966

966 Wheel Loader

THE RUNDOWN

Latest Features
  • Cat Detect vision systems scale your jobsite needs to provide increased visibility and help you manage ever-changing conditions that pose unexpected risks potentially leading to injury or repair costs.
    • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
    • Surround vision provides 360 degree visibility around the machine, including the articulation hitch area, enhancing an operator’s situational awareness.
  • Collision mitigation system utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warning, people detection, motion inhibit and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through Visionlink™.
    • Collision Warning: Radar specifically targets collision potentials that emerge behind the machine within three detection zones – awareness, caution, and critical alarm zone.
    • People Detection: Smart rear camera highlights people on the in-cab monitor to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine.
    • Motion Inhibit: When the machine remains stationary for a period of time and the rear detection system identifies a potential collision, this feature will prevent the machine from reversing. Additionally, it applies the brakes to avoid unintended coasting, ensuring the machine stays securely in place.
    • Automatic Emergency Braking: If the machine is reversing and a collision potential is detected in the machine path, the brakes will automatically engage if the operator does not take action.
  • Cat Advanced Payload now gives you greater control and efficiency—recipe mode ensures accurate material blends, while expanded split mode simplifies load tracking to boost productivity and reduce errors.
  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET delivers reliable performance and reduces downtime, helping you maximize productivity with fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
  • The Auto Set Tires feature has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
  • Operators can instantly access training videos and feature guides using the on-board QR code*.
* 966 (14C) compared to 966 (14B)
Reliability You Can Count On
  • Cat C9.3B engine offers high power density with a combination of proven electronics, fuel, and air systems.
  • Equipped with automatic Cat regeneration system, Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM) with Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank and pump.
  • Features an electric fuel priming pump, fuel-water separator, and secondary fuel filter.
  • Thorough component design and machine validation processes result in unmatched reliability and uptime.
Built For Long-Term Production
  • Heavy-duty transmission and axles designed to handle extreme applications.
  • Automatic planetary powershift (4F/4R) transmission features durable, long-lasting components.
  • Full-flow hydraulic filtration system with additional kidney-loop filtration improves hydraulic system reliability and component life.
  • Next Generation implement pump increases flow at lower engine speeds and improves hydraulic response.
Achieve Great Performance
  • Autodig with Auto Set Tires for consistent high bucket fill factors delivers excellent productivity.
  • Auto Set Tires has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
  • Single Life Cutting Edge GET delivers reliable performance and reduces downtime, helping you maximize productivity with fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs.
  • Powershift transmission with lock-up clutch increases fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
  • Single clutch lock-to-lock shifting for faster acceleration and speed on grades.
  • Application Profiles optimize machine settings for different applications at one push of a button.
  • Job Aids help operators improve and optimize their operating skills.
  • Performance Series Buckets utilize a system-based approach to balance bucket shape against the machine’s linkage, resulting in higher fill factors and better material retention when compared with other buckets of the same rated capacity.
  • Automatic engine idle shutdown system significantly helps to reduce idle time, overall operating hours, and fuel consumption.
  • Standard auto front differential lock provides additional traction when needed. Auto front and rear differential locks are available as an option.
  • Optional aggregate handler configuration offers higher payload capability for loose aggregate handling.*
  • Deeply integrated engine, powertrain, and hydraulic systems deliver unmatched productivity and fuel efficiency.
  • Fusion™ Quick Coupler allows for easy tool changes without leaving the cab, letting the machine move quickly from task to task.

