966

WHEEL LOADER

Engine Maximum Power 239 kW (321 hp)

Operating Weight 23 196 kg (51,124 lb)

Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 4 Final, and Japan 2014 emission standards.
 CAT 966
The Cat® 966 Wheel Loader brings
® premium performance with simple-
to-use technologies as a standard
offering, boosting operator efficiencies
and delivering increased productivity.
Improved performance, reliability,
SUPERIOR TECHNOLOGY. durability, and versatility result in a
machine that is better built to meet
INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY. your needs.

WHEEL LOADERS MADE FOR MORE

Cat wheel loaders were built with efficiency in mind, offering you the best in:
+ RELIABILITY + FUEL EFFICIENCY
+ DURABILITY + TECHNOLOGY
+ PRODUCTIVITY + VERSATILITY

Experience higher performance while reducing costs and fuel consumption

with Cat wheel loaders.

2 966 WHEEL LOADER

UP TO 20% MAXIMIZE EFFICIENCY
LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS* RIGHT FROM THE CAB
Save time and money with extended maintenance intervals
and remote troubleshooting and flash capability. Get a
Cat wheel loaders feature integrated
better view of maintenance points with the optional under- technologies that help make your
hood service light system.
operation more efficient.

SMART MACHINE CAT PAYLOAD WITH ASSIST

+ Achieve precise load targets every time
FOR EFFICIENT OPERATION + Track daily production
Integrated Cat technologies like Cat Payload** with Assist AUTODIG WITH AUTO SET TIRES
and on-board job aids make machine operation easier, so + Boost productivity with automated loading
your jobsite is more efficient. + Reduce tire wear
JOB AIDS
+ Make machine operation easier
UP TO 10%
MORE PRODUCTIVITY* A MORE EFFICIENT JOBSITE MEANS
New Autodig with Auto Set Tires offers automated loading, MORE PROFIT IN EVERY LOAD.
consistent high fill factors, and reduced tire wear, while Cat
Payload** with Assist helps you load to target every time to
boost productivity.

*Compared to previous Cat models.

**Not legal for trade.

966 WHEEL LOADER 3

 RELIABLE, PROVEN Staying ahead of the
competition, Caterpillar

COMPONENTS &
offers a wide variety of
cutting-edge technologies
to get the job done

TECHNOLOGY
quickly and easily with
outstanding accuracy.

COMPONENTS YOU CAN COUNT ON

Every machine is equipped with a combination of proven electronic, hydraulic, cooling, and power train systems. Amplify your
efficiency with better traction and enhanced work tools, delivering continuous productivity for your machine. Reliable fuel systems
boost machine performance and fuel economy, lowering your overall costs and fuel consumption. You can rely on our components to
save you time, money, and effort.

4 966 WHEEL LOADER

 PRODUCTIVE
RESULTS
WORK SMART AND MOVE MORE

PERFORMANCE SERIES
BUCKETS
ON-BOARD
Easy-to-load Performance Series Buckets improve material
JOB AIDS retention and reduce dig times, significantly improving
Job Aids help make machine operation easier, while also allowing productivity and fuel efficiency, resulting in unsurpassed
your operators improve and optimize their skills on the jobsite. production capabilities with increased fill factors – ranging
from 100% to 115%.

POWERSHIFT BETTER
TRANSMISSION TRACTION
Featuring a lock-up clutch torque converter, our power trains New Autodig with Auto Set Tires assures that the front tires
deliver smooth shifting, fast acceleration, and speed on grade, have adequate traction for consistent high bucket fill factors
amplifying your performance and fuel efficiency. delivering up to 10% more productivity compared to previous
model. Front manual differential lock is standard with optional
automatic front and rear locks.

OPTIMIZED RIDE CONTROL AGGREGATE

SYSTEM HANDLER
Dual accumulator system enables a better ride in loaded and Aggregate packages are specialized offerings for loose
unloaded situations. It improves smoothness over rough terrain, aggregate rehandling applications. Payloads can be increased
increasing confidence and efficiency and ensuring excellent above other applications by installing larger buckets and
material retention. counterweights in compliance with Caterpillar payload policy.

