Caterpillar 988K Wheel Loader

Caterpillar 988K Wheel Loader

Built for large-scale material handling operations, the Caterpillar 988K Wheel Loader is engineered to deliver superior productivity, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability. With a powerful Cat® C18 ACERT™ engine, industry-leading breakout force, and optimized load-sensing hydraulics, the 988K is tailored for high-output environments such as quarrying, mining, and aggregate production.

Its heavy-duty structure, advanced operator station, and intelligent systems ensure unmatched control, reduced cycle times, and reliable performance even in the most demanding terrains — all while keeping operating costs in check.

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Key Specifications

• Operating Weight: 51,060 Kg

• Bucket Capacity Range: 4.7 – 13 Cum

• Gross Power Output: 580 HP

• Net Power Output: 541 HP

• Maximum Torque: 2,853 Nm

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 712 Ltr

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Engine

• Model: Cat® C18 ACERT™

• Emission Compliance: U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final / EU Stage IV (Optional Tier 2 & Tier 3 for specific regions)

• Air Intake: Turbocharged and aftercooled for optimized thermal control

• Gross Power Output: 580 HP @ 1700 RPM

• Maximum Torque: 2,853 Nm @ 1200 RPM

The C18 ACERT engine delivers consistent high torque at low RPMs, allowing for efficient loading in dense material, uphill hauling, or sustained production without engine strain or over-revving — ideal for quarry pits or bulk loading tasks.

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Loader General Dimensions & Performance

• Boom Breakout Force: 43,470 Kg

• Bucket Capacity Range: 4.7 – 13 Cum

• Hydraulic Flow: 580 LPM

• Hydraulic Cycle Time (Lift + Dump + Lower): ~18.2 sec

• Rated Payload: 11.3 tonnes (Standard lift linkage)

• Maximum Travel Speed (Forward): 41.5 km/h

The loader system’s Positive Flow Control hydraulics deliver smooth, responsive lift and tilt functions for reduced fuel burn and higher cycle efficiency, especially in repetitive load-and-carry operations.

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Backhoe Dimensions & Performance

Not applicable — this model is a dedicated front-end loader.

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Overall Dimensions & Weight

• Operating Weight: 51,060 Kg

• Height to Top of Cab: 4,210 mm

• Overall Length (with Bucket on Ground): 12,500 mm

• Width Over Tires: 3,650 mm

• Ground Clearance: 494 mm

• Wheelbase: 3,760 mm

A wide stance, reinforced chassis, and optimal weight distribution give the 988K exceptional traction and stability — critical when maneuvering full loads on uneven or loose ground.

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Hydraulic System

• Pump Type: Variable-displacement piston pumps

• Pump Flow Capacity: 580 LPM

• System Pressure: 31,000 kPa

• Total Hydraulic System Capacity: 475 Ltr

The advanced hydraulic system supports simultaneous lift and tilt functions without flow lag, helping operators maintain rhythm and reduce load cycle times across shifts.

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Service Capacities

• Fuel Tank: 712 Ltr

• Engine Oil: 60 Ltr

• Cooling System: 120 Ltr

• Hydraulic System (Tank): 240 Ltr

• Hydraulic System (Total): 475 Ltr

• Transmission: 120 Ltr

• DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid): 33 Ltr

Large service intervals and grouped service points support faster maintenance turnarounds and reduced downtime, making the 988K ideal for non-stop production environments.

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Axle & Steering

• Front Axle: Fixed

• Rear Axle: Oscillating, 13°

• Steering System: Load-sensing, articulated hydraulic steering

• Turning Radius (Outside of Tires): 8,560 mm

This setup offers high maneuverability with rock-solid stability under full load — key advantages in tight quarry loading zones or when working near edge berms.

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Braking System

• Service Brakes: Oil-cooled, multiple disc brakes

• Parking Brakes: Spring-applied, hydraulically released

• Standard Compliance: SAE J1473, ISO 3450

The braking system is designed for long service life, with wet-disc technology reducing heat buildup and wear during continuous downhill or high-speed hauling.

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Tyres

• Front and Rear: 35/65 R33 (Standard)

• Optional: Various heavy-duty radial configurations for off-road, rock, or soft-soil environments

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Electrical System

• Battery Voltage: 24 V

• Alternator: 150 Amp

• Optional: LED work light package, integrated diagnostics, and Product Link™ telematics

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Use Cases

• High-volume aggregate and quarry loading

• Surface mining material handling

• Large-scale road and infrastructure prep

• Bulk cargo handling at ports or yards

• Industrial construction with extended load cycles

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Final Thoughts

The Caterpillar 988K is built to handle large-scale, high-production loading environments with ease. With class-leading fuel efficiency, massive breakout forces, and operator-focused controls, it remains a top-tier choice for operations where productivity and machine durability are non-negotiable. For contractors, quarries, or fleet operators looking to boost their cost-per-ton efficiency, the 988K continues to be the heavy-duty wheel loader of choice.