Caterpillar has announced the launch of its next generation M-Series compact wheel loaders. These models will replace the existing 906, 907 and 908 models and feature advancements like the new C2.8-L engine, an overhauled hydraulics system, and an improved operator station. “2022 is going to be a great year for us”, said Jas Kundra, Sales & Marketing manager for compact wheel loaders at Caterpillar. “All the great commonality from the large machines has now made its way down to the smaller platforms.”

Caterpillar claims that its new C2.8 delivers the same 55.7-kW (74-hp) gross power output as the previous engine, but with 13% more torque. The new 906, 907 and 908 models can now reach road speeds of up to 40 kph (25 mph), up from 35 kph (25 mph) on the previous models and feature a larger fuel tank (30% bigger the 906 and 12% for the 907/908). The new engine meets EU Stage V and U.S. EPA Tier 4 emission standards. Alternative emissions packages are available for other markets.

A new reversing-fan option is now available on the M-Series, which assists in keeping cooling cores clean for more efficient temperature control in dusty environments. The system can be toggled manually in-cab and can be set to operate in an automatic mode or activated by the operator. Automatic mode uses the factory setting to reverse direction for 10 seconds every 10 minutes. Frequency and duration of automatic reversing can be changed by the operator via the new control monitor.

The hydraulic system on these new wheel loaders now features a standard pressure compensating valve, allowing operators to simultaneously control implements and operate hydromechanical attachments. “Historically on our M-Series you had parallel valve and a tandem valve, which both worked differently for certain applications,” Kundra said. Now with a pressure compensating valve it’s the same type of valve that we have in our larger machines. The software behind it is basically the same as well. What that gives us is gradeability, controllability, and fine motor functions. And at the same time, we can run hydraulic tools really efficiently.”

Working auxiliary pressures have been increased to reduce steering effort. “These machines can be standard flow or high flow for the attachments,” Kundra explained. “We basically have the same flows as we had the previous generation, but we’ve increased the pressure slightly.” Modifications have also been made to the optional skid-steer coupler to improve visibility through the coupler when setting fork tines. The compact wheel loader fork carriage has also been realigned to improve forward visibility, and bucket capacities have been increased across the entire model range.

In addition to the updates and refinements across the model range, there is also an all-new model available; a 908 high-lift configuration. Caterpillar claims that this model is intended for customers operating in agricultural, industrial and waste markets. The company also states that when combined with the reversing fan option, this configuration offers customers increased operating efficiency and reliability. When equipped with solid tires, Caterpillar claims that this new high lift configuration makes the new 908 loader ideal for industrial and waste applications.

Caterpillar states that they have made numerous ergonomic, accessibility and safety improvements to the new line-up. The M-Series loaders now feature a sealed and pressurized cab. Side mirrors are standard across the range, and now feature an optional parabolic lens with an electric and heating function. New single-piece front and rear windshields offer a claimed 60% improvement in wiper coverage.

All models feature seat mounted controls and a multifunction joystick which controls functions such as travel direction and speed, proportional auxiliary flow, differential lock and constant hydraulic flow. Customers will be able to choose from a range of seats, including a new heated and ventilated unit. Front and rear cameras are also optional, and existing features such as raised floor pedals and dual doors have been retained.

Caterpillar claims the M-Series will feature a class-first: in-cab-programmable kickouts with high-definition rotary sensors mounted to the loader arms. The company states that this feature will isolate operators from unwanted shock and vibration due to buckets striking the ground and/or hitting dump stops at max height. This feature also enables the operator to remain in the cab while setting upper, lower and attachment kickout positions. Cylinder snubbing is also available to provide the operator with added protection. Caterpillar claims that proper kickout operation saves up to 20% of bucket-cutting edge life.

The M-Series interior also features Cat’s “Next Generation” control monitor, which offers a range of real-time data. From this monitor, the operator can configure functions such as hydrostatic transmission response, auto engine-idle shutdown and a utility powertrain mode that provides operators with the ability to control ground and engine speed. All models can now be outfitted with LED lights for both working/roading and under-hood-service. A unique resistor bank is built into the body of the roading lights to warm the assembly and melt snow or ice when operating in cold climates.

“From a serviceability point of view, we’ve maintained much of what we had on the M-Series in terms of access to fill points and filters for your daily checks,” Kundra said. “We have [also] improved air filter access and we made sure we’ve got extra connections, hydraulic caps on components.”

Caterpillar confirmed that U.S. customers are already placing orders for the next-generation M-Series models, with a current order lead time of builds taking place during the 3rd quarter of 2022. According to company representatives, North American customers could expect their new units to arrive from Caterpillar’s assembly facility in Leicester, U.K. by the fall of this year.