* Optional configurations and equipment may vary from region to region and require conformance to Caterpillar payload policy. Consult your dealer or Caterpillar representative for details.
Integrated Technology Solutions for Efficient Operation
  • Cat Detect vision systems scale your jobsite needs to provide increased visibility and help you manage ever-changing conditions that pose unexpected risks potentially leading to injury or repair costs.
    • Rear vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work safely and confidently.
    • Surround vision provides 360 degree visibility around the machine, including the articulation hitch area, enhancing an operator’s situational awareness.
  • Collision mitigation system utilizes an integrated and intelligent sensor array to provide reverse collision warning, people detection, motion inhibit and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, visibility into event data and safety trends is available through Visionlink™.
    • Collision Warning: Radar specifically targets collision potentials that emerge behind the machine within three detection zones – awareness, caution, and critical alarm zone.
    • People Detection: Smart rear camera highlights people on the in-cab monitor to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine.
    • Motion Inhibit: When the machine remains stationary for a period of time and the rear detection system identifies a potential collision, this feature will prevent the machine from reversing. Additionally, it applies the brakes to avoid unintended coasting, ensuring the machine stays securely in place.
    • Automatic Emergency Braking: If the machine is reversing and a collision potential is detected in the machine path, the brakes will automatically engage if the operator does not take action.
  • Standard Cat technologies to monitor, manage, and enhance your jobsite operations.
    • Cat Payload* provides accurate weighing of the bucket payloads. Data is displayed in real time to improve productivity and loading accuracy with manual tip-off.
    • Visionlink™ provides actionable data insights for all assets – regardless of fleet size or equipment manufacturer.** Customizable dashboards provide information such as hours, miles, location with mapping, idle time, asset status, asset operation, and fuel utilization. Make informed decisions that help to lower costs, simplify maintenance, and improve safety and security on your jobsite.
    • Autodig allows the operator to fully automate bucket loading to improve fill factors and loading time.
    • Auto Set Tires feature has been refined, continuing to simplify setup and ensure optimal performance, helping you save time and reduce wear for smoother, more efficient operation.
  • Cat Advanced Payload now gives you greater control and efficiency—recipe mode ensures accurate material blends, while expanded split mode simplifies load tracking to boost productivity and reduce errors. Additional features include:
    • Tip Off Assist automatizes load adjustment of the final bucket to match hauling unit target.
    • Enhanced lists management, site integration, and extended scale features to help manage and improve productivity and profitability of operations.
    • e-Ticket allows an operator to generate a weighing ticket and effortlessly send it over the air to any email address.
    • Optional productivity features within VisionLink™ gathers and summarizes machine telematics and jobsite data from all your equipment. Improve machine efficiency, productivity, utilization and reduce per-unit costs.
  • The Cat Payload for Trade*** option for Cat Advanced Payload allows you to integrate the scale data directly into your business processes. It is type approved by the International Organization of Legal Metrology, while retaining all the features of the standard version of Cat Advanced Payload.
* Not legal for trade.
** Data field availability can vary by equipment manufacturer.
*** Available in Europe and Australia. Country certifications vary. Contact your Cat dealer for more information.
Safety Features
  • Collision Warning System with Motion Inhibit helps to improve worker safety on the ground. It utilizes radar and vision sensors to detect hazard potentials, alert operators and inhibit motion in the instant a machine transitions from an inactive to an active state. Audible and visual alerts can deliver the power to see, mitigate and manage hazards that may otherwise go undetected to operators. People Detection is an effective solution that utilizes both a smart camera and radar to alert the operator when a person is detected behind the machine. When machine is stationary for at least 15 seconds, and if the rear detection system detects something in the alarm zone, Motion Inhibit will prevent the machine from engaging reverse gear helping to keep those around the machine safe.
