Building on the success of its D3 series compact track loaders, Caterpillar has introduced the first next generation Cat 255 and 265 CTLs.
A ground up redesign from the previous series, the 255 and 265 include improved engine performance, lift and tilt performance, stability, operator comfort and technology.
“We kept the DNA of the D3 series while reimagining the possibilities of loader performance using voice of customer feedback to lead the way,” said Trevor Chase, Product Application Specialist for Caterpillar.
“Both next generation models leverage the many benefits offered by the vertical lift design. The new Cat 255 replaces the 259D3, while the 265 replaces both the 279D3 and 289D3 machines.”
Caterpillar simplifies nomenclature
All Caterpillar next generation compact track loaders are identified by the ending model number 5. The simplified nomenclature uses the middle number to represent machine size with larger numbers designating larger machines.
New CTL engine
The 255 and 265 compact track loaders are powered by the 74.3 hp Cat C2.8T and Cat C2.8TA engines. The new engines maintain horsepower across a wider rpm range and boast significant torque increases of 13 per cent for the 255 and 43 per cent for the 265. A redesigned engine compartment mounts the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability.
Compared to the 259D3, the 255 loader delivers 36 per cent more tilt breakout, 26 per cent higher lift breakout force and a 24 per cent increase in rated operating capacity (ROC). Height to the B-pin for the 265, compared to the 289D3, increases by 193 mm, resulting in a maximum lift height of 3.35 metres. The 265 also delivers 19 per cent higher tilt breakout force and 22 per cent higher lift breakout force.
Standard hydraulic system pressure is increased to 3,500 psi. The next generation machines now include closed-centre auxiliary hydraulic system to operate all Cat Smart Attachments, including the Cat Smart Dozer Blade, with the standard auxiliary hydraulics provided.
Standard and high flow
For machines equipped with standard flow, both models are shipped from the factory outfitted as high flow ready. High flow functionality is easily activated via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 113 litres per minute at the standard system pressure.
The high flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4061 psi for both models, while also increasing the hydraulic flow to 113 litres per minute for the 255 and 129 litres per minute for the 265. Equipped with the High Flow XPS option, the 255 delivers auxiliary hydraulic performance not before available in a mid-size chassis machine.
By reengineering lower machine components, the CTLs feature a stronger and stiffer undercarriage for improved stability and less pitching when filling the bucket with material. The torsion suspension undercarriage delivers better operator comfort, track wear and material retention, plus the stiffer design results in smoother graded surfaces. The 255 loader offers a new 32-cm bar-tread narrow track option.
New cab features
Both Caterpillar compact track loaders feature a larger cab design with 22 per cent more overall volume and 26 per cent more foot space. With a 7-cm increased interior width, the cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 46 mm and allows for an additional 40 cm of hip room and 28 mm more width between the joysticks for improved operator comfort.
A range of new mechanical and air-ride suspension seat options are available for the 255 and 265 CTLs, including a high-comfort seat that is ventilated and heated. New auto temperature control plus vent outlet positioning above the operator helps the new HVAC system to quickly cool the cab’s interior.
Next generation loaders are equipped with either a 127-mm standard LCD monitor or a 203-mm advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the technology package selected.
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Like the D3 series’ advanced display, the standard monitor features Bluetooth and supports functionality for a rearview camera feed, creep, job clock and maintenance reminders. The advanced touchscreen monitor provides a high level of control, delivering advanced radio control, and supports the multicamera 270-degree option and 32 language options.
As well, the advanced joysticks provide integrated control of the advanced touchscreen monitor so all machine function control and adjustments can be made without the operator removing their hands from the controls.
Featuring a low entry point, entering and exiting the 255 and 265 loaders is much easier. The redesign allows the operator to open the cab door without the lift arms being fully lowered to the frame stops. A simplified two-step door removal process allows operators to quickly remove it without tools. Visibility is improved via the lower engine mounting, a 59 per cent larger rear window and bigger top window that provides a 15 per cent increase in viewable area.
Advanced Caterpillar tech
The new Caterpillar compact track loaders deliver the next level of integrating machines with technology. Both standard and advanced monitors offer the ability to run Cat Smart Attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. These attachments are tied into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognizes the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.
The available Cat Product Link Elite system tracks machine hours, location, asset utilization, provides fault code details and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health, that is remotely accessible via VisionLink.
As well, Product Link Elite provides remote flash and troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.
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