New Options for Cat Compact Wheel Loaders

Caterpillar now offers the 918M compact wheel loader with four new options—a high-lift loader linkage, Cat Fusion coupler, five-piece guarding package and wider tires. More specifically, according to the company:

• The high-lift loader linkage is designed specifically for applications that can benefit from an increased lift height and reach. The loader arm assembly can provide up to 10 percent more lift height and reach compared with the standard loader linkage equipped with a similar work tool interface. A 918M configured with both a high-lift linkage and 20.5R25 tires is going to have a bucket pin height over 13 feet, 5 inches.
• The Cat Fusion coupler system uses an advanced constant-pressure wedging mechanism to create a tight, rattle-free fit with work tools, eliminating the play (relative motion between coupler and work tool) and wear that can result. The coupler applies constant hydraulic pressure to wedges that continually pull the work tool tight to the coupler in two directions, in and down, providing secure tool control and increased productivity. The coupler is available for Fusion-compatible work tool attachments.
• Three new 20.5R25 tires offer several benefits, compared to the standard 17.5R25 tires, including up to 20 percent more tire life, and increases in traction, stability and tipping capacity. The new options include the general-application Goodyear E/L-2A Sure Grip Loader, a 12-ply-rated bias tire with directional and self-cleaning tread; the Michelin Xsnoplus, specially designed for operation on snow and ice, and incorporating a non-directional tread pattern with self-cleaning characteristics; and the Michelin XHA2 radial, a wide-lug tire with non-directional tread, heavy shoulders and protected sidewalls for heavy-duty applications.
• New guarding options, which can be used with steel-front fender deflectors, provide protection for vulnerable areas, such as front light assemblies, the articulation point, the powertrain, the drive shaft and crankcase.