Cat strike: eight new skid steer and compact track loaders

Caterpillar has launched eight new skid steer loader (SSL) and compact track loader (CTL) models – four in each category – which the company claims are “ground-up redesigns” with upgrades in engine power and torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort and technology.  

The four new SSLs are the 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE, while the 275, 275 XE, 285 and 285 XE mark the expansion of the CTL line, joining the 255 and 265 announced in late 2023. 

The 285 and 285 XE are the largest CTLs ever produced by Caterpillar, with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces. 

“We are excited to launch the next generation design for our skid steer loader line and expand the performance capabilities to more compact track loader models,” said Trevor Chase, senior product consultant and new product introduction lead for Caterpillar. 

“Their increased power, lift height, breakout forces, rated operating capacity and multiple high-flow auxiliary hydraulic system options give customers a flexible, high-performance machine to get the job done.” 

All eight models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the powerplant and cooling package lower in the frame for improved stability. 

Meeting Euro 5 emissions standards, the CTLs are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, the 250 and 260 SSLs by the Cat C2.8T, and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. 

The engines boast significant torque increases – 13 per cent for the 250 and 260, 35 per cent for the 270, and 50 per cent for the 275 and 285. 

There are significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and rated operating capacities, with the 285 and 285 XE delivering a lift height of 3708mm and tilt breakout force of 6314kg. The 285 XE has a rated operating capacity of 2185kg.

A new closed-centre auxiliary hydraulic system allows the machines to operate all Cat Smart attachments with the standard hydraulics provided. The Cat 250, 260, 270 and 275 arrive ex-factory as ‘high flow ready’, which is activated via a new software-enabled attachment. There’s also another factory option called XPS which increases auxiliary hydraulic pressure again.

The CTLs feature a new E-bar (equaliser bar) undercarriage that provides increased stability for grading and managing heavier loads. The rigid-style design is ideal for lifting heavy loads or using heavy attachments, while simultaneously providing the benefits of an oscillating undercarriage on uneven terrain or obstacles. 

The range features a larger cab design with 22 per cent more volume and 26 per cent additional foot space. With a 70mm increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 46mm and allows for an additional 40mm of hip room and 28mm more width between the joysticks.

The loaders have either a five-inch (127mm) standard LCD monitor or an eight-inch (203mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the selected technology package.

The standard monitor features Bluetooth connectivity and supports functionality for rearview camera feed, creep, job clock, maintenance reminders and 32 languages. The touchscreen monitor has all the standard features of the standard version plus advanced radio control, side camera support and joystick integration.

A range of mechanical and air-ride suspension seat options are available, including a high-comfort ventilated and heated seat.

Entering and exiting the loaders is now much easier thanks to the low entry points. There’s a simplified tool-less door removal process, while the lower engine mounting, larger rear window and bigger top window provide increased visibility.

Both standard and advanced monitors provide the ability to run Cat Smart attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. Attachment operation is integrated into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognises the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.