With a two-speed hydrostatic transmission, travel speeds up to 21.7 miles per hour and multiple dedicated hydraulic pumps, Caterpillar has introduced Ag Handler configurations for three of its compact wheel loaders the company says are designed specifically for tackling the unique challenges of farming tasks.
Drive and control
Powered by a Cat C3.3B DIT engine with 68 net horsepower, the new Cat 906M, 907M and 908M Ag Handlers are designed to provide a mix of power and fuel efficiency. The loaders feature a selectable Eco Mode for times when fuel economy is paramount. The engine has a pre-cleaner that protects it in dusty environments while a hydraulically driven demand fan keeps the engine cool and quiet.
The loaders’ transmission response can be adjusted to suit the application at hand or the operator’s preference, Cat says. Integral braking capacity is improved with the front axle’s boosted internal braking system.
Control is enhanced by a wheel-torque-control system and the ability to creep, combining low ground speed with high engine speed and maximum hydraulic flow for enhanced work-tool operation.
Hydraulics work tool interfacing
The response rate for attachment hydraulics is also adjustable via a keypad in the cab. Dedicated hydraulics pumps for the equipped attachment, the steering and propel systems allow the machines to handle lifting, steering and driving without affecting power or speed.
The loaders’ hydraulic system operates at a relief pressure of 3,400 psi with a standard flow of 22 gpm. High-flow delivers 34 gpm to provide enough power for tools such as silage defacers, bale grabs and grapple buckets.
The loaders can be outfitted with couplers such as a universal skid steer loader interface or an ISO horizontal pin interface.
Each machine is outfitted with an optimized Z-bar linkage system which Cat says delivers high breakout forces and parallel lift throughout the cycle. Cat says the linkage allows for aggressive digging and confident hauling of loads with forks.
Cab
These Ag Handlers feature a roomy cab with standard heating and air conditioning. Joystick controls, a fully adjustable and heated suspension seat and ride control for smoothing operation in rutted fields provide all-day comfort for operators.
