944 Caterpillar 944 Specifications & Technical Data (1968—2026)

Fast Maneuvering

Responsive power with high-torque Cat Diesel Engine. Clean, open design for operating ease and safety. Bucket is self-positioning for dumping and digging.

Smooth Travel

14,000 lb. Static Tipping Load Rating. 96” wheelbase and oscillating rear axle. Wide-base 17.5-25 tires for flotation and traction.

The turbocharged Cat D330 Diesel Engine

The turbocharged Cat D330 Diesel Engine combines responsive power with dependability. With a 4.5" bore and 5.5" stroke, this four-cylinder engine develops 105 flywheel HP at 2200 RPM and has a 20% torque rise. Pistons are contoured to fit cylinders perfectly at operating temperature—keeping oil consumption low, power high. All three rings have extra-thick chrome facing for long life. The top ring rides in a durable iron groove cast into the aluminum piston. Valves rotate for uniform wear and seating. Steel-backed aluminum bearings have high load carrying capacity. Lubrication is pressurized, and every drop of oil and fuel is filtered.

Rear axle oscillation

Rear axle oscillation gives the 944 stability on rough ground. One wheel may drop or rise as much as 17” while keeping all wheels on the ground. Clearance under the machine is 17¾”. Differentials are the same in both axles, and have unit assembly for easy servicing. High-reduction planetary final drives develop power at the wheels while keeping torque load low on the axles and transmission. Tires are wide-base 17.5-25 for flotation and traction on soft surfaces.

Unit construction

Allows independent removal of the transmission, engine, differentials, final drives and other major components. Drive shafts have sliding splines to facilitate reinstallation of the transmission. Full-floating splined axles pull out without taking off the wheel.

Lift arms and cylinders

Lift arms and cylinders are all forward of the instrument panel giving the 944 an open, safe design. Visibility is excellent at any bucket height.

Lift arms

Lift arms are solid, 2-inch steel plates and have durable chrome-plated steel pins. Round links have high strength with minimum weight. Snubber stops on lift arms provide knock-out action for sticky material. The assembly is designed for maximum usable tilt-back, dump angle, reach and clearance.

The hydraulic system

The hydraulic system is fast and efficient capable of matching machine speed even on short cycles. A large-capacity vane-type pump delivers 60 GPM and is driven from the engine flywheel to assure constant power. Tilt cylinders rack back with the piston end for high break-out force (21,713 lb.) and dump with the rod end for speed. Double-acting lift cylinders have large 5½” bores, and are trunnion-mounted inside the loader frame for protection. Full flow filtering assures clean hydraulic oil in all conditions. Lines are strong welded-steel. A steel-fabricated reservoir encloses and protects the control valves, and has space for adding a third valve.

Machine controls are conveniently located

Machine controls are conveniently located for left hand operation leaving the right hand free for bucket control. The forward-reverse lever is mounted on the steering column, and the 1st-2nd speed control beside the left arm rest. Steering is hydraulically boosted. Four-wheel hydraulic brakes are air actuated. Two pedals give the operator a choice of braking. The left brake disengages the transmission as it stops the machine. The right provides braking with the transmission engaged for full control when creeping, working on slopes or roading downhill. The comfortable, fully-adjustable seat helps maintain operator productivity throughout the workday.

Fenders serve as platforms

For easy engine checking. Servicing the dry-type air cleaner takes only a few minutes. The seat tips forward for quick access to the transmission oil filter and for adjusting control linkage. Large engine side plates below the fenders come off after removing four capscrews.

Cab

Is wide and roomy, with plenty of vents and glass area. Large doors allow entry from either side. Open canopy is also offered.

Automatic bucket positioners

Automatic bucket positioners boost production by letting the operator concentrate on maneuvering rather than bucket control. Bucket levers have detented locks which release at the right time when the loaded bucket reaches dumping height and when the empty bucket returns to a pre-set, adjustable digging angle.

The chassis and loader frame

The chassis and loader frame are an integral unit with all-welded high strength construction giving a sturdy base for heavy material handling. The full length box-section chassis and 96” wheelbase provide good stability.