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Caterpillar 120H Motor Grader
Caterpillar 120H Motor GraderThe 120H blends productivity and durability to give you the best return on your investment. The Cat® 3126B engine, direct-drive power shift transmission and load-sensing hydraulics are perfectly balanced, working together to deliver top productivity in all applications. |  |  | |||
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 | Overview & Specifications | |  | Features & Benefits | | | Standard Equipment | | | Optional Equipment | | | Work Tools & Attachments | ||
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| Engine The Cat 3126B DITA ATAAC is designed to handle the tough loads. Variable Horsepower matches torque curves to the gear to maximize response, power, and efficiency. Low fuel consumption reduces operating costs and reduces environmental impact. | ||
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 | | 3126B DITA ATAAC Engine The innovative Cat 3126B diesel engine delivers large-engine performance from a compact engine design. The six-cylinder engine is turbocharged and air-to-air aftercooled. With high displacement and low rated speed, this engine provides excellent fuel economy and durability that can significantly reduce operating costs. |
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| Variable Horsepower (VHP) Automatically delivers power when it's needed. In lower gears where traction is limited, horsepower is restricted, conserving fuel. In higher gears, when the machine can use it, horsepower is increased. VHP controls fuel injection characteristics to reduce fuel costs, while increasing peak torque for higher ground speeds, increased rimpull in all gears, and greater productivity. | ||
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| Lugging Performance High torque output and torque rise makes the 3126B very responsive. Its superior lugging capability pulls through sudden, short-term increases in loads, reducing the need to downshift while maintaining consistent, desirable grading speeds to get the work done faster. | ||
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| Fuel Efficiency Caterpillar state-of-the-art electronically controlled, unit injection fuel system uses high injection pressures for complete fuel combustion, efficient fuel use, and reduced emissions. The dual-filter system reduces component wear. | ||
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| Turbocharged and Air-To-Air Aftercooled Turbocharger packs more dense air into the cylinders for more complete combustion and lower emissions, improving performance and engine efficiency. These benefits are especially useful at high altitudes. Air-to-air aftercooler reduces smoke and emissions by providing cooler inlet air for more efficient combustion. This also extends the life of the piston rings and bore. | ||
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| Extended Engine Life The large bore-stroke design and conservative power rating minimize internal stresses and increase component life. The low engine speeds reduce engine wear and sound levels. | ||
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| Hydraulic Demand Fan The hydraulic demand fan control automatically adjusts cooling fan speed according to engine cooling requirements. This system reduces demands on the engine, putting more power to the ground and improving fuel efficiency. | ||
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| Caterpillar Engine Oil It is formulated to optimize engine life and performance and is strongly recommended for use in Cat diesel engines. The engine oil change interval is increased to 500 hours. | ||
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| Improved Torque Power curves customized for the 120H increase peak torque for higher ground speeds and enhanced productivity. Rimpull has been increased in all gears for greater productivity. | ||
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| Emissions Compliant The 120H has reduced NOx, hydrocarbon, and particulate emissions. The Cat 3126B meets or exceeds all U.S. EPA Tier 2 and EU Stage II emissions control standards worldwide. | ||
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| Power Train The power shift transmission takes full advantage of the powerful 3126B engine. Variable Horsepower uses specific torque curves for each gear range for optimum performance. Dual air system and multi-disc oil brakes assure reliable braking control. | ||
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 | | Power Shift Transmission Caterpillar transmissions are designed and built specifically for Cat motor graders. The transmission provides on-the-go, full-power shifting as well as inching capability. |
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| Direct Drive Delivers superior fuel efficiency and "feel" of blade loads, material hardness and ground speed. | ||
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| Gear Selection Eight forward and six reverse speeds offer a wide operating range for maximum flexibility. Four gears below 9.9 km/h (6.2 mph) match working speed to job conditions for maximum productivity in earthmoving jobs. Gears five, six and seven are optimal for efficient snow removal operations. Gear 8 is designed for roading. | ||
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| Electronic Transmission Control Produces easy, smooth shifts so the operator can maintain uniform surfaces if shifting is required. Smooth shifts also extend the life of the transmission by reducing stress on transmission clutches. A single lever controls direction, gear and the parking brake. | ||
