973D

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METRIC

973D

OVERVIEW

FEATURES AT A GLANCE

SPECIFICATIONS

PRODUCT BROCHURES AND DOWNLOADS

TOOLS AND EXPERT HELP

MEDIA GALLERY

KEY SPECS

Flywheel Power 196kW263hp
Engine Model Cat® C9 ACERT™
Net Power - ISO 9249 196kW263hp

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OVERVIEW

FEATURES AT A GLANCE

Engine

The Cat® C9 is an 8.8 liter (537 in³) displacement, six-cylinder, in-line configured engine with hydraulically actuated electronic fuel injection or HEUI™. The 196 kW (263 hp) rated net power engine meet the latest worldwide emissions standards (10% more than C-series). It uses ACERT™ Technology that provides advanced electronic control, precision fuel delivery and refined air management. This proven technology with thousands of hours in field operations, results in outstanding performances with a constant net horsepower. The Advanced Diesel Engine Management System continuously monitors important engine conditions and functions. ADEM™ A4 manages fuel delivery to get the best performance per liter of fuel. The controller uses sensors in fuel, air intake, exhaust and cooling systems and provides flexible fuel mapping, allowing the engine to respond quickly to varying application needs. ADEM A4 is the electronic brain of the machine that ensures optimal performance. This system offers numerous benefits, including better cooling performance, reduced plugging, enhanced cold weather operation and improved fuel economy. To reduce fan noise, the cooling fan is driven from a friction disc clutch, which is electrically controlled.

Hydraulics

The electronically controlled Hystat drive provides quick response for shorter cycles times and increased productivity. The Hystat drive also offers independent power and efficient control of each track, with fast acceleration and infinitely variable speeds. The operator can command smooth machine turns and counter-rotation. 973D Track Loader Hydraulics

The 973D features a load sensing hydraulic system that automatically adjusts to operating conditions to provide only the hydraulic flow required by the implement for improved fuel efficiency. This modular hydraulic system delivers precise control with low effort operation and allows simultaneous lift, tilt and travel. Position Sensing Cylinders (PSCs) are designed to allow for “smart” hydraulic systems. PSCs improve productivity by enhancing operator control. Operator can set lift and tilt kickouts at any position according to the applications without leaving the cab. Electronics within the cylinder allow the hydraulic system to be linked into the machine's electronics. This link enables the system to track the cylinder stroke, reducing operator effort, and increasing productivity. PSCs allows the machine to use advanced automatic features for smooth start and stop cylinder motion, reducing vibration in the cab. The standard programmable automatic kickouts provide flexibility and productivity for precise load and dump target heights. Tilt and lift kickouts are set by positioning the bucket or work tool and setting a rocker switch in the cab.

Operator Station

The D-Series cab is designed for operator comfort, convenience and to provide an excellent view to the bucket, tracks and ripper. In particular, the air-suspension seat is ergonomically designed, fully adjustable and vibration-isolated for maximum operator comfort and control. The seat-mounted electro-hydraulic controls provide less vibration for the operator, and they allow combined seat and controls adjustment. The workstation is spacious, quiet and comfortable, assuring high productivity all day long. 973D Track Loader Operator Station

The new electro hydraulic implement controls provide the operator with responsive, smooth and precise control of bucket and lift arms. A choice of joystick or two-lever control for bucket lift and dump is available as an option. This accurate control system allows quick machine travel speed, on-the-go directional changes and counter rotation. A choice of V-lever and joystick for speed and steering control is available through the price list. The 973D comes standard with Cat Messenger, providing real-time machine performance and diagnostic data. Messenger uses a LCD screen to display graphic and text information on machine health, including operating hours, total fuel, fuel consumption rate and total distance. Through Messenger, operator can create his own profile and set Hystat, implement and steering reactions.

Undercarriage

The undercarriage on the 973D features an oscillating track roller frame design which decreases ground shock to the machine, increases machine stability, and provides a smoother, more comfortable ride for the operator. 973D Track Loader Undercarriage

Track link design consists of specially heat-treated steel forgings with different degrees of hardness induced into the steel. This feature increases links' life and lowers owning and operating costs. A two-piece master link helps servicing the track chain and reduces down time. All those features help increase loader productivity throughout its life.

The standard double grouser shoes are designed for good traction, easy turns and bending. However the 973D is available with several shoes options to best match to the job conditions. Any details count, and a single track shoe can make the difference.

