2012 Caterpillar 938K Diesel

Hours 3472 , Year 2012, Make Caterpillar, Model 938K, Category Loader

Overview

This 2012 Caterpillar 938K loader is a proven production machine purpose-built for material handling, stockpiling, and load-and-carry work where reliability and operator comfort matter. Listed under NLEQ# 148284 and showing 3,472 operating hours, it brings together the hallmark durability of Caterpillar with the versatility serious buyers expect: a Diesel powerplant, a climate-controlled cab with Heat & AC, a 3.5 CY GP bucket with bolt-on edge, 20.5R25 Michelin tires, a quick coupler, auxiliary hydraulics, and ride control. This is a well-equipped 938K that’s ready to go to work. Offered at $139,950, it represents a compelling opportunity to add a late-model Caterpillar loader to your fleet without the price or lead time of new. Each unit NLEQ sells is carefully tested and inspected prior to listing, so the details you see here are accurate, honest, and reliable—exactly what you need to make a confident purchase decision.

Specifications

• Year: 2012. Model year aligns with Caterpillar’s K-series improvements focused on operator comfort, efficiency, and responsive hydraulics, providing a balanced, modern loader platform for daily production.
• Make: Caterpillar. Built by one of the industry’s most trusted names, this loader benefits from Caterpillar’s broad dealer network, parts availability, and long-term value retention.
• Model: 938K. The 938K is a highly regarded K-series loader known for dependable performance in general construction, aggregates, utilities, municipal, and industrial yard applications.
• Category: Loader. Configured for bulk material handling, site cleanup, loading trucks, and stockpile management, this machine delivers the versatility expected of a production-class loader.
• Hours: 3,472. The hour profile reflects regular use and provides buyers with a clear indicator of service life and utilization to date.
• NLEQ Stock Number: 148284. Reference this number to streamline quotes, questions, and logistics with the NLEQ team.
• Price: $139,950. A straightforward, market-aligned asking price that reflects the machine’s age, features, and condition as tested and inspected by NLEQ.
• Fuel Type: Diesel. Diesel power provides the torque and fuel efficiency necessary for demanding loader work, supporting strong breakout forces and consistent load-and-carry performance.
• Cab: Heat & AC. A climate-controlled cab enhances operator comfort and alertness in both hot and cold conditions, supporting longer, more productive shifts and improved focus.
• Bucket: 3.5 CY GP bucket with bolt-on edge. The general-purpose bucket offers a versatile 3.5 cubic yard capacity suitable for a wide range of materials; the bolt-on edge helps protect the base cutting edge, extends wear life, and allows economical replacement when worn.
• Tires: 20.5R25 Michelin tires. Premium Michelin radials in size 20.5R25 provide dependable traction, ride quality, and longevity—key factors for stability, load retention, and lower operating costs over time.
• Quick Coupler: Quick coupler. The coupler enables rapid attachment changes from the seat, minimizing downtime between tasks and maximizing the machine’s utility across changing site needs.
• Hydraulics: Auxiliary hydraulics. Factory auxiliary hydraulics provide the oil flow and control needed to run compatible powered attachments, expanding the loader’s jobsite capabilities.
• Ride Control: Ride control. This suspension-like feature helps keep the bucket stable over uneven terrain, reducing material spillage and improving travel speed and comfort.

Condition

This Caterpillar 938K is a pre-owned 2012 model with 3,472 hours and has been carefully tested and inspected by NLEQ prior to listing. That process verifies core functions and confirms that the details presented here are accurate and reliable. As with all used equipment, buyers should evaluate wear items and plan maintenance according to their requirements and site standards, but this machine is offered as work-ready with the key systems and features buyers expect on a production-class loader. The inclusion of a protected bucket edge, quality Michelin tires, and ride control speaks to a configuration focused on productivity and uptime.

Advantages

Buyers looking for a dependable, versatile loader will appreciate the way this 938K is configured for real-world productivity. Efficient diesel power and a responsive hydraulic system support strong performance in day-to-day loading and stockpiling. A climate-controlled cab helps keep operators focused and comfortable across long shifts. The included bucket is protected by a replaceable edge to reduce wear costs, while the premium tires support both traction and ride quality. Ride control adds stability over rough ground, helping maintain higher travel speeds with less spillage. And with the ability to quickly change attachments and power them through auxiliary hydraulics, the machine adapts seamlessly to changing tasks, from material handling to jobsite cleanup. In short, this package is set up to put material in the truck efficiently, shift after shift.

Applications

• General construction: Load trucks, manage stockpiles, handle backfill, and support site cleanup throughout the project lifecycle.
• Aggregates and quarries: Move sand, gravel, and stone efficiently with a general-purpose bucket sized for balanced productivity and control.
• Municipal and public works: Support yard operations, salt and sand handling, storm response, and material transfer with a reliable, operator-friendly loader.
• Industrial yards and recycling: Handle bulk materials, feed hoppers, and maintain orderly stockpiles with steady traction and ride stability.
• Roadwork and utilities: Move spoils, aggregate, and base materials, then switch attachments quickly to meet changing daily tasks.
• Seasonal and site support: Take advantage of the coupler and auxiliary hydraulics to adapt to site needs, from cleanup to material distribution.

Ownership Value

The 2012 Caterpillar 938K offers an appealing balance of capability, comfort, and cost control. Pairing a known Caterpillar platform with a practical feature set reduces the learning curve for operators and simplifies support for fleet managers. Diesel efficiency, a bolt-on bucket edge, premium Michelin tires, and ride control all contribute to lowering cost per ton by reducing wear, improving retention of material in the bucket, and supporting faster cycle times on uneven ground. For fleet owners, the availability of parts and service support associated with Caterpillar equipment helps minimize downtime and keeps maintenance predictable. At an asking price of $139,950, this machine delivers strong value when compared to new alternatives and aligns well with buyers seeking dependable performance without compromising on essential comfort and versatility features. The hours are appropriate for the model year, providing a clear picture of use and leaving ample service life for the next owner.

Why this 938K

Not all loaders are configured the same. This 938K stands out with a practical set of job-ready components: a general-purpose bucket protected by a replaceable edge for economical wear management, premium radial tires to enhance stability and traction, a coupler system to change tools quickly, hydraulics to power compatible attachments, and ride stabilization to maintain travel speed with minimal spillage. Add in the climate-controlled cab and you get a machine that supports productivity, operator morale, and consistent daily output. If your work demands a Caterpillar loader that is comfortable, adaptable, and ready to perform, this specific 938K is configured to deliver.

Why Buy from NLEQ

NLEQ is recognized as a leader in used heavy construction equipment, and every listing is carefully tested and inspected before being offered for sale. That means the details presented here are accurate, honest, and reliable—so you can make decisions with confidence. The NLEQ team understands what professional buyers need: straightforward information, responsive communication, and proven machines ready to go to work. When you’re comparing options and timing matters, the combination of product knowledge and transparent listings from NLEQ is a real advantage.

Next Steps

Ready to move forward on this 2012 Caterpillar 938K loader? Reference NLEQ# 148284 and request a current quote, additional details, or a walk-around discussion with an NLEQ representative. Serious buyers can arrange an inspection and review the unit’s configuration in detail to ensure it matches specific job requirements. With the right balance of power, comfort, and versatility—at a clear asking price of $139,950—this 938K is a strong candidate for your fleet. Contact NLEQ today to discuss availability, logistics, and the fastest way to put this machine to work on your next project.