Heavy Equipment

Caterpillar Unveils Industry’s Biggest Track Loader

The Cat 973 offers better fuel efficiency and more productivity.

Updated on

April 22, 2024

Cat 973 track loader — Cat 973 replaces the 973K worldwide. PHOTO | CATERPILLAR

Caterpillar, the world’s biggest construction OEM, has broken a new record following the unveiling of “the largest track loader in the industry” – the 973.

Powered by a 275-horsepower Cat C9.3B diesel engine, the 29,892-kilogram track loader is designed to clear, load, dig, carry, and handle many other tasks easily.

The Cat 973 replaces the 973K globally and joins the 160-horsepower 953 and 202-horsepower 963 in the Caterpillar track loader line-up.

Operations

The company says the new track loader offers improved fuel efficiency, heightened productivity, an upgraded cab, and the option for Payload technology.

“The 973 is the largest track loader in the industry but still offers agility and ease of operation. The updated cab features a suspension seat and adjustable armrests/controls,” Caterpillar said in a press release.

The cab is fitted with an intuitive, 10-inch (254 mm) touchscreen dash display and a standard High Definition rearview camera. The Slope Indicate makes operation easier by showing the machine mainfall and cross slope right on the display.

Operators have the option of powertrain controls, choosing between the traditional V-lever and pedal steer setup or a joystick steer, akin to those found on skid steers and compact track loaders (CTLs).

For loader controls, operators can choose between the traditional two-lever control or a joystick control that operates similarly to skids and CTLs.

“With either control scheme, operators can set implement response – fine, normal, coarse – to match operator preference or application,” Caterpillar said.

There is the option to preset repetitive lift, lower, rack, dump and float functions to simplify tasks such as truck loading.

Performance

According to Caterpillar, the fuel consumption of the 973 can be cut by up to 10% by placing the machine in Auto Mode, which adapts the engine speed to the load.

For enhanced fuel efficiency, operators handling lighter-duty tasks can engage the loader’s Eco Mode. Conversely, Power Mode maintains high engine speed, ensuring ample power is instantly accessible as needed.

Cat 973 replaces the 973K worldwide. PHOTO | CATERPILLAR

The new machine comes with an optional Performance Series bucket that can boost productivity by up to 20% in some applications. At the same time, an optional Fusion™ Quick Coupler enables fast attachment changes.

“A variety of buckets, forks and other tools can be shared among track loaders, wheel loaders and other Fusion-compatible machines,” Caterpillar added.

The buckets are equipped with the factory-installed Advansys bucket tips, adapters, and locking system. Advansys tips are known for their durability and longevity, while the hammerless retention system enables quick and safe removal and installation without the need for specialised tools.

Different configurations tailor the machine for specific tasks.

Configurations like LGP, Waste Handling/Demolition, and Ship Hold have specialised undercarriage, guarding, and features.

The 973 Steel Mill configuration includes a specialised cab, insulated steel fuel tank, high-temperature undercarriage, and full machine insulation.

The optional Cat Payload technology employs on-the-go weighing, providing operators with accurate bucket load data. This minimises the risk of over- or under-loading, thus reducing cycle times and saving time, labour, and fuel costs.