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| Electronic Clutch Pressure Control ECPC provides smoother shifts and improved inching control, which increases operator comfort and productivity. It uses input from the transmission and operator controls to modulate the directional clutches, producing consistent shifting regardless of ambient conditions or oil temperature. | ||
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| Electronic Overspeed Protection The transmission control upshifts the transmission to relieve overspeed conditions, and prevents a downshift until machine speed is within the range for the requested gear. This can prevent damage and reduce component wear. | ||
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| Inching Pedal The inching pedal delivers precise control of machine movements with excellent modulation and low pedal effort. This is especially important in finish grading or other close-quarter work. The ECPC allows optimum inching modulation for each specific gear, providing the operator better control and feel when inching is needed. The inching pedal has also been redesigned and repositioned for superior modulation and operator comfort. | ||
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| Dual Air Tanks Supply braking capacity to each side of the machine. This system ensures secondary braking capability in the event a failure occurs in a single brake line. The dual air system also has a large reserve for stalled-engine braking. | ||
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 | | Brakes Caterpillar multi-disc brakes offer a large surface area for dependable, extended-life braking. The air-actuated service brakes, located in each of the four wheel spindle housings, are sealed, adjustment free, and lubricated and cooled by tandem housing oil. The parking/emergency brakes, located in the transmission on the output shaft, are spring actuated and air pressure released. When engaged, they neutralize the transmission and lock the wheels on any surface. |
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 | | Hydraulics The load-sensing hydraulic system lowers power consumption and system heat. The advanced PPPC control valves provide low lever effort, balanced flow and consistent cylinder speeds for outstanding blade control. Blade float is incorporated into the blade lift valves. |
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| Load Sensing Hydraulics H-Series motor graders use the advanced proportional priority pressure-compensating (PPPC) hydraulic valves. This advanced "triple-PC" system is unique to Caterpillar and provides superior implement control and enhanced machine performance and efficiency. | ||
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| Less Hydraulic Pump Demand The load-sensing hydraulic pump doesn't run continuously under load, but operates only when needed. This lowers horsepower consumption, maximizes power to the ground and implements. It also increases fuel efficiency, reduces system heat, and extends hydraulic component life. | ||
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| Implement Control Valves Designed and built by Caterpillar specifically for motor graders, PPPC valves have different flow rates for the head end and the rod end of the cylinder. This insures consistent extension and retraction properties for each cylinder, for unmatched implement control. To help maintain exact blade settings, lock valves are built into all control valves. Line relief valves are also incorporated into selected control valves to protect the cylinders from excessive pressure. | ||
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| Consistent Cylinder Velocities The Caterpillar Proportional Priority Pressure-Compensation hydraulic valve gives a different flow rate when extending versus retracting many of the cylinders. Cylinder velocities are consistent in both directions. The result is a hydraulic system that provides outstanding operator "feel" and predictable system response for unmatched implement control. | ||
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| Low Operator Effort The hydraulic implement controls feature short lever throws and low lever efforts in both directions. This design reduces operator fatigue and helps keep the operator alert and productive an entire shift. | ||
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| Controls Spaced Properly spaced control levers and short lever throws allow the operator to easily manage multiple controls with one hand. | ||
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| Balanced Flow When the operator uses several controls at the same time, flow is proportioned to ensure all implements operate simultaneously with little effect on the engine or implement speeds. If hydraulic demand exceeds pump capacity, all cylinder velocities will be reduced by the same ratio. The result is improved productivity in virtually any application. | ||
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| Blade Float Blade float, incorporated into the blade lift control valves, allows the blade to move freely under its own weight. By floating both cylinders, the blade can follow the contours of the road when removing snow. Floating only one cylinder permits the toe of the blade to follow a hard surface while the operator controls the slope with the other lift cylinder. | ||
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| Independent Oil Supply Large separate hydraulic oil supply prevents cross-contamination and provides proper oil cooling, which reduces heat build-up and extends component life. | ||
