Caterpillar Skid Steers — 2014 Spec Guide
Caterpillar launched its first skid steer loader models in 1999, releasing four radial-lift loaders that were the results of customer-driven, ground-up, internal design, says the company.
Today, Caterpillar offers seven skid steer models, both radial and vertical in design. Radial lift provides a compact and simple linkage design that provides good reach at mid-lift height and excellent performance in many applications — digging, dozing and/or finishing grading/back-filling. The radial-lift design also provides a lower weight and lower cost machine configuration than a vertical-lift model. The Cat vertical-lift design provides higher lifting heights and extended reach at the top portion of the lift cycle, while preserving the mid-lift reach of radial-lift machines.
All machines come standard with a hydraulically-driven fan, separating the engine speed from the cooling fan speed. This is critical in the toughest conditions when the engine lugs down and the machine needs the fastest fan speed for cooling. The hydraulically-driven cooling fan, combined with the high-capacity cooling system, allows customers to work all day in the most demanding applications. The available Demand Fan provides fan speed in line with the machine’s cooling needs, delivering improved fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, better cold weather performance and maximum available engine horsepower for optimal machine performance, says Cat.
The Cat High Flow XPS hydraulic system offers increased flow (33 gpm) as well as higher pressure (4,061 psi) which provides more speed and more torque to the work tool. The largest Cat skid steer model, the 106 net hp 272D XHP, provides even higher flow (40 gpm) with the higher pressure (4,061 psi). These high-flow, high-pressure auxiliary hydraulic systems provide the productivity when used in applications utilizing high torque tools such as cold planers, wheel saws or mulching heads.
With the introduction of the D Series models, Cat improved sight lines to the work tool, sides of the machine and tracks/tires via a new loader arm design. Visibility, especially to the rear of the machine, is further enhanced by an industry first, integrated rear view camera offering. The redesigned cab provides a premium operator environment via a one-piece, modular design for maximum sealing and pressurization. A standard security system provides additional protection from unwanted operation and theft.
Additional control features have been incorporated into the new, optional 5-in. LCD in-cabin monitor that provides the operator the capability to customize up to 11 different parameters.
Advice to Buyers
“Total cost of ownership is an important piece of the financial consideration when purchasing a machine,” explains Kevin Coleman, senior marketing engineer with Cat. “A large part of the cost of ownership is machine maintenance costs. Customers should evaluate the machine they are considering for ease of access to routine maintenance items and daily checks. Take note of access to check, maintain and, when necessary, replace items such as the fuel filter and water separator, the engine air filter and the hydraulic filter. Also examine access to check and add fluids, such as engine oil and hydraulic oil.”
