The machines are designed for greater fuel efficiency and lower fuel consumption while maintaining high performance. The new models are not only more powerful, but also feature up to 10% less fuel consumption for the 950 and 962L compared with H Series predecessors.

The power-dense ACERT engines burn less fuel by providing power and torque when needed.  The innovative Cat powertrain, hydraulic, cooling and electronic systems intelligently lower average working engine speeds and reduce overall system heat loads, resulting in significantly improved performance and fuel efficiency. Furthermore, the Economy Mode provides maximum fuel savings with minimal productivity impact.

Axles for the L Series models feature modifications that reduce parasitic loads and enhance positive lubrication. Available as an option, the automatic traction control system is fully automatic and requires no operator input, which improves traction and reduces tyre wear.

The load-sensing hydraulic system features proportional flow for fast, smooth hydraulic response with optimum controllability. The system is designed to deliver more engine power to the wheels at partial hydraulic flow, allowing faster cycle times in load-and-carry and ramp operations, as well as higher rimpull when digging.

An on-demand fan further enhances fuel efficiency and lowers sound levels.  In addition, the engine-idle-management and the engine-idle-shutdown systems that reduce or stop the engine after a pre-set idling interval, not only saving fuel and reducing sound levels, but also reducing hour accumulation, which helps extend service intervals and warranty.

The one-piece tilting hood with side and rear access doors provides easy access to daily fluid level checks and fueling points, as well as full engine compartment access when required.  Electrical and hydraulic service centres provide grouped, ground-level access to such items as Scheduled Oil Sampling ports that facilitate collecting fluid samples at optimum points in a circulating system.

The new external caliper disc parking brakes are easily accessible for inspection and service. The updated cooling system is readily accessible for clean out and maintenance; the hydraulic-oil cooler and air-conditioner cores swing out providing easy access to both sides for cleaning.

The new models feature up to 10% less fuel consumption compared with H Series predecessors.

Technologies abound

Cat LINK technologies, such as the Product Link system, help fleet owners manage equipment utilisation and lower owning and operating costs through the online VisionLink interface, which tracks critical items, such as location, hours, fuel usage, diagnostic codes, and idle time.

Cat PAYLOAD technology, such as optional Cat Production Measurement system, accurately weighs materials being loaded and hauled to improve productivity, reduce overloading and track material movement. It also provides simple, accurate, on-the-go weighing to assist operators in delivering exact loads and working more efficiently.

Cat DETECT technology, such as the integrated rear vision camera, enhances visibility behind machine to help operators work safely.