CAT 955 vs 977 Loader Bucket Selection: How to Make the Best Decision

[MikePhua]

Introduction
The CAT 955 and CAT 977 are classic loader models from Caterpillar, commonly used in construction, mining, and agricultural industries. When choosing the right bucket for these machines, it’s important to consider how the bucket’s size, design, and load capacity affect overall performance. This article will help you understand the differences between the CAT 955 and CAT 977 loader buckets, making it easier to decide which one suits your needs.
CAT 955 Loader Bucket Features
The CAT 955 is a well-known, robust crawler loader that has been used for medium to heavy-duty earthmoving tasks. Its bucket is designed to work efficiently in various conditions. Key features include:

• Capacity and Size: The standard bucket capacity for the CAT 955 is typically around 1.5 to 2.0 cubic yards, which is ideal for general earthmoving tasks. However, for larger material handling, a bigger or customized bucket may be required.
  
• Bucket Design: The CAT 955 bucket is relatively shallow, optimized for work at lower loads to provide the best efficiency. Its edges and structure emphasize durability and wear resistance, ensuring it performs well under standard conditions.
  
• Application: Due to its size and capacity, the CAT 955 bucket excels in environments where substantial pushing power and a compact operational footprint are required. It is particularly suited for medium-sized earthmoving tasks and material loading.
  

CAT 977 Loader Bucket Features
The CAT 977 is a larger machine with more capacity and adaptability, designed to handle more demanding tasks. Its bucket features include:

• Capacity and Size: The bucket capacity for the CAT 977 generally ranges from 2.5 to 3.0 cubic yards, making it suitable for heavy-duty earthmoving and large material handling projects. It outperforms the CAT 955 in tasks that require higher load capacities.
  
• Bucket Design: The CAT 977 bucket is deeper, providing a higher load capacity and greater stability, ideal for handling heavier and more challenging materials. Its stronger construction allows it to withstand larger loads over extended periods.
  
• Application: The CAT 977 bucket is best suited for large-scale projects and environments where heavy loads and high productivity are key. It is particularly useful in construction, mining, and material handling operations that require frequent and significant material movement.
  

Choosing the Right Bucket
When selecting a bucket, there are several factors to consider:

• Task Requirements: If your work mainly involves medium to light loads, the CAT 955 bucket may be sufficient. It provides a high level of efficiency for lighter earthmoving and material handling tasks.
  
• Load Capacity: For more demanding tasks, especially those that require handling heavy materials, the CAT 977 bucket is the better option. Its larger capacity and stability make it ideal for high-load environments.
  
• Bucket Material: Depending on the types of materials you’ll be handling, consider the bucket’s material. If you’re working with abrasive or hard materials, a bucket made from wear-resistant materials will improve its lifespan and reduce the need for frequent replacements.
  

Conclusion
The choice between the CAT 955 and CAT 977 loader bucket primarily depends on the specific demands of your job. For medium-sized earthmoving tasks, the CAT 955 bucket is more than adequate, offering excellent performance in lighter load environments. However, if your work involves heavy-duty material handling and high productivity, the CAT 977 bucket will provide the strength and capacity required. Understanding the differences between these two buckets and your operational needs will help you select the best option for your projects.