Caterpillar Track Loaders Summarized — 2018 Spec Guide
Eight Rubber Track Models from the Famed Brand
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 models in the lineup, including both radial-lift path and vertical-lift path machines.
Cat rubber track loaders offer low ground pressures and ground disturbance, so they can work in environments where skid steer loaders can’t. The rubber track loader model line is comprised of machines ranging from 67 to 110 gross hp. All Cat rubber track loader models feature a fully independent undercarriage suspension system. The torsion axle suspension system provides 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 at all times. The undercarriage suspension system also distributes the machine load to greatly reduce shock and vibration throughout the machine to provide greater load retention and a more comfortable ride, even when operating at higher speeds.
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.
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, available on all models, provides a wide-angle picture of the hard-to-see areas behind track loaders. The optional enclosed cab provides a clean and quiet operator environment via a one-piece, modular design for maximum sealing and pressurization. A standard security system provides protection from unwanted operation and theft. Additional control features are incorporated into the optional, 5-in., heads-up, full-color LCD monitor that provides the operator the capability to customize up to 15 different parameters. Each of these parameters, which include language choice, display preferences and machine performance adjustments, are retained for each individual operator code.
Additional operator control features, independent of the Advanced Display, can deliver added value in certain work tasks, such as Electronic Dual Self Leveling for material handling, Return-to-Dig for truck loading applications and the Work Tool Positioner for use with a wide portfolio of work tools. All of this can be utilized for additional machine and operator productivity when performing specific tasks.
Advice to Buyers
“Look for a machine that provides you with the tools to be successful,” explains Kevin Coleman, senior product specialist with Cat. “A machine should deliver sight lines to all areas around the machine for maximum efficiency and safe operation on the jobsite. Also consider features that increase efficiency for frequent tasks that the machine may be doing 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 work tool attachments.”
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