Machineryline » Reviews » Caterpillar » 966 »

Caterpillar - 966 reviews

4.3

Average score of Caterpillar

23 reviews

3.8

3.8 Price

4.7

4.7 Reliability

4.3

4.3 Maintenance

4.4

4.4 Operation

4.3

4.3 Convenience

Search results: 23 reviews

Filter

Add a review

4.2

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2020 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

4.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

Using the 966 model has been generally straightforward. Its bucket capacity stands out, making tasks more efficient. I wish the nighttime lighting was slightly brighter, but that's a minor concern. Operating it in tighter areas didn't pose significant challenges, which is a big plus.

4.8

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2021 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

5.0 Maintenance

5.0 Operation

5.0 Convenience

I've run 966s on and off for years. Big machine, great sight lines from the cab so you can place the bucket where it needs to be. Controls are straightforward, layout makes switching operators easy. Cab is roomy and you can sit a long shift without feeling wrecked. Swapped buckets and forks on the same shift more than once, saved time. Fuel use is decent if you watch your throttle. Not for green operators though, you need to know what you're doing.

4.2

Construction loader Caterpillar 966H

2019 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

4.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

Used the 966H on-site for a week. It's robust and handles loads well. The engine power is satisfying, though its fuel efficiency could be better. Tires are in great condition, which helped manage uneven terrain. The coupler mechanism functions seamlessly. However, the lack of installed sideview mirrors was inconvenient. Despite minor issues, it's a dependable heavy-duty loader.

3.8

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2018 Year

3.0 Price

4.0 Reliability

3.0 Maintenance

5.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

I've been running the Caterpillar 966 GC for a few months on our site. Its flexibility in handling various attachments is a big plus, making it a versatile choice. The visibility from the cab aids in safety and maneuvering in tight spots. That said, routine maintenance can occasionally feel a bit cumbersome. Still, it's a solid loader.

4.4

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2020 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

5.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

I had the chance to work with the 966H recently. Its cooling system is designed well, allowing for easy cleaning. Tires are durable, with good traction. A couple of cosmetic issues, like the surface rust, don't impact functionality but should be addressed. Overall, the enclosed cab ensures decent comfort during long shift days.

4.4

Construction loader Caterpillar 966H

2022 Year

4.0 Price

4.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

5.0 Operation

5.0 Convenience

Used the 966H on a job recently. The air conditioning worked well-a relief since it gets hot out there. The engine seemed powerful, though I did notice a faint noise from the transmission area. Could just be the usage hours. Steering was smooth but tighter turning would help in confined spaces. Tires looked good, great traction. Overall, it’s functional for various tasks.

4.0

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2020 Year

3.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

4.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

Short take from a driver who’s used different loaders: Cat 966 moves material quick - 7 m3 bucket is no joke. If your sites are narrow you’ll feel the size, but the power and acceleration make it workable. Lights and cameras make night shifts easier. Maintenance hasn't been an issue for us so far, looks like a long lifetime machine, but expect a big initial investment. Not perfect, sometimes tight spots need extra care, still it’s a solid tool for big jobs.

4.4

Construction loader Caterpillar 966H

2022 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

5.0 Maintenance

4.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

I drove the 966H for a few projects. It's a solid machine, though with the hours it has on it, some wear and tear is expected. The cab is reasonably comfortable, though I didn't like that the inside layout felt slightly cramped compared to other loaders. The controls were responsive, and the hydraulics handled tasks well. Maintenance seemed straightforward, which is a plus. It's not the fastest, but it gets the job done.

4.2

Construction loader Caterpillar 966

2021 Year

3.0 Price

4.0 Reliability

4.0 Maintenance

5.0 Operation

5.0 Convenience

As someone with years of experience operating heavy machinery, the Caterpillar 966 GC delivers commendable performance with its sturdy construction and responsive hydraulics. The spacious and ergonomic cab stands out, offering reduced operator fatigue during long shifts. However, its fuel efficiency could be better, particularly when engaged in demanding tasks. Overall, it gets the job done efficiently.

4.4

Construction loader Caterpillar 966G

2017 Year

4.0 Price

5.0 Reliability

5.0 Maintenance

4.0 Operation

4.0 Convenience

Used the 966G for a few weeks during a big project out near Dallas. Engine's strong as they come, had no trouble moving some heavy loads around, though honestly can't be sure if the bucket's the 4.5 or the 5.5 yard one. It's got some scratches and a little rust where the paint's rubbed off but nothing real worrying there, no leaks I could find. Hydraulics are solid and the transmission is smooth, no weird shifts. Inside, the cab's roomy enough and the AC actually works which is rare for older machines, in my experience. Not a huge fan of the non-reversible cutting edge, but it's thick and looks like it'll hold up for a while. Little things I noticed-there’s a couple tears in the seat, and the tires are worn down some. Battery disconnect’s a nice touch when you're jumping in and out all day. Maintenance seems solid, previous owner obviously took care of it. Honestly, if you can deal with the small stuff, it’s a good workhorse. Not perfect, but reliable.