Caterpillar Wheel Loaders Summarized — 2021 Spec Guide
Seven Models from the World Equipment Titan
The manufacturing of Caterpillar compact wheel loaders began with the introduction of the 910 model wheel loader in 1979 in Japan. Today, there are 15 compact wheel loader models manufactured by Caterpillar, with seven of those models offered in North America. The newest 910, 914 and 920 meet both EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions requirements while the rest of the models meet just the U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final emissions requirements.
The seven models currently offered in North America include the 903D, 906M, 907M, 908M, 910, 914 and 920. The 74-hp 906M, 907M and 908M size class represents the majority of the compact wheel loader industry and is one of the most popular compact categories in Germany due to its travel speed, versatility and low owning and operating cost. With options such as high speed, high flow and ground speed control (creep control), these machines can do just about anything.
Agricultural application specific models were introduced at the end of 2017 for the 906M, 907M and 908M size class. These Ag Handler models consist of standard equipment features such as high-speed transmissions, ag specific tires, an engine pre-cleaner and LED work lights.
The 903D model is new in 2018 with added features such as a 25 percent increase in lift capacity and travel speed, ride control, a multi-function joystick and the ability to use a variety of hydro-mechanical attachments. The 903D is built to make the job easier. A fully opening rear hood allows easy access to the engine compartment featuring side-by-side coolers and transparent fuel/water separator with optional engine air precleaner and radiator screen for high debris applications. New rear tie down locations under the machine allow for easier transport, while a new engine oil fill location allows for easier access during engine oil changes. Also new in 2020 is the introduction of the Caterpillar Fusion Coupler on the 914. Features such as a high lift linkage, fusion coupler, 20.5R25 tires and multiple guarding options to protect those critical components will make the 920 more versatile than ever.
The 110-hp 910 and 914 along with the 121-hp 920 are the newest models in the Cat compact wheel loader lineup. Standard and optional features abound. Canopy is standard. Rearview Camera is standard when ordering a cab (910-920). High lift is an option (910-920), and high flow is optional (906, 907, 908, 914 and 920). Return to dig is standard on the 920, optional on the 910 and 914. When equipped on the 914 and 920, you get perfect parallel. Additional market segment machines are also offered in the 914 and 920 for both waste and aggregate handler applications. The Waste Handler offers a host of new guards, reversing cooling fan and optional solid tires. The Aggregate Handler boasts additional counterweight and matched bucket to offer the best matchup in rehandling applications.
Advice to Buyers
“Ensuring that you have the right features on your machine to maximize performance as well as comfort is key when buying or renting a wheel loader,” says Scott Britton, Cat wheel loader product specialist. “In order to make this process easier, Caterpillar has introduced application-specific models. These models contain features best suited for applications such as high speed for getting from farm to field quickly.”
