| Engine | Provides power, reliability and acts as a working counterweight in the rear of the machine, for optimum balance. | 
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| C9 Diesel Engine | The Cat C9 is an 8.8 liter (537 in3) displacement, six-cylinder, in-line configured engine with hydraulically actuated electronic fuel injection. It uses ACERT™ Technology, a series of Caterpillar engineered innovations that provide advanced electronic control, precision fuel delivery and refined air management, resulting in outstanding performance and lower emissions.
The Cat C9 with ACERT Technology meets the U.S. EPA Tier 3 and European Union Stage IIIA emissions standards, which dramaticall |
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| Design | The C9 with ACERT Technology is based on the proven Cat C-9 Tier 2/Stage II engine with thousands currently in operation. It offers a compact design with big, heavy-duty engine features for outstanding durability, reliability and performance. The cylinder head features a new cross-flow air design with four valves per cylinder and updated port geometry. The improved intake port geometry provides smoother transitions and less flow restrictions. The C9 uses mid-support wet cylinder liners, which |
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| Design | The fuel system design eliminates external high-pressure fuel lines, providing efficient, precise fuel delivery, and timing. |
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| Serviceability | Unit injectors can be serviced individually, without the need to service the whole fuel system. |
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| ADEM™ A4 | The ADEM A4 electronic controller is the brain of the engine and contains the engine’s control software. All the sensors are remote-mounted and connected to the main module.
The main concept behind ACERT is "advanced combustion". ACERT technology begins with ADEM A4. This electronic brain regulates fuel delivery, airflow and other engine functions. The controller directs the HEUI injectors to deliver multiple injections of fuel during the engine’s compression stroke.
The C9 features ADEM A4, |
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| Fuel System | Hydraulically actuated electronic fuel injection is a Cat exclusive technology and has a proven track record. The HEUI design has been refined and now supplies multiple injections of fuel during the engine's compression stroke. With multiple injection, fuel is introduced to the combustion chamber in a number of controlled microbursts, rather than all at once, so it precisely regulates the combustion cycle. The improved HEUI design also offers improved combustion and fuel delivery. An added benef |
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| Rear Engine Location | Rear engine location allows excellent forward visibility, while serving as a working counterweight. Helps reduce radiator plugging while providing easy service access to the engine and other major components. |
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| Hydrostatic Drive | The electronically controlled hydrostatic drive helps provide quick response for shorter cycle times and increased productivity. | 
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| Turbocharger and Aftercooler | The turbocharger is a wastegate design with a new titanium compressor wheel. The titanium wheel is better able to withstand the stress and wear of high-speed operation. This new turbocharger is well-matched to the air-to-air aftercooler resulting in high power. The exhaust driven turbocharger packs more air into the cylinders, while the air-to-air aftercooler cools the pressurized air from the turbocharger, making the engine intake air denser. The increased air in the cylinders results in more |
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| Cooling System | Incorporated into a single-plane cooling unit are the engine radiator, the hydraulic and power train oil coolers, and the air-to-air aftercooler. Wide fin spacing for "Trash Resistance" and swing-out latched grille for easy cleaning are now standard equipment. | 
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| Extended Life Design | The forged steel crankshaft increases strength and durability. It features induction hardened journals and fillets. The camshaft is made of carburized and heat-treated steel for excellent durability. The pistons feature an articulated two-piece design. The forged steel crown is stronger than aluminum and allows more flexibility in the ring position. |
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| Starting System | The ADEM™ A4 controller controls the electric starter motor and the starter relay. The ADEM A4 prevents fuel from being supplied for starting until sufficient oil pressure is present. This prevents wear on the bearings due to operating without adequate lubrication. |
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| Engine Installation | The engine is installed using rubber mounts to reduce the transfer of engine vibration to the frame and cab, lowering operator vibration, sound levels, and fatigue. |
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| Separate Hydraulic Pumps | Separate hydraulic pumps offer easy servicing. |
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| Three Level Warning System | CMS also functions as a warning system with three levels of warning. |
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| Shifting | The hydrostatic drive eliminates the need for transmission shifting, which allows the operator to concentrate on working, maneuvering, and production. |
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| Machine Speed | The Electronic Hydrostatic Control (EHC) automatically adjusts machine speed to give the equipment hydraulic system priority, while the hydrostatic system takes advantage of all remaining engine power. |
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| Electronic Hydrostatic Control (EHC) | The EHC maintains engine RPM in optimum operating range and balances the two track drive systems for straight travel without machine drift. |
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| Caterpillar Monitoring System (CMS) | The EHC interfaces with the CMS for system diagnostics and calibrations. It is self diagnosing, and fully compatible with Electronic Technician (Cat ET) software. This allows quick and easy calibrations and troubleshooting. |