THE RIGHT MIX OF FEATURES

Fine-tuned for the right applications:
+ BETTER FUEL ECONOMY, MAXIMIZED UPTIME, AND LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS
+ HIGH POWER AND PERFORMANCE ACROSS A VARIETY OF APPLICATIONS
+ ENHANCED RELIABILITY THROUGH COMMONALITY AND SIMPLICITY OF DESIGN
+ WORLD-CLASS SUPPORT FROM THE CAT DEALER NETWORK
+ DURABLE DESIGNS WITH LONG LIFE TO OVERHAUL

966 WHEEL LOADER 5

 DURABLE AXLES

Axles are designed to handle your most extreme

applications. The rear axle oscillates to ±13
degrees for excellent stability and traction on
ENHANCED POWER TRAIN even the roughest terrain.

Our power trains come standard with a lock-up clutch

transmission, matching the engine power to increase
fuel efficiency while delivering optimal performance.
QUICK COUPLERS AND WORK TOOLS

For versatility, buckets and components can be

changed without leaving the cab, allowing the
machine to quickly move from task to task.

OPTIMIZED HYDRAULICS

Our hydraulic systems come equipped with a mono-

block main hydraulic valve. This design reduces
weight while decreasing leak points by 40%. EXTENSIVE RANGE
OF ATTACHMENTS
Do more jobs with one machine. An extensive range
of work tools and bucket styles are available to
optimize these machines for your operation.
DURABLE FRAMES

The robotically welded two-piece structural

frame absorbs impact associated with excavation
and loading, while the hitch system provides high
bearing force capacity.

6 966 WHEEL LOADER

 SMART MACHINE FOR EFFICIENT OPERATION
INNOVATIVE CAT TECHNOLOGIES

Your machine comes equipped with innovative Cat technologies that give you the edge. Operators of all experience levels will dig and
load with more confidence, speed, and accuracy. The result? Better productivity and lower costs.

CAT PAYLOAD* WITH ASSIST DETECT

Cat Payload technology delivers precise bucket load Rearview camera is standard. This system can be enhanced
information with on-the-go weighing, which helps prevent over- with an additional display dedicated to the rearview camera as
or underloading. The low lift weigh and manual tip-off functions well as for a Multiview (360 degree) system. To complete the Cat
optimize the final bucket process and maximize efficiency. Detect offerings, the machines can be equipped with a rear radar
system, which features speed-sensitive alerts and ground clutter
filtering to avoid annoyance.
CAT ADVANCED PAYLOAD* WITH ASSIST

The optional advanced system adds features like list

CAT PRODUCTIVITY
management. It also includes tip-off-assist, which automatizes
the final bucket load adjust process. With multi-task mode,
the operator can track two loading processes. The advanced A Cat Productivity subscription provides comprehensive,
platform is also ready for Dispatch for Loading, integrating the actionable information to help you manage and improve the
loader into the scale house process (requires compatible third- productivity and profitability of your operations.
party scale house software and subscription).
*Not legal for trade.

966 WHEEL LOADER 7

REAL-TIME INFORMATION FROM CAT EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT
TAKES THE GUESSWORK OUT OF MANAGING YOUR EQUIPMENT

Cat Equipment Management technologies work together to put equipment information at your fingertips. Get real-time access to
information on every machine in your fleet on any jobsite – no matter the size of the operation or the brands of equipment you run.

PRODUCT LINK™
Product Link collects data automatically and accurately from your
assets. Information such as location, hours, fuel usage, idle time,
maintenance alerts, diagnostic codes, and machine health can be
viewed online through web and mobile applications.

VISIONLINK®
Access information anytime, anywhere with VisionLink and use it
to make informed decisions that boost productivity, lower costs,
simplify maintenance, and improve safety and security on your
jobsite. With different subscription level options, your Cat dealer
can help you configure exactly what you need to connect your
fleet and manage your business without paying for extras you
don’t want. Subscriptions are available with cellular or satellite
reporting (or both).

