Caterpillar introduces its new 140M2 and 160M2 motor graders, along with their all-wheel-drive counterparts, the 140M2 AWD and 160M2 AWD. These graders feature clean-burning, fuel-efficient engines that meet Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emissions standards, according to the company. M Series 2 models are designed for a broad range of tasks, including heavy blade work, road maintenance, ripping, and precision-finishing applications.

The new M Series 2 models all use the Cat C9.3 ACERT engine with Variable Horse Power (VHP), and all have a wider net-variable-horsepower range than their M Series predecessors, the company stated. The 140M2 and 160M2 have ranges of 193 to 243 (144 kW to 181 kW) and 213 to 263 (159 kW to 196 kW), respectively. Net horsepower ratings for the 140M2 AWD and 160M2 AWD are 202 to 243 (151 kW to 181 kW) and 223 to 263 (166 kW to 196 kW), respectively.

Caterpillar’s engine technology combines refined fuel, air-management and electronic systems with the Cat NOx-Reduction System and Cat Clean Emissions Module (CEM). The air-management system, using optimized turbocharging, works with the electronically controlled, common-rail fuel-injection system to provide clean, efficient combustion, and optimum fuel economy, according to the company.

The Cat NOx-Reduction System captures and cools a small volume of exhaust gas, then returns the cooled gas to the combustion chamber to reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions. The CEM is an aftertreatment unit that includes a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and the Cat Regeneration System (CRS). The no-maintenance DOC assists in reducing the amount of hydrocarbons in the exhaust stream and DPF Particulate Matter (PM), or soot.

These graders feature the Cat control system, which uses two electronic joysticks. The control system results in nearly 80 percent fewer hand and wrist movements compared to conventional motor-grader controls, Caterpillar stated.

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.

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.

Motor grader users can also utilize Cat Product Link, which allows remote monitoring of equipment. Product Link provides events and diagnostic codes, as well as hours, fuel, idle time, and other detailed information, which are transmitted to a Web based application called VisionLink.

The M Series 2 front frame uses continuous top- and bottom-plate construction for greater strength, and the rear frame features a box-section hitch design, cast axle mounting, and integrated rear bumper for durability in applications such as ripping, the company stated.

The 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, for control in finish-grading applications. The A-frame-type drawbar, using a tubular design for high strength and durability, features a replaceable ball, removable shims (to compensate for wear), and top-adjust wear inserts.

The moldboard and large throat clearance are designed to keep material moving easily. The moldboard side-shift system uses a 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, Caterpillar said. The retention system also permits easy adjustment or replacement of worn inserts to reduce maintenance time.