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| Heavy Duty XT™ Hose The use of Caterpillar hoses throughout the machine ensures state-of-the-art durability and high pressures for maximum power availability, and longer hose life for less downtime. O-ring face seals assure rock-solid connections that maintain pressure and reduce oil leaks. Intelligent hose routing minimizes exposure to damage, increasing hose life and enhancing reliability. | ||
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| Optional Hydraulic Lockout Mechanically locks all moldboard, machine, and attachment control levers during machine roading. This prevents implements from being accidentally engaged when the motor grader is travelling down the road. | ||
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| Drawbar, Circle, Moldboard Flexible moldboard positioning and a long wheelbase improve material handling. Rugged construction and replaceable wear parts minimize operation costs. | ||
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 | | Blade Heat treated moldboard rails, through-hardened, curved DH-2™ steel cutting edge and end bits, and replaceable metallic wear inserts assure a long, reliable service life. Three sideshift mounting locations for the optional moldboard add flexibility. |
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 | | Blade Positioning The blade linkage design provides extensive moldboard positioning, most beneficial in mid-range bank sloping and in ditch cutting and cleaning. |
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| Blade Angle A long wheelbase allows the operator to obtain an aggressive moldboard angle. This aggressive angle permits material to roll more freely along the blade, which reduces power requirements. This is particularly helpful in handling very dry materials, cohesive soils, snow and ice. | ||
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| Circle Construction One-piece forged circle with hydraulically driven motor stands up to high stress loads. Raised wear surfaces prevent circle teeth wear against the drawbar. Sixty-four uniformly spaced teeth on the front 240° of the circle are flame cut and heat induction hardened to resist wear. And the circle, with 360° rotation, is secured to the drawbar by four vertically and horizontally adjustable shoes for maximum support. | ||
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| Replaceable Wear Items Tough, durable nylon composite wear inserts are located between the drawbar and circle, and between the support shoes and circle. This sacrificial wear system helps keep components tight for fine grading and allows easy replacement. These inserts reduce rotational friction, resulting in extended component life. | ||
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| Circle Drive Slip Clutch Standard on the 140H, the circle drive slip clutch protects the drawbar, circle and moldboard from shock loads when the blade encounters immovable objects. It also reduces the possibility of the grader making abrupt directional changes in poor traction conditions, further protecting the machine, operator and surroundings. | ||
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| Drawbar Construction The Y-frame drawbar is constructed of two solid beams for high strength and optimum durability, as well as precise blading control. | ||
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| Blade Lift Accumulators These optional blade lift accumulators absorb vertical shocks encountered when the moldboard contacts immovable objects. This option is especially useful in rough grading and rocky areas. | ||
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 | | Structures The 120H frame is designed and built to exceed the expectations of the customer. |
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| Integrated Bumper The integrated bumper ties the rear frame together into a cohesive unit, to handle the loads possible with the new 3126B power train. This is especially important in ripping and snow removal applications where graders are equipped with snow wing attachments. | ||
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| Rear Frame Rear frame has two box-sectioned channels integral with fully welded differential case for a solid working platform. | ||
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| Front Frame Continuous top and bottom plate construction provides consistency and strength. The flanged box section design removes welds from high stress areas, improving reliability and durability, and increasing resale values for the customer. | ||
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 | | Operator's Station Low effort blade controls, electronic throttle control, EMS III monitoring system, and improved ventilation provide world-class operator control and comfort. Excellent visibility to the front and rear increase operator confidence and productivity. |
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 | | Comfort and Convenience Comfort and convenience are designed into every feature of the operator's station. |
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| Optimized Inching Modulation Electronic Clutch Pressure Control (ECPC) optimizes inching modulation and smoothes shifting. This new feature also eliminates cable control, improving reliability and enhances cold oil characteristics. | ||