REMOTE SERVICES
The Cat App helps you manage your assets – at any time – right
from your smartphone. See fleet location and hours, get critical
required maintenance alerts, and even request service from your
local Cat dealer.
+ Remote Troubleshoot can connect the machine to the dealer
service department to help diagnose problems quickly so you can
get back to work.

+ Remote Flash – get software updates sent to your machine

remotely.

+ Operator ID lets you track machine operation by individual operator

using the main display and Product Link.

8 966 WHEEL LOADER

SUPERIOR
FUEL
EFFICIENCY

ENGINE AND EMISSIONS ADVANCED SYSTEM INTEGRATION

High power density and fuel efficiency set our engines Lower fuel consumption is the result of advanced system
apart. Certified to meet emission standards, our engines integration of the engine and emissions system, power train,
feature Cat electronics, fuel injection, and hydraulic system, and cooling system.
air-management systems.

POWER MODES

Operating the machine in the standard power mode will assure

the best efficiency results in most applications. Using the
available HP+ mode will not significantly increase the machine’s
digging capability but will allow higher speeds on grades in Load
& Carry.

PROVEN ENGINE SYSTEMS AFTERTREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES

The C9.3B utilizes technologies to deliver the The Cat Clean Emissions Module delivers the
lowest possible fluid consumption. Including performance and efficiency that customers
proven common-rail fuel system and latest demand, while meeting emission standards. It is
injector technology. Caterpillar patented designs completely automatic and does not interrupt the
enable removal of exhaust gas recirculation, machine’s work cycle.
while remaining total fluid consumption neutral.

966 WHEEL LOADER 9

 WORK IN COMFORT
IN THE ALL-NEW CAB
The cab is designed to maximize comfort and productivity, offering a quieter, more spacious operating environment and
intuitive controls to help reduce the fatigue, stresses, sounds, and temperatures of a demanding job.

CAB ACCESS ADVANCED SEAT & MORE LEGROOM

Inclined steps, large opening door, optional remote The next generation of operator comfort includes
door opener, and convenient grab handles ease increased legroom and an easily adjustable seat with
accessibility to the operating space. updated styling and an enhanced suspension system.
It comes in three trim levels and can be equipped with
a dealer-installed 4-point harness.
OPERATOR ID

Secure machine usage with dedicated Operator IDs. NOISE REDUCTION

Machine settings are saved separately, increasing
shift change efficiency. Unlock the machine using Sound-suppression, seals, and viscous cab mounts
Passcode or optional Bluetooth® key. decrease noise for a quieter work environment.

JOYSTICK STEERING
GREATER VISIBILITY
The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic joystick steering
Extended windows enhance visibility while convex system provides precision control and dramatically
and spot mirrors extend the driver’s view on the reduces arm fatigue, resulting in excellent comfort
sides and rear. and accuracy. A conventional HMU steering wheel is
also available in many regions.

10 966 WHEEL LOADER

SIMPLE CONTROLS
AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY
The easy and intuitive interface lets the operator work with
confidence and efficiency. It includes Operator ID, machine
settings, Job Aids, help functions, security, rear-vision camera,
and integrated Cat Payload with Assist.

CENTRAL DISPLAY
Featuring easy-to-read analog gauges and LED indicators that
allow the operator to quickly monitor critical machine health
parameters.

A large text box displays the Cat Payload information as well as

gear selection, machine travel speed, time, and hour meter.

KEYPADS
Easy-to-reach backlit keypads on the implement control pod and
the A-post provide instant access to many functions and settings.
Only active buttons or functions are illuminated, making it very
intuitive for the operator.

