Overview
The Caterpillar 972K is a wheel loader listed in the Heavy Equipment Hub equipment database with structured specifications for comparison, research, and machine selection. Key specification points include engine power of 288 hp, operating weight of 57,770 lb, fuel capacity of 101.0 gal and hydraulic capacity of 52.3 gal. This model can be reviewed for loading, stockpile work, material handling, yard operations, and fleet comparison workflows. Use the full specifications table to compare the Caterpillar 972K against similar wheel loader models by power, weight, capacity, dimensions, speed, and other technical values.
Key Specifications
Operating Weight
57,770
lb
Net Power
288
hp
Gross Power
322
hp
Full Specifications
60 specs
Dimensions
Breakout Force
44,075 lb / 19,992 kg
Engine
Bore
4.50 in / 114 mm
Cooling System Fluid Capacity
17.40 gal / 65.9 L
Engine Make
2236
Engine Model
C9.3 ACERT
Forward - 1
4.40 mph / 7.1 km/h
Forward - 2
7.80 mph / 12.6 km/h
Forward - 3
13.30 mph / 21.4 km/h
Forward - 4
22.90 mph / 36.9 km/h
Fuel Capacity
101 gal / 382.3 L
Gross Power
322 hp / 240.1 kW
Hydraulic System Fluid Capacity
52.30 gal / 198.0 L
Hydraulic Tank
52.30 gal / 198.0 L
Max Speed - Forward
22.90 mph / 36.9 km/h
Max Speed - Reverse
26.20 mph / 42.2 km/h
Max Torque
1,051 lb-ft / 1,425 Nm
Maximum Gross Power - 1,800 Rpm - Sae J1995
318 hp / 237.1 kW
Maximum Gross Power - 1,800 Rpm - Sae J1995 - Metric
322 hp / 240.1 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Eec 80/1269
288 hp / 214.8 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Eec 80/1269 - Metric
292 hp / 217.7 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Iso 9249
288 hp / 214.8 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Iso 9249 - Metric
292 hp / 217.7 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Sae J1349
288 hp / 214.8 kW
Maximum Net Power - 1,800 Rpm - Sae J1349 - Metric
292 hp / 217.7 kW
Net Power
288 hp / 214.8 kW
Net Power - Iso 9249
288 hp / 214.8 kW
Number of Forward Gears
4
Number of Reverse Gears
4
Operating Weight
57,770 lb / 26,204 kg
Peak Gross Torque - 1,400 Rpm - Sae J1995
1,051 lb-ft / 1,425 Nm
Peak Net Torque - 1,400 Rpm - Sae J1349
985 lb-ft / 1,335 Nm
Rear
Oscillating ?13 degrees
Reverse - 1
5 mph / 8.0 km/h
Reverse - 2
8.90 mph / 14.3 km/h
Reverse - 3
15.20 mph / 24.5 km/h
Reverse - 4
26.20 mph / 42.2 km/h
Stroke
5.90 in / 150 mm
Transmission Fluid Capacity
13.20 gal / 50.0 L
Hydraulics
2 s
3
Dump Time
2 sec
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Dump, At Maximum Raise
2
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Raise From Carry Position
5.90
Hydraulic Cycle Time - Total
10.30
Implement System - Maximum Operating Pressure
4,496 psi / 310.0 bar
Implement System - Maximum Pump Output At 2,275 Rpm
90 gal/min / 340.7 L/min
Implement System - Optional 3rd Function Maximum Flow
79.30 gal/min / 300.2 L/min
Implement System - Optional 3rd Function Maximum Pressure
3,000 psi / 206.8 bar
Maximum Single-Wheel Rise And Fall
19.50
Pump Flow Capacity
90 gal/min / 340.7 L/min
Raise Time
5.90 sec
Relief Valve Setting
4,496 psi / 310.0 bar
Other
Static Tipping Load - Full 37 Degrees Turn - Iso 14397-1*
35,963 lb / 16,313 kg
Static Tipping Load - Full 37 Degrees Turn - Rigid Tires**
38,884 in / 987,654 mm
Brakes
Meet OSHA, SAE J1473 OCT90 and ISO 3450-1985 required standards
Cooling System
17.40 gal / 65.9 L
Crankcase
6.50 gal / 24.6 L
Differential - Final Drives - Front
16.9
Differential - Final Drives - Rear
16.9
Fuel Tank - Standard
101 gal / 382.3 L
Transmission
13.2
Related Machines
Related Guides & Articles
Mar 14, 2026
Wheel Loader vs Skid Steer: Which Machine Fits Your Job Best?
Read article →
Mar 17, 2026
Inside the Power of Two Giant Cat 990 Wheel Loaders – Massive Coal Loading Operation
Read article →
Mar 17, 2026
Ultimate Guide to Mega Machines: Excavators, Haulers, Wheel Loaders & Bulldozers in 4K
Read article →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the operating weight of the Caterpillar 972K? +
The Caterpillar 972K has an operating weight of 57,770 lb (26,204 kg). This places it in a class suited for wheel loader applications where ground pressure and transport weight are key considerations.
How powerful is the Caterpillar 972K engine? +
The Caterpillar 972K produces 322 hp (240.1 kW) of engine power. This output is typical for its weight class and designed to handle demanding Wheel Loader work cycles efficiently.
How does the Caterpillar 972K compare to similar Wheel Loader models? +
You can compare the Caterpillar 972K side by side with any other model using the Heavy Equipment Hub compare tool. Key comparison points include engine power, operating weight, digging depth, hydraulic flow, and overall dimensions.