Caterpillar Inc. has unveiled its latest innovations in the compact track loader segment with the introduction of the all-new Cat 255 and 265 Compact Track Loaders.
Building upon the success of the D3 series, these new models represent a ground-up redesign, enhancing the features that have made their predecessors popular among operators.
Trevor Chase, product application specialist for Caterpillar, highlighted the company’s approach to the redesign, stating: “We kept the DNA of the D3 series while reimagining the possibilities of loader performance using voice of customer feedback to lead the way.”
The new models, 255 and 265, mark the first in the compact track loader line to feature this next-generation design — promising improved engine performance, lift and tilt performance, stability, operator comfort, and technology integration.
One of the key advancements in these new loaders is the utilisation of the vertical lift design, which offers numerous benefits.
The Cat 255, replacing the 259D3, and the 265, replacing both the 279D3 and 289D3 machines, deliver exceptional performance across various metrics.
The Cat 255 boasts a class-leading lift height, while the 265 achieves a maximum lift height of 11 feet (3.35 metres), making truck loading more efficient.
Under the hood, the new loaders are powered by Cat C2.8T and Cat C2.8TA engines, respectively, offering 74.3 horsepower (55.4 kW).
These engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range and deliver significant torque increases — 13 per cent for the 255 and 43 per cent for the 265 — resulting in improved working performance.
Additionally, a redesigned engine compartment mounts the engine and cooling package lower into the frame, enhancing stability, especially when handling heavy loads.
The hydraulic system has also been upgraded, with standard hydraulic system pressure increased to 3,500 psi (24130 kPa).
The closed-centre auxiliary hydraulic system allows the 255 and 265 to operate all Cat Smart Attachments — including the Cat Smart Dozer Blade, with the standard auxiliary hydraulics provided.
In terms of operator comfort and convenience, the new models feature a larger cab design with 22 per cent more overall volume and 26 per cent additional foot space.
The cab also offers improved visibility, thanks to a 59 per cent larger rear window and a bigger top window that provides a 15 per cent increase in viewable area.
Advanced technologies have been integrated into these new loaders, with both models equipped with either a 5-inch (127-mm) standard LCD monitor or an 8-inch (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the technology package selected.
These monitors support functionality for rearview camera feed, job clocks, maintenance reminders, and more.
The advanced joysticks provide integrated control of the advanced touchscreen monitor, allowing operators to make all machine function controls and adjustments without removing their hands from the controls.
Moreover, the available Cat Product Link Elite system tracks machine hours, location, and asset utilisation, provides fault code details, and offers advanced monitoring and machine health capabilities, remotely accessible via VisionLink.
With these new advancements, Caterpillar continues to raise the bar in the compact track loader segment, offering operators enhanced performance, comfort, and technology integration.