966 WHEEL LOADER 11

 REDUCED MAINTENANCE TIME AND COSTS BY
UP TO 20%*
Cat wheel loaders are easy to maintain and service,
eliminating any potential waste of time or money. THE CAT® 966
Major components are rebuildable, giving the machine
a second life, and often a third life.
SAVES TIME AND MONEY
WITH EASIER AND FASTER SERVICE
KEY FEATURES SAVING YOU TIME, MONEY,
AND ENERGY:
REBUILDABLE
+ Convenient access to hydraulic and electrical service centers for COMPONENTS
easy and safe servicing.
+ Remote Troubleshoot can connect the machine to the dealer service
department to help diagnose problems quickly so you can get back
to work. EASY ACCESS
+ Remote Flash works around your schedule to ensure your machine’s TO SERVICE CENTERS
software is up to date for optimal performance.
+ Integrated Autolube extends component and service life.
+ One-piece tilting hood makes engine compartment access fast
and easy.
REMOTE TECHNOLOGIES
MANAGE YOUR MACHINE FROM ANYWHERE

*Parts and fluids only

12 966 WHEEL LOADER

 DO MORE
JOBS
VERSATILE ATTACHMENTS
AND COUPLERS

For worksites that demand more, you need a wheel loader that
is purpose-built for the job. Cat work tools are engineered to
handle all of your specific application needs.

STANDARD Z-BAR LINKAGE PERFORMANCE SERIES BUCKETS

The proven Z-bar linkage combines digging efficiency with Performance Series Buckets use a system-based approach to
sharp visibility, resulting in excellent excavation, high breakout balance bucket shape with the machine’s lift and tilt capacity,
forces, and superior production capabilities. weight, and linkage. A variety of work tools and bucket styles are
available for a range of applications, including general purpose,
flat floor, heavy duty rock, and coal-style buckets.
QUICK COUPLERS AND WORK TOOL ATTACHMENTS + Easy loading
+ Fuel efficient
A wheel loader equipped with a Cat Fusion™ quick coupler + Carry more
system is a much more versatile machine. Buckets and work + Lower operating costs
tools can be changed without leaving the cab – allowing the + Higher productivity
machine to quickly move from task to task. Consult your local
dealer for availability of a variety of specialty buckets and forks.
HIGH LIFT LINKAGE

The optional high lift linkage offers increased hinge pin height
to load more easily in a variety of applications with any type of
bucket or fork.

PURPOSE-BUILT SPECIALTY CONFIGURATIONS

Maximize your wheel loader’s performance and durability in the toughest applications with application-specific
arrangements direct from the factory.

Industrial and waste models – guarding and reinforcement Forestry model – increases lift and tilt capacities for
protect components when working in transfer stations, efficiency and productive log and chip handling in paper,
recycling depots, scrap yards, and demolition sites. pellet, and sawmills.

966 WHEEL LOADER 13

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
See cat.com for complete specifications.

