Arriving into Australia from January 2020, Caterpillar have re vamped their entire range of Skid Steer and Compact Track Loaders.
The new range covers 15 different models and can be identified by the new Cat hexagon trade-dress design as well as “D3” suffix at the end of each model identifier.
The new range of models range from an operating capacity of 705kg to 2820kg at 50 per cent of tipping load and power range of 50kW to 82Kw, as well as choices between radial and vertical lift giving contractors plenty of choice in finding the right machine for their application.
The new D3 models include:
- Radial Lift Skid Steer Loaders 226D3, 236D3, 246D3
- Vertical Lift Skid Steer Loaders 242D3, 262D3, 272D3 and 272D3 XE
- Compact Track Loaders 239D3, 249D3, 259D3, 279D3, 289D3, 299D3, 299D3 XE and the 299D3 XE Land Management
Caterpillar’s new D3 Range brings a number of design and performance enhancements to complement its already leading performance technology.
Quiet And Comfortable Cab
The industry leading sealed and pressurised cab provides the operator with a cleaner and quieter operating environment than ever before, with unmatched visibility to both work tools and to the insides of tracks and wheels. Continuing the industry leading trend, the D3 series also includes as standard, seat mounted joystick controls for operator comfort and convenience.
D3 Cab Improvements
For air-conditioned cabs, the front door opening angle has been increased by 20 per cent for improved entry and exit of the machine. Cab step is improved for strength and material flow through. Operators will also notice a 3-inch or 76 mm more space between joystick pods for increased leg room that allows users of all sizes to work from a more comfortable, natural seated position. To improve jobsite safety monitoring, an orange hi-vis seatbelt is now standard.
Maximum Performance
A high performance power train provides maximum performance and production capability through its Electronic Torque Management system, which constantly monitor the operators input on the hystat (wheels or tracks) together with other hydraulic functions to maximise machine torque on the ground while maintaining loader circuit functions. In addition, options for two-speed travel and an electronic hand/foot throttle are provided, which doubles as a deceleration pedal to extract maximum performance in power-demanding applications.
Making Your Job Easier
Cat® “Intelligent Levelling” system provides industry leading technology allowing operators to maximise their productivity at all levels of experience. While many competitive machines offer self-levelling, it is generally only when raising the lift arms. Intelligent Levelling allows loaded buckets or forks to maintain its level throughout the lift and lowering cycle of the machine.
Added to this is the industry first feature of return to dig and work tool positioner. The same intelligent levelling system allows operators to program the height of the lift arms and angle of bucket or attachment, which in turn allows operators to return to a pre-set position when completing repetitive tasks.
A Smooth Ride
For compact Track Loaders, the standard, fully independent torsion axles provide suspension between the machine chassis and track system, which better protects machine components from damage and provides operators with a smoother ride when working over rough terrain.
Optional ride control provides an additional level of operating comfort and material retention. Ride control is programmable so can be adjusted to automatically kick-in and de-activate at any given speed.
Optimised Machine Capability And Security
All D3 models come with Caterpillar’s Advanced Display, providing on-screen adjustments for implement response, hystat response and creep control. It also features multiple language capability and customisable layout, a security passcode system, and rear-view camera.
Smart Attachment Capable
In a new development, all D3 machines have been designed as “smart attachment” ready. Concurrent with the development of D3 improvements Caterpillar have been developing attachments that can be operated directly from the machine joysticks. The first smart attachments due to arrive later in 2020 include a backhoe loader attachment, grader attachment and 6-way power-tilt blade.
Dedicated Land Management 299d3 Xe
In addition to the range of D3 models is the offering of a purpose-built, high production Land Management machine: the 299D3 XE Land Management. The Cat® 299D3 XE Land Management Compact Track Loader is a segment-focused machine for customers involved in demanding vegetation-management applications, ranging from mulching, brush-cutting, vegetation control, and mowing.
The 299D3 XE Land Management machine’s powerful Cat C3.8 engine combines with its high-flow/high-pressure auxiliary hydraulic system to deliver a calculated hydraulic power rating of 70 kW (94hp), resulting in optimum performance when powering high-production, hydro-mechanical attachments.
The 229D3 XE Land Management includes factory fitted extras including additional external fuel tanks with 220 litres of fuel capacity allowing the machine to operate in a high-demand and isolated environment for 12 hours. It also has added counterweights, which give 30 per cent or 450kg increased operating capacity. Finally, factory fitted guarding and sealing components provide additional protection for areas that could be exposed to damage and to help reduce debris entry.
To learn more, contact your local Caterpillar dealer or visit www.cat.com