Structures

The D-series Main Frame and Loader Tower are made of single, slab rails with reinforced crossing, with castings and forgings incorporated at points of high stress. This particular design distributes those stresses over wider areas for longer structural life. 973D Track Loader Structures

Structures are designed to provide durability and extended service life to support multiple rebuilds.

Work Tools

The combination of the right bucket with the right machine will provide the best possible performance in your particular application. The General Purpose (GP) bucket is designed for excellent loadability and long life in applications such as hard bank excavating, stripping, and stockpile loading. The Multipurpose (MP) bucket is designed for a broad range of applications, such as loading, stripping, clearing, bulldozing, picking up debris, and fine grading. The bucket clamps hydraulically to grip or handle other tough-to-grasp materials. For special applications, Caterpillar also provides buckets with special features such as Landfill GP/MP Buckets, or Slag Bucket designed to work in the extreme conditions of a steel mill, including moving slag and skulls. 973D Track Loader Work Tools

The multi shank parallelogram ripper adds extra versatility and force to expand the machine's range of applications. The ripper beam has three pockets for holding ripper shanks, and its design allows the machine to rip frozen ground, asphalt and even hard soils or rock. Longer shanks deliver more work per pass making the machine more productive.

The K Series tooth system matches customer expectations for tip retention, easy change-outs and long-term sharpness. The K Series tooth system also features a lower-profile shape that maintains better sharpness as it wears. This means better penetration, improved productivity and less strain on the machine.

The All-Purpose Performer

973D is a one-machine workforce that can tackle any task in any jobsite, from general construction to industrial or quarries. 973D Track Loader All-Purpose Performer

On both packages, substantial guarding, debris barriers, cooling system enhancements and precleaners are added to enhance the life and performance of the 973D. The WH standard package should be selected for jobs in landfills, transfer stations or material recovery facilities. The WH ES will be a better fit for transfer stations, demolition sites, severe applications, or when maximum protection is desired.

The steel mill package protects the 973D and its operator against extreme conditions to allow the machine to handle hot slag in steel mill operations. This special package features additional guarding for critical components, sealed undercarriage, heat shields for fuel tank, power train and hydraulics, silicone seals and heat resistant windshield, remote parking brake release and fire-resistant fluids. The Steel Mill Arrangement provides the best protection available for this extremely difficult application.

The 973D Wide Gauge is designed to work in soft underfoot conditions. The track gauge is widened and wider track shoes installed. A wider bucket also increases productivity, especially in grading and backfilling.

Other custom solutions can be designed to address your specific need. Feel free to contact your Cat dealer for more information.

Value Package

Includes standard rear grill and bumper for general construction. 973D Track Loader Value Package

Includes heavy duty grill and bumper for restricted working space. Includes three curved shanks parallelogram ripper with replaceable tips, and protection grill and steps to climb on the machine by the ripper. This package makes easy and allows fast engine oil change. Provide connection for quick evac and fuel sediment flush. This package includes four more lights guarded. This package includes a windshield screen and four additional lights. Striker bar keeps trash from climbing on the tracks and damaging the fender and move back. Also includes steps for a safer access from the rear. Provides counterweight to move back the machine center of gravity and steps for safer Striker bar keeps trash from climbing on the tracks and damaging the fender and move back. Also includes steps for a safer access from the rear.

Serviceability

This feature makes the maintenance and the repairs easier. By tilting the cab, you can access to the drive train and perform complete service of the hydraulic system. Standard cab offers 90° tilt capability using an external lifting device while a hydraulic jack is available enabling 30° tilt on the jobsite. 973D Track Loader Serviceability

All service points are accessible from ground level on the right side of the engine. Large doors give you an exceptional access to filters and service points. The following features help you to easily service your loader:

Fuse panel with ET port: Located to the inside of the cab, on the rear right side console, the fuse panel also includes the ET port.
Gauge control cluster and self-diagnosis Electronic Hydraulic control (EHC): They work together to warn against faults to reduce downtime.
S•O•SSM Fluid Taps: Simplifies drawing fluid samples for Schedule Oil Sampling and reduces sample contamination.
Quick-Connect Fittings: The quick-connect hydraulic grouped pressure taps allow quick diagnosis of the hydrostatic drive and the implement hydraulic systems.
Ground Level Shutdown: Mounted behind a cover at the rear of the machine, a switch allows the machine to be shut down from ground level in emergency situation.

