Caterpillar rolled out the 903D compact wheel loader.

Compared with its 903C2 predecessor, the 903D features a 25 percent increase in both lifting capacity and travel speed, according to Caterpillar.

Powered by a Tier 4 Final Cat C2.4 engine, the machine features a 40 hp and can travel at speeds up to 12.5 miles per hour. Planetary-reduction axles are available with optional differential locks, which can be engaged on the fly for changing ground conditions.

The 903D also features a standard auxiliary hydraulic system that delivers a flow of up to 14 gallons per minute with pressure up to 3,481 psi, producing enough horsepower to operate hydraulic work tools such as brooms, power box rakes and grapple buckets.

Operators can choose between standard-lift or high-lift boom arms—the latter increases the hinge pin height from 10 feet, 1 inch to 10 feet, 7 inches. Bucket capacity ranges from 0.8 to 1.3 cubic yards.

The 903D is equipped with a standard universal coupler, and an optional electrically activated coupler is also available. Auxiliary hydraulic lines with quick connectors are standard, and continuous-flow allows powered tools to be controlled.

Loader linkage is Z-bar type, and boom-float and return-to-dig functions come standard for the loader linkage.

Available with an open or enclosed cab, the 903D operator’s station features a suspension seat, a tilt steering wheel and a multifunction joystick that provides fingertip control of the standard third-function hydraulic system.

The 903D’s fully opening rear hood allows ready access to the engine compartment, which features side-by-side coolers and transparent fuel/water separator. Options include an engine air precleaner and radiator screen.

Optional features of the 903D include ride control, creep control, throttle lock and a work tool electrical harness.

918M compact wheel loader options

Caterpillar is now offering its 918M compact wheel loader with four new options: high-lift loader linkage, Cat Fusion coupler, wider tires and a five-piece guarding package.

The new loader arm assembly provides up to 10 percent more lift height and reach, compared with the standard loader linkage, according to the company. A 918M configured with  a high-lift linkage and 20.5 tires provides a bucket pin height over 13 feet, 5 inches.

The Cat Fusion coupler is designed to apply constant hydraulic pressure to wedges that continually pull the work tool tight to the coupler in two directions, in and down, providing secure a tight, rattle-free fit with work tools. With this addition, buyers now have the choice of three couplers.

Three new 20.5R25 tire options, compared to the standard 17.5R25 tires, offer up to 20 percent more tire life and increases in traction, stability and tipping capacity, according to Caterpillar. An oscillation limiter eliminates tire-to-fender interference.

Available for the North American market, the tire 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, a tire that’s designed for operation on snow and ice and incorporates a nondirectional tread pattern with self-cleaning characteristics; and
• The Michelin XHA2 radial, a wide-lug tire with nondirectional tread, heavy shoulders and protected sidewalls.

Width over tires is approximately 91 inches for the larger 20.5R25 tires. All three tire options must be used with the Fusion coupler or with the optional high-lift loader linkage.

The new guarding options can be used with currently available steel-front fender deflectors.

According to Caterpillar, the five-piece guarding package includes:

• Headlight guards that surround the front light assemblies and protect from debris falling from the bucket;
• Hitch guards to protect the 918M’s articulation point by providing barriers on both sides of the hitch to prevent material from collecting in the frames, while allowing ready access to service points;
• Powertrain guard, which mounts beneath the transmission and related components, providing an access panel to facilitate oil changes;
• Drive shaft guard that mounts beneath the front drive shaft for protection from debris and obstacles; and
• Crankcase guard, which mounts beneath the engine to protect the oil pan.