Maintaining the DNA of the Cat D3 series, the next generation SSL and CTL models are a ground-up redesign that improves on the features that made the previous series popular. “We are excited to launch the next generation design for our skid steer loader line and expand the performance capabilities to more compact track loader models,” comments Trevor Chase, senior product consultant and new product introduction lead for Caterpillar. “Their increased power, lift height, breakout forces, rated operating capacity (ROC) and multiple high flow auxiliary hydraulic system options give customers a flexible, high performance machine to get the job done.”

A new performance benchmark

All next generation Cat SSL and CTL models feature a redesigned engine compartment that places the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability throughout all aspects of the work cycles. Meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/EU Stage V emissions standards, the four new CTL models are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs powered by the Cat C2.8T, and the 270 and 270 XE by the Cat 3.6TA. These new engines are said to maintain horsepower across a wider rpm range compared to the previous engines powering the D3 series boasting significant torque increases – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285 – for improved working performance. 

With a vertical lift design, the new next generation machines feature significant increases in lift height, breakout forces and ROC to elevate loader flexibility and performance. Their new closed centre auxiliary hydraulic system allows these machines to operate all ‘Cat Smart’ attachments with the standard hydraulics provided. Standard hydraulic system pressure increases 5% to 24,130kPa in the next generation models. Cat 250, 260, 270 and 275 machines equipped with standard hydraulic flow are shipped from the factory outfitted as ‘High Flow’ ready. This functionality is activated simply via a new software enabled attachment (SEA), permitting on machine or remote activation of increased hydraulic flow to 113l/min for the 250, 260, and 270 models and 129l/min for the 275 at standard hydraulic system pressure. 

Also available, the High Flow ‘XPS’ factory option increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 28,000kPa for the 250, 260, 270, 275 and 285 next generation models. Along with this, hydraulic flow is increased to 113l/min on the 250, while flow increases to 129l/min for the 260, 270, 275 and 285 models. Equipped for maximum hydraulic capability, the High Flow option for 270 XE, 275 XE and 285 XE loaders increases auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 31,000kPa and hydraulic flow to 150l/min. 

The four next generation CTL models feature a new equaliser bar undercarriage designed to provide increased stability for grading and handling heavier loads. The undercarriage is said to harness Caterpillar’s heritage and leadership with track type tractors to provide a hybrid undercarriage solution. It delivers the benefits of a rigid style undercarriage design when lifting heavy loads or using heavy attachments like mulchers and dozer and grader blades, while simultaneously providing the benefits of an oscillating undercarriage when encountering uneven terrain or obstacles.

Upgraded operator comfort

All next generation Cat SSLs and CTLs are said to feature a larger cab design with 22% more overall volume and 26% additional foot space. With a 70mm increase in interior width, the new cab expands footwell to ceiling height by 46mm and allows for an additional 40mm of hip room and 28mm more width between the joysticks to improve operator comfort. The loaders are equipped with either a 127mm standard LCD monitor or an 203mm advanced touchscreen monitor, depending on the selected technology package. Like the advanced display on the D3 series, 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, offers advanced radio control, and supports side cameras. The new advanced joysticks are designed to enable 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. 

A range of new mechanical and air ride suspension seat options are available for the next generation machines, including a seat that is both ventilated and heated. New auto temperature control plus vent outlet positioning above the operator help the new HVAC system to quickly cool the cab’s interior. Entering and exiting is said to be much easier thanks to low entry points. The operator can now open the cab door without the lift arms being fully lowered to the frame stops. A simplified two step door removal process allows operators to quickly remove it without tools. The machines’ lower engine mounting, 59% larger rear window and bigger top window providing 15% increased viewable area have been designed to jointly improve operator visibility.

Technology advancements

These new SSLs and CTLs are designed to offer the next level of integrating machine and technology. Both standard and advanced monitors provide the ability to run Cat attachments, such as the dozer and grader blades and backhoe. Attachment operation is integrated into the joysticks, and the machine automatically recognises the type of attachment and the required joystick pattern for controlling it. Available Cat ‘Product Link Elite’ tracks machine hours, location, and asset utilisation, provides fault code details, and delivers advanced monitoring and machine health with data remotely accessible via ‘VisionLink’. Additionally, Product Link Elite provides ‘Remote Flash’ and ‘Remote Troubleshooting’ capabilities and quickly enables the remote activation of the SEA High Flow feature.