Caterpillar unloads upgrades in new CTLs

Caterpillar kept customer feedback top of mind when it debuted its next generation of compact track loaders last week at the company’s Edwards Demonstration & Learning Center in Peoria, Illinois.

The launch also coincided with the silver anniversary of Caterpillar’s skid-steer loader line.

“It’s been 25 years since we produced the first skid-steer loaders,” says David Emonson, vice president & general manager for Cat Loaders. “We’re not just celebrating our legacy, but our future as well.”

The 255 and 265 Compact Track Loaders were recently debuted to the media. The models will be replacing the 259D3, 279D3 and 289D3 loader models. 

Caterpillar product managers say the next generation of compact track loaders focuses on  power, performance and comfort.

“From a landscape perspective, the DNA we’ve pulled from is still all there,” says Trevor Chase, product application specialist. “It’s there in our hydraulic system that allows you to finesse and do a lot of fine work.”

The new models feature 13% more torque in the 255 and 43% more in the Caterpillar 265 model.

The track loaders also feature significantly more tilt breakout than compared to the previous line.

Operators can reach new heights as the 255 has 2.5 inches more lift height and the 265 can lift 7.5 inches higher.

As comfort breeds productivity, Caterpillar has added several new features to the cab to keep operators working smarter not harder.

During a customer panel, Derrick Rogers, owner of Coast 2 Coast Lawn Maintenance, pointed out the importance of the improvements to the new 255 and 265’s cabs.

“We’re in these machines all day everyday so to have these new machines with the new features is huge,” Rogers says. “We’ve been having a lot more productivity…I can cut my time down with the 255. I’ve shaved 25-30% of my time with this new model. I can push better and carry a grade further.”

The new 255 and 265 models also feature 26% additional foot space and improved visibility with 59% larger rear window.

A new heated and ventilated seat is also included in the new models.

Redesigned joysticks also make the 255 and 265 Compact Track Loaders a step above previous models.

The new advanced joystick design features customizable patterns and is integrated into the monitors, so all machine function control and adjustments can be made without the operator removing their hands from the controls.

“Landscaping is an art form and everyone out there that’s doing it is an artist whether they know it or not,” he says. “At the end of the day, you’re building something beautiful. And you want to ensure that you’re doing it in the best possible way — and this is the tool to help you do that and build your masterpiece.”

The 255 and 265 models will be featured at Equip Expo later this month and production is expected to begin in January 2024.