Visitors to next week’s Diesel Dirt & Turf Expo will be among the first in Australia to have a close-up look at Caterpillar’s new 255 compact track loader.
Building on the success of the D3 series compact track loaders, the all-new, next generation Cat® 255 is a ground-up redesign of the previous series, improving on the features that made the previous models so popular.
Together with another new model, the 265, the machines form the first next generation model in the compact track loader line. They elevate Caterpillar’s loader reputation through improved engine performance, lift and tilt performance, stability, operator comfort and technology.
Caterpillar product application specialist Trevor Chase said the company kept the DNA of the D3 series while reimagining the possibilities of loader performance using voice of customer feedback to lead the way.
“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,” he said.
All Cat 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.
A new performance standard
The new 255 and 265 loaders are powered by Cat C2.8T and Cat C2.8TA engines respectively, which offer 74.3 hp (55.4 kW).
The new engines maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range and boast significant torque increases – gains of 13 per cent for the 255 and 43 per cent for the 265 – for improved working performance.
A redesigned engine compartment mounts the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads and throughout all aspects of the work cycles.
The new 255 loader delivers class-leading lift height, and compared to the 259D3, 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).
Standard hydraulic system pressure is increased to 3500 psi (24,130 kPa).
For machines equipped with Standard Flow, both models are shipped from the factory outfitted as “High Flow ready.” The High Flow functionality is easily activated via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 30 gpm (113 l/min) at the standard system pressure.
Re-engineering of lower machine components results in a stronger and stiffer undercarriage for improved machine stability and less pitching when filling the bucket with material. Its 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 12.6-in (320-mm) bar-tread narrow track option.
Improved operator’s office
The loaders feature a larger cab design with 22 per cent more overall volume and 26 per cent additional foot space. With a 2.75-in (70-mm) increased interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 in (46 mm) and allows for an additional 1.5 in (40 mm) of hip room and 1.1 in (28 mm) more width between the joysticks for improved operator comfort.
A range of new mechanical and air-ride suspension seat options are available, including a high-comfort seat that is both 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 5-in (127-mm) standard LCD monitor or an 8-in (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the technology package selected.
Like the D3 series’ advanced display, the standard monitor features Bluetooth connectivity and supports functionality for rearview camera feed, creep, job clock, maintenance reminders and 32 languages. The advanced touchscreen monitor provides a higher level of control over standard monitor functionality, delivers advanced radio control, and supports the multi-camera 270˚ option and 32 language choices.
The new 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.
Advanced technologies
Both the 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 recognises the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it.
The available Cat Product Link Elite system tracks machine hours, location, asset utilisation, provides fault code details and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health, that is remotely accessible via VisionLink®. In addition, Product Link Elite provides remote flash and troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.
For more information about the new loaders, contact a Cat dealer or visit: www.cat.com.