Cat 265 compact track loader. (Photo courtesy of Caterpillar)
Building on its D3 series compact track loaders, Cat says its next generation 255 and 265 compact track loaders are a ground-up redesign of the previous series, improving on the features that made the previous models popular and offering 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,” explains 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.”
The 255 and 265 loaders are powered by Cat C2.8T and Cat C2.8TA engines respectively, which offer 74.3 hp (55.4 kW) and maintain horsepower across a wider RPM range while boasting 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, giving the operator confidence in handling heavy loads and throughout all aspects of the work cycles.
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 7.6 in (193 mm), resulting in a maximum lift height of 11 ft (3.35 m). 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 (24,130 kPa). New for these next generation machines, the closed-center 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.
The High Flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi (28,000 kPa) for both models, while also increasing the hydraulic flow to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) for the 255 and 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 265.
Both machines feature a larger cab design over their predecessor models, 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.
Next generation loaders are equipped with either a five-inch (127-mm) standard LCD monitor or an eight-inch (203-mm) advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the technology package selected. Both the standard and advanced monitors offer the ability to run Cat Smart Attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe.
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. In addition, Product Link Elite provides remote flash and troubleshooting capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.
