Truck & Off-Highway Engineering - June 2022 - 32

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT
The new compact wheel loaders feature an upgraded hydraulic system
capable of running accessories more efficiently than previous models.
joystick that controls functions such as travel direction and
speed, proportional auxiliary flow, differential lock and constant
hydraulic flow. Customers will be able to choose from a range of
seats, including a new heated and ventilated unit. Front and rear
cameras are also optional, and existing features such as raised
floor pedals and dual doors have been retained.
Caterpillar claims the M-Series will feature a class-first: in-cabInterior
upgrades for the next-generation M-Series lineup are said to
provide greater operator comfort and reduce fatigue.
Modifications also have been made to the optional skidsteer
coupler to improve visibility through the coupler when
setting fork tines. The compact wheel loader fork carriage has
been realigned to improve forward visibility, and bucket capacities
have been increased across the entire model range.
In addition to the updates and refinements across the model
range, there is also an all-new model available: a 908 high-lift
configuration. Caterpillar claims that this model is intended for
customers operating in agricultural, industrial and waste markets.
The company states that when combined with the reversing fan
option, this configuration offers customers increased operating
efficiency and reliability. When equipped with solid tires,
Caterpillar claims that this new high-lift configuration makes the
908 loader ideal for industrial and waste applications.
Caterpillar states that they have made numerous ergonomic,
accessibility and safety improvements to the new lineup.
The M-Series loaders now feature a sealed and pressurized
cab. Side mirrors are standard across the range, and now feature
an optional parabolic lens with an electric and heating
function. New single-piece front and rear windshields offer a
claimed 60% improvement in wiper coverage.
All models feature seat-mounted controls and a multifunction
32 June 2022
programmable kickouts with high-definition rotary sensors
mounted to the loader arms. The company states that this feature
will isolate operators from unwanted shock and vibration
due to buckets striking the ground and/or hitting dump stops at
max height. This feature also enables the operator to remain in
the cab while setting upper, lower and attachment kickout positions.
Cylinder snubbing also is available to provide the operator
with added protection. Caterpillar claims that proper kickout
operation saves up to 20% of bucket-cutting edge life.
The M-Series interior also features Cat's " Next Generation "
control monitor, which offers a range of real-time data. From
this monitor, the operator can configure functions such as
hydrostatic transmission response, auto engine-idle shutdown
and a utility powertrain mode that provides operators with
the ability to control ground and engine speed. All models
now can be outfitted with LED lights for both working/roading
and under-hood-service. A unique resistor bank is built
into the body of the roading lights to warm the assembly and
melt snow or ice when operating in cold climates.
" From a serviceability point of view, we've maintained
much of what we had on the M-Series in terms of access to fill
points and filters for your daily checks, " Kundra said. " We
[also] have improved air filter access and we made sure we've
got extra connections, hydraulic caps on components. "
Caterpillar confirmed that U.S. customers are already placing
orders for the next-generation M-Series models, with a current
order lead time of builds taking place during the 3rd quarter of
2022. According to company representatives, North American
customers could expect their new units to arrive from Caterpillar's
assembly facility in Leicester, U.K. by the fall of this year.
Matt Wolfe
TRUCK & OFF-HIGHWAY ENGINEERING
BOTH IMAGES: CATERPILLAR
Truck & Off-Highway Engineering - June 2022

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