Product Description
Caster wheel assembly, polyurethane tread, Durarun 95A hardness, designed for Caterpillar electric lift trucks. Supplied as CT 971761 OEM replacement. Compatible with assemblies requiring CT 971761-SG string guard variant. Intended for chassis support and mobility.
Specifications
Material
| Wheel Hardness | 95A Shore durometer |
| Tread Material | Polyurethane |
Part Numbers
| Manufacturer Part Number | CT 971761 |
| OEM Part Number | CT 971761 |
| Cross-Reference Part Numbers | CT 971761-SG |
| Alternate Part Numbers | 95A Poly Caster Wheel Assembly |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a caster wheel and a load wheel?
A: The CT 971761 is a caster wheel assembly designed for chassis support and mobility, not load bearing. Caster wheels are typically smaller diameter than load wheels and allow equipment to pivot and maneuver. The CT 971761 supports the frame weight of the electric lift truck and enables directional control, while load wheels (like CT 971760 series) support the lifted load itself. They are not interchangeable.
Q: What equipment is the CT 971761 designed to fit?
A: The CT 971761 is an OEM Caterpillar caster wheel assembly for electric lift trucks. It is also available as variant CT 971761-SG, which includes a string guard for added protection. The CT 971761 is intended for chassis support role in CAT electric pallet jacks. Confirm your specific equipment model and caster location before ordering, as caster bore and mounting specifications vary.
Q: What does the 95A Durarun polyurethane compound provide?
A: The CT 971761 uses a 95A Shore durometer Durarun polyurethane formulation, which is a proprietary Caterpillar blend engineered for caster wheel duty. Durarun compound provides smooth, quiet operation and good abrasion resistance in warehouse environments. The 95A hardness is optimized for low rolling resistance during maneuvering, reducing battery drain on electric equipment compared to softer materials.
Q: What is the CT 971761-SG variant, and when should I use it?
A: The CT 971761-SG is a string guard variant of the standard CT 971761. The string guard is a protective ring that prevents cords, rope, or film from tangling around the caster wheel during operation. Use the -SG version if your equipment is used in environments where debris or flexible materials are present. Both variants use the same Durarun polyurethane compound and are otherwise identical.
Q: How long does the CT 971761 typically last in service?
A: Caster wheels typically outlast load wheels because they carry only frame weight, not lifted loads. The CT 971761 should deliver 4-7 years of service in typical warehouse duty before the polyurethane tread becomes noticeably worn. However, caster swivel wear may occur before wheel tread wear, depending on how frequently the equipment pivots. Replace when the caster becomes stiff, noisy, or fails to pivot smoothly.
Q: What maintenance does the CT 971761 require?
A: Inspect caster wheels quarterly for dirt, debris, or rope wrapping around the axle or swivel. Clean gently with damp cloth and mild detergent; do not use harsh solvents on the polyurethane. If the caster becomes stiff or resistant to pivot, it may require lubrication at the swivel joint (follow your equipment manual for lubrication points). Listen for grinding noise, which indicates internal swivel bearing wear and signals replacement is needed soon.