Caterpillar has introduced eight ‘next generation’ Skid Steer Loader (SSL) and Compact Track Loader (CTL) models. The four SSLs – the 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE – mark the introduction of the next generation design to the SSL, while the CTLs join the 255 and 265 announced in late 2023. The largest CTLs ever from the company, the 285 and 285 XE compete in a new class size with greater lift height and lift and tilt breakout forces.
All models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads throughout all aspects of the work cycles.
Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards, the CTLs are powered by the C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs are powered by the C2.8T and the 270 and 270 XE by the 3.6TA. These new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series and boast significant torque increases – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285 – for improved working performance.
With a vertical lift design, the next generation machines feature significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and ROC to elevate loader flexibility and performance.
The 250 features a lift height of 3150mm, 76.2mm more than the 242D3, a 36% increase in tilt and 26% increase in lift breakout forces, and 21% increase in Rated Operating Capacity (ROC). Offering a maximum lift height of 3353mm, the 260 has 193mm more lift height than the 262D3 and 27% increase in tilt and 24% increase in lift breakout forces, and a 17% increase in ROC.
With 162mm more lift height than the 272D3, the 270 and 270 XE deliver a maximum lift height of 3391mm plus 11% and 5% increases in tilt and lift breakout forces, respectively.
The 275 and 275 XE CTLs have a lift height of 3415mm, 203.2mm higher than the 299D3, plus a 37% increase in tilt breakout force and 19% increase in ROC.
Expanding the SSL and CTL line into the biggest size class, the 285 and the 285 XE deliver a lift height of 3708mm and tilt breakout force of 6314kg. The 285 has an ROC of 2141kg with counterweight while the 285 XE has an ROC of 2185 kg with counterweight.
The new machines feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With a 2.75-in (70-mm) increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 in (46mm) and allows for an additional 1.5 in (40mm) of hip room and 1.1 in (28mm) more width between the joysticks to improve operator comfort.
