The Caterpillar 950M and 962M wheel loaders — powered by a Cat C7.1 ACERT engine meeting Tier 4 Final emissions standards — are significantly more powerful than their K-Series predecessors and deliver better fuel efficiency.

The models feature major drive-train refinement, extensively redesigned hydraulic systems, new cab amenities, electronic payload measurement, Optimized Z-Bar linkage that combines optimized bucket performance with parallel lift, and a range of Cat Performance Series buckets and work tools. These systems lower average working engine speeds and reduce the overall system heat loads, which result in significantly improved performance and fuel efficiency.

With a net rating of 230 hp, the 950M produces 9% more power than its K-Series counterpart, and the 962M, rated at 250 hp, has 13% more power. Peak torque is up an average 18% for the new models, which means more useable power at the wheels. In addition, the new, productive Economy Mode automatically senses power-train load and adjusts engine speed and torque for optimum performance and fuel efficiency.

The 950M and 962M use a new five-speed Cat power-shift transmission featuring a lock-up clutch torque converter with lock-to-lock shifting (transmission gear remains locked during gear shifts), as well as the Cat single clutch speed shift system (which keeps the forward/reverse clutch engaged during gear shifts). Auto-shift features control the automatic shifting of the transmission and engagement of the lock up clutch. These two features working together maintain more effective and efficient torque flow through the transmission during gear changes, especially valuable when accelerating up ramps.