  • Cat® Command remote control enables equipment operators to work safely outside the machine when working in hazardous environments. Command offers the choice of handheld Consoles* (line-of-sight) or long-distance virtual Stations (non-line-of-sight). Deep integration with machine systems enables efficiency and productivity by maintaining the use of in-cab technology* features (Payload, Assist, etc.).
    *Cat Command is not available in all regions or for all models. Please consult with your Cat dealer for machine compatibility and availability in your area.
  • Rear-vision camera enhances visibility behind the machine, helping you work more safely.
  • 4-point seat belt kit includes retractors on the lap belts, improving operator comfort and freedom of movement.
  • Cab access with wide door, optional remote door opening, and inclined steps add solid stability.
  • Floor-to-ceiling windshield, large mirrors with integrated spot mirrors, and rear-vision camera provide industry leading all-around visibility.
  • Computerized monitoring system includes several warning indicators.
  • Monitored seat belt is standard and can be enhanced with an optional exterior indicator.
  • Optional multiview (360˚) vision system helps the operator monitor the surroundings of the machine at all times.
  • Optional Cat Detect radar technology enhances awareness by monitoring the working environment and alerts operators to hazards.
  • Optional access light and under-hood service light system to provide illuminated access to the machine and daily checks even in the dark.
Reduce Your Maintenance Time and Costs
  • Long fluid and filter change intervals help to reduce downtime.
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (optional) allows operator to easily monitor tire pressure from the main machine display helping to improve machine performance, operator ride and operating costs.
  • Maintenance reminders help to synchronize machine maintenance schedule and reduce operation down time.
  • Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for easy ground-level servicing.
  • Remote Troubleshoot allows you to perform diagnostic and calibration testing on your connected machine remotely.
  • Remote Flash updates onboard software without a technician being present, potentially reducing update time by as much as 50%.
  • VisionLink helps you manage fleet location, hours, and maintenance schedules. It also alerts you for required maintenance and allows you to request service from your local Cat dealer.
  • Integrated Autolube extends component and service life.
  • One-piece tilting hood makes engine compartment access fast and easy.
Work in Comfort
  • Easily adjustable seat and suspension for outstanding operator comfort. It comes in two trim levels and can be equipped with a 4-point harness (kit).
  • Spacious cab with significant leg room and adjustable seat controls for added comfort and efficiency.
  • Left footrest allows for added operator comfort, safety and machine stability when working in uneven, bumpy operations.
  • Automatic air conditioning system keeps the cab cool as desired.
  • In-cab dashboard and high-resolution touch display(s) are easy to use, intuitive, and user friendly.
  • Instantly access training videos and feature guides using the on-board QR code*.
  • Sound suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounts decrease noise and vibration for a quieter work environment.
  • The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering system provides precision control and dramatically reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort and accuracy. An HMU steering wheel is also available.
  • Ride control works as a shock absorber, improving ride quality over rough terrain.
* 966 (14C) compared to 966 (14B)
Purpose-Built Specialty Configurations
  • Application-specific arrangements direct from the factory for optimized performance and added durability in the toughest applications, including:
    • Industrial and waste models feature guarding and reinforcement necessary for work in transfer stations, recycling depots, scrap yards, and demolition sites.

