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The Evolution of the CAT 973 Series
The Caterpillar 973 series track loader has long been a symbol of power and versatility in earthmoving. First introduced in the late 1980s, the original 973 was designed to bridge the gap between dozers and wheel loaders, offering the pushing power of a crawler tractor with the material handling flexibility of a loader. Over the years, Caterpillar refined the design, leading to the 973C and eventually the 973D, which debuted in the mid-2000s.
The 973D brought significant upgrades: an electronically controlled C9 ACERT engine, improved operator ergonomics, and enhanced hydraulic response. With an operating weight of approximately 60,000–65,000 lbs and a bucket capacity of up to 5 cubic yards, the 973D was built for high-production environments. Caterpillar, founded in 1925, remains one of the world’s largest construction equipment manufacturers, and the 973D has been sold globally, especially in North America and Europe, where utility and site development contractors value its versatility.
Understanding Track Loaders in Wet Conditions
Track loaders like the 973D are often considered for jobs where wheel loaders struggle—particularly in soft, wet, or clay-heavy soils. Unlike wheeled machines, track loaders distribute weight over a larger surface area, reducing ground pressure and improving traction. However, the 973D’s sheer size can be a double-edged sword.
In a sewer installation project in Iowa, a contractor faced challenges with wheel loaders bogging down in heavy clay. Switching to a 973D allowed them to keep bedding stone moving efficiently and reposition mud mats without constant delays. However, the machine’s weight became a concern when it sank into a saturated trench area, requiring two dozers and an excavator to extract it—costing half a day of production.
In contrast, a North Dakota operator using a 973C with a grapple and GP bucket noted the machine’s unmatched pushing power and control during backfill operations. Fuel consumption was high—around 400 liters per 12-hour shift—but the productivity gains justified the expense. The operator had welded chain links into the bucket to lift pipe sections, a common customization in utility work.
Comparing Alternatives
While the 973D offers brute strength, many contractors suggest considering smaller models like the 963D or 953C, especially in LGP versions. These machines offer:
Best Practices for Selecting the Right Loader
The CAT 973D is a formidable machine with the muscle to tackle large-scale utility projects, but its weight and speed limitations make it a specialized tool rather than a universal solution. For contractors facing wet, sticky soils and heavy material movement, the 973D can be a game-changer—if deployed wisely. Smaller track loaders like the 963 or 953 may offer better agility and cost-efficiency for mid-sized jobs. Ultimately, the right choice depends on matching machine capabilities to site demands, and sometimes, a test drive is worth more than a spec sheet.
The Caterpillar 973 series track loader has long been a symbol of power and versatility in earthmoving. First introduced in the late 1980s, the original 973 was designed to bridge the gap between dozers and wheel loaders, offering the pushing power of a crawler tractor with the material handling flexibility of a loader. Over the years, Caterpillar refined the design, leading to the 973C and eventually the 973D, which debuted in the mid-2000s.
The 973D brought significant upgrades: an electronically controlled C9 ACERT engine, improved operator ergonomics, and enhanced hydraulic response. With an operating weight of approximately 60,000–65,000 lbs and a bucket capacity of up to 5 cubic yards, the 973D was built for high-production environments. Caterpillar, founded in 1925, remains one of the world’s largest construction equipment manufacturers, and the 973D has been sold globally, especially in North America and Europe, where utility and site development contractors value its versatility.
Understanding Track Loaders in Wet Conditions
Track loaders like the 973D are often considered for jobs where wheel loaders struggle—particularly in soft, wet, or clay-heavy soils. Unlike wheeled machines, track loaders distribute weight over a larger surface area, reducing ground pressure and improving traction. However, the 973D’s sheer size can be a double-edged sword.
- Ground Pressure: The 973D exerts roughly 7.5 psi with standard tracks, which is lower than a wheel loader but higher than smaller track loaders like the 953 or 963 in LGP (Low Ground Pressure) configuration.
- LGP Configuration: Wider tracks reduce ground pressure further, often down to 5.5–6 psi, making them ideal for swampy or saturated soils.
- Mobility: With a top speed of 5–6 mph, the 973D is slower than a wheel loader, which can reach 20–25 mph. This affects cycle times for material handling across large sites.
- LGP (Low Ground Pressure): A configuration using wider tracks to reduce the pressure exerted on the ground, minimizing the risk of sinking in soft terrain.
- Quick Coupler: A hydraulic or mechanical device that allows fast switching between attachments like buckets and forks.
- GP Bucket (General Purpose Bucket): A standard bucket used for loading, grading, and backfilling, typically without specialized teeth or reinforcements.
In a sewer installation project in Iowa, a contractor faced challenges with wheel loaders bogging down in heavy clay. Switching to a 973D allowed them to keep bedding stone moving efficiently and reposition mud mats without constant delays. However, the machine’s weight became a concern when it sank into a saturated trench area, requiring two dozers and an excavator to extract it—costing half a day of production.
In contrast, a North Dakota operator using a 973C with a grapple and GP bucket noted the machine’s unmatched pushing power and control during backfill operations. Fuel consumption was high—around 400 liters per 12-hour shift—but the productivity gains justified the expense. The operator had welded chain links into the bucket to lift pipe sections, a common customization in utility work.
Comparing Alternatives
While the 973D offers brute strength, many contractors suggest considering smaller models like the 963D or 953C, especially in LGP versions. These machines offer:
- Lower operating weight (35,000–45,000 lbs)
- Reduced fuel consumption (20–30% less than 973D)
- Easier transport on standard trailers
- Better maneuverability in tight urban sites
Best Practices for Selecting the Right Loader
- Site Conditions: Evaluate soil type, moisture content, and expected weather. Clay-heavy and saturated soils favor LGP configurations.
- Production Needs: Match machine capacity to daily material movement targets. Over-sizing can lead to inefficiencies and transport headaches.
- Attachment Versatility: Equip machines with quick couplers, forks, and GP buckets to handle varied tasks like pipe handling, grading, and backfill.
- Test Before Purchase: Arrange demo units or rent similar machines to assess performance. A short trial can prevent costly missteps.
- Inspect undercarriage daily for mud buildup and wear, especially in abrasive soils
- Monitor fuel usage and idle time to optimize operating costs
- Train operators on bucket control techniques to reduce ground disturbance
- Use wide pads or LGP tracks when working in wetlands or reclaimed land
The CAT 973D is a formidable machine with the muscle to tackle large-scale utility projects, but its weight and speed limitations make it a specialized tool rather than a universal solution. For contractors facing wet, sticky soils and heavy material movement, the 973D can be a game-changer—if deployed wisely. Smaller track loaders like the 963 or 953 may offer better agility and cost-efficiency for mid-sized jobs. Ultimately, the right choice depends on matching machine capabilities to site demands, and sometimes, a test drive is worth more than a spec sheet.
