The new Cat M Series 3 motor graders—12M3, 140M3, 160M3 and their all-wheel-drive (AWD) counterparts—meet Tier 4 Final emissions standards and incorporate a number of new features designed to enhance operating efficiency. For Tier 4-Final, Caterpillar has added a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system to the after-treatment strategy used on the M Series models. A new, operator-selecetd Economy (ECO) Mode is designed to save fuel by reducing engine speed, allowing the machine to work in a more efficient range. Average fuel savings, says Caterpillar, can range to 10 percent, depending on the application.
A new transmission shift strategy modulates gear changes, contributing to increased blade control during fine-grading operations, says the company, a redesigned message display, located in the center console of the machine, now places information from the Cat Grade Control Cross Slope system conveniently in front of the operator. Also in the cab, seat options include heat and ventilation options, and an available seat-belt-indicator system is available.
The Cat Connect system for the new motor graders, says Caterpillar, makes smart use of technology and services to help improve job-site efficiency, such as Product Link, which helps fleet owners track location, hours, fuel usage, productivity, idle time, and diagnostic codes through the company’s online VisionLink interface. M Series 3 machines also offer optional grade technologies, such as Cat Grade Control Cross Slope and Cat AccuGrade.
