Caterpillar Track Loaders Summarized — 2019 Spec Guide
Eight Vertical- and Radial-Lift Models Designed for Maximum Productivity
Just two years after Caterpillar entered the compact equipment market with its skid steer loader in 1999, its first rubber track loaders were released. The loaders entered the market touting standard, independent, fully-suspended rubber track undercarriages. This line has been expanded, and today Caterpillar offers eight rubber track loader machines in the lineup, including both radial-lift linkage and vertical-lift linkage models.
The rubber track loader model line is comprised of machines ranging from 67 to 110 gross hp (66 to 106 net hp). All Cat rubber track loader models feature a fully independent undercarriage suspension system. The torsion axle suspension system delivers improved traction and flotation by allowing the undercarriage to move and react to the underfoot conditions to keep the maximum amount of track on the ground. The undercarriage suspension system also distributes the machine load to greatly reduce shock and vibration.
Cat also offers a High Flow XPS hydraulic system providing increased flow (up to 33 gpm), as well as higher pressure (up to 4,061 psi), which delivers more speed and more torque to the work tool. The largest Cat rubber track model, the 110-gross-hp 299D2 XHP, provides even higher flow (up to 40 gpm) with higher pressure up to 4,061 psi. These high-flow, high-pressure auxiliary hydraulic systems provide productivity in applications utilizing high torque tools such as cold planers, wheel saws, heavy-duty brush cutters or mulching heads. In addition, Cat offers the 299D2 XHP Land Management configuration that delivers a purpose-built machine solution for customers involved in demanding vegetation-management applications.
The D Series models offer the operator sight lines to the work tool, sides of the machine and tracks via loader arm and cab designs focused on visibility. Visibility to the sides and rear of the machine is further enhanced with a standard rearview mirror. The rearview camera, standard on most models, provides a wide-angle picture of the hard-to-see areas behind track loaders.
Advice to Buyers
“Look for a machine that provides you with the tools to be successful,” says Kevin Coleman, product specialist for Caterpillar. “Consider features that increase an operator’s efficiency for frequent tasks that the machine may be performing. Consider items such as dual direction self-leveling for material loading and handling, return-to-dig for truck loading cycles or creep speed control for a high-quality finish and maximum productivity with hydro-mechanical work tool attachments. Ultimately, it’s important to actually get in a machine to assess your comfort.”
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