ENGINE OPERATING SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Model Cat® C9.3B Static Tipping Load – Full 37° Turn –
14 849 kg 32,727 lb
Engine Power @ 1,600 rpm – ISO 14396:2002 239 kW 321 hp with Tire Deflection
Static Tipping Load – Full 37° Turn
Gross Power @ 1,600 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 242 kW 325 hp 15 981 kg 35,224 lb
– No Tire Deflection
Net Power @ 1,600 rpm – ISO 9249:2007,
226 kW 303 hp Breakout Force 174 kN 38,999 lbf
SAE J1349:2011
• For a machine configuration as defined under “Weight.”
Engine Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 14396:2002 1781 N·m 1,313 lbf-ft
• Full compliance to ISO 14397-1:2007 Sections 1 thru 6, which requires 2% verification
Gross Torque @ 1,200 rpm – SAE J1995:2014 1799 N·m 1,327 lbf-ft between calculations and testing.
Net Torque @ 1,200 rpm – ISO 9249:2007,
1702 N·m 1,255 lbf-ft SERVICE REFILL CAPACITIES
SAE J1349:2011
Displacement 9.3 L Fuel Tank 303 L 80.1 gal
•C at engine meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, EU Stage V, Korea Tier 4 Final, and DEF Tank 26 L 6.9 gal
Japan 2014 emission standards. Cooling System 66 L 17.4 gal
• The
 net power advertised is the power available at the flywheel when the
Crankcase 23 L 6.1 gal
engine is equipped with fan, alternator, air cleaner, and aftertreatment.
• Cat
 engines are compatible with the following renewable, alternative, and Transmission 58.5 L 15.5 gal
bio-fuels* with lower greenhouse gas emission impact: Differentials and Final Drives – Front 57 L 15.1 gal
• Up to B20 biodiesel (FAME)
• Up to 100% HVO and GTL renewable fuels Differentials and Final Drives – Rear 57 L 15.1 gal
* Refer to guidelines for successful application. Please consult your Cat dealer Hydraulic Tank 114 L 30.1 gal
or “Caterpillar Machine Fluids Recommendations” (SEBU6250) for details.
HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
WEIGHT Implement System:
Operating Weight 23 196 kg 51,124 lb Maximum Pump Output (2,275 rpm) 373 L/min 99 gal/min
• Weight based on a machine configuration with Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 Maximum Operating Pressure 31 000 kPa 4,496 psi
radial tires, full fluids, operator, standard counterweight, ride control, cold start,
roading fenders, Product Link™, front manual differential/open rear axles, power Hydraulic Cycle Time – Total 10.1 seconds
train guard, secondary steering, sound suppression, and a 4.2 m³ (5.5 yd³) general
purpose bucket with BOCE. DIMENSIONS
Standard Lift High Lift
BUCKET CAPACITIES
Height to Top of Hood 2850 mm 9'5" 2850 mm 9'5"
2.8- 3.75-
Bucket Range Height to Top of Exhaust Pipe 3531 mm 11'8" 3531 mm 11'8"
11.9 m3 15.5 yd3
Height to Top of ROPS 3593 mm 11'10" 3593 mm 11'10"
TRANSMISSION
Ground Clearance 424 mm 1'4" 424 mm 1'4"
Forward 1 6.7 km/h 4.2 mph Reverse 1 7.3 km/h 4.5 mph
Center Line of Rear Axle to Edge
Forward 2 13.5 km/h 8.4 mph Reverse 2 14.8 km/h 9.2 mph 2290 mm 7'7" 2458 mm 8'1"
of Counterweight
Forward 3 24.2 km/h 15.0 mph Reverse 3 26.6 km/h 16.5 mph Center Line of Rear Axle to Hitch 1775 mm 5'10" 1775 mm 5'10"
Forward 4 39.5 km/h 24.5 mph Reverse 4 39.5 km/h 24.5 mph Wheelbase 3550 mm 11'8" 3550 mm 11'8"
• Maximum travel speed in standard vehicle with empty bucket and standard L3 tires
Overall Length (without bucket) 7399 mm 24'4" 8069 mm 26'6"
with 849 mm (33 in) roll radius.
Hinge Pin Height at Maximum Lift 4245 mm 13'11" 4804 mm 15'9"
SOUND
Hinge Pin Height at Carry 635 mm 2'0" 782 mm 2'6"
With Cooling Fan Speed at Maximum Value:
Lift Arm Clearance at Maximum Lift 3687 mm 12'1" 4183 mm 13'8"
Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) 70 dB(A)
Rack Back at Maximum Lift 62 degrees 71 degrees
Exterior Sound Power Level (ISO 6395:2008) 109 dB(A)
Rack Back at Carry Height 50 degrees 49 degrees
Exterior Sound Pressure Level (SAE J88:2013) 76 dB(A)*
Rack Back at Ground 39 degrees 37 degrees
**Distance of 15 m (49.2 ft), moving forward in second gear ratio.
Width over Tires (Loaded) 3012 mm 9'11" 3012 mm 9'11"
With Cooling Fan Speed at 70% of Maximum Value:**
Tread Width 2230 mm 7'3" 2230 mm 7'3"
Operator Sound Pressure Level (ISO 6396:2008) 69 dB(A) • A ll dimensions are approximate and based on machine equipped with 4.2 m3 (5.5 yd3)
Exterior Sound Power Level 108 dB(A)*** general purpose bucket with BOCE and Bridgestone 26.5R25 VJT L3 radial tires.
***F or machines in European Union countries and in countries that adopt the
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
“EU Directives.”
The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated
***European Union Directive “2000/14/EC” as amended by “2005/88/EC.”
greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430).
The system contains 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) of refrigerant which has a CO2
equivalent 2.288 metric tonnes (2.522 tons).

