The latest SSL and CTL models continue the trend of the brand’s new machine naming system, removing the series letter designation.
Eight new next-generation skid steer loaders (SSLs) and compact track loaders (CTLs) have been launched. The four new SSL models – 250, 260, 270, and 270 XE – introduce a new design for the SSL line, while the CTL range expands with the 275, 275 XE, 285, and 285 XE, adding to the previously released 255 and 265 models in late 2023. Among these, the 285 and 285 XE are the largest CTLs ever produced, offering a new class size with enhanced lift height, and lift and tilt breakout forces.
These next-generation machines carry forward the legacy of the D3 series, featuring a complete redesign that enhances several key aspects. These machines deliver superior performance with improvements in engine power, torque, lift and tilt breakout forces, stability, operator comfort, and advanced technology.
In line with a new naming convention, all the new SSLs will now have a model number ending in 0, while the CTLs will end in 5. The middle number reflects the machine size, with larger numbers indicating bigger models.
“We’re thrilled to introduce the next-generation design for our skid steer loaders and to extend these capabilities to our compact track loaders,” said Trevor Chase, senior product consultant and new product introduction lead. “These machines offer more power, greater lift height, improved breakout forces, and higher-rated operating capacities, along with multiple high-flow auxiliary hydraulic options, providing our customers with versatile, high-performance equipment for various tasks.”
Performance
All next-generation SSL and CTL models come with a newly designed engine compartment that lowers the engine and cooling package within the frame, improving stability when handling heavy loads across various work cycles. These models meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emissions standards. The four new CTLs are powered by the C3.6TA engine, while the 250 and 260 SSLs use the C2.8T engine, and the 270 and 270 XE are equipped with the C3.6TA. These new engines deliver higher horsepower across a broader rpm range compared to previous models, along with significant increases in torque – 13% for the 250 and 260, 35% for the 270, and 50% for the 275 and 285.
With a vertical lift design, these next-gen machines show substantial improvements in lift height, breakout forces, and rated operating capacity (ROC), enhancing loader flexibility and performance.
The Cat 250, for instance, boasts a lift height of 124 inches (3150 mm), 3 inches more than the 242D3, a 36% increase in tilt, a 26% increase in lift breakout force, and a 21% boost in ROC. The 260 offers a maximum lift height of 132 inches (3353 mm), which is 7 inches more than the 262D3, along with a 27% increase in tilt, a 24% improvement in lift breakout force, and a 17% rise in ROC. The 270 and 270 XE provide a maximum lift height of 133.5 inches (3391 mm), 6.4 inches more than the 272D3, with increases of 11% and 5% in tilt and lift breakout force, respectively. The 275 and 275 XE CTLs reach a lift height of 134.4 inches (3415 mm), 8 inches higher than the 299D3, along with a 37% increase in tilt breakout force and a 19% increase in ROC.
The 285 and 285 XE models represent the largest size class in the SSL and CTL range, offering a lift height of 146 inches (3708 mm) and tilt breakout force of 13,920 lbs. (6314 kg). The 285 has an ROC of 4,719 lbs. (2141 kg) with counterweight, while the 285 XE has an ROC of 4,816 lbs. (2185 kg) with counterweight.
These new machines also feature a closed-center auxiliary hydraulic system, capable of operating all smart attachments with standard hydraulics. The standard hydraulic system pressure has increased by 5%, reaching 3,500 psi (24,130 kPa). Additionally, the Cat 250, 260, 270, and 275 machines are “High Flow ready” from the factory, with High Flow functionality activated via new software-enabled attachments (SEA). This allows for remote or on-machine activation, increasing hydraulic flow to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) for the 250, 260, and 270 models, and 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 275 model.
The High Flow XPS factory option increases the auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,061 psi (28,000 kPa) for the 250, 260, 270, 275, and 285 models, with hydraulic flow increased to 30 gal/min (113 l/min) for the 250, and to 34 gal/min (129 l/min) for the 260, 270, 275, and 285. The High Flow option for the 270 XE, 275 XE, and 285 XE further enhances the auxiliary hydraulic system pressure to 4,496 psi (31,000 kPa) and flow to 40 gal/min (150 l/min), providing superior hydraulic capability.
The new CTL models are equipped with an E-bar undercarriage, enhancing stability for grading and handling heavy loads. This hybrid undercarriage system combines the benefits of a rigid-style undercarriage, ideal for lifting heavy loads or using large attachments like mulchers and blades, with the flexibility of an oscillating undercarriage for uneven terrain or obstacles.
Operation
The next-generation SSLs and CTLs come with an expanded cab design, offering 22% more overall space and 26% more foot room. The interior width has been increased by 2.75 inches (70 mm), and the footwell-to-ceiling height is now 1.8 inches (46 mm) higher. This design also adds 1.5 inches (40 mm) of extra hip room and 1.1 inches (28 mm) more space between the joysticks.
Depending on the selected technology package, these loaders come with either a 5-inch (127 mm) standard LCD or an 8-inch (203 mm) touchscreen monitor. The standard monitor offers Bluetooth connectivity and can display the rearview camera feed, job clock, maintenance reminders, and language options in 32 languages. The touchscreen monitor provides greater control, including advanced radio functionality, support for side cameras, and the ability to select from 32 languages. The new joysticks integrate control of the touchscreen monitor, allowing operators to adjust machine functions without removing their hands from the controls.
Operators have a choice of several new suspension seat options, including mechanical and air-ride models, with some seats offering ventilation and heating. The new HVAC system features auto temperature control and strategically placed vent outlets above the operator to help cool the cab efficiently.
These machines are designed with low entry points, allowing operators to open the cab door without needing to fully lower the lift arms to the frame stops. The cab door can be easily removed in two steps without tools. Additionally, the redesigned lower engine mounting, 59% larger rear window, and a bigger top window increase visibility by 15%, enhancing the operator’s view and overall experience.
Technology
The monitors are equipped to support Smart Attachments, including dozer blades, grader blades, and backhoes. Attachment operation is seamlessly integrated into the joysticks, with the machine automatically detecting the attachment type and adjusting the joystick controls accordingly.
The Product Link Elite system tracks machine hours, location, and asset usage, offering fault code information and real-time machine health data that can be accessed remotely through VisionLink. Furthermore, Product Link Elite enables Remote Flash and Remote Troubleshooting capabilities, as well as the remote activation of the High Flow feature using the SEA option.
