Caterpillar 980M Wheel Loader - 2014 Large Production Loader

The Caterpillar 980M represents Cat's flagship large wheel loader platform, engineered for maximum productivity in the most demanding production environments. This 2014 model with 8,555 operational hours showcases exceptional care through recent comprehensive refurbishment including full professional paint, new decals, and brand-new tire installation. As one of Caterpillar's most popular production loaders, the 980M delivers unmatched reliability, fuel efficiency, and operator comfort for quarry operations, mining support, large-scale construction, and aggregate production facilities. Caterpillar Production Leadership: The 980M occupies the critical mid-to-large loader segment, providing the perfect balance between capacity, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability for high-volume production operations. Caterpillar's engineering excellence ensures robust structural components, proven Cat drivetrain technology, and advanced hydraulic systems capable of sustaining continuous production cycles with minimal downtime. Cat's unmatched global dealer network guarantees parts availability, technical expertise, and service support throughout South Africa and worldwide. Cat C15 ACERT Power: The 980M is powered by Caterpillar's legendary C15 ACERT diesel engine, delivering approximately 368 HP (275 kW) of reliable power with exceptional torque characteristics across the operating range. This proven powerplant combines robust performance with Cat's advanced fuel efficiency technology, reducing operational costs while maintaining the consistent power output essential for production loading cycles. The ACERT technology ensures emissions compliance while delivering superior fuel economy compared to previous generation loaders. Production-Class Capacity: At approximately 31,000 kg (68,343 lbs) operating weight, the 980M provides the stability and power required for high-volume material handling operations. The substantial mass ensures excellent traction in challenging ground conditions while acting as an effective counterbalance during fully-loaded bucket cycles. This weight class positions the 980M as the workhorse of large quarries, mining operations, and aggregate production facilities requiring consistent, reliable production output. General Purpose Bucket with Teeth: The installed GP (General Purpose) bucket equipped with cutting teeth provides optimal versatility for production loading applications. The tooth configuration delivers:

Enhanced Penetration: Aggressive material entry in stockpiles and hard-packed materials Improved Breakout: Superior digging force in compacted aggregates and challenging materials Reduced Cycle Times: Faster bucket filling and reduced loader effort Extended Bucket Life: Replaceable teeth protect bucket edges from wear Multi-Material Capability: Effective in rock, aggregate, sand, soil, and mixed materials

This configuration makes the 980M ideal for quarry production, aggregate loading, mining operations, and construction applications requiring robust material penetration. Automatic Lubrication System: The integrated automatic lubrication system represents a critical maintenance advantage, continuously delivering precise lubrication to critical pivot points, pins, bushings, and articulation joints throughout operation. This advanced system eliminates manual greasing requirements, dramatically reduces maintenance labor costs, extends component lifespan, and prevents premature wear from inadequate lubrication. Automatic lubrication is particularly valuable in production environments where maintenance windows are limited and equipment uptime is critical to operational profitability. Brand New Tires - Substantial Value: The recent installation of brand-new tires represents significant added value, eliminating immediate replacement costs and providing thousands of productive hours ahead. Production loader tires in the 980M size class represent substantial investment, often exceeding R200,000-400,000+ for a complete tire set depending on specification. This fresh tire installation demonstrates proper equipment investment and care, while ensuring optimal traction, stability, and performance for demanding production operations. Complete Professional Refurbishment: The comprehensive refurbishment including full professional paint and new decals indicates serious investment in equipment presentation and protection. Professional paint application provides:

Corrosion Protection: Sealed surfaces resist rust and environmental degradation Enhanced Resale Value: Professional appearance commands premium pricing Equipment Pride: Demonstrates fleet care and operational standards Visual Inspection: Fresh paint reveals any structural concerns during application Extended Lifespan: Protected surfaces resist deterioration and wear

This refurbishment investment demonstrates owner commitment to equipment quality and long-term value preservation. Operational History & Condition: At 8,555 hours, this 980M has completed approximately 40-45% of its typical operational lifespan. Large Cat wheel loaders routinely deliver 20,000-25,000+ productive hours with proper maintenance, indicating substantial remaining service life. The combination of moderate hours, recent refurbishment, new tires, and excellent condition provides exceptional value for operators seeking proven production capability without new-equipment investment. Production Environment Excellence: The 980M's combination of power, capacity, efficiency, and reliability makes it ideal for:

Quarry Operations: Aggregate loading, stockpile management, truck loading Mining Support: Ore handling, waste rock management, production loading Large Construction Projects: Mass earthmoving, site development, material handling Aggregate Production Facilities: Material processing, load-out operations Port Terminals: Bulk material handling, ship loading support Waste Management: Transfer station operations, landfill management Heavy Manufacturing: Steel mill support, bulk material handling Coal Handling: Stockpile management, train and truck loading

Advanced Operator Environment: The spacious ROPS/FOPS-certified cabin features air conditioning, adjustable suspension seating, and excellent all-around visibility through large glass panels. Cat's attention to ergonomic design reduces operator fatigue during extended production shifts while improving safety and productivity. The well-insulated cabin minimizes noise exposure from the powerful C15 engine, creating a comfortable working environment that improves operator retention and performance. Fuel Efficiency Leadership: Caterpillar's reputation for industry-leading fuel efficiency translates directly to reduced operational costs in production environments where loaders operate continuously throughout shifts. The 980M's advanced engine management and optimized hydraulic systems deliver superior tons-per-gallon metrics compared to competitive loaders, providing measurable cost savings that accumulate substantially over thousands of operational hours. Cat Technology Integration: The 980M platform supports Cat's Product Link telematics system (if equipped), enabling remote equipment monitoring, fuel consumption tracking, maintenance scheduling, and operational analytics. This technology provides fleet managers with valuable insights for optimizing equipment utilization and reducing operational costs. Maintenance & Support: Caterpillar's comprehensive dealer network throughout South Africa ensures:

Parts Availability: Genuine Cat components readily available Technical Expertise: Factory-trained technicians familiar with 980M platform Service Support: Mobile service capabilities and workshop facilities Rebuild Programs: Complete component rebuild options extending equipment life Financing Options: Cat Financial programs for qualified buyers

Investment Value: This professionally refurbished 980M with new tires, moderate hours, and excellent condition delivers production-class capability at compelling value. The comprehensive refurbishment investment demonstrates equipment quality, while the new tires eliminate immediate major expenses. Cat's legendary reliability and strong resale value protect capital investment, while the 980M's proven productivity generates revenue in demanding production environments. Inspection & Verification: The excellent condition claim invites thorough pre-purchase inspection, providing buyers confidence in equipment quality and performance. Potential buyers should verify operational parameters, hydraulic system performance, and drivetrain condition to confirm the loader's excellent status. Perfect for quarry operators, aggregate producers, mining contractors, large construction companies, port terminals, waste management operations, heavy manufacturing facilities, and any production environment requiring reliable large-loader capacity with proven Cat engineering excellence and exceptional fuel efficiency.