CATERPILLAR has completely redesigned its new K Series small wheel loaders – 924K, 930K and 938K – which now incorporate a new engine that meets emission standards equivalent to EU Stage IIIA and US EPA Tier 3 standards and new features that deliver enhanced performance, fuel efficiency and operator comfort.

Among the new features are an efficient electronically controlled hydrostatic drive system, new optimised Z-bar loader linkage, refined operator’s station and a choice of couplers and buckets for best matching the machine to the application.

The new K Series models will replace the successful H Series models – 924H, 924Hz, 928Hz, 930H, 938H and IT938H.

Elaborating on the new features, a company spokesman says: “The Cat C7.1 Acert powers the three new K-Series wheel loaders and works efficiently with the machines to deliver fuel savings up to 25 per cent, compared with H-Series models. An improved fuel filtration system features a dual fuel filter with increased dirt holding capacity for longer life.

“The C7.1 Acert rated speed setting of 1,800 rpm, compared with 2,415 rpm for the H-Series, contributes significantly to reduced fuel consumption, lowered sound levels, and reduced wear. An engine-idle shutdown system further reduces fuel consumption.

The Hystat system ... in Ice mode.

“The K-Series models are equipped with a step-less, four-range, hydrostatic drive system that allows independent control of ground speed and engine speed for efficient operation of hydraulically powered work tools.”

 The 924K, 930K, and 938K feature the Caterpillar Hystat system, an electronically controlled hydrostatic transmission that delivers smooth, step-less power through four speed ranges and automatically adjusts tractive power at the wheels to match underfoot conditions.

In addition to the default setting, the new control system provides three performance settings, selected via the optional K-Series Secondary Display or the Cat Electronic Technician: Hystat mode; TC (torque converter) mode; and Ice mode.

A new creeper control feature further improves low speed operations by allowing the operator to adjust maximum ground speed down to 1.6 kmph. An operator-controlled rimpull-control system helps reduce wheel spin and consequent tyre wear, and a front differential lock enhances traction.

Optimised Z-bar loader linkage blends the breakout power of Z-bar linkage with the parallel-lift and load-handling characteristics of Cat VersaLink or IT (integrated toolcarrier) linkage.

An all-new operator’s station features automatic temperature control, curved front windshield, tilt and telescoping steering column, and a soft touch control panel. The electronic joystick for implement control is seat-mounted, adjustable and incorporates integral controls for auxiliary hydraulics, directional shifting and optional differential lock. In-cab sound levels are reduced to 71 dB (A), down from 74 dB (A) in the H-Series models.

Kick-out functions for boom lift, boom lower and tilt are standard and easily programmable by pushing and holding a button on the soft touch panel. An electronic parking brake simplifies operation, and an optional secondary display shows vital machine information graphically and digitally as well as machine diagnostics.