Caterpillar has released its M Series 2 Motor Graders.
The new 140M2 and 160M2, as well as its all wheel drive (AWD) relatives, the 140M2 AWD and 160M2 AWD are equipped with clean burning, fuel efficient engines which meet Tier 4 emissions standards.
Designed for a broad range of tasks, including heavy blade work, road maintenance, ripping and precision finishing applications, the M Series 2 all use the Cat C9.3 ACERT engine with Variable Horse Power.
The 140M@ and 160M2 have ranges of 144kW to 181kW and 159kW to 196kW respectively.
Net power ratings for the AWD versions are between 151kW to 181kW for the 140M2 AWD and 166kW to 196kW for the 160M2 AWD.
The graders also significantly reduce emissions using the Cat NOx-Reduction System, which captures and cools a small volume of exhaust gas, then returns the cooled gas to the combustion chamber to reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions.
It also includes an aftertreatment unit which features a diesel oxidisation catalyst (DOC), a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the Cat regeneration system (CRS).
These motor graders feature the Cat control system, which uses electronic joysticks to provide precise control of the machine and results in nearly 80 per cent fewer hand and wrists movement compared to conventional motor grader control.
The M Series 2 also come with selectable blade lift speed modes which allow for more exact control to match lift response to the job.
Beginning mid-2011, the M Series 2 models will offer the new Cat Grade Control Cross Slope system.
Cat Grade Control is a complete machine control and guidance system which integrates traditional grade control with standard machine components at the factory.
This optional factory-installed and calibrated cross slope system provides automatic cross slope control capability, ready to operate from the moment it leaves the factory.
In addition to Cat Cross Slope, the M Series 2 motor graders will also continue to offer the AccuGrade Ready Option which provides all the mounting hardware, controls and harnesses for easy installation of all AccuGrade kits.
Operators can closely match machine ground speed to the operating situation with the 8F/6R direct-drive powershift transmission, which uses the Cat Electronic Clutch Pressure Control system to modulate gear changes and Controlled Throttle Shifting for smooth directional changes without the inching pedal.
Programmable Autoshift lets the operator match shift parameters to the application.
A manually controlled differential lock improves traction in adverse ground conditions.
When engaged, an automatic system locks and unlocks the differential as required to optimize traction while protecting the tandem chains and differential from possible damage.
Multi-disc brakes at each tandem wheel provide large braking surfaces for sure stops and long brake life.
The new models are equipped with an advanced electro-hydraulic system for implement control, featuring an independent oil supply to prevent contamination from other systems and to assure proper cooling for extended component life.
The load-sensing hydraulic system delivers consistent, predictable cylinder response and provides balanced flow, allowing implements to be used simultaneously with minimal effect on implement and engine speeds.
The M Series 2 front frame uses continuous top- and bottom-plate construction for exceptional strength, and the rear frame features a robust box-section hitch design, cast axle mounting and integrated rear bumper for durability in the harshest applications, such as ripping.
The massive, one-piece, forged-steel circle is built to absorb high stress loads, and the circle-drive slip clutch reduces the potential for damage from horizontal shock loads.
Six circle shoes keep the circle tighter, longer, to assure maximum control in finish-grading applications.
The A-frame-type drawbar, using a tubular design for high strength and optimum durability, features a replaceable ball, removable shims (to compensate for wear) and top-adjust wear inserts.
The optimally shaped moldboard and large throat clearance keep material moving easily, resulting in less horsepower draw.
The moldboard side-shift system uses a well-protected cylinder mounted to the left to avoid snow-wing interference.
A shim-less moldboard-retention system maintains blade adjustment over extended operating intervals for precise control.