14 966 WHEEL LOADER

STANDARD & OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT
Standard and optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details.

OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT STANDARD OPTIONAL POWER TRAIN (CONTINUED) STANDARD OPTIONAL

Cab, pressurized, sound suppression  Service brakes, hydraulic, fully enclosed

Door, remote opening system  wet disc, wear indicators
Integrated Braking System (IBS) 
EH implement controls, parking brake 
Park brake, caliper on front axles, spring
HMU steering wheel  
applied–pressure released
Steering, joystick 
Entertainment radio (FM, AM, USB, BT)  HYDRAULICS STANDARD OPTIONAL

Entertainment radio (DAB+)  Implement system, load sensing with


variable displacement piston pump
CB radio ready 
Steering system, load sensing with
Seat, cloth, air suspension  dedicated variable displacement piston 
Seat, suede/cloth, air suspension, heated  pump
Seat, leather/cloth, air suspension, heated/ Ride control, dual accumulators 

cooled 3rd and 4th auxiliary functions with ride

4-point seat belt (kit)  control
Touchscreen display  Oil sampling valves, Cat XT™ hoses 

Visibility: mirrors, rear-vision camera  Quick coupler control 

Multiview (360°) vision system 

ELECTRICAL STANDARD OPTIONAL
Cat Detect rear radar system 
Starting and charging system, 24V 
Dedicated rearview screen 
Starter, electric, heavy duty 
Mirrors, heated 
Cold start, 120V or 240V 
Air conditioner, heater, defroster (auto
 Lights: halogen, 4 work lights, 2 front
temp, fan)
roading lights with turn signals, 2 rear- 
Sun visor, front, retractable  vision lights
Sun visor, rear, retractable  Lights: LED 
Window cleaning platform, front  Warning beacon 
Window, front, laminated 
MONITORING SYSTEM STANDARD OPTIONAL
Windows, front, heavy duty 
Front dash with analog gauges, LCD display,
Full cab window guard  
and warning lights
ON-BOARD TECHNOLOGIES STANDARD OPTIONAL Primary touchscreen monitor (Cat Payload,
quad screens, machine settings & 
Cat Payload scale 
messages)
Autodig with Auto Set Tires 
Reversing strobe lights 
Operator ID & machine security 
LINKAGE STANDARD OPTIONAL
Application Profiles 
Job Aids  Standard lift, Z-bar 

Controls Help and eOMM  High lift, Z-bar 

Cat Advanced Payload  Kickouts: lift and tilt 

Cat Payload Printer  ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT STANDARD OPTIONAL

POWER TRAIN STANDARD OPTIONAL Cat Autolube system 

Cat C9.3B engine  Fenders, extensions or roading 

Electric fuel priming pump  Guards: power train, crankcase, cab,


cylinders, rear
Fuel-water separator and secondary fuel
filter
 Biodegradable hydraulic oil 

Engine, air precleaner  High-speed oil change system 

Turbine, air precleaner  Rear cab access 

Radiator, high debris  Toolbox 

Cooling fan, reversible  Wheel chocks 

Axles, front differential lock  Secondary steering system, electrical* 

Axles, auto differential locks front and rear  SPECIAL CONFIGURATIONS STANDARD OPTIONAL
Axles, ecology drains, AOC ready, extreme
 Aggregate handler 
temperature seals
Waste and industrial 
Axles, oil cooler 
Transmission, planetary, automatic Forestry 

powershift Tunneling** 
Torque converter with lock-up  Corrosion resistant 

*Standard where mandated

**Japan only 966 WHEEL LOADER 15
For more complete information on Cat products, dealer services and industry solutions, visit us on the web at www.cat.com AEXQ3314-00
Build Number: 14A
VisionLink® is a trademark of VirtualSite Solutions LLC, registered in the United States and in other countries. (N Am, Europe, Japan, S Korea)

Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice. Featured machines in photos may include additional
equipment. See your Cat dealer for available options.

© 2021 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, Fusion, XT,
Product Link, HEUI, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow”, the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress as well as
corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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