Product Link

Product Link uses wireless and satellite technology to gather and transmit essential information, related to machine usage, maintenance and location. This information is easily accessible through Equipment Manager. Product Link is able to:

Report current equipment parameters (machine hours, location and fuel consumption).
Show all elements of machine maintenance and keep machine history.
Predict when is a service is needed.
Alert you to potential and immediate issues.

Maximize machine uptime and maintain productivity.
Simpler, more efficient fleet management.
Faster service response and quicker resolution time.
Better maintenance planning.

Your Cat dealer will help you manage your machine maintenance needs identified through equipment monitoring.

Support

Your Cat dealer is ready to assist you with your purchase decision and everything after.

Make comparisons of machines, with estimates of component life, preventative maintenance and cost of production.
Financing packages are flexible to meet your needs.
Your Cat dealer can evaluate the cost to repair, rebuild and replace your machine, so you can make the right choice.
For more information on Cat products, dealer services and industry solutions, visit us at www.cat.com.

SPECIFICATIONS

Flywheel Power 196kW263hp
Engine Model Cat® C9 ACERT™
Net Power - ISO 9249 196kW263hp
Net Power - SAE J1349 196kW263hp
Net Power - EEC 80/1269 196kW263hp
Bore 112mm4.41in
Stroke 149mm5.86in
Displacement 8.8l537in³
Net Power - Cat 196kW263hp
Track Shoe Type Double Grouser, Extreme Service
Track Shoe Width - Standard 550mm21.6in
Track Shoe Width - Optional 675mm26.6in
Track Rollers - Each Side 7
Number of Shoes - Each Side 40
Track on Ground 2930mm115.3in
Ground Contact Area - Standard Shoe 3.22m²4991in²
Ground Contact Area - Optional Shoe 3.96m²6138in²
Ground Pressure - Standard Shoe 85.5kPa12.4psi
Ground Pressure - Optional Shoe 69.5kPa10.1psi
Grouser Height - Double Grouser 49mm1.92in
Track Gauge 2160mm85in
Type Hydrostatic drive with infinite machine speeds up to 11 km/h (6.8 mph)
Drive Pump Two, variable-displacement, slipper-type axial piston pumps
Track Motor Two, variable-displacement, bent axis piston motors
Maximum System Pressure 45000kPa6527psi
Type Closed Center Load Sensing
Relief Valve Setting 27500kPa3988psi
Cycle Time - Dump 1.4s1.4s
Output - Maximum 346l/min91.4gal/min
Float Down 2.7s2.7s
Cycle Time - Raise 6.5s6.5s
Fuel Tank 621l164gal (US)
Cooling System 44l11.6gal (US)
Crankcase - With Filter 29l7.7gal (US)
Final Drive - Each 28.5l7.5gal (US)
Hydraulic System - Equipment, Power Train and Tank 340l89.8gal (US)
Hydraulic Tank 189l49.9gal (US)
Pump Drive Box 3.8l1gal (US)
Pivot Shaft 3l0.8gal (US)
Type 24V DC
Battery Capacity 1400 CCA
Battery Voltage 12
Battery Quantity 2
Alternator 95 amp, Heavy-Duty, Brushless
Operating Weight 28058kg61857lb
Shipping Weight - Without Bucket 25400kg55997lb
Capacity - General Purpose 3.21m³4.2yd³
Capacity - Multi-Purpose 3.05m³3.92yd³
Bucket Width - General Purpose 2910mm114.56in
Bucket Width - Multi-Purpose 2868mm112.91in
Maximum Travel Speed 11km/h6.8mile/h
Type Parallelogram
Overall Width/Beam 2200mm86.6in
Shank Cross Section 74 x 175 mm 2.9 x 6.9 in
Ground Clearance 888mm34.96in
Penetration 397mm15.6in
Ripping Width 1840mm72.4in
Cylinders - Bore 130mm5.1in
Cylinders - Stroke 236mm9.3in
Addition to Machine Length Due to Ripper in Transportation Position 586mm23.1in
Ripper Weight - With 3 Shanks 1700kg3747.8lb
Ramp Angle 28.5°28.5°
Number of Pockets 3
Penetration Force - Ground Level 100kN22500lb
ROPS/FOPS ROPS/FOPS
Brakes Brakes
Cab Cab
Air Conditioning The air conditioning system on this machine contains the fluorinated greenhouse gas refrigerant R134a (Global Warming Potential = 1430). The system contains 1.9 kg of refrigerant which has a CO2 equivalent of 2.717 metric tonnes.