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| Pumps and Drive Motors | Variable displacement pumps and variable displacement drive motors are electronically controlled by the EHC, offering high efficiency and precise travel. Each track is independently driven by a separate hydraulic circuit consisting of one variable displacement pump, connected by Cat XT™-6 hydraulic hose and couplings to a variable displacement piston motor. |
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| Operator Station | Designed for operator comfort, convenience and ease of operation throughout the work day. | 
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| 1. Heating and Air Conditioning | The air circulation system delivers filtered, pressurized, and temperature-controlled air through 10 louvered vents. Air conditioning and heater are standard equipment. |
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| Maneuverability | Independent power is provided to each track, which provides great maneuverability, speed, and side slope operation. Controlling independent power and speed for each track allows the operator to maintain full power to both tracks while turning, achieving a "Power Turn". Power Turns allow increased productivity when dozing or backfilling. For additional maneuverability, the operator can use counter rotation, which allows spot turns in tight locations. |
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| Travel Speeds | Travel speeds are infinitely variable between zero and top speed. Two speed modes, "travel mode" and "work mode", provide two different speed ranges to best match machine speed and torque to the job conditions for maximum productivity. Maximum travel speed is increased to 10Kph/6.2 mph when the travel /work mode switch is in the travel position. In addition, switch between travel and work positions takes effect immediately. |
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| 2. Cat Comfort Series Seat | The Caterpillar air-suspension seat, with side-to-side isolator, is ergonomically designed and fully adjustable for maximum operator comfort and control. The backrest conforms to the operator’s spinal curve. The contoured base curves away from lower back to reduce pressure. Retractable seat belt is 76 mm (3 in) wide for positive, comfortable restraint. |
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| 3. Storage Space | Storage spaces include a lockable storage box, a lunch box compartment, beverage holder, and coat hook. |
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| 4. Armrests | Adjustable armrests can be positioned up or down. The right armrest is adjustable forward and backward. Each armrest can be inclined to different angles for excellent operator comfort and control. |
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| 5. Dashboard | The newly designed smooth, rounded dashboard with integral defroster vents, provides all the necessary functions and instrumentation within the operator's normal line of sight. |
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| 6. Hydrostatic Drive System Controls | The hydrostatic drive system controls allow quick speed and directional changes from a single control lever for maximum maneuverability. Pedal steering allows precise control of each track independently, with on demand counter rotation. The brake pedal supplements dynamic hydraulic braking provided by the hydrostatic drive system. |
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| 7. Speed Switches | The speed mode switch allows the operator to choose between "work mode" and "travel mode" or maximum drive speed, to best match the machine speed to various job conditions. The electronic engine speed selector switch is used by the operator to set engine RPM. |
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| 8. Pilot Operated Controls | Pilot operated implement controls allow easier operation and greater productivity. Choice of single-lever pilot control (standard) or two-lever (optional) is available for bucket lift and dump. Adjustable automatic lift and bucket position kickout allow the operator to concentrate on positioning the machine, resulting in higher productivity. |
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| 9. Viewing Area | The viewing area includes tinted glass to reduce glare and provides excellent visibility to the bucket, tracks, and around the engine enclosure to the rear. Sunvisor, windshield wipers and washers are all standard features on the cab. The front wiper has variable speed, intermittent control. |
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| 10. Rearview Mirror | The rear view mirror is located above the front windshield,maximizing the operator's visibility. |
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| Adjustable Steering Pedals | The total travel of the steering pedals is 23° but the angle can be adjusted from 35° to 50°. | 
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| Caterpillar Monitoring System (CMS) | The Caterpillar Monitoring System offers three main functions. | 
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| Caterpillar Monitoring System Functions | The CMS offers three main functions. 1) Quick and simple calibration of the hydrostatic drive system. 2) Prevention of damage by alerting the operator if a machine fault has occurred. 3) Monitoring of hydrostatic and electrical systems to aid service personnel in troubleshooting and repairs. |
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| Gauge Cluster | The gauge cluster contains four gauges, which monitor:
- Engine coolant temperature
- Power train oil temperature
- Hydraulic tank oil temperature
- Fuel level
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| Alert Indicators | The alert indicator cluster groups the individual alert indicators for:
- Low fuel pressure
- Low fuel
- Charge filter bypass
- High pump drive
- Low hydrostatic system charge pressure
- Low engine oil pressure
- Check engine detected by ADEM A4
- Low/high alternator output
- System warning for hydrostatic drive system
- Ether aid activated
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| Digital Message Display | The digital display can show the operator's choice of hour meter, engine RPM, odometer, or service codes. |
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| Service Mode | When in service mode, service codes from the EHC are shown on the Digital Message Display. The service code information is transferred via the Cat Data Link from the EHC to the main display module. |