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| Electronic Throttle Control Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) provides easier, more precise, and more consistent throttle operation. Two modes on a single switch offer flexibility for varying applications and operator preference. Similar to cruise control, this feature results in improved fuel efficiency. | ||
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| Electronic Monitoring System The Cat Electronic Monitoring System (EMS) III module monitors critical machine systems. The EMS-III module monitors some system parameters directly, through sensors hard-wired to the module. In addition, a Cat Data Link connection allows the EMS-III module to monitor other parameters through communications with electronic control modules on the machine. The EMS-III module uses the Cat Data Link to communicate with the ET service tool. A connector is provided to connect the EMS "clicker box" service tool directly to the EMS-III module. The EMS-III module controls the quad gauge module displays and the speedometer / tachometer module displays through the SPI Data Link. The EMS-III module acts as the synchronized system clock "master" ECM. | ||
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| Controls On Steering Console Controls and switches are located on the steering console, shift console and right cab post, all within easy reach. Gauges are located inside the cab, directly in front of the operator. | ||
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| Backlit Controls Rocker switches and transmission shifter are backlit for nighttime operation. | ||
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| Optional Air Conditioner / Heater The optional heater and air conditioner arrangements help create a comfortable work environment, even in the bitter cold or heat and humidity. The high-capacity systems dehumidify the air as well as pressurize the cab, which keeps the air fresh and seals out dust. Multiple additional vents evenly distribute air throughout the cab for clear windows and operator comfort. | ||
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| Suspension Seat Optional contour series suspension seat features fold-up armrests and a retractable seat belt. The seat conforms to the contours of the body, and can be adjusted easily for optimal support and comfort. Seat controls are located in plain view in front and to the left of the operator. | ||
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| Fresh Air Filters Located above each cab door for quick replacement. | ||
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| Optional 12V Power Port Available for use with computers, cellular phones or other electronic equipment. | ||
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 | | Exceptional Visibility The narrow operator's console provides good forward visibility. Large side windows allow a clear view of the moldboard heel and tandem tires. A wide rear window and tapered engine hood provide a good view to the rear of the machine. The position of the air dryer and air cleaner, and the alignment the precleaner and muffler, provides good visibility to the rear of the machine. Operators can work more confidently and efficiently. |
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 | | Serviceability Caterpillar re-engineered inspection and service points, grouping them into a convenient left-hand side, ground level 'service center.' Ground level fueling and extended engine and hydraulic oil change intervals help minimize downtime. |
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| Service Center A 'Service Center' on the left-hand side provides centralized, ground level access to most check and maintenance points. Routine inspection and service are faster and easier without the obstruction of snow wings and other attachments commonly found on the right side of the machine. | ||
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| Other Service Points Include remote purge valves and drain lines, and improved access to service points. Some component improvements have eliminated the need for service. Maintenance is fast and easy, maximizing machine availability and reducing operating costs. | ||
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| Fuel Water Separator Insures clean, powerful combustion in the engine cylinders by removing accumulated water from the fuel system. Cleaner fuel extends engine component life and boosts the machine's productivity by improving combustion and increasing fuel efficiency. | ||
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| Coolant Remote Ecology Drain Helps to keep the environment safe when disposing of fluids by preventing spills. | ||
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 | | Large Hinged Doors Large hinged doors provide easy access to engine and radiator service points. |
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| Fuse Panel New automotive style fuses are located inside the cab for convenience. | ||
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| Grouped Check Points Fluid gauges and other key components are grouped in one location to make checking levels and status as easy as possible. | ||
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| Air Dryer Extended-life air dryer prevents frozen water in the brake lines longer than a conventional air-dryer. It is located inside the engine enclosure to better protect it from the elements and extend its service life. | ||
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| Sampling Ports Grouping sample ports together encourages preventive maintenance and diagnostic programs like S•O•SSM analysis.
