1980 Caterpillar 966D Wheel Loader

The 1980 Caterpillar 966D Wheel Loader is a proven heavy-duty production loader built during one of Caterpillar’s most durable mechanical eras. Designed for demanding environments such as aggregate operations, quarry work, construction sites, material yards, and agricultural loading, the 966D delivers dependable power and rugged reliability. This unit shows 28,436.7 operating hours and remains a strong working machine with several recent service updates, including a rebuilt front end, brand new air compressor and hoses, and the legendary Caterpillar 3306 diesel engine, known across the industry for its longevity and re-buildability. The machine is equipped with a bucket scale system and Red Dot air conditioning, both of which will require service. Compared to earlier 966 models, the D-series introduced improvements in hydraulic efficiency, operator ergonomics, and drivetrain performance, making it a long-standing workhorse in the heavy equipment industry. This loader represents a solid value for contractors or operations needing a high-capacity production loader at a fraction of replacement cost.

Key Features & Equipment

• Caterpillar 3306 Turbocharged Diesel Engine delivering reliable industrial power
• Approx. 235 HP designed for high-production loading applications
• Heavy-duty articulated wheel loader platform ideal for aggregate and bulk material handling
• Rebuilt Front End improving structural integrity and operational reliability
• Brand New Air Compressor and Hoses recently installed
• General Purpose Loading Bucket suitable for quarry, gravel, and construction material handling
• Integrated Bucket Scale System (requires service) for load measurement capability
• Red Dot Cab Air Conditioning System installed (currently requires service)
• Planetary Power Shift Transmission designed for heavy-duty loader operations
• Z-Bar Loader Linkage providing strong breakout force and fast bucket fill
• Load-sensing hydraulic system delivering efficient hydraulic performance
• Four-wheel drive articulated steering for maneuverability on tight jobsites
• Enclosed operator cab with wide visibility for safe operation
• Heavy-duty Cat axles and frame engineered for continuous production loading
• High-hour machine priced for value and ready for continued service with minor cab accessory repairs

Technical Specifications

• Engine: Caterpillar 3306 Turbocharged Diesel
• Engine Power: approx. 235 HP
• Emissions Tier: Pre-Emission (Pre-Tier Standards)
• Operating Weight: approx. 50,000 – 52,000 lb
• Bucket Capacity: approx. 4.0 – 5.5 cubic yards
• Maximum Breakout Force: approx. 42,000 lb
• Operating Load Capacity: approx. 12,000 – 13,500 lb
• Transmission: Caterpillar Planetary Power Shift
• Drive Type: 4WD Articulated Wheel Loader
• Transport Dimensions (L x W x H): approx. 29 ft x 10 ft x 11.5 ft
• Fuel Capacity: approx. 95 gallons
• Hydraulic System Pressure: approx. 3,800 – 4,000 PSI
• Hydraulic Flow: approx. 80 – 90 GPM
• Ground Travel Speed: up to approx. 23 mph
• Dump Clearance: approx. 10.5 – 11.5 ft depending on bucket configuration
• Turning Radius: approx. 23 ft