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| CMS - Self Test | The CMS self-test verifies that the main display module is operating properly every time the key start switch is turned from the "off" to the"on" position. |
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| Structure | The box-section mainframe is designed to handle heavy loads, while the dual Z-Bar linkage maximizes breakout force, while distributing stress loads to the mainframe. | 
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| Mainframe and Loader Tower | The mainframe and loader tower is a single, welded fabrication with castings and forgings incorporated at points of high stress to distribute those stresses over wide areas for a long structural life. |
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| Design | Strong box-section mainframe design, with continuous, deep-penetration welds resist twisting loads to protect components from excessive wear or damage without adding extra weight to the machine. The frame rails consist of two box sections, which are joined at the rear by a box-section cross member. Mounting points for the final drives, pivot shafts, and operator's platform are integrated into each mainframe side rail. |
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| Four-Plate Loader Tower | The four-plate loader tower is integral with the basic mainframe. The loader tower distributes forces evenly from the lift arms to the mainframe, which eliminates twisting for maximum structural durability. The loader tower provides solid mounting points for lift arms, lift cylinders, and Z-Bar tilt cylinders. |
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| Castings | Steel castings (shown in red) are used in areas of high stress concentration. Large radius curves dissipate stresses that could cause fatigue and cracking. |
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| Steel Frame | Fatigue resistant steel frame sections along with castings provide flexibility, durability and excellent resistance to impact loads. |
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| Durability | Structures are designed to provide durability and extended service life to support multiple rebuilds. |
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| Straddle Mounting | Straddle mounting supports all lift arm pivot points on both ends of the pin eliminating twisting forces and enhancing structural durability. |
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| Z-Bar Linkage | Breakout force is exceptionally high due to the mechanical advantage of Z-bar linkage design, and hydraulic pressure applied to the head end of the tilt cylinders. Using dual tilt cylinders and linkage provides the operator a better view of the work area, bucket, and cutting edge |
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| Sealed Loader Linkage | The 973C linkage has fewer grease points compared to other linkage designs because many pin joints are sealed to keep dirt out.Fewer grease points and sealed pins means less downtime for maintenance allowing more working hours between servicing. |
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| Simultaneous Lift and Dump | Simultaneous lift and dump for fast truck loading and smooth grading, and the ability to meter material from bucket. |
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| Lift Kickout | Adjustable automatic lift kickout and bucket positioner allow the operator to concentrate on positioning the machine rather than the bucket. This results in greater productivity. |
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| Lift Arms | The two arms are welded into a single unit, using a weld-fabricated cross-tube. The fabricated cross-tube and tilt lever, use forgings at high stress points to spread the loads for long life. |
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| Undercarriage | Keeps more track on the ground for maximum traction and stability. Several shoe options provide best match to job conditions. | 
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| Undercarriage | The oscillating track roller frame design decreases ground induced impact loads to the machine, increases machine stability on rough terrain, and provides a smoother, more comfortable ride for the operator. |
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| Pivot Shaft | Steel pivot shafts attach the rear ends of the track roller frames to the loader mainframe and carry most of the weight. The pivot shafts transfer ground induced shock loads from the track roller frames to the loader mainframe rather than through the final drives. The result is longer final drive life. | 
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| Equalizer Bar | The equalizer bar is pinned in its center to the machine mainframe and at the ends to each track roller frame. This allows the forward ends of the track roller frames to oscillate, or move vertically, to keep more track on the ground in uneven underfoot conditions. The equalizer bar also provides a more stable work platform for the operator, who will be comfortable working at faster speeds for increased productivity. |
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| Track Roller Frame | The track roller frames are a welded, box section design, similar to the box section design of the mainframe and loader tower, which provides strength and resistance to bending without adding extra weight. |
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| Track and Carrier Rollers | Seven track rollers spread the machine weight over a larger area. This improves stability and provides a more comfortable ride for the operator. Two upper carrier rollers on each side mount to the machine mainframe. This mounting arrangement helps resist mud packing of the undercarriage. | 
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| Track Adjuster | The track adjuster and mechanical recoil system uses a large recoil spring and grease filled adjustment cylinder, which allows the idler to move forward and back to maintain proper track tension as it absorbs undercarriage shock loads. |
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| Swing-Link Idler | Permits horizontal idler movement, absorbing shock loads and maintaining proper track tension, while eliminating the need for shims and wear strips. The removal of wear strips eliminates a point of service and maintenance. Cat idlers provide superior structural support. |
