Get FinancingCaterpillar Unveils Its Next-Generation 255 & 265 Compact Track Loaders
Caterpillar has introduced a redesign of its compact track loaders that builds upon the popular features of its D3 series family. The new, 74.3-horsepower (55.4-kilowatt) 255 and 265 models boast improvements in torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, rated operating capacity, and space for the operator.
“We kept the DNA of the D3 series while reimagining the possibilities of loader performance using voice-of-customer feedback to lead the way,” says Trevor Chase, product application specialist for Caterpillar.
More Power, Stronger Construction
The Cat 255 and 265 are the first of a new generation of track skid steers with a simplified naming convention (model numbers ending in 5). “Both next-generation models leverage the many benefits offered by the vertical lift design,” says Chase. “The new Cat 255 replaces the 259D3, while the 265 replaces both the 279D3 and 289D3 machines.”
The new 255 has a 35% rated operating capacity of 2,499 pounds (1,134 kilograms), a 24% increase over its forebear, and 13% more torque than its forebear at 221 pounds-foot (300 newton-meters). The 255 also delivers 36% more tilt breakout force and a 26% increase in lift breakout force.
Cat upgraded the 265 model’s torque output even more significantly with a 43% improvement to 280 lbf-ft (380 N-m). The Cat 265 also surpasses the 289D3 with 19% more tilt breakout force, 22% higher lift breakout force, and a greater maximum lift height of 11 ft (3.35 m). It’s rated to hoist 2,822 lbs (1,280 kg) at 35% load.
Caterpillar increased the stability of both machines by mounting the engine and cooling system lower in the chassis, and by strengthening and stiffening the undercarriage. The improved rigidity of the design also results in smoother surface grading and less pitching motion when scooping up material. The greater stiffness of the undercarriage doesn’t mean a rougher ride, however, thanks to its torsion suspension which also improves track wear and material retention. A 12.6-inch (320-millimeter) bar-tread narrow-track option is available for the Cat 255.
Hydraulic Options For The Cat 255 & 256
Caterpillar raised the new loaders’ standard hydraulic pressure to 3,500 pounds per square inch (24,130 kilopascals). Their hydraulic flow rate is 23 gallons (87 liters) per minute. The loaders’ standard closed-center auxiliary hydraulic system has a new ability to operate all Cat Smart Attachments, such as the Cat Smart Dozer Blade, grader blades, and a backhoe. The skid steers automatically recognize Cat Smart Attachments and change the control pattern of the joystick accordingly.
Cat 255 and 265 owners may unlock a higher flow rate of 30 gpm (113 Lpm) at the standard system pressure using a High Flow software-enabled attachment (SEA), which can be activated on the machine or remotely through the available Cat Product Link Elite system. There is also a High Flow XPS factory option available, which raises auxiliary pressure to 4,061 psi (28,000 kPa) and also ups the auxiliary flow rate to 30 gpm (113 lpm) for the Cat 255 and 34 gpm (129 Lpm) for the 265. Caterpillar points out the unprecedented auxiliary performance the 255 with the High Flow XPS option brings to the midsize track skid steer segment.
More Cab Room For The Cat 255 & 265
The Cat 255 and 265 are easier to climb into and out of, and there is more room for the operator once onboard. The cab door can be removed by the operator without tools, and it can be opened even when the lift arms are not fully lowered. The 2.75-in. (70-mm) wider cabin has 26% more foot space and 22% more interior space overall. Cat even added an inch or two to the ceiling height, space between the joysticks, and hip room in the seat. Seat options include air suspension, ventilation, and heating. The cabin’s new HVAC system provides automatic temperature control and an overhead vent location.
The standard, 5-in. display in the cab supports Bluetooth connections and acts as the monitor for the rearview camera as needed. An 8-in. advanced touchscreen option lets the operator control all machine functions using the new main joysticks. The advanced display also supports an available 270-degree multicamera system. Speaking of visibility, the 255 and 265 have a 15% increase in viewable area with a larger top window and 59% more rear glass.
Source: Caterpillar