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 | | Less Service Required Some component improvements have eliminated the need for service. |
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| Serpentine Belt with Automatic Tensioner Operators do not need to stop working to tighten the belt, eliminating a maintenance item and lowering operating costs. | ||
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| Pump Drift Shaft "Lube for Life" pump drive shaft ensures long, maintenance-free life, which lowers operating costs. | ||
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| Ground Level Fueling The operator has easier access to the fuel tank for faster refueling. | ||
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| Modular Component Design Major components are modular, so they can be serviced or removed independently. Service can be complete faster, with less downtime and lower cost. | ||
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| Engine Mounted Alternator Provides better protection from environmental conditions. The automatic idle feature maintains system voltage and keeps batteries charged by ramping up engine speed when sitting at low idle or if system voltage is below the minimum. | ||
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| Fuel Tank A 340 L (90 gal) ground level fuel tank allows longer work shifts and reduces refueling times. A fuel tank sediment drain enables the operator to remove sediment accumulation, reducing the risk of fuel system damage. | ||
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| Ground Level Fueling The operator has easier access to the fuel tank for faster refueling. | ||
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| Extended Fluid Change Interval Operate a full 500 hours between engine oil and filter changes, 4,000 hours between hydraulic oil changes, and 12,000 hours between engine coolant changes. This reduces downtime and operating expense. | ||
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| Cat XT Hose The use of Caterpillar XT hose throughout the machine ensures state-of-the-art durability and high pressures for maximum power availability and longer hose life, reducing downtime. | ||
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| O-Ring Face Seals Cat O-ring face seals assure rock-solid connections that maintain pressure and reduce oil leaks. Intelligent hose routing minimizes exposure to damage, increasing hose life and enhancing reliability. | ||
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| Radiator Cleanout Access Access panels, a hinged radiator core, more space between the cores, and an air chuck and wand make keeping the radiator clear of debris easier than ever. This ensures that the radiator functions properly, keeping the engine cool, increasing machine performance and component life. | ||
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 | | Environmentally Responsible Design New engine arrangements and operator station designs reduce emissions to meet current and anticipated regulations for interior and exterior sound levels, emissions, exhaust. |
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| Quiet Cab The resiliently mounted engine and transmission provide interior sound levels of 76dB(A) when measured with the doors and windows closed per ISO 6394. Lower interior noise levels improve operator working conditions. | ||
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| Quiet Machine Exterior sound level of 107dB(A) when tested per ISO 6395, Annex B. The optional sound suppression group complies with the EU 2000/14/EC sound limit of 107 dB(A). This quiet operation lets the 120H work with minimal disturbance to the surroundings. | ||
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| Low Emissions The 120H Motor Grader is even more environmentally friendly than its predecessors with reductions in NOx, hydrocarbon, and particulate emissions. It meets or exceeds all U.S. EPA Tier II and EU Stage II emissions control standards worldwide. | ||
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| Fuel Efficient Caterpillar state-of-the-art electronically controlled, unit injection fuel system has high injection pressure for complete fuel combustion, increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. | ||
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| Dry Machine Lubricant fill points and filters are designed to minimize spillage. O-ring face seals, Cat XT hose and Cat hydraulic cylinders protect against leaks to help protect our environment. | ||
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| Extended Oil Change Interval Operate a full 500 hours between engine oil and filter changes, and 4000 hours between hydraulic oil changes. This reduces machine downtime and operating expense, and helps preserve our natural resources. | ||
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| Ecology Drains Make regular maintenance easier and help prevent spills when changing fluids. | ||
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| Ozone Protection To help protect the earth's ozone layer, air-conditioning units use a refrigerant free of chloroflourocarbons (CFCs). | ||
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 | | Customer Support Your Cat dealer offers a range of services that help you operate longer with lower costs. |
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| Product Support You will find nearly all parts at our dealer parts counter. Cat dealers use a world-wide computer network to find in-stock parts to minimize machine down time. Save money with genuine Cat Reman parts. You receive the same warranty and reliability as new products at substantial cost savings. | ||
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| Machine Selection Cat Dealers can help make detailed comparisons of the machines under consideration before purchase. They have sophisticated software that can estimate component life, preventive maintenance cost, and the true cost of lost production. They can also help balance equipment fleets for different kinds of applications to maximize production at the lowest cost. | ||
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| Purchase Look past initial price. Consider the financing options available as well as day-to-day operating costs. This is also the time to look at dealer services that can be included in the cost of the machine to yield lower equipment owning and operating costs over the long run. | ||
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| Customer Support Agreements Cat dealers offer a variety of product support agreements, and work with customers to develop a plan that best meets specific needs. These plans can cover the entire machine, including attachments, to help protect the customer's investment. | ||
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| Operation Improving operating techniques can boost your profits. Your Cat dealer has training videotapes, literature and other ideas to help you increase productivity. Caterpillar also offers certified operator training classes to help maximize the return on your machine investment. | ||
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| Maintenance Services Talk to your dealer about the range of available maintenance services. Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostic programs such as S•O•SSM Analysis and Coolant Sampling and Technical Analysis help avoid unscheduled repairs. | ||
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| Replacement Repair, rebuild or replace? Your Cat dealer can help you evaluate the cost involved so you can make the right choice. | ||