Description

Caterpillar launched its first skid steer loader models in 1999, releasing four radial-lift loaders that were the result of customer-driven, ground-up, internal design, says the company. Today, Caterpillar offers eight skid steer models, both radial and vertical in design. Radial lift provides a compact and simple linkage design that provides good reach at mid-lift height and good performance in many applications — digging, dozing and/or finishing grading/backfilling. The radial- lift design also provides a lower weight and lower cost machine configuration than a vertical-lift model. However, vertical-lift design provides additional value with higher lifting heights and extended reach at the top portion of the lift cycle, while preserving the excellent mid-lift reach found with radial-lift machines. Material handling, truck loading, digging and stock piling are just a few applications where a vertical-lift machine excels.

All machines come standard with a hydraulically driven demand fan, separating the engine speed from the cooling fan speed. This is critical in the toughest conditions when the engine lugs down and the machine needs the fastest fan speed for cooling. The hydraulically driven cooling fan, combined with the high-capacity cooling system, allows customers to work all day. The standard hydraulic fan also features Demand Fan functionality, which matches fan speed with the machine’s cooling needs, delivering improved fuel efficiency, lower noise levels, better cold weather heater performance and maximum available engine horsepower for optimal machine performance, says Cat.

The Cat High Flow XPS hydraulic system offers increased flow (up to 33 gpm) as well as higher pressure (up to 4,061 psi), which provides more speed and more torque to the work tool. The largest Cat skid steer model, the 110-gross-hp 272D2 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 or mulching heads.

The D Series models offer the operator excellent sight lines to the work tool, sides of the machine and tracks/tires 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 optional rearview camera, available on all models, provides a wide-angle picture of the blind spots and hard to see areas behind skid steer 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, LCD, in-cabin monitor that provides the operator the capability to customize up to 15 different parameters.