New Caterpillar K Series Wheeled Loaders

178 Caterpillar’s new design K Series Small Wheeled Loaders—924K, 930K and 938K— incorporate, for low regulated countries, a new EU Stage 111A/US EPA Tier 3 standard CAT 7.1 ACERT engine said to deliver up to 25% fuel savings compared with H Series models. An improved fuel filtration system features a dual fuel filter with increased dirt holding capacity for longer life. The C7.1 ACERT rated speed setting of 1800rpm, compared with 2415rpm for the H Series, also reduces sound levels and wear. An engine-idle shutdown system further reduces fuel consumption.

The new K Series models are equipped with a stepless, four-range, hydrostatic drive system that allows independent control of ground speed and engine speed for efficient operation of hydraulically powered work tools. A new creeper control feature is said by CAT to further improve low speed operations by allowing the operator to adjust maximum ground speed down to 1.6km/h.  An operator-controlled rimpull-control system helps reduce wheel spin and consequent tyre wear, and a front differential lock enhances traction.

The models’ dedicated load-sensing, variable-displacement pumps for the implement and steering systems reduce kilowatt draw for fuel efficiency and improve multifunction performance. The new K Series loaders also incorporate an electronic snubbing feature at end stroke and kick out positions to reduce operating stress. Hydraulic filter service intervals are extended to 2,000 hours.

Optimised Z-bar loader linkage available on the 924K, 930K and 938K is said by CAT to blend the breakout power of Z-bar linkage with the parallel-lift and load-handling characteristics of CAT VersaLink or IT (Integrated Toolcarrier) linkage. The new linkage, available in both standard- and high-lift configurations on the 930K and 938K, accepts pin-on tools, CAT Fusion coupler or a coupler that meets ISO 23727 and is compatible with competitive work tools. The new linkage is designed to work with CAT Performance Series buckets, designed for efficient loading, high fill factors, improved material retention and lowered fuel consumption. The 13tonne 924K, the 14tonne 930K and 16tonne 938K Wheeled Loaders have 2.5m³, 2.7m³ and 3.2m³ bucket capacities respectively.

An all-new operator's station on the K Series models features automatic temperature control, curved front windshield, tilt and telescoping steering column, and a Soft Touch control panel. Kick-out functions for boom lift, boom lower and tilt are standard and easily programmable by pushing and holding a button on the Soft Touch panel.