    • Forestry model increases lift and tilt capacities for efficient and productive log and chip handling in paper, pellet, and sawmills.



    • Block handler model is built with the strength and stability to get the work done in block quarries.
    • Tunneling package provides added performance and protection for working in tunnels.
    • Corrosion Resistant package adds value in protecting your machine investment. An industry-unique factory treatment provides more protection for machine components that can be affected by corrosive materials.
Engine
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002321hp
Engine Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 14396:2002325 hp (metric)
Engine ModelCat® C9.3B
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014325hp
Gross Power - 1,600 rpm SAE J1995:2014329 hp (metric)
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011302hp
Net Power - 1,600 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:2011302 hp (metric)
Engine Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 14396:20021313lbf·ft
Gross Torque - 1,200 rpm SAE J1995:20141327lbf·ft
Net Torque - 1,200 rpm ISO 9249:2007, SAE J1349:20111255lbf·ft
Displacement567.5in³
EmissionsMeets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Stage V, China Nonroad Stage IV and Japan 2014 emission standards.
Biodiesel CapabilityUp to B20¹
Note (2)¹Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) and are compatible* with ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels**up to: 20% biodiesel FAME (fatty acid methyl ester) ***100% renewable diesel, HVO (hydrotreated 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. *While Caterpillar engines are compatible with these alternative fuels, some regions may not allow their use. **Tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions from lower-carbon intensity fuels are essentially the same as traditional fuels. ***Engines with no aftertreatment devices are compatible with higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel (for use of blends higher than 20% biodiesel, consult your Cat dealer).
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:20141327lb/ft
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:20021313lb/ft
Note (3)Cat diesel engines are required to use ULSD (ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel with 15 ppm of sulfur or less) or ULSD blended with the following lower-carbon intensity fuels up to: • 20% 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. * Engines with no aftertreatment devices can use higher blends, up to 100% biodiesel.
Displacement9.3 L
Weights
Operating Weight51124lb
NoteWeight based on a machine configuration with Z-bar linkage, 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.
Transmission
Forward - 14.2mile/h
Forward - 28.4mile/h
Forward - 315mile/h
Forward - 424.5mile/h
Reverse - 14.5mile/h
Reverse - 29.2mile/h
Reverse - 316.5mile/h
Reverse - 424.5mile/h
NoteMaximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Sound
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:200870dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008109dB(A)
Operator Sound Pressure Level - ISO 6396:2008 ¹69dB(A)
Exterior Sound Power Level - ISO 6395:2008²108dB(A)
Note (1)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.
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value - NoteDistance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.
Air Conditioning System
Air ConditioningThe 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).
Operating Specifications
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn32727lb
Static Tipping Load - Full 37° Turn - No Tire Deflection35224lb
Breakout Force38999lbf
NoteFor a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.”
Note (1)Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification between calculations and testing.
Service Refill Capacities
Fuel Tank80.1gal (US)
DEF Tank6.9gal (US)
Cooling System17.4gal (US)
Crankcase6.1gal (US)
Transmission15.5gal (US)
Differential - Final Drives - Front15.1gal (US)
Hydraulic Tank30.1gal (US)
Hydraulic System
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output at 2,275 rpm99gpm
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure4496psi
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total10.1s
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total10.1 seconds
Dimensions - Standard Lift
Height - Top of Hood9.42ft
Height - Top of ROPS11.83ft
Ground Clearance1.33ft
Wheel Base11.67ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket24.33ft
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height2ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift13.92ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift12.08ft
Rack Back - Maximum Lift62°
Rack Back - Carry Height50°
Width over Tires (Loaded)9.92ft
Tread Width7.25ft
NoteAll 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 - Maximum Lift62 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height50 degrees
Rack Back at Ground39 degrees
Dimensions - High Lift
Height - Top of Hood9.42ft
Height - Top of ROPS11.83ft
Ground Clearance1.33ft
Wheel Base11.67ft
Overall Length - Without Bucket26.5ft
Hinge Pin Height at Carry Height2.5ft
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift15.75ft
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift13.67ft
Rack Back - Maximum Lift71°
Rack Back - Carry Height49°
Width over Tires (Loaded)9.92ft
Tread Width7.25ft
NoteAll 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 - Maximum Lift71 degrees
Rack Back - Carry Height49 degrees
Rack Back at Ground37 degrees
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
  • Steering, joystick
  • Seat, cloth, air suspension
  • Touchscreen display
  • Keypad, programmable buttons
  • Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto temp, fan)
  • Sun visor, front and rear retractable
  • Windows, front, laminated

POWERTRAIN

  • Cat® C9.3B engine
  • Electric fuel priming pump
  • Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel filter
  • Engine, air precleaner
  • 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 roading lights with turn signals, 2 rearview lights

HYDRAULICS

  • Implement system, load sensing with variable displacement piston pump
  • Steering system, load sensing with dedicated variable displacement piston pump
  • Ride control, dual accumulators
  • 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
Optional Equipment

NOTE

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

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT

  • Door, remote opening system
  • Footrest
  • HMU steering wheel
  • 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
  • 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, ecology drains, AOC ready, extreme temperature seals
  • Axles, oil cooler

ELECTRICAL

  • Cold start, 120V or 240V
  • Lights: LED

HYDRAULICS

  • 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
  • Tunneling (Japan only)
  • Corrosion resistant