Caterpillar announces D3 skid steer range

Caterpillar has launched a total of 16 new D3 Series skid steer loaders (SSL) and compact tracked loaders (CTL) which improve on predecessor D and D2 series models.

According to Cat, the D3 range delivers improvements in operator experience and track loader stability.

In an industry first, Cat said, the D3 Series also supports a line of new Smart Attachments and corresponding technology. The innovative system recognises certain attachments and tailors controls and operator information to match the tool and the task.

A wider opening cab door makes entering and exiting D3 series loaders with an enclosed cab easier.

The distance between joystick pods has been increased by three inches (76mm) to offer extra space for the operator inside the cab.

Cat has made some changes to the undercarriage frame and torsion axles of the D3 CTLs to reduce machine pitching and rocking for better stability as well as a better ride for operators.

All Cat D3 Series CTLs feature standard two-speed travel. The Cat 279D3 and 289D3 loaders boast a 13.6km/h maximum ground speed, which Cat said is a 20 per cent increase over their D Series counterparts.

The Cat 239D3 and 249D3 models are now built with 2-speed transmission as standard, versus the previous single speed, increasing travel speed by nine per cent compared to the D series.

A key feature on the new D3 Series Cat SSL and CTL models is the Smart Attachment technology which sets a new benchmark in machine and attachment integration.

This technology will allow the D3 Series Cat SSL and CTL models to automatically recognise Smart Attachments and convert machine controls to align with the operational and informational needs of that attachment.

Some other control features on the Cat D3 SSLs and CTLs include Return-to-Dig and Work Tool Positioner to assist operators with repetitive tasks like grading, digging, and loading. These are now bundled together with the dual direction self-level feature for a more automated operation with less user interaction and expertise.

In conjunction with the D3 Series introduction, the previous XHP performance model identifier used with the 272 and 299 models has been replaced with the XE badge. The 272D3 XE and 299D3 XE models represent the highest performance and most advanced technology available to customers in the Cat SSL and CTL line.

Also included in the D3 series CTL family is the new purpose-built Cat 299D3 XE Land Management CTL. The 299D3 XE Land Management model is designed for vegetation control and is used for mulching, brush cutting and mowing.

This machine features a turbocharged 110 gross horsepower Cat C3.8 engine that combines with a 150l/min high-flow/high-pressure auxiliary hydraulic system to produce a hydraulic horsepower rating of 94hp, enough to handle all sorts of land clearing attachments such as mulching heads.

The 299D3 XE Land Management has a 220-litre fuel capacity, which is 80 per cent larger than the tank on the standard 299D3 XE model and is sized to provide an estimated run time of 11 to 12 hours.  Its one-piece sealed and pressurised cab keeps the operator’s environment clean and quiet, which is especially important for customers working long shifts in challenging conditions, Cat said.

Additional seals, covers, and other special parts are standard for the 299D3 XE Land Management machine to restrict debris and other materials from entering the engine compartment and lower frame. Large removable panels provide easy access for cleaning purposes.

A turbine-type pre-cleaner ejects dust, dirt, and debris from engine-intake airflow before it reaches the filter, thus extending air-filter service life.