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| Sealed and Lubricated Track | Sealed and lubricated track keeps maintenance costs down by reducing pin and internal bushing wear, which can extend the life of the track and the undercarriage components. Lubricating the pin helps reduce component friction for less track noise and greater power train efficiency. | 
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| Track Links | The standard track links are the newest generation of Extended Wear Life (EWL) track. Included is more wear material for longer track life. A two-piece, split master link allows easy track removal and installation. | 
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| Sprockets | The Tough Steel™ sprocket segments extend sprocket segment life. The five segments are bolted onto each final drive sprocket hub. Segments can be removed or replaced without breaking the track. Driven by every second sprocket tooth, the track chain makes two complete revolutions before each tooth contacts a bushing once. The result is long, even wear of the sprocket teeth. | 
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| Shoe Options | There are several shoe options to choose from with the Caterpillar oscillating undercarriage. Wide, double grouser is now standard. Consult your Caterpillar dealer for more information. | 
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| 1. Double Grouser Shoes | The standard double grouser shoes are designed for good traction, easy turns, and reduced bending. |
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| 2. Trapezoidal Center Hole Shoes | Trapezoidal center hole shoes let the sprocket push out dirt and debris, to reduce packing between the shoe and the bushing. |
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| 3. Single Grouser Shoes | Single grouser shoes increase penetration and traction in lower impact and lower abrasion conditions. |
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| 4. Chopper Shoes | Chopper shoes are single grouser shoes with trapezoidal center hole and additional diagonal side grousers for increased chopping ability. Recommended for landfills, transfer stations and demolition applications. |
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| Extreme Service Shoes | Extreme service shoes are available with more hardened wear material for longer wear life and higher impact applications. |
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| Wider Shoes | Wider shoes are also available to reduce ground pressure in soft underfoot conditions. |
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| Work Tools | A variety of attachments and Ground Engaging Tools (GET) are available to maximize performance in any application. |
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| Versatility | The large variety of tasks an operator can perform with the standard machine and attachments has lead to the Caterpillar track loader’s reputation for versatility. |
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| General Purpose Bucket | The General Purpose (GP) bucket is designed for excellent loadability and long life in applications such as hard bank excavating, stripping, and stockpile loading. High-strength, low alloy steel helps the bucket resist dents and abrasions. Shell-tine reinforcements support the rear of the bucket for increased structural strength. | 
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| Multi-Purpose Bucket | 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 logs or handle other tough-to-grasp materials. |
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| Extreme-Service Multi-Purpose Bucket | Offered as an attachment, the extreme-service Multi-purpose bucket has the same load capacity as the Multi-Purpose bucket. The reinforced hinges, thicker side-plates, and reinforced spill-plate are designed into the extreme-service Multi-Purpose bucket for situations where the stresses can exceed the design objectives of the standard MP bucket. |
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| Slag Bucket | The Slag bucket is specially designed to meet the unique challenges presented by slag handling applications. Designed for continuous heavy-duty work in hot slag, the thicker material absorbs slag heat which virtually eliminates bucket distortion. | 
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| Landfill Multi-Purpose Bucket | The Landfill Multi-Purpose (MP Landfill) bucket combines the versatility of a Multi-Purpose bucket with the performance of a Landfill design. Constructed with a trash-rack for increased capacity, extra strength and better load retention. Ideal for applications in the harsh refuse market, whether digging or spreading material at the landfill or grasping and loading refuse at a transfer station. The clamping action of the front section gives the bucket the ability to load material, doze with the s |
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| Ripper-Scarifier | The ripper-scarifier adds extra versatility to expand the application of the machine.Hinged-type, with three shanks, beam mounted with two pins pressed into each side of the mainframe.Raised and lowered with two wide-mounted cylinders. Six-pin linkage requires no lubrication. | 
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| Tip Options | Caterpillar GET offers a variety of tips to better accommodate your needs in any working environment, whether that is high impact or general-purpose applications. |
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| K Series™ Tooth System | The new K Series tooth system matches customer requirements of longer life, improved performance, greater reliability and ease of removal and installation. |
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| Special Application Arrangements | Special arrangements are available, or can be designed on request, to allow the 973C to work in special applications. |
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| Bucket Protection Options | Caterpillar offers several types of adapters, tips, and cutting edges, which increase bucket life and maximize performance.(1) Bolt-on adapters, tips, and bolt-on reversible edge segments provide a clean working floor and increase bucket capacity. Heavy-duty segments are available with 62 percent more wear material than standard segments.(2) Bolt-on, 2-strap adapters, and tips, including corner adapters, offer excellent penetration.(3) Bolt-on, reversible, cutting edges are ideal when penetratio |
