Caterpillar has launched the first two models of its next generation compact track loaders: the Cat 255 replaces the 259D3, and the Cat 265 replaces the 279D3 and 289D3.
Cat says the vertical-lift CTLs are ground-up redesigns from the D3 Series. Hallmarks include increased lift height, tilt, and lift breakout forces, and rated operating capacities. An all-new wider cab has more overall volume, foot space, height, and width between joysticks.
Both models also have new engines with significantly increased torque. The Cat 255 houses a Caterpillar C2.8T, a 74.3 horsepower engine with 13% more torque than the predecessor model, and the Cat 265 has a Caterpillar C2.8TA, a 74.3 horsepower engine that creates 43% more torque than the predecessor 289D3.
A redesigned engine compartment mounts the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability and operation on slopes.
The 255 loader delivers delivers 36% more tilt breakout, 26% higher lift breakout force and a 24% increase in rated operating capacity (ROC) compared to the 259D3. Height to the B-pin for the 265, compared to the 289D3, increases by 7.6 inches, resulting in a maximum lift height of 11 feet for easier truck loading. The 265 also delivers 19% higher tilt breakout force and 22% higher lift breakout force, according to Caterpillar.
Standard hydraulic system pressure has been increased to 3,500 psi. The new, 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.
For machines equipped with standard flow, both models are shipped from the factory outfitted as “high flow ready.” The high flow functionality is activated via a new software enabled attachment, permitting on-machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 30 gpm at the standard system pressure. The High Flow XPS factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi for both models, while also increasing the hydraulic flow to 30 gpm for the 255 and 34 gpm for the 265.
Both the Cat 255 and 265 CTLs feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With 2.75 inches of increased interior width, the new cab expands footwell-to-ceiling height by 1.8 inches and allows for an additional 1.5 inches of hip room and 1.1 inches more width between the joysticks.
Next generation loaders are equipped with either a 5-inch standard LCD monitor or an 8-inch 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 multicamera 270-degree 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.
