72-81 Terex 72-81 Specifications & Technical Data (1969—2023)

Terex Model 72-81 Loader

This is the Terex model 72-81 Pivot-Steer Loader—the big performer of the General Motors front-end loader line. This 115,000 lb. giant was designed and built to efficiently load 27 to 65-ton trucks—35-ton trucks can be loaded in three passes. Productivity of this rubber-tired unit is accented by the maneuverability, traction and control offered by Pivot-Steer, providing a greater degree of front-end swing than most “articulated” loaders on the market. GM component parts, proven in the field, insure maximum performance and stability in every phase of operation. This is the Terex model 72-81—in a class by itself.

GM Torqmatic Transmission

The Model CRT 6033 transmission was designed specifically to match the 12V-71T engine. The CRT 6033 provides three speeds forward (4.9, 9.0 and 15.0 mph max.) and three speeds in reverse (5.9, 10.8 and 17.0 mph max.). Outfitted with full powershift, your operator may shift quickly between gear ranges while on the go—travel speed can be selected with no need to stop for shifts between work and travel ranges.

Planetary Final Drives

The 72-81 features four-wheel drive with full floating axle shafts which transmit the torque but do not support the weight of the loader. Removal of the axle shaft is quick and easy. Outboard mounted planetary final drives multiply torque at the wheel—eliminate strain on the drive train.

Two Cycle Design

Two cycle GM diesels deliver power at every downstroke of the piston, twice as often as four cycle engines, providing rapid engine response for fast acceleration. The engine air system provides abundant clean air to the cylinders for complete combustion and positive scavenging of exhaust. Additionally, cylinder and exhaust temperatures are lowered for prolonged engine life.

Low Pressure Fuel System

A single low pressure fuel pump delivers fuel through low pressure lines to needle valve injectors. The injectors build pressure and deliver finely atomized fuel directly to the cylinders. Servicing of the system is easy and inexpensive, resulting in savings on both parts and service costs.

Powerful Hydraulics

The 72-81 hydraulic system features a main pump, secondary main pump, and a steering pump. All are gear pumps, which provide a longer service life than vane pumps. The hydraulic tank has a 62.5 gallon capacity and is pressurized to exclude all contamination from the system. Furthermore, the main filter and pump screen are serviceable without draining the tank. Four heavy duty, double acting cylinders—two lift and two tilt—are powered by the main pump. A quick-drop valve directs oil from one end of the lift cylinders to the other, allowing for a fast lift arm drop. All cylinders have bolt-on heads for easy servicing. The maximum dump clearance is 13' 0" at a 45° dump angle when using a 9 yard rock bucket. The 72-81 also features an adjustable lift arm kickout that “kicks” the lift control out of the raise position, reducing cycle time by limiting bucket raise to only the height needed.

Fast, Responsive Steering

A hydraulic slave system provides the control required to operate the main steering valve. The steering pump delivers oil to two 5.5'' diameter steering cylinders. In the event of steering pump failure, a demand valve directs all of the oil from a secondary pump to the steering system. This demand valve gives priority to the steering system, after which the additional oil flow may be directed into the bucket hydraulic system, providing extra effort to operate the lift and tilt cylinders under severe conditions. Fast steering response, requiring less effort than conventional mechanical linkage systems, is achieved through the use of a hydraulic slave system. When the steering wheel is turned, an orbital valve meters a specific amount of oil to the slave cylinder. One cylinder extends while the other retracts, rotating the bellcrank and activating the steering control valve.

Air Actuated Braking System

Brakes are applied by air pressure, charged by an engine driven compressor. Should the air pressure in the main brake system fall below 65 psi, an audible alarm will sound. Safety actuators will apply the brakes automatically should the air pressure fall to 45 psi. Brakes can also be applied manually upon signal from the audible alarm. With the transmission declutch switch in the on position, depressing the brake pedal will apply the brakes, and further pressure will disconnect the transmission. This allows full use of engine horsepower for hydraulic operation and enables your operator to hold position while loading. The parking brake is air actuated, mechanically locking the front wheels.

Tires

Standard tires are 33.25 (26 pr) rock deep tread. Treated rims and large capacity valves permit hydro-inflation of the tires. However, the outstanding balance of the machine eliminates the need for hydro-inflation on most jobs.

Pivot Pins

Pivot pins are 6'' diameter, composed of high strength alloy steel with 100,000 psi yield strength. Two heat-treated alloy steel, spherical thrust bushings keep the pins aligned.

Buckets--Designed to Work

Terex buckets are the result of extensive test experience on how material loads and dumps. The 72-81 standard bucket is a 9 cubic yard general purpose bucket, or a 9 cubic yard rock bucket. High alloy steel is used in bucket construction to provide strength and long wear. Terex buckets feature a see-through spillboard, which helps retain material in the bucket and prevents large rocks from rolling out and damaging the cab.

TEREX 72-81-- A GM-Built Rugged Machine

Structurally, the 72-81 has been designed to withstand severe shock loads and twisting. Front and rear frames are of high strength steel. Lift arms are 3" thick and composed of high alloy steel with 100,000 psi yield strength. Designed for your most demanding work, the Terex 72-81 is truly a tough, high production, heavy material handling machine. The 72-81 is capable of sustained high volume production and can supplement and often replace expensive excavating equipment.