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| Waste Handling/Demolition Arrangements | Waste Handling/Demolition arrangements provide added versatility and are designed to make the 973C perform well in sanitary landfills, waste handling or demolition applications where the machine spreads, compacts, sorts, shreds and crushes materials. | 
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| Steel Mill Arrangement | Steel mill arrangements allow the 973C to play a key role in the mill's production. The compact stature and maneuverability of the 973C is well suited for working and traveling in a mill. Special guarding for the operator, machine, and hydraulics are added. Equipped with a Steel Mill/Slag bucket it has the durability and breakout force to handle the hot slag. | 
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| Wide Gauge Arrangement | The Wide Gauge 973C is designed for work in very soft underfoot conditions. For enhanced flotation and stability, the track gauge has been widened and wider track shoes installed. The larger track shoes increase the ground contact area for reduced ground pressure. |
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| Additional Arrangements | Many other arrangements are available. For other custom-designed arrangements for specific applications, contact your Caterpillar Dealer. |
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| Serviceability | Simplified service and extended service intervals means more productive uptime. |
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| Reduced Maintenance | The 973C has many service features incorporated in the machine
including:
- Caterpillar Extended Life Coolant for extended change intervals.
- Sealed electrical connectors lock out dust and moisture.
- Caterpillar XT™ hydraulic hose, in medium and high-pressure circuits, provide high
abrasion resistance and far exceed industry standards.
- O-Ring Face Seals (ORFS) hydraulic couplings help eliminate fluid leaks, provide positive seals, and are reusable for lower oper
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| Service Intervals | The time between fluid and filter service intervals has been significantly increased,minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity for the 973C. |
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| Charge and Case Drain Filters | Two spin-on, hydraulic oil filters for the hydrostatic drive system,are located inside the right access door for ease of access. |
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| Water Seperator and Fuel Filter | The water separator and fuel filter are located inside the rear right access door for ease of access and serviceability. |
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| Product Link | This option allows the customer or dealer to obtain machine diagnostics and location from their offices. Product Link provides updates on service meter hours, machine condition, machine location, and integrated mapping/route planning. | 
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| Easy Component Access | The rear engine design and large engine access doors make it easy to reach the engine, electrical components, hydrostatic system, and batteries. Hydraulic and fuel filters are located close to each other. Removable cab floor panels create easy access to internal components.The hydrostatic drive system features separate pumps and motors for low replacement or rebuild cost. All lubrication points are accessible from ground level.The swing-out latched grille, now standard, reduces downtime and the | 
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| Easy Diagnosis | The Caterpillar Monitoring System and self-diagnosing Electronic Hydraulic Control (EHC) work together to warn against both occurring and impending faults to reduce downtime. The electrical wiring is color-coded and numbered for easy diagnosis and repair. |
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| Serviceability | Centralized draining point for splitter box, engine and power train allow to even more improved serviceability of the 973C. |
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| Total Customer Support | Your Caterpillar dealer offers a wide range of services which can be set up with a Customer Support Agreement. A customized plan, from PM service to total machine maintenance, with flexible financing, allows for optimal return on investment. | 
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| Product Support | Your Cat Dealer offers a wide range of services which can be set up with a Customer Support Agreement. The dealer can customize a plan for you, from PM service to total machine maintenance, allowing you to optimize your return on investment. |
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| Remanufactured Components | Save money with remanufactured parts. They offer the same warranty and reliability as new products at a cost savings of 40 to 70 percent. |
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| Replacement | Repair, rebuild, or replace? Your Cat Dealer can help evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. |
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| Service Capability | Whether in the dealer’s fully equipped shop or in the field, you will get trained service technicians using the latest technology and tools. |
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| Selection | Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are considering before you buy. How long do components last? What is the cost of preventive maintenance? What is the true cost of lost production? Your Cat Dealer can give you answers to these questions. |
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| Purchase | Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services which can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run. |
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| Maintenance | More and more equipment buyers are planning for effective maintenance before buying equipment. Choose from your dealer's wide range of maintenance services at the time of your purchase. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling and Technical Analysis help avoid unscheduled repairs. |
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| Operation | Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat Dealer has training videotapes, literature, and other